The Hidden Health Hazards of Your Office Carpet

Published on 2020-03-26 22:28:22
2 min read



Carpets are so pervasive in businesses that it would be tough to imagine an office in your mind without thinking about these fibres on the floor. But they also have a more practical reason, which is to reduce the noise in a public building. Carpets have started to gain popularity in the 80s and 90s, and the practice continues till today.

 

However, people take for granted the potential health hazards that lay there on the floor. Most offices have a janitorial service which is why they do not see the need to hire professional office cleaning services. However, your in-house janitor does not possess the skill and knowledge on how to correctly shampoo and sanitize the fibres to eliminate all pollens, allergens, and dust that can trigger allergy and respiratory problems.

 

According to IBISWorld, the commercial cleaning industry in Australia is currently worth about $12 billion. From 2014 to 2019, the market grew a steady 4.3 per cent every year. Companies and organizations are hiring in-house or independent janitorial services to ensure that their offices are well-maintained. However, some found value in outsourcing their cleaning needs to service providers at specific days of the week or month. This way, they can concentrate on their core expertise and not worry about health hazards.

 

Your office carpet can also be a virtual storehouse of every allergen, germs, or bacteria there is. Here are some of the risks you face if you do not hire professionals to sanitize your floors:

 

  1. Pollutants -- The American Lung Association has warned about the dangers of the dirty carpet. Among the pollutant triggers include particles, dust mites, cockroach allergens, dust, and pet dander. For those who do not know, pet dander refers to the specks of skin or fur that dogs, cats, rodents, and birds shed. These pollutants are released into the air and enter your nose or mouth every time someone walks on the carpet.

 

  1. Respiratory problems -- A dirty carpet will definitely affect people with asthma problems. A Taiwanese study of over 3,500 children showed that those living in carpeted rooms have a higher tendency of developing wheezing. Another study on nearly 24,000 Chinese kids showed that those who live with carpets and pets are more at risk to develop asthma. 

 

  1. Sinus and skin irritation -- Have you observed that some of your employees do not seem to heal from chronic sinusitis? Or they develop red spots and marks on their skin that do not respond to topical or oral medication? There are two possible culprits--your carpet or your air-conditioning unit. You need to contact office cleaning services to shampoo and sanitize your carpet. Also, contact technicians to make sure the AC is not the source of the allergy.

 

How Often Should You Hire Office Cleaners?

 

For deep-cleaning means, they also include the floor under the carpet for which you need to call in professional Office cleaning services at least twice a month. Special occasions like the office anniversary may need a prior visit from the cleaners, as well.