Reducing Allergies in the Workplace

We all enjoy the warmer months of the year and love a good Summers day, for most people the glimmers of sunshine are welcomed whole-heartedly. But for allergy sufferers and those with hay fever, the increase in pollen means it can be a stressful time of year.

Allergies and asthma are more common now than ever before and affect sufferers all year round. The UK Cleaning Products Industry Association (UKCPI) who provide information about cleaning and hygiene in the home and workplace, highlight the importance of cleaning in controlling allergic asthma symptoms, helping workers to cope with their symptoms before they become problematic.

Types of allergies to be aware of in the workplace

Here are a few different examples of some common allergens that you are familiar with and what can cause reactions in certain people.

Pollen allergies

Pollen allergies, otherwise known as hay fever are often worse in the Sumer, where grass pollen levels are high. It can cause cold symptoms such as a runny nose, itchy eyes, coughing and sneezing. Unfortunately, it is quite hard to counter these symptoms, but there are a few tricks you can use to stop yourself having severe allergy symptoms, such as taking antihistamines and keeping doors/windows closed as much as possible.

Mould allergies

Mould allergies can occur both indoors and outdoors, and happen as a result of exposure to mould spores. Allergy symptoms are similar to that of hay fever, with sneezing, a stuffy nose and cough being very common. Prevention includes keeping dampness levels to a minimum, using a dehumidifier and ensuring rubbish is thrown out before turning mouldy.

Pet allergies

Sometimes we might bring our pets into the workplace but it's worth checking in with your team beforehand to see if there are any pet allergies. The allergic reaction occurs as a result of the proteins found in an animal's skin cells, saliva and urine.

Food allergies

When it comes to food, there are several associated allergies, with the most common being milk, eggs and peanuts.

Reducing workplace risks is essential for ensuring those allergy sufferers can still work efficiently without their health being hindered. If for whatever reason you were to bring pets or food into the office that someone is allergic to, you should only do so if that person is absent and you must ensure thorough cleaning has taken place.

Allergic reactions can trigger severe symptoms

An allergy sufferer can potentially experience dangerous reactions if left untreated, so it's always important to identify reasonable adjustments and accommodate their needs so they can be safe during the working day.

Severe allergic reactions, otherwise known as anaphylaxis can cause an affected employee to experience trouble breathing, throat tightness, vomiting, low blood pressure and even passing out. If left untreated, some people can experience a near fatal reaction or even worse.

At this point, someone may need lifesaving equipment such as an EpiPen, which works to decrease your body's allergic reaction and relax the airway muscles, making breathing easier.

Keeping offices clean to minimise allergic reactions

Avoiding dust mites in the workplace, and keeping communal areas such as kitchens and bathrooms free from mould can significantly help to control the likelihood of allergic reactions or asthma attacks.

However, it is becoming more widely recognised that certain types of cleaning products can ‘pollute’ air inside our homes and offices. According to the United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), indoor air can be two to five times more polluted than the air outside, with cleaning products being a significant contributor. They can release liquid, gas or minuscule solid particles into the air where they can remain for extended periods of time, triggering asthma and other respiratory conditions because of the irritant effect these substances have on the lungs.

In 2011 we launched our Jani-King Green Cleaning Programme designed to educate all of our franchise owners and clients on our green cleaning practices including reducing the use of harmful chemicals. By reducing the use of toxic chemicals Jani-King are committed to creating a clean and caring office environment to help relieve the stress on those suffering from allergies. A happy workforce means a more productive workforce, so ensuring appropriate cleaning methods and chemicals are used in your building should be a priority.

Why hire a commercial cleaning company

Keeping a regular cleaning schedule in your office can become very time consuming and this may not be realistic if you have a busy working schedule. Therefore, it may be the best idea to let professionals handle the job.

You also have a responsibility to ensure your premises are appropriate and safe for your workers, and practicing good cleaning and hygiene standards is a great way of ensuring employee health and improving productivity.

Hiring a commercial cleaning company offers many benefits, like taking the pressure of office workers to ensure high levels of hygiene are met on a consistent basis. A company will also be equipped with the specific equipment and necessary training needed for the cleaning jobs.

Contact workplace cleaning experts

Managing allergies by having a clean work environment is essential and you should ensure you are following the best hygiene standards available.

With years of experience in the commercial cleaning industry, since 1969, we have delivered high quality commercial cleaning services to many businesses. Let the professionals help you manage allergies in the workplace with the best services available to keep you safe.

To reduce workplace risks and ensure your premises are a clean and safe environment for your employees and to minimise the potential for costly sick days, contact Jani-King today and find out about our tailored office cleaning services.