The COVID-19 pandemic that defined 2020 affected everyone in different ways. While some individuals and businesses only underwent minor changes to their lives, others had their lives turned upside down as a result of government regulations meant to promote public health. If your business managed to survive these past several months, you’re probably eager to re-open the second you get the go-ahead. Fortunately, this year (2021) is on track to see a gradual return to normalcy for many industries. That said, COVID-19 will remain a threat in 2021 and beyond -- as such, every business must make a concerted effort to keep its facilities clean and sanitary.

Here’s how to approach sanitizing and disinfecting your facility if you’re re-opening in 2021.

Prioritize Your Cleaning and Disinfection Protocols

As you prepare to open back up, take the time to assess your facility’s specific needs regarding cleaning and disinfection -- some areas and surfaces will require more attention than others. For instance, frequently-used areas and high-touch surfaces (i.e. doorknobs, keyboards, equipment, etc.) should be thoroughly cleaned and disinfected before reopening and then regularly maintained each and every day. Outdoor areas and spaces that are typically unoccupied won’t need this same level of cleaning and disinfection. Prioritizing your protocols will allow you to develop a more efficient plan in 2021 and beyond.

Develop a Strategy and Schedule

Once you know what needs to be cleaned and disinfected, it’s time to determine when and how to go about it. This is the time to create a clear and concise process for cleaning and disinfecting each relevant area of your facility. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) have useful resources regarding proper cleaning/disinfection methods for different types of surfaces and materials (i.e. soft/porous, hard, electronics, etc.), as well as guidelines regarding personal protective equipment (PPE) when using cleaning supplies, which types of disinfectants to use, and more. As you develop your strategy and schedule, you might find that it’s necessary to hire disinfection services to properly maintain your facility.

Invest in the Resources Required for Your Plan

Whether or not you outsource your cleaning and disinfection efforts, your facility should be stocked with the right products and equipment to keep it clean, sanitary, and safe at all times. Make sure you have plenty of hand sanitizers and wipes, hand soap, detergent, relevant PPE, EPA-registered disinfectants, microfiber cloths, and other disinfection equipment you might require (i.e. electrostatic disinfection sprayers, misters, and more).

Properly Implement Your Plan and Adjust It Accordingly

Now that you know which areas require the most attention, have a strategy in place for keeping said areas and surfaces sanitary and clean, and have access to the necessary supplies for re-opening, it’s time to put your plan into action day in and day out. As you implement your plan, you might find that certain tasks are redundant and/or that some duties require more attention. Proper facility management is all about auditing current processes and making necessary changes for continuous improvement. In order to keep your facility safe and sanitary in 2021 and beyond, then, you and your building maintenance services must track your progress and adjust operations as needed. In doing so, you will end up with an optimized cleaning and disinfection regimen.

When it comes to sanitizing and disinfecting your facility, the details matter. That’s why it’s important to read the CDC’s thorough guidelines here to hit the ground running in 2021. At The Budd Group, health and safety remain our top priorities, which is why our cleaning and disinfection offerings are held to the highest standards and updated in accordance with the leading authorities. To learn more about our services and values, give us a call today at 800-221-8158!