How to Keep an Office Space Germ-Free

Germs are not always easy to keep away. But, the work-space at your job does not need to be a germ hazard if you follow the following steps. Keeping the work -space as germ free as possible means less lost work-time and happier Bosses.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Disinfecting Wipes
• Hand Sanitizer

1. The first step is stay home if you are sick.
   Staying home one day could prevent the spread of germs to other employees, as well that one day of rest may allow you to rid yourself of the bug, if it is in the beginning stages.

2. When at work, keep a container of disinfecting wipes at your station, wipe down your desk, computer keyboard, mouse, phone receiver or headset, as well as dialing pad, keep the whole surrounding area wiped clean.
   Once a week is suggested, however during Flu season, every other day would not be a bad idea.

3. Keep a jar of antibacterial hand sanitizer at your desk or station, use it through out your work day.

4. Always cover your mouth when coughing.

5. Be sure to keep coffee mugs, drinking glasses, or vessels washed thoroughly, always using hot water and soap.

6. Do not eat at your desk, it is a contributing factor to germs at your finger tips. Save the eating for the lunchroom, restaurant or other eatery.

7. Always avoid touching your mouth, nose or eyes, germs are often spread after touching something contaminated with germs, then making contact with the above areas of your body.

8. Finally practice good health and hygiene habits.
   Get plenty of sleep, drink plenty of fluids (water always being the best),
   Keep stress low, eat nutritious food and stay physically active.

Tips & Warnings

• Keep immunizations up to date.
• Avoid close contact with people that are sick.
• Use Prescribed Antibiotics Appropriately !
• Antibiotics do not work against viruses such as colds and flu.
• Unnecessary antibiotics can be harmful.
• Antibiotics should be taken exactly as prescribed by your doctor.

Resources

• Flu Information for Workplaces & Employees

[jmessina10]

on 7/8/2008 Excellent article!!

[revisitingnixon]

on 6/27/2007 Congrats on having this article be picked as the winner for the "Top Written Requested How to Article!" Check out the forums and see which other winners we have this week. Check it out at:

http://www.ehow.com/community/forums/forum_1728_ehow-winners:-article-requests.aspx

-Rich