Dust! Health Risks in the Office
Dust is in every nook and cranny, making it easy to ignore until it starts to coat the surfaces in the home or office. Office cleaning and daily dusting can prevent this buildup of particles which can effect not just the perception of your business by client and customers but the overall health and well being of you employees.
What exactly is dust?
Dust is a collective term for organic and inorganic particles that collect. A majority of dust is dead skin cells, but it can also contain toxic chemicals. Lead, pesticides, and more can be found in dust. When dust is disturbed, these pollutants can be breathed in by anyone.
There are three primary risks that come from having a buildup of dust.
- Allergies
Many people are allergic to dust mites, and too much dust in the air can trigger these allergies. Those who are allergic might exhibit symptoms such as itchy and watery eyes, sneezing, runny or stuffy nose, and more.
- Asthma
Bacteria by-products found in dust can trigger an asthma attack. Those with asthma should be careful when cleaning. As dust flies into the air during dusting or vacuuming, there is a greater chance it will cause a dust related asthma attack.
- Dermatitis
Inhaling dust can cause skin conditions such as eczema and atopic dermatitis to flare up. Atopic dermatitis is common in children in their first year of life. When children crawl, or roll around on the floor where dust is commonly found, it can increase the risk of a skin condition.
How Can Dust be Controlled
It’s impossible to have a completely dust-free office. However, there are a few ways to decrease the amount of dust in your office.
- No Carpets
Dust can easily cling to carpets, and carpets can even produce dust from its fibers. Hard-surface flooring with rugs is a better alternative. Daily vacuuming and floor care is essential to maintaining a dust-free office,
- Regularly Dusting
Choose cleaning products and tools that pick up and trap dust instead of cloths or feather dusters that tend to move the dust around. For an even better solution, contact Universal Cleaners and utilize our professional janitorial services.
- Air Purifiers
A high-quality air purifier is a great investment to reduce the number of airborne particles. This reduces the amount of dust that builds up.
For help with your office cleaning including carpets, desks, and windows, contact the team at Universal Cleaners. Professional cleaning can help reduce the amount of dust found in the office.
