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You’re sitting at your desk, diligently working away, when suddenly, something annoying buzzes around you. You look around, and there it is – a fruit fly, then you spot another, and another!

This scenario has become all too familiar in offices across the UK in 2023. The rise of the fruit fly has been a buzzworthy topic, and it’s not just these tiny critters causing trouble. In this blog post, explore effective ways to avoid bugs, flies, and other pests in your office.

The Fruit Fly Onslaught

As we dive into this topic, let’s first understand the magnitude of the fruit fly invasion. According to a report from the UK Department of Environment and Agriculture, the unusually warm and humid weather patterns in the UK during the summer of 2023 created the perfect breeding conditions for fruit flies. These tiny, but highly prolific, pests multiplied rapidly and found their way into homes and offices alike.

Why Are Fruit Flies Such a Nuisance?

Fruit flies are drawn to decaying fruit and sugary substances. In the office, they can often be found around fruit bowls, discarded lunch containers, or even sugary drinks left unattended.

Dealing with Fruit Flies in the Office

1. Maintain Cleanliness

Keeping your office space clean and tidy is the first line of defense against fruit flies. Make sure to:

• Dispose of food scraps promptly in sealed bins.
• Regularly empty and clean the office kitchen’s trash bins.
• Wipe down surfaces and clean up spills immediately.

2. Store Food Properly

Proper food storage is crucial to avoid attracting fruit flies. Encourage your colleagues to:

• Seal food items in airtight containers.
• Keep fruits in the refrigerator or a covered fruit bowl.
• Store snacks and food items in drawers or cabinets.

3. Regularly Empty and Clean Drains

Fruit flies often breed in damp areas like drains. Ensure that drains are regularly cleaned and sanitized. Pouring a mixture of vinegar and hot water down the drain can help deter these pests.

4. Use Fruit Fly Traps

Consider using fruit fly traps in your office. These traps are designed to lure and capture fruit flies. You can find them in local hardware stores or online.

5. Educate Your Officemates

Spread awareness about fruit fly prevention among your colleagues. A little knowledge can go a long way in reducing the attractiveness of your office to the fruit fly.

Battling Other Office Pests

While fruit flies may be the most common office pest, they’re not the only ones you might encounter. Let’s take a look at some other pesky intruders and how to deal with them.

Ants

Ants are notorious for invading offices in search of food. According to the British Pest Control Association, ants are often attracted to sugary substances, just like fruit flies.

To keep ants at bay:

• Clean up crumbs and spills promptly.
• Seal cracks and gaps in walls and windows to prevent their entry.
• Use ant traps or repellents if needed.

Spiders

Spiders are a common presence in many offices. While most species in the UK are harmless and help control other pests, including controlling the fruit fly, there are potentially harmful ones like the false widow spider.

To minimize the risk of spider bites:

• Keep clutter to a minimum.
• Shake out clothing and shoes before wearing them.
• Seal cracks and gaps.
• Regularly clean and dust.
• Use spider repellents if needed.

Mice and Rats

Mice and rats, although not as common as fruit flies or ants in offices, can still be a significant nuisance. These rodents can carry diseases and cause damage to property, making it crucial to address the issue promptly.

Preventing Mice and Rat Infestations

To prevent mice and rat infestations in your office:

• Seal entry points: Inspect your office for gaps and openings that rodents can use to enter. Seal them with appropriate materials.
• Maintain cleanliness: Keep the office environment clean and free of food debris.
• Store food securely: Store food items in airtight containers.
• Trash management: Ensure that trash bins are sealed and emptied regularly.

Dealing with an Infestation

If you suspect a mice or rat infestation, it’s essential to act swiftly:

• Consult a professional pest control service: Experts can assess the situation and implement effective measures to eliminate the rodents.
• Traps and baits: In some cases, traps and baits may be used to capture or poison the rodents. These should only be handled by trained professionals.

Remember, mice and rats can multiply rapidly, so it’s crucial to address the issue promptly and effectively.

