Though summer is coming to an end, dust is still going to build up in the office, affecting any staff with allergies. Dealing with allergies in the workplace can often be difficult. It can’t be easy trying to focus on a business when you have itchy eyes, your nose is stuffy or running and you can’t catch your breath due to consistent sneezing. It’s an awful thing to put up with, but the team at Absolutely Gleaming are here to help. Take a look at our tips for dealing with allergies in the office.
Common Allergies in the Office
Indoor/Outdoor allergies, also commonly referred to as seasonal allergies, are one of the most common allergy types that affect people. Whether it be working in an office, a warehouse, a retail establishment, or perhaps another form of workplace, allergy triggers are everywhere. Other common workplace allergies include contact allergies. These consist of allergies to latex or perhaps eye allergies. Occupational asthma is also a common issue in the workplace and tends to form when a worker is sensitive to something that is inhaled on a regular basis in the workplace. They can be affected by things such as fumes and chemicals.
Office Allergy Triggers
You will often find that your employees with allergies will react to the same things as they would at home. These include, but are not limited to:
- Dust Mites
- Pollen
- Mould spores
- Cigarette smoke
- Cockroaches
- Fumes (from aerosols, chemicals, cleaning agents)
- Perfume and other scented products
- Animal Dander
Even if you have a smoke-free office, co-workers can play a role. If someone has smoked a cigarette during a break, this can trigger a reaction if someone is sensitive to this allergen. The same thing can occur with people who suffer from allergies after being exposed to perfumes and animal dander. Cat dander is particularly triggering. If a particular co-worker wears a perfume or scent that aggravates your allergies, it is a good idea to avoid their cubicle or desk area if possible. If you have to work closely with this particular co-worker, it might be a good idea to politely mention your allergies.
Keeping Office Allergies to a Minimum
There are many easy ways to keep office allergy triggers to an absolute minimum. The first thing you need to do is to make a note of the allergens that have the most significant effect on you or your co-workers. Once you are aware of your allergy triggers, you will then be able to take the right steps to reduce exposure to a minimum. Here are a few tips you can try to reduce allergies in the office:
- Wipe down all hard surfaces in your work area on a daily basis with a damp cloth and some disinfectant.
- Be sure to wear a dust mask if you vacuum your workspace.
- Use a dehumidifier to reduce the risk of mould growth in the office.
- Make sure your workspace is as ventilated as possible.
- When working closely with co-workers who may have pets, be sure to wash your hands afterwards to avoid any pet dander from triggering anything.
Talk to Absolutely Gleaming
The most ideal way to face allergies in the office or any other work environment is to get rid of as many allergens as you possibly can. Having a regular commercial cleaning service from Absolutely Gleaming can help get that job done efficiently. Daily dusting, mopping and vacuuming can keep many of the allergens that affect workers at bay. This will improve the condition and health of the overall work environment. To find out more about what we can do to keep your company free from allergens, get in touch with Absolutely Gleaming today.