High-touch surfaces are areas or objects that multiple people frequently come in contact with throughout the day. These surfaces are more likely to be contaminated with germs, including bacteria and viruses..
Regular cleaning and disinfection of these surfaces are key in reducing the spread of infectious diseases, particularly in public or shared spaces.
High-touch point cleaning is especially important in commercial settings, such as offices, fitness centres, schools, nursing homes, factories and restaurants, where the risk of cross-contamination is higher.
Suppose these commercial settings are not regularly and properly cleaned. In that case, they can become hotspots for germs, leading to increased absenteeism due to illness and potentially impacting the business’s reputation.
Furthermore, regular cleaning of high touch points promotes a healthier environment and conveys a strong message about the business’s commitment to hygiene and safety. This is particularly crucial during health crises such as the COVID-19 pandemic, where public awareness of hygiene practices is heightened.
Examples Of High Touch Surfaces In Commercial Areas
In commercial environments, each setting has unique high-touch surfaces, from offices to industrial factories. Identifying these surfaces is crucial for maintaining hygiene and health standards.
High Touch Areas In Offices
Offices are busy places where many people touch the same things daily. If these areas aren’t cleaned
well, germs can spread quickly. This can make many people sick, lower work done, and create an unhealthy workplace.
- Shared Equipment And Tools: Such as computers, printers, photocopiers and telephones.
- Frequently Touched Furniture: Including desks, chairs and meeting room tables.
- Personal Interaction Points: Like reception desks and visitor sign-in areas.
- Common Area Appliances: Coffee machines, water coolers and microwaves.
- Door Fixtures: Door handles, push bars and security access pads.
- Hygiene Facilities: Restroom fixtures like faucets, soap dispensers and hand dryers.
- Lighting And Environmental Controls: Light switches and thermostat controls.
- Elevators And Stairways: Elevator buttons and stairway handrails.
- Office Supplies: Shared pens, staplers and stationery items.
- Recreational Areas: Items in break rooms or lounges, such as magazines and games.
High Touch Surfaces In Healthcare Facilities
The stakes are even higher in healthcare settings. These facilities are frequented by vulnerable populations, including the elderly and those with weakened immune systems.
Failure to thoroughly disinfect high-touch surfaces can spread more serious illnesses, risking patient and staff health and potentially leading to healthcare-associated infections.
- Medical Equipment: Blood pressure cuffs, thermometers and stethoscopes.
- Patient Care Items: Bed rails, call buttons and bedside tables.
- Sanitation Facilities: Faucets, soap dispensers and towel dispensers in restrooms.
- Door And Window Fixtures: Handles, knobs and window ledges.
- Reception Areas: Countertops, pens and information brochures.
- Seating Arrangements: Chairs in waiting rooms and consultation areas.
- Handrails And Support Structures: In hallways, patient rooms and bathrooms.
- Elevators And Public Access Areas: Buttons and handrails in elevators.
- Shared Workstations: Computers, keyboards and telephones at nurse stations.
- Transportation Aids: Wheelchairs, walkers and gurneys.
High Touch Points In Schools
Schools are another critical area where hygiene must be prioritised. Children, who are often more prone to illnesses due to developing immune systems, can easily spread germs among each other through high-touch points.
A lack of proper disinfection can lead to widespread illness, affecting educational outcomes and causing significant disruption to families and the school community.
- Educational Tools: Shared computers, tablets and AV equipment.
- Classroom Furniture: Desks, chairs and door handles.
- Recreational Equipment: Playground equipment and sports gear.
- Dining Area Fixtures: Tables, chairs and vending machines.
- Library Resources: Books, computers and cataloguing systems.
- Restroom Facilities: Faucets, toilet flush handles and paper towel dispensers.
- Personal Interaction Points: Reception desks and counsellor offices.
- Hydration Stations: Water fountains and water bottle filling stations.
- Safety And Security Features: Fire alarms, safety equipment and intercom systems.
- Transportation Accessories: Bus handles and seat belts.
High Touch Surfaces In Fitness Centres
Fitness centres, with their shared equipment and close-contact activities, are prime locations for germ transmission.
Without regular and thorough disinfection of high-touch surfaces, members are at risk of skin infections, colds, and other communicable diseases, which can deter people from maintaining their fitness routines.
- Exercise Equipment: Treadmills, weights and exercise bikes.
- Personal Training Tools: Yoga mats, resistance bands and foam rollers.
- Locker Room Fixtures: Lockers, shower knobs and benches
- Reception And Check-In Areas: Sign-in screens, pens and membership cards.
- Hydration And Nutrition Areas: Water coolers and snack vending machines.
- Interactive Screens: Class schedule displays and touch screen information boards.
- Restroom And Shower Facilities: Faucets, soap dispensers and hand dryers.
- Cleaning Stations: Disinfectant wipes and spray bottle dispensers.
- Group Exercise Accessories: Shared equipment in classes, like dumbbells and blocks.
- Safety And Emergency Equipment: Fire extinguishers and first aid kits.