Time to say bye to the Fruit Fly

The rise of the fruit fly in the UK in 2023 has been a challenge for offices and homes alike. However, with some simple yet effective measures, you can keep your workplace pest-free. While the fruit fly, ants, spiders, mice, and rats may occasionally find their way into your UK office, there are steps you can take to prevent and manage these pest issues. Maintaining a clean and clutter-free environment, sealing entry points, and seeking professional help when needed are key to creating a pest-free workspace for you and your colleagues. Stay vigilant and take action to keep your office comfortable and pest-free.

For extra support in keeping your office spaces clean speak to us today about our commercial office cleaning services.

By following these guidelines, you can ensure a more pleasant and pest-free working environment in your UK office.

Remember, pests can be persistent, and it may be necessary to consult with professional pest control services if the infestation becomes severe.

As the world has recovered from the global pandemic, many employers are now considering the transition of their remote workforce to return to work in the office. However, this process isn’t as simple as flicking a switch. It involves careful planning and implementation to ensure that your office environment is not only inviting but also clean, healthy, and safe for your employees.

In this blog post, we will discuss how to prepare your offices to be clean, healthy, and tidy places for your workers, and how office health and hygiene can ease the transition from working from home to working back in the office.

The Importance of a Clean and Healthy Office Environment

A clean and healthy office environment is crucial for the well-being of your employees. It not only promotes physical health but also contributes to a positive work atmosphere.

According to a report by the UK’s Health and Safety Executive (HSE), a clean and tidy workplace can reduce accidents and injuries, improve employee morale, and increase productivity.

Cleaning Protocols and Practices

1. Regular Cleaning Schedule: To maintain a clean office, establish a regular cleaning schedule.This should include daily cleaning of high-touch surfaces such as doorknobs, light switches, and communal areas.

   A weekly deep cleaning routine is also recommended.

2. Cleaning Products: Ensure that you use cleaning products that are effective against viruses and bacteria.The UK government’s guidance on cleaning and disinfecting public spaces offers valuable information on suitable cleaning products and methods.
3. Professional Cleaning Services: Consider hiring professional cleaning services like ACC to ensure thorough and effective cleaning.Professional cleaners have the knowledge and equipment to sanitize your office space effectively

Promoting Hygiene as staff Return to Work

1. Hand Hygiene: Encourage good hand hygiene among your employees. Provide hand sanitizers at key locations throughout the office, and remind everyone to wash their hands regularly. The NHS provides detailed guidance on proper handwashing techniques.
2. Social Distancing Measures: While social Distancing is no longer recommended, be aware that some staff may still feel uncomfortable with close proximity, so continue to implement social distancing measures in the workplace.Arrange workstations to maintain a safe distance between employees, and consider staggered working hours to reduce overcrowding.
3. Mask-Wearing Policies: Again, while masks are no longer compulsory in enclosed spaces, there may be certain members of staff who find wearing a mask is still essential for them.Provide masks for employees and encourage their use, especially in shared spaces. Consider educating employees about why some people may still wish to wear masks, including health issues and culture.

Office Layout and Design

1. Ventilation: Ensure that your office is well-ventilated. Good airflow helps reduce the concentration of airborne contaminants. The Chartered Institution of Building Services Engineers (CIBSE) offers guidance on ventilation in the workplace.
2. Flexible Workspaces: Consider redesigning your office to create flexible workspaces. This can include the incorporation of movable partitions, modular furniture, and hot-desking arrangements to accommodate changing needs and maintain social distancing.
3. Outdoor Spaces: If possible, create outdoor workspaces or break areas to provide employees with options for fresh air and relaxation.

Employee Well-being Programs

1. Mental Health Support: Recognize that the return to work in an office environment on a full-time basis may be challenging for some employees. Offer mental health support programs and resources to help them cope with the changes.
2. Employee Feedback: Listen to your employees’ concerns and feedback regarding the office environment. Their input can guide improvements and adjustments to make the workplace more comfortable and safe as they return to work in the office.

