Disclosure: I was provided products in exchange for this blog post. All opinions are my own.
You hear that familiar sound “ahh-choo ahhhh-choo” a few cubicles down. You sulk your head, knowing once again the cold and flu will rapidly spread through your workplace, and you are destined to be sick for the next week. And there is nothing you can do about it… or is there?
Well maybe there is something you can do about it.
Just because you are surrounded by germs and sneezing co-workers doesn’t always mean you have to get sick also! There are ways to prevent the cold and flu in your workplace, and if it has already hit your jobsite, there are plenty of products to control the cold and flu at your work. I found that Staples has a Flu Center, with all of the much needed products to prevent, manage and maintain your workplace from spreading the cold and flu further!
Preventative Products to Reduce the Cold and Flu in the Workplace:
The key to reducing the cold and flu is keeping germs out in the first place! The cleaner your workplace is, the less bacteria and germs are roaming, the less chance you have to get sick! Did you know that about 80% of all infectious diseases are spread by touch?
Well, you can reduce your chances of getting sick by doing simple tasks like washing your hands frequently, using a paper towel to open the bathroom door after you washed, and spritzing hand sanitizer from those hand hand sanitizer stations as you pass them by.
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Managing when the Cold and Flu Hits:
So, your office got hit with the cold and flu. People are coming to work sneezing, coughing and blowing their nose. This is the time to make sure your work is stocked with all of the products that manage those who are dealing with sickness.
In order to keep those co-workers feeling their best, make sure to have products handy like facial tissues for those with stuffy noses, paper towels for washing up and pain relievers for those nagging headaches the flu season can bring.
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Maintain Cleanliness in the Workplace:
While workplace counters and kitchens get wiped down on a more frequent basis, don’t forget to wipe down the less obvious surfaces. Places that need some sanitation too: doorknobs, elevator buttons, keyboards, and communal meeting rooms. Wipe down frequently used surfaces on a daily basis to control the cold and flu and to keep a clean workplace!
At the very least, it doesn’t take long to wipe down your desk, computer and your own office space. Imagine how clean your workplace could be if everyone did this on a daily basis!
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More Cold And Flu Season Tips At Work
Beyond stocking your office with the important products to help control the workplace cold and flu season, some other tips for keeping the cold and flu controlled at work:
- Don’t share pens, pencils, notepads, etc.
- Cover your mouth when you sneeze
- Wash your hands (yes, you!)
- Keep your hand and fingers off your face (mouth, eyes especially)
- Bring an extra pair of socks – stay warm and bundle up!
Got any other tips for controlling the cold and flu at your job?
All of Your Sanitary Workplace Needs can be found at Staples or at Staples.com.