You might think that your overly demanding boss and unbearable workload are the causes of your stress and poor health. While the chances are big, they are not the only ones you should be blaming. There are many other things and areas in the office that threaten your health. In fact, you might just be holding it, facing it, or sitting on it…

Where the Germs Are

With the number of employees, managers and clients that come in and out the office, it isn’t surprising that offices have become a perfect breeding ground for disease-causing bacteria. People have the tendency to leave more than just paperwork and presentations behind, so it’s important to recognise where the tiny terrors really are so that they can be wiped out quickly and efficiently. And usually, when we talk about germs and the spread of bacteria in the office, we immediately point all fingers to the toilet. It’s understandable, though, considering that it’s where we let go of all kinds of nasty things. But would you believe that the toilet isn’t the dirtiest spot in the workplace?

According to a 2012 study by Kimberly-Clark Professional, the germiest areas in the office are, in fact, the ones that look immaculately clean on the surface. As they say, “just because you don’t see it doesn’t mean it’s not there.” So, take a look at our list of the top germ hot spots in the office below. This list may make you want to keep a sanitiser handy, or request for a thorough, professional cleaning from us at I-Kleen Cleaning Concepts.

• Desk – When you’re at your desk, don’t think that you’re the only one toiling away. Germs are hard at work, too. With the things you keep on your desk – from magazines, pictures, water, to flowers – and the amount of time you spend on it, don’t be shocked at how germs have been using your desk as their personal playground.

• Keyboard – Some employees think eating lunch at their desks is harmless and convenient because it makes it easier for them to multitask. Typing a few words in between bites—what’s the danger in that, right? Apparently, the practice and the equipment, specifically keyboards, bring more harm than good. Keyboards may appear seemingly harmless but they are one of the filthiest equipment in the office where lots of harmful bacteria thrive. In between the keys, morsels of food can get stuck, encouraging bacteria growth. Poor personal hygiene, like neglecting to wash the hands after going to the toilet and then typing away, can also cause the spread of germs and illnesses in the office.

• Office phone – Aside from being a vital tool for communication, office phones are also notorious for being epicentres of communicable diseases. If you have a shared phone in the office, observe how many people use it in a day. Record how many people touched their faces or rubbed their noses and eyes while talking on the phone. You’d be surprised at how these oft-trivial, mindless motions trigger bacteria transmission.

• Break room surfaces – Think the toilet is the ultimate danger zone? You might want to be more concerned with the things you touch in the break room instead. Recent studies have shown that break room surfaces, such as sink faucets, water cooler, fridge and microwave handles, contain higher amounts of bacteria than that of the average toilet seat, approximately four times the bacteria level. This means we are more at risk for contamination in areas where we store, prepare and consume food than elsewhere.

Touching or being exposed to any of these things and areas can lead to the transfer of disease-causing bacteria. It will only be a matter of time then before you finally catch the cough, cold or fever. And we all know how poor health can affect an employee’s productivity and, consequently, the business. Thus, it’s wise to call on the expert cleaners to tidy things up and ensure a cleaner environment.

If you want to learn more about our cleaning services and how I-Kleen can help you promote a safer and healthier workplace, give our cleaning company a call today. Experience the I-Kleen difference today!