Disinfecting During Cold and Flu Season

Industry manufacturers answer common questions asked by building service contractors.

Should building service contractors be disinfecting during cold and flu season more often?

Yes, you should disinfect more often in the cold and flu season as people’s cold, flu, pneumonia and strep-throat symptoms cause them to release more infectious mucus into the indoor environment than would otherwise be the case when people are well.

However, the most effective way to prevent the spread of disease is frequent washing of hands and the prevention of hands from entering the mouth.

— John B. Everitt, president, Stearns Packaging Corp., Madison, Wis.

First, the disinfectant in use should be effective against colds (rhinovirus) and flu (influenza). Many standard disinfectants do not kill rhinovirus. Then, the frequency of disinfection should consider the number of people touching the surface. If a person sits at their desk all day, disinfecting their phone and computer keyboard more than once a day probably is not needed. If hundreds of people touch an elevator button or door handle, this could be disinfected up to hourly, depending on the perceived level of risk.

— Peter Teska, Americas portfolio lead for infection prevention, Diversey, Sturtevant, Wis.

Disinfecting more during cold and flu seasons is not necessary unless individuals in remote proximity to one another are sick with bacteria/virus. Then it is highly recommended to disinfect frequently.

— Robert Neitzel, director of operations, Big 3 Packaging, Philadelphia

See more questions and answers on disinfecting.

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Step One

Tell us about the cleaning services you need from our professional, trustworthy technicians.

Step Two

Take us on a tour of your office, building, or campus so we can learn more about your needs and expectations.

Step Three

Review and tweak our proposal for customized cleaning and maintenance.

Step Four

Once you have confidence in our plan, we’ll set up the regular service procedures for your office or building and start the transition process to begin your worry-free service.

We use TFC at multiple locations of ours and they have been amazing. It is refreshing to finally work with a a company in this industry that is not only competent, stable and reliable, but who raises the bar on the entire profession.

Pete and his staff are diligent to our needs and do a great job. I do not have to worry about security with them. Top notch service.

Pete and his team did a great job on our carpets. Musty looking one day, and like new the next! Scheduled their service after hours so that our business did not miss a beat.

The owners of this company, Pete and Linda, are the most caring, ethical, and family oriented people I've ever worked for. When you are hired here, you are truly part of the family. Opportunities abound for those willing to work for it, and the sky's the limit! I love TFC!!