COVID-19 Cleaning Guidance for Sydney Homes & Offices

The COVID-19 pandemic has drastically impacted our lives, emphasising the importance of maintaining a safe, clean, and hygienic environment in our Sydney homes and offices. Proper cleaning and disinfecting practices are crucial in reducing the spread of the virus, as well as ensuring the well-being of our families, colleagues, and communities.

In this informative article, we will provide expert cleaning guidance tailored for Sydney residents and business owners, empowering you to navigate the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic effectively. Learn about best practices, recommended cleaning products, and essential safety measures for creating and maintaining a hygienic living and working space. Armed with the proper knowledge and skills, you can contribute to a safer and healthier environment for all, amidst these unprecedented times.

Understand the Difference Between Cleaning, Sanitising, and Disinfecting

To effectively combat the spread of COVID-19, it is crucial to understand the difference between cleaning, sanitising, and disinfecting, as each process addresses different aspects of cleanliness.

1. Cleaning: Refers to the removal of dirt, dust, and impurities from surfaces. While cleaning does not necessarily kill germs, it can help reduce their numbers and minimise the risk of spreading.
2. Sanitising: Reduces the number of germs on surfaces to safe levels, as defined by public health standards. Sanitising is ideal for items or surfaces that frequently come into contact with food, such as cutting boards and kitchen countertops.
3. Disinfecting: Kills germs on surfaces and objects by using chemicals approved by regulatory authorities, such as the Australian Government Department of Health’s Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA). Disinfecting is crucial for high-touch surfaces and preventing the spread of COVID-19.

Best Practices for Cleaning and Disinfecting

Adopting the right cleaning and disinfection practices can significantly reduce the risk of COVID-19 transmission in your home or office. Follow these guidelines:

1. Develop a routine: Establish a regular cleaning and disinfecting schedule, focusing on frequently touched surfaces such as light switches, door handles, and countertops.
2. Wear disposable gloves: Use disposable gloves while cleaning and disinfecting, discarding them immediately after use. Wash your hands with soap and water for at least 20 seconds after removing gloves.
3. Follow label instructions: Strictly adhere to the directions on product labels, including appropriate dilution ratios, contact time, and any additional precautionary measures.
4. Clean before disinfecting: Remove dirt and debris from surfaces before applying disinfectant, allowing the product to work more effectively against germs.
5. Prioritise high-traffic areas: Focus on areas in your home or office where people frequently gather or pass through, as these have a higher risk of contamination.
6. Dispose of waste responsibly: Collect and dispose of used gloves, masks, and cleaning materials in a sealed plastic bag, reducing the risk of cross-contamination.

Choose the Right Cleaning and Disinfecting Products

Selecting appropriate cleaning and disinfecting products is essential for effectively neutralising COVID-19. Consider the following:

1. Government-approved disinfectants: Use disinfectants listed on the Australian Government TGA website, as these have been proven effective against SARS-CoV-2, the virus responsible for COVID-19.
2. Soap and water: Washing surfaces and hands with soap and warm water is a simple yet efficacious method for removing germs, as soap disrupts the virus’s lipid membrane and deactivates it.
3. Alcohol-based hand sanitiser: Employ hand sanitisers containing at least 60% alcohol for times when soap and water are not available.
4. Household bleach: Diluted sodium hypochlorite bleach can serve as an effective disinfectant if TGA-approved products are unavailable. Follow the product guidelines and never mix bleach with other cleaning products, as toxic fumes can be generated.

Cleaning and Disinfecting Electronics

Frequently touched electronics such as phones, tablets, touchscreens, keyboards, and remote controls can harbour viruses, including COVID-19. To maintain their hygiene, follow these steps:

1. Power off devices: Disconnect the electronic device from power sources before cleaning.
2. Use a soft cloth: Employ a soft, lint-free cloth, such as a microfibre cloth or lens cleaning cloth, to clean screens and surfaces gently. Avoid using abrasive materials.
3. Apply alcohol-based solutions: Use a 70% isopropyl alcohol solution or disinfecting wipes that are safe for electronics to clean the device’s exterior and avoid damaging the sensitive internal components.
4. Dry surfaces: Ensure all cleaned surfaces are dry before powering on or reconnecting the devices.

Encourage Safe Practices Among Employees

For offices and workplaces, it’s vital to proactively promote safe practices among employees, helping to prevent the spread of COVID-19. Implement the following measures:

1. Promote personal hygiene: Encourage employees to wash their hands regularly, use hand sanitiser, and practice coughing and sneezing etiquette.
2. Social distancing: Adopt social distancing measures within the workplace, rearranging seating plans and adopting flexible work hours if possible.
3. Provide cleaning supplies: Make cleaning and disinfecting products readily available for staff use, such as hand sanitiser, disinfectant wipes, and tissues.
4. Develop a risk management plan: Create a comprehensive plan for dealing with potential cases of COVID-19 among employees, including symptom reporting, isolation guidelines, and workplace deep cleaning procedures.

By incorporating these expert cleaning and disinfecting guidelines, Sydney homes and offices can mitigate the risks posed by the COVID-19 pandemic and provide a safer environment for all inhabitants. Taking a proactive and informed approach to cleaning will not only prevent the spread of the virus but also contribute to the overall well-being and peace of mind of those living or working in these spaces.

Ensuring a Safe and Hygienic Environment with Fortify Pro

In conclusion, following these expert cleaning and disinfecting guidelines can be your key to maintaining a safe and hygienic environment in your Sydney home or office during the COVID-19 pandemic. Should you require professional assistance in implementing these practices, the dedicated experts at Fortify Pro are ready to help.

At Fortify Pro, we understand the challenges of keeping your premises clean and virus-free during these uncertain times. Trust our experienced and reliable team to deliver comprehensive cleaning solutions tailored to your needs – ensuring a safer space for your family or employees.

To learn more about our affordable cleaning services in Sydney and how we can support you in navigating the COVID-19 pandemic, feel free to reach out to us. Choose Fortify Pro and experience the peace of mind that comes with a clean, safe, and healthy environment for your home or office.