High Touch Areas In Industrial Factories
In industrial factory settings, where workers often operate in close quarters and handle shared equipment, the spread of germs can quickly impact the workforce. This affects individual health and can lead to significant operational disruptions and potential financial losses for the business.
- Shared Equipment And Tools: Such as touch screens, control panels and hand tools.
- Material Handling Items: Forklifts, pallet jacks, delivery crates and boxes.
- Workstations And Desks: Computers, telephones and paperwork areas.
- Employee Facilities: Breakroom appliances and furniture.
- Safety Stations: Eye wash stations, first aid kits, and safety gear lockers.
- Entry And Exit Points: Door handles, security keypads and turnstiles.
- Restroom Features: Faucets, toilet handles and paper towel dispensers.
- Light And Environmental Controls: Light switches and thermostat controls.
- Storage Areas: Cabinet handles and storage bins.
- Transportation Vehicles: Handles and controls in factory vehicles and carts.
Tips For Cleaning And Disinfecting High Touch Surfaces
Here are some essential tips for properly cleaning and disinfecting high touch surfaces in various settings, from offices to factories and restaurants:
1. Pre-Clean The Surface Before Applying The Disinfectant
When preparing to disinfect high-touch surfaces in commercial spaces, it’s essential to start with a thorough pre-cleaning process. This step helps remove dirt, grime and other impurities that lessen the effectiveness of the disinfectant.
Here’s a detailed approach tailored for a commercial environment, such as a busy office kitchen or a conference room:
- Choose The Right Cleaning Tool: Select a tool that’s appropriate for the surface type. In a commercial space, microfiber cloths are ideal for most surfaces, as they effectively trap dirt and dust.
For example, a microfiber cloth works well for wiping down countertops, tables, and chairs in a conference room.
- Select An Appropriate Cleaning Solution: Use a mild detergent and water solution for most surfaces. This solution is generally safe for various materials and effectively removes everyday dirt and grime.
It’s especially suitable for surfaces like kitchen counters or office desks, which don’t typically have heavy stains or grease.
- Wipe Down Surfaces Gently: Apply the cleaning solution using the chosen tool, being gentle to avoid damaging the surface. Consider using a soft-bristled brush to reach into crevices for textured surfaces, like a textured tabletop or a ridged door handle.
- Pay Attention To Nooks And Crannies: Focus on areas that are prone to dirt and germ accumulation, such as the corners of a kitchen counter or the crevices around the handles of a refrigerator in the office pantry.
- Rinse If Necessary: Use clean water to remove any residue if the cleaning solution requires rinsing. This is particularly important for surfaces in food preparation areas or where children might come into contact.
- Dry The Surface: Use a clean, dry cloth to dry the surface after cleaning. This prevents water spots and prepares the surface for disinfection. For instance, thoroughly drying a tabletop ensures it’s ready for a disinfectant to be applied effectively.
- Dispose Of Or Clean The Cleaning Tools: Properly dispose of disposable items or thoroughly wash reusable items like cloths and brushes. This is important in a commercial setting to avoid cross-contamination.
For instance, make sure the microfiber cloth used in the kitchen is either disposed of or washed separately from cloth used in other areas.
2. Use Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) When Cleaning
Wearing appropriate PPE, such as gloves and masks, is fundamental for protecting cleaning staff from exposure to harmful chemicals and contaminants.
Gloves protect the hands from harsh disinfectants, while masks can prevent inhalation of aerosolised chemicals or pathogens.
Additionally, safety goggles can be vital to shield the eyes in settings with a risk of splashing or spraying cleaning solutions.
Long-sleeved clothing or protective aprons should also be considered to prevent any skin contact with potentially irritating substances.
This approach is especially important in commercial spaces with stronger industrial-grade cleaning agents or a high volume of potentially contaminated surfaces.
3. Use Hydrogen Peroxide To Disinfect High Touch Surfaces
Hydrogen peroxide is an effective disinfectant for high-touch surfaces, thanks to its broad-spectrum antimicrobial properties.
To apply it, dilute hydrogen peroxide to a concentration of about 3%, which is generally effective yet gentle on most surfaces.
Use a spray bottle to evenly apply the solution to surfaces such as countertops, door handles, light switches, and elevator buttons.
Allow it to sit for at least one minute to effectively kill germs, and then wipe it off with a clean cloth to prevent residue.
For other high-touch areas, consider these disinfectants:
- Clorox (Bleach-Based Cleaners): Ideal for non-porous surfaces in bathrooms and kitchens, like sinks, toilets, and tiled floors. Be cautious with coloured fabrics and surfaces, as bleach can cause discolouration.
- Lysol (Quaternary Ammonium Compounds): Great for various surfaces, including upholstery, carpets, and walls. It’s less corrosive than bleach and can be used where discolouration is a concern.
- Isopropyl Alcohol (70% Solution): Suitable for electronic devices like keyboards, touchscreens, and phone handsets. Its rapid evaporation rate minimises moisture exposure to sensitive electronic components.
Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions and ensure adequate ventilation when using these disinfectants. It’s important to choose a product that’s effective against pathogens and suitable for the material of the surface being cleaned to avoid damage.