Communication and Training

1. Clear Communication: Communicate your office health and hygiene policies clearly to all employees. Regularly update them on any changes or developments.
2. Training: Provide training to employees on the new office health and hygiene protocols. Ensure that everyone understands their role in maintaining a clean and healthy workspace.

Are your offices return to work ready?

As you prepare to welcome your employees back to return to work in the office, prioritizing their health and well-being is paramount. A clean, healthy, and tidy office not only fosters productivity but also helps employees feel safe and comfortable during this transition.

By following the guidelines and recommendations from reputable UK sources, such as the UK Government, NHS, HSE, and CIBSE, you can create an environment that promotes both physical and mental well-being.

With the right preparations, you can ensure a smooth transition from working from home to a return to work in the office, setting the stage for a successful and collaborative future.

Remember, a healthy workspace is not just a place to work; it’s a place where your employees can thrive.

To ensure your offices are clean, healthy environments for your staff to return to work why not speak to us today to see if we can help to offer you cleaning solutions?

In the pursuit of a productive office environment, creating a well-maintained and clean workspace is paramount. A tidy and organised workspace contributes not only to the physical health and happiness of employees but also to their overall work efficiency, creating a more productive office environment. In this article, we will delve into the core principles of establishing a healthy, happy, and productive office environment through rigorous cleaning and meticulous maintenance practices.

The connection between productive office environments and regular cleaning routines

Establishing a routine for regular cleaning is the foundation of maintaining a healthy office environment. Regular cleaning prevents the accumulation of dust, allergens, and germs that can undermine the health of your employees.

Designate specific time slots for cleaning activities such as dusting surfaces, vacuuming carpets, wiping down electronic devices, and sanitising high-touch areas like doorknobs and shared equipment.

What do productive office environments have?

1. Effective Air Quality Management
   Good air quality is essential for a productive work environment. Poor indoor air quality can lead to health issues, decreased concentration levels, and increased absenteeism. Regularly changing air filters in heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) systems can significantly improve indoor air quality. In addition, providing proper ventilation by opening windows periodically can help exchange indoor and outdoor air, preventing the buildup of pollutants.
2. Ergonomic Furniture and Workspace Design
   Comfortable employees are productive employees. Invest in ergonomic furniture that supports proper posture, reducing the risk of strain-related injuries. Adequate workspace design involves arranging furniture and equipment in a way that minimises clutter and promotes efficient movement. Furthermore, ensure that computer screens are at eye level to prevent neck strain and provide proper lighting to reduce eye strain.
3. Organised Storage Solutions
   An organised office is a productive office. Clutter can lead to decreased focus and heightened stress levels. Implement effective storage solutions to keep workspaces tidy. Encourage employees to maintain a clutter-free desk by providing ample storage space for personal items, documents, and office supplies. This practice not only enhances the visual appeal of the office but also facilitates easy access to resources.
4. Regular Maintenance of Equipment
   Operational equipment is the backbone of any office. Regular maintenance and servicing of equipment such as computers, printers, and scanners ensure smooth operations. Create a maintenance schedule to address issues promptly and prevent unexpected breakdowns that can disrupt workflow. Timely equipment maintenance also prolongs their lifespan, saving on replacement costs.
5. Hygiene and Sanitisation Practices
   Maintaining a hygienic workspace is crucial for the health and safety of employees. Encourage personal hygiene practices such as handwashing and the use of hand sanitiser. Regularly disinfect shared surfaces, like kitchen counters and bathroom fixtures, to prevent the spread of germs. Providing easily accessible hand sanitiser stations throughout the office can promote these practices.
6. Scheduled Deep Cleaning Sessions
   In addition to regular cleaning routines, scheduling periodic deep cleaning sessions can revitalise the office environment. Deep cleaning involves tackling hard-to-reach areas, steam-cleaning carpets, and sanitising upholstery. A thorough deep clean can eliminate allergens, mould, and bacteria that may be lurking in hidden corners, leading to a healthier workspace.
7. Waste Management and Recycling
   Proper waste management contributes to a cleaner and more environmentally conscious office. Install clearly labelled recycling bins for paper, plastic, and glass to encourage employees to recycle. Implement waste disposal practices that adhere to local regulations. Regularly empty bins and ensure they are appropriately lined to prevent odours and maintain cleanliness.
8. Greenery and Natural Elements
   Introducing plants and natural elements into the office can improve the overall ambiance and air quality. Indoor plants not only add a touch of nature but also help purify the air by absorbing pollutants. Choose low-maintenance plants that thrive in indoor environments, and place them strategically to enhance the aesthetic appeal of the workspace.

