Here are some of the best practices for communicating your cleaning protocols to prove you’re not taking shortcuts with hygiene.
Think about it. Social distancing. More-thorough hand washing. Mask wearing. Sanitizers and cleaning solutions. If we’ve learned anything, it’s that there are a lot of things we can do to protect ourselves from what harms us.
Now that gyms and fitness centers in each state have taken steps to reopen and return to normalcy — or some form of it — they are experiencing even more pressure than everyday businesses and workplaces to keep people safe.
A recent survey from Stratus Building Solutions found that 86% of Americans want proof that workplaces and businesses are following a regular cleaning schedule and sanitation regimen. Nine out of 10 said that even if vaccinated, they’re concerned with businesses they visit and want sanitation to be a priority.
People want proof, which implies they need to see it or hear it. They want cleaning to be a priority, meaning they won’t take cleanliness for granted like many of us did before.
Gym, health club and fitness center operators, most of whom still are suffering greatly from loss of business, need to ensure the safety and cleanliness of their facilities.
Clearly, it starts with consistent and dedicated cleaning protocols, but it goes beyond wiping down machines and equipment. Here are some best practices to consider implementing:
- Establish a regular schedule for cleaning so members can see you in action and see hygiene is a priority.
- Improve your communications with members. Tell them about cleaning schedules, the products you use and new technologies being employed. This level of transparency will help prove you’re taking hygiene seriously.
- Remind them you care by putting posters or other signage in high-traffic areas and near the hand-sanitizing stations.
- Post charts or list when areas were last cleaned.
- Take the time to talk to other facility managers — from the fitness world and beyond — to combine market research with the latest clean technology.
And make sure to live clean every day. No shortcuts. No days off. Your members not only expect it, but today, they also demand it.
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Dennis Hackemeyer is co-founder of Nanotouch Materials, makers of Nanotouch Self-Cleaning Surfaces (formerly NanoSeptic Self-Cleaning Surfaces). He can be reached at dennis@nanoseptic.com or visit nanotouch.com.
