The COVID-19 pandemic has had a significant impact on healthcare facilities and their cleaning procedures in Toronto, GTA and Ontario. Hospitals have had to adapt to new guidelines and procedures to ensure that they are providing a safe and healthy environment for patients, staff, and visitors. In this blog post, we’ll explore the impact of COVID-19 on hospital cleaning procedures.
- Increased Cleaning and Disinfection
One of the most significant impacts of COVID-19 on hospital cleaning procedures is the increased cleaning and disinfection protocols. Hospitals have had to implement more frequent cleaning schedules and use stronger disinfectants to ensure that all surfaces and equipment are properly disinfected. This includes high-touch surfaces, such as door handles, light switches, and elevator buttons, which are cleaned multiple times a day.
- Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) for Cleaning Staff
Another impact of COVID-19 on hospital cleaning procedures is the increased use of personal protective equipment (PPE) for cleaning staff. Cleaning staff are required to wear PPE, such as gloves, gowns, and masks, to protect themselves from potential exposure to the virus. This is crucial in ensuring that cleaning staff remain healthy and able to provide the necessary cleaning services.
- Training and Education for Cleaning Staff
COVID-19 has also resulted in increased training and education for cleaning staff. Hospitals have had to provide additional training on proper cleaning techniques and the use of disinfectants to ensure that all cleaning staff are equipped to handle the new cleaning procedures. This includes training on how to properly use PPE and dispose of it after use.
- Screening Protocols for Cleaning Staff
Hospitals have also implemented screening protocols for cleaning staff to ensure that they are healthy and free from COVID-19 before entering the hospital. Cleaning staff are screened for symptoms and potential exposure to the virus before starting their shift. This helps to ensure that cleaning staff are not spreading the virus within the hospital environment.
- Collaboration with Infection Control Teams
Finally, COVID-19 has resulted in increased collaboration between cleaning staff and infection control teams. Infection control teams work closely with cleaning staff to ensure that they are following the proper cleaning protocols and procedures. This collaboration helps to ensure that all cleaning staff are working together to provide a safe and healthy hospital environment.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the COVID-19 pandemic has had a significant impact on hospital cleaning procedures in Toronto, GTA and Ontario. Increased cleaning and disinfection, the use of PPE for cleaning staff, training and education, screening protocols, and collaboration with infection control teams are all examples of the impact of COVID-19 on hospital cleaning procedures. By adapting to these changes, hospitals can provide a safe and healthy environment for patients, staff, and visitors.