What to Look for as Businesses Reopen

5/29/2020 (Permalink)

The COVID-19 pandemic has changed the definition of clean and has 89% of consumers nervous about returning to the retail world.

SERVPRO cleaning specialist in Flint, recommends paying attention to four key things as businesses reopen.

1. Look for "signs" of clean

When you first walk into the building you should immediately look for signs that the space has been cleaned recently. A clean space will be free of visible dirt and trash. Fingerprints in high traffic areas are a good sign that cleaning is not high priority. Standalone sanitation stations are a good sign that disinfecting is a priority. Many businesses are also hanging signage to remind guests to use proper social distancing protocols.  

2. What adjustments have staff made?

Everyone has a responsibility to stop the spread of coronavirus. The staff of retail businesses, restaurants, or community centers should be properly trained in CDC-approved cleaning methods. If employees are not using proper techniques or products, it might be due to a lack of proper training. Look for staff who are wearing gloves and masks and are practicing safe distancing when interacting with customers. 

3. What adjustment has the business made to the physical space?

Many businesses and facilities have made physical changed to their buildings to help reduce the risk of spreading illness. The business may adjust to traffic flow of patrons to prevent congested areas. Contactless point-of-sale are becoming more common, and many businesses are constructing barriers between employees and guests. Some have even added markers on the floor to indicate the safe 6-feet distance. One good way to help prevent the spread of infection is to reduce the number of touch points, such as propping doors open and opening windows to increase airflow. Some of the businesses are going a step further and reducing the number of customers allowed inside the space at one time. 

4. Does it look like " business as usual?"

in the same way that the country changed following 9/11, what we once knew as "normal" may change forever. If a facility is still operating gin the way it did before the coronavirus pandemic, there is a good chance the managers or staff are not taking the illness seriously and are not prioritizing the health of their employees and guests. many have reduced there hours of operation or offered times when they are open only for at-risk individuals, such as senior citizens or those who are immune-compromised. Before stepping out of your door, check the company's social media pages or their website for communications about their hours and the steps they are taking to protect patrons. These locations should be following federal, state, and local mandates with regard to safety. 

Reopening America requires all of us to move forward together by practicing social distancing and other daily habits to help reduce the risk of exposure to the coronavirus. 

SERVPRO specializes in disaster restoration, cleanup, and repair services, helping to remediate damage, making it "Like it never even happened," for both commercial and residential customers.