Not many people look around their classroom, hotel lobby, or hospital cafeteria and think, "Wow, if it weren't for the cleaning supplies used to clean this place, the world would be a much more dangerous place." But that's exactly what everyone should be thinking nearly everywhere they go. Cleaning supplies are not only for the janitorial staff to worry about, they should be one of the top concerns in every community. Below, we discuss some of the hot topics of health and safety in our community and how cleaning products are keeping us safe.

Hospitals

Hospitals, clinics, and other healthcare facilities are a hub of sickness and germs. Thousands of people go in and out of hospitals every day with virus's, diseases, and other disorders, touching every inch of the walls, doors, handles, counters, and floors. How do hospitals manage to maintain a sterile atmosphere? By using the right process and the right supplies. Disinfectants are the most important tool hospitals have at their disposal. By using various wipes, concentrates, and ready-to-use mixtures, hospitals can tackle small blood spills to strong pathogens to ensure the health and safety of all their patients and employees.

Office Spaces

Health in the work place should be very relatable in office areas. How often do you hear someone sneeze and cringe on the inside, hoping you don't get whatever it is that's floating around? Preventing sickness in offices is just as important as doing so in hospitals, one bout of the Flu could take the whole building out. In order to maintain a minimal germ zone in offices, companies should invest in hand sanitizers, surface wipes, and keyboard disinfectants, being sure to wipe all handles and touch surfaces commonly used.

Animal Hospitals and Shelters

Just like human hospitals, animal hospitals can be a danger zone when it comes to sickness for both you and your furry friend. An infection control program in shelters, where many animals are not vaccinated or housebroken, is very important because urine and feces are some of the most potent disease carriers. Standard cleaners and disinfectants may not be up to the job. To be safe, use only disinfectants with an animal pathogen claim on the label to ensure cleaning efforts are successful.

The Flu

When flu season rears its ugly head, it seems like people flee to their homes and lock their doors against the week-ruining disease, refusing to emerge until the coast is clear. There are plenty of ways to combat against the flu, but it is imperative that companies pay attention to detail and do the proper research before committing to a specific cleaning agent. For example, many disinfecting supplies have specified contact time requirements, meaning that you may have to keep a surface wet for 20 seconds for it to do its job. It is also important to mention that not all cleaning supplies are effective against the flu and only products with influenza claims should be used.

Now take a look around, wherever you are, and take a moment to appreciate the effort that has gone into providing you with a clean, healthy, and safe environment. Without the proper cleaning supplies in your life, whether noticed or not, your chances of falling ill could be much greater than you realize.