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RESPONDING TO INCREASED SPRING FOOT TRAFFIC As people flock back to facilities, we may see a resurgence of “forgotten” pathogens such as influenza and norovirus by John Engel
A
s more people likely return to restaurants, hotels, shops, and other facilities, consumers and employees continue to have heightened expectations of facility cleanliness. The expected increase in facility foot traffic this spring may lead to the spread of “forgotten” pathogens, such as influenza and norovirus, through contaminated surfaces and infected individuals. Fortunately, facilities can implement cleaning protocols to maintain consumer and staff confidence while helping to reduce the spread of germs in facilities. FOOT TRAFFIC IS COMING
North Americans travelled less than ever before due to cancelled trips in 2020 and the first half of 2021. As vaccine distribution continues and confidence grows, more people are expected to resume activities such as air travel, visiting restaurants, and staying in hotels. For example, on June 2, 2021, TSA screened nearly 1.6 million people throughout the U.S. compared to 304,436 travellers on the same day in 2020. Similarly, a new survey found that 92 per cent of Americans are poised to “travel with a vengeance” this year to make up for over a year of lost trips. Businesses can prepare for a greater resurgence of foot traffic by implementing strong cleaning and hygiene protocols. Here are six steps to prepare for increased traffic: 1. Address high-touch surfaces. Facility managers may wish to determine priority areas and high-touch surfaces that need more attention than others. This is especially important for addressing flu viruses 20 / FACILITY CLEANING & MAINTENANCE / SPRING 2022