Your productive office environment

The foundation of a healthy, happy, and productive work office environment lies in effective cleaning and maintenance practices. By implementing regular cleaning routines and upholding hygiene standards, employers can create a productive office environment of employee well-being, and success.

Through diligent attention to these essential aspects, businesses can ensure that their office space remains a thriving hub of innovation and efficiency.

Need help?

ACC are specialists in commercial cleaning and maintenance, contact us today to see how we could help with your commercial cleaning requirements.

How clean and tidy is your office space, really? Your office may seem pristine at first glance – neatly arranged desks, polished floors, and a faint aroma of fresh air. However, lurking beneath this façade of tidiness are often neglected areas that are teeming with dirt, bacteria, and clutter.

In this blog post, we’ll shed light on the top things and areas that people frequently forget to clean in an office. We’ll also delve into the reasons why maintaining a spotless office is crucial for a healthy and productive work environment. Additionally, we’ll explore the advantages and disadvantages of hiring a commercial office cleaning company to take charge of office cleanliness.

The Importance of a Clean and Tidy Office

Before we venture into the often-neglected nooks and crannies, let’s discuss why keeping an office clean and tidy is of paramount importance. A clean office not only creates a positive impression on clients and visitors but also has a profound impact on employee productivity and well-being.

Firstly, an immaculate and organized workspace fosters a sense of professionalism and enhances the overall company image. When clients and partners visit your office, a clutter-free and fresh environment leaves a lasting positive impression, building trust and credibility.

Secondly, the well-being of employees is directly linked to the cleanliness of their workspace. Dust, allergens, and germs can accumulate in unclean areas, leading to respiratory issues and an increase in sick leaves. On the other hand, a tidy office promotes good hygiene, reducing the spread of illnesses and improving overall employee health.

Hidden dirt traps

Now, let’s shed light on the commonly overlooked areas:

1. Keyboard and Mouse: Keyboards and mice are notorious breeding grounds for bacteria and germs. Studies have shown that they can harbor more harmful microbes than a toilet seat! Regularly disinfecting these office essentials is essential to maintain a healthy workspace.
2. Desk Drawers: Often out of sight, desk drawers tend to become a dumping ground for clutter and forgotten items. It’s crucial to declutter and wipe down these drawers periodically to maintain a germ-free and organized workspace.
3. Office Appliances: Copiers, printers, and coffee machines are heavily used in offices, yet they are often neglected during cleaning sessions. Dust and dirt can accumulate on their surfaces, affecting their performance and potentially causing malfunctions.
4. Air Vents and Filters: Air quality is critical for employee health and productivity. However, air vents and filters can accumulate dust and allergens over time, compromising the indoor air quality. Regular maintenance of these areas are necessary to ensure a healthy work environment.
5. High-touch Surfaces: Frequently touched surfaces such as doorknobs, light switches, and elevator buttons are hotspots for germs and bacteria. Disinfecting these areas regularly can prevent the spread of illnesses among employees.
6. Plants: While indoor plants add a touch of greenery to the office, they can also accumulate dust and pests. Regularly dusting and caring for these plants will ensure they continue to contribute positively to the office environment (even if their plastic ones too).

The Pros and Cons:

Pros:

1. Professional Standards: Commercial office cleaning companies have expertise in maintaining high standards. They use professional-grade equipment and agents to ensure a thorough and effective service and process.
2. Time and Cost-Efficiency: Outsourcing to professionals allows employees to focus on their core responsibilities, leading to increased productivity. Some employees may not have time to clean their desk areas or even want to. Moreover, hiring an external company is often cost-effective compared to employing in-house team.