4. Plan For Periodic Cleaning
Periodic cleaning involves the systematic and scheduled cleansing of surfaces at regular, predefined intervals. This approach is essential for maintaining consistent cleanliness and hygiene standards.
For example, cleaning high-touch surfaces like door handles, patient bed rails, and light switches multiple times a day is crucial in healthcare settings with a high risk of contamination.
In contrast, in commercial spaces like offices or retail stores, where foot traffic might be lower, a daily or bi-weekly cleaning schedule could suffice for areas such as desks, countertops, and display units. The frequency should be adjusted based on the use level and contamination risk.
5. Schedule Regular Deep Cleaning Sessions
Deep cleaning is a thorough and detailed process that extends well beyond the scope of standard daily cleaning routines. It encompasses meticulously cleaning what is often overlooked during regular cleaning.
This can include tasks like moving and cleaning beneath furniture, addressing hard-to-reach spots, and employing specialised equipment for comprehensive cleansing of carpets, upholstery, and air ducts.
In commercial spaces, where cleanliness can significantly impact both employee well-being and customer perception, scheduling deep cleaning sessions becomes even more critical.
The frequency of these sessions should be tailored to the space’s specific needs, considering factors such as foot traffic, type of activities conducted, and overall usage patterns.
Deep cleaning might be necessary once or twice a month for high-traffic areas like lobbies, public restrooms, or dining halls.
In contrast, less frequently used spaces might only require such thorough cleaning every quarter or bi-annually. Instituting a regular schedule for deep cleaning ensures a consistently high standard of hygiene and cleanliness and helps maintain the space’s longevity and aesthetic appeal.
6. Hire A Commercial Cleaner To Ensure Frequently Touched Surfaces Are Regularly Cleaned
Opting for a professional commercial cleaning service offers many benefits, especially in maintaining hygiene in high-traffic areas.
They can provide regular maintenance cleaning to more intensive deep cleaning sessions, all customised to suit the specific requirements of your business or facility.
By entrusting this task to professionals, you ensure that frequently touched surfaces are not just superficially cleaned but are sanitised and maintained to the highest standards of cleanliness.
This is particularly crucial in environments with significant public exposure, such as retail spaces, offices, healthcare facilities, and educational institutions.
Regular professional cleaning helps create a healthier environment and contributes positively to your space’s overall impression and reputation.
Additionally, it relieves your staff from the burden of cleaning duties, allowing them to focus on their core responsibilities and enhancing overall productivity.
Conclusion About What Are High Touch Surfaces
High touch surfaces can often be tricky to clean and are frequently overlooked during everyday cleaning routines. Being the most frequently touched and used, these areas accumulate more germs and dirt, making them critical points for regular and thorough cleaning.
Including these surfaces in your cleaning protocol ensures a comprehensive approach to hygiene and cleanliness.
For businesses looking to maintain a high standard of cleanliness and hygiene, the practical solution is to hire a commercial cleaner.
ESP Cleaning Services specialises in providing top-tier commercial cleaning services tailored to meet the unique needs of your space. With their expertise, these often-overlooked high touch surfaces will be meticulously cleaned and sanitised, contributing to a healthier and more appealing environment.
To ensure your space receives the best care, request a non-obligatory quote from ESP Cleaning Services and enhance your cleaning routine today.
Frequently Asked Questions About What Are High Touch Surfaces
How Should Cleaning Practices Differ Between High Touch And Low Touch Surfaces?
Cleaning practices for high touch surfaces require more frequent and thorough disinfection due to the higher risk of contamination. These surfaces should be cleaned multiple times a day with appropriate disinfectants.
Low touch surfaces, while they don’t necessitate as frequent cleaning, still require regular dusting and occasional disinfection to maintain overall hygiene and to remove accumulated dust and potential allergens.
What Are The Best Practices For Disposing Of Cleaning Materials Used On High Touch Surfaces?
The best practice for disposing of cleaning materials, such as cloths or wipes, is to do so in a manner that prevents cross-contamination.
Disposable items should be discarded immediately after use in a sealed trash bin. Reusable cleaning tools should be thoroughly washed or sanitised before being used on a different surface or area to prevent the spread of germs.
Will Hiring Commercial Cleaners Disrupt Our Daily Business Operations?
It’s a common concern, but professional commercial cleaners often work flexibly to minimise disruption. Many offer after-hours cleaning services or can tailor their schedule to fit around your business hours, ensuring that cleaning of high touch surfaces doesn’t interfere with your daily operations.
Can Commercial Cleaners Use Our Preferred Cleaning Products For High Touch Surfaces?
Most commercial cleaning companies are flexible with their products and can accommodate your preferences, especially if your workplace has specific health or environmental considerations. It’s best to discuss this with the cleaning service provider beforehand.
Are Commercial Cleaners Trained To Handle Sensitive Areas Like Healthcare Or Food Service High Touch Surfaces?
Yes, professional commercial cleaning services typically have staff trained to clean in various environments, including sensitive areas such as healthcare facilities and food service establishments. They know the specific standards and regulations required in these settings to ensure safe and effective cleaning.