Championing Clean During Infection Control Week

October is chock full of events emphasizing infection prevention and control’s importance to public health. From Global Handwashing Day on October 15 to Canada’s National Infection Control Week from October 19-23, these events highlight the work going on behind the scenes to create safe and healthy environments. Commercial cleaning industry professionals can capitalize on public awareness by bringing IPC practices and technology to the forefront of their operations.

Although infection prevention is commonly associated with healthcare settings, every facility type benefits from effective IPC protocols. As digital tools and cleaning techniques evolve, cleaning crews need to be trained on up-to-date practices to enhance operations and improve infection-prevention outcomes. Compliance is critical, and frontline teams should apply chemicals according to the manufacturer’s label, utilize appropriate dilution ratios, and mitigate cross-contamination with color-coded systems.

Cleaning operations should prioritize cleaning and disinfecting high-touch surfaces, monitoring and improving indoor air quality (IAQ), and encouraging hand hygiene compliance. Professional cleaning managers should keep abreast of ongoing outbreaks, especially amid flu season and rising measles cases. Professional cleaning managers can be proactive by increasing cleaning frequency and educating both staff and building occupants on the essential first line of defense: handwashing.

Integrating innovations in infection prevention can also supplement an IPC program. Ultraviolet-C (UV-C) lights, electrostatic sprayers, and adenosine triphosphate (ATP) testing are all tools that can elevate operations. However, costs, time management, and incorrect applications can undermine their intended functions. Other automated cleaning equipment—autoscrubbers, cleaning robots, and smart sensors—can also benefit facility cleaning by reallocating labor and attaining building outcomes.