By May, there’s no denying that spring is here. Everything is blooming and allergens are abundant. Reducing the effects of allergens on your employees requires a strategic approach to target dust, pollen, dander, mold, and other airborne irritants. Proper cleaning techniques can significantly improve indoor air quality and create a healthier working environment. These eight steps can ensure a reduction in allergens within your workspace.

 

1. Allergy-Friendly Cleaning Plan

Be aware of the building’s layout to identify areas where allergens can accumulate. These areas are door thresholds, windowsills, carpets and rugs, upholstered furniture, air vents, and any high-traffic zones. A comprehensive cleaning plan will include regularly scheduled dusting, vacuuming, and disinfecting to minimize allergen exposure.

 

2. Educate and Communicate with Employees

Not everyone has experience with allergens and what it takes to minimize exposure for minimal effect. Educating employees about common allergens and encouraging them to report allergy symptoms and sensitivities will lead to proactive measures and adjustments to cleaning practices to increase the health and safety for all.

 

3. High-Efficiency Particulate Air (HEPA) Filters

Installing HEPA filters in heating and air conditioning systems helps to trap airborne allergens and prevents them from circulating throughout the building. These filters will need to be regularly cleaned or replaced according to the manufacturer’s recommendations to maintain optimal performance.

 

4. Dust Surfaces Frequently

Allergens are not solely airborne; they can also come in on your body, clothes, and shoes and then spread to surfaces. Dust all surfaces, including desks, shelves, windowsills, and electronics, using microfiber cloths or electrostatic dusters that remove allergens by trapping them instead of spreading them into the air. Make sure to pay special attention to hidden areas where dust can accumulate such as behind furniture or office equipment.

 

5. Vacuum with HEPA Vacuums

Regularly using a vacuum that contains a HEPA filter will more effectively capture dust, dander, and other allergens from carpets, rugs, and upholstery.

 

6. Clean Upholstered Furniture and Curtains

Steam cleaning or shampooing upholstered furniture and curtains removes accumulated dust, pollen, and pet dander. To further reduce exposure, particularly to dust mites, consider using allergen-proof covers on pillows, mattresses, and furniture.

 

7. Maintain Indoor Humidity Levels

Keeping indoor humidity levels between 30% and 50% discourages mold growth and accumulation of dust mites. In especially damp areas, use dehumidifiers and check for leaks or water damage to prevent moisture-related allergens.

 

8. Regularly Clean Air Vents and Ducts

Inspecting and cleaning air vents and grills regularly ensures proper air flow and reduces allergen build up. Schedule professional air duct cleaning and maintenance to remove dust, mold, and other allergens from ventilation systems.

These eight strategies will create a healthier indoor environment that will reduce the effects of allergens on employees and promote overall well-being. Regular maintenance, proper cleaning techniques, and allergy-friendly products are key to achieving effective allergen control in commercial settings. Whether you are searching for professional janitorial services or commercial cleaning services in Orlando or the surrounding Central Florida area, N & A Commercial Cleaning is the right choice for you. To learn more about how we can help you reduce allergens and increase cleanliness in your workplace, click here to get our free commercial cleaning estimate.