Cons:

1. Security and Privacy Concerns: Allowing external access to sensitive office areas might raise security and privacy concerns. It’s essential to choose a reputable company with strict security protocols.
2. Lack of Personalization: Companies usually cater to multiple clients, which might result in a one-size-fits-all approach. Some offices may prefer a more personalized cleaning routine, if you prefer this make sure you discuss this with the provider you choose before signing up with them, as some may not cater for this need.

Is your Office in need of a fine-tooth comb approach?

In conclusion, maintaining a clean and tidy office goes beyond what meets the eye. It involves regular cleaning of often-neglected areas to ensure a healthy and productive work environment.

Hiring a commercial office cleaning company can be a viable option to maintain a healthy office environment. Their professional standards and time efficiency can be advantageous, but one must also consider security and personalization factors.

Remember, a spotless office reflects the values and professionalism of the company. It fosters a positive work culture, enhances employee well-being, and leaves a lasting impression on visitors and clients.

Ready for the deep clean? Contact us today and take the first step to a sparkly, fresh office space.

Make things easy to care for and quick to put away

Bring in a cleaning expert

Schedule deep cleaning services

Conclusion

What is contract cleaning?

Why use a contract cleaning company?

Conclusion

Introduction

Cleanliness promotes a healthy work environment

Office cleaning can lead to employee satisfaction

Conclusion

Commercial cleaning is a professional service that ensures workplaces are tidy and hygienic. It helps products and office equipment stay clean and free from dust, dirt and any other contaminants. Also, a well-kept environment attracts new clients and retains current ones by creating a lasting impression on them. In this article, we’re going to learn what commercial cleaning is and why it’s important for businesses.

Is commercial cleaning different from residential cleaning?

Commercial cleaning is a professional service for cleaning businesses offices, warehouses and other commercial areas. It’s different from residential cleaning because it’s more extensive and thorough; it has to be since these spaces are used by many people every day.

Commercial cleaning services include vacuuming, mopping and sweeping floors, dusting furniture and fixtures, stripping down walls to make them look new again (walls get covered in fingerprints), removing stickers or old paint from surfaces, shampooing carpeting and much more.

Why is commercial cleaning important?

Commercial cleaning is a vital part of any business. It is important for the overall health and safety of employees, clients and members of the general public who visit your premises. Cleaning also helps to protect your image as a professional business and can help you to meet legal requirements.

Cleanliness is a sign of professionalism, and it can help businesses attract new clients and retain current ones. Cleanliness helps create a good first impression on clients and customers by making your facility look like the kind of place that you can trust to take care of their needs.

It also helps create a good impression on new employees when they start work at your company, as well as on prospective employees who are considering whether or not to join the team. The fact that you’re taking the time to clean regularly shows them that you care about what they think and how they feel while they’re there, which makes them more likely to want to stay around longer than just long enough so that their pay cheque clears each month.

Commercial Cleaners in Bolton

Commercial cleaning is an important aspect of any business, and having a company that offers this service can help you keep your premises clean and tidy. There are many things to consider when hiring a commercial cleaning company, so make sure you do your research before choosing one. Get in touch with the team at ACC for your free cleaning quote today.

In years gone by, the average employee thought very little about when their desk was last wiped, or how many people had touched the washroom door handle before them. Then, in March 2020, the Covid-19 pandemic struck – and suddenly, specialist cleaners took on a whole new importance.

It can be hard to remember what life was like before lockdowns and Zoom meetings took over. British workers lived under varying degrees of lockdown conditions for around a year and all normal working practices disappeared. For many people, life will never be the same again.

Cleaners’ new importance

As we started a gradual return from home working to our regular workplace, the commercial cleaning companies who had operated seamlessly in the background in the past had become significantly more important.

One of the few positive things to come out of the pandemic is a new appreciation of the essential job cleaners carry out in our offices, retail stores, warehouses, factories and other places of business.

Today, we all have a heightened awareness of the importance of cleaning, sanitising and disinfecting our surroundings.

Staff and customers feel relieved at the sight of cleaners working during the day, rather than behind the scenes overnight. It comforts us to know the same high levels of hygiene are being kept up, even though the lockdowns have gone.

Cleaners provide peace of mind

In the past, office cleaning often took place at weekends or at night, so the cleaners wouldn’t disrupt normal working activities. Today, research shows some companies actually request that cleaners work during the day.

This provides peace of mind for employees and visitors when they know professional cleaners are on hand. It makes them feel safe and lets them know the company cares.

A survey of 1,600 employees at the end of 2021 revealed around 50% were still worried about working in the office because of the threat of another wave of Covid. Seeing professional contract cleaners at work made 62% of employees feel safer.

Deep cleaning protocols

While professional cleaners have always done a thorough job, the additional deep cleaning and sanitising procedures introduced during the pandemic are still important today.

A survey of employees has revealed a massive 89% still believe workplace cleaning protocols are important. In fact, 38% of people said they might look for a new job if proper workplace cleaning wasn’t carried out.

Considering current staff shortages UK-wide, the possibility that employees might quit over inadequate cleaning is especially concerning for employers.

Preventing the spread of illnesses

As well as preventing the spread of Covid, a stringent cleaning and disinfection programme can also help to stop the spread of other illnesses, such as influenza.

It also reduces the risks for employees who have allergies and asthma by removing dust, environmental hazards and allergens in the workplace.

Busy shops, crowded offices and other public buildings benefit from frequent cleaning, with high-touch areas such as door knobs, lifts, escalator rails, bathrooms and desk phones requiring particular attention.

Commercial cleaning companies know the most efficient schedules and procedures to meet companies’ bespoke needs while remaining within their budget.

For commercial cleaning services, get in touch with our team today!

Sources:

How Commercial Cleaning Practices Have Evolved Since COVID-19

https://www.cleanlink.com/news/article/How-The-Pandemic-Has-Elevated-Commercial-Cleaning–28488

https://www.irmi.com/articles/expert-commentary/how-covid-19-changed-the-commercial-cleaning-business

Commercial and domestic cleaners are often lumped together in a single category. However, the truth is that these services are entirely different and concern unique areas of expertise. While a domestic cleaning service specialises in cleaning homes, maintaining areas like bathrooms and kitchens, and ensuring floors are hygienic. A commercial cleaning service focuses on cleaning workplaces, schools, and businesses.

The three main areas that differentiate domestic cleaning from commercial cleaning are cleaning equipment, business experience and industry specialisation. Read on to find out more.

Cleaning equipment

While a domestic cleaning service will typically use off-the-shelf cleaning products and equipment that you can easily buy in a store, a commercial service employs more specialist solutions. Using cutting-edge equipment and the latest cleaning techniques, a commercial service will also use cleaning fluids designed for professional use.

For instance, a domestic cleaner tackling some windows would use a ladder, household spray and cloth, while a commercial cleaning service will likely work on a secure platform and may use a water-fed pole system with specialist attachments for more comprehensive cleaning.

Business experience

Unlike domestic cleaners, commercial cleaning services possess business experience and Health and Safety regulation knowledge. As a result, they understand how to answer the specific requirements of a firm and can work around their operating hours to avoid disruption or loss of productivity. They can also offer ongoing contracts that ensure that organisations can plan their costs in advance while maintaining their premises in perfect condition.

Industry specialisation

Domestic cleaning only covers residential properties, however commercial cleaners have an in-depth understanding of a wide range of different work environments and their individual needs. For example, commercial cleaners can manage complex sites such as factories, warehouses, and construction developments. They can also provide specific hygiene levels required by care homes, schools and enterprises working in the hospitality industry ensuring operations always pass health and safety inspections with flying colours every time. Commercial cleaners include specialist cleaners for things like commercial kitchens or garden maintenance.

Hiring commercial cleaners for your workplace

If you require commercial cleaning for an ongoing contract or as a one-off service, at Associated Cleaning Contracts, we can help. Get in touch with our experienced team today to discuss your requirements and explore the services that we offer.