In June 2009, the World Health Organization declared a “level 6” alert regarding the H1N1 flu virus, declaring it a global pandemic. Level 6 is the most critical stage of a pandemic, and such an alert is meant to serve as a warning that the human-to-human spread of a disease is currently occurring in multiple communities and countries.
In the United States, green cleaning experts predicted that the move to green cleaning products and systems would be put on hold while industry decision makers focused on measures capable of eradicating the H1N1 virus, regardless of their impact on the environment. After all, to rid Hong Kong of the virus that causes SARS, hotel managers and housekeepers working in an emergency situation used thousands of gallons of bleach to clean and disinfect surfaces. But in some cases, the bleach was not applied, diluted, or disposed of properly, causing a variety of health-related problems for the users.
When it comes to the spread of new and frightening viruses, environmentally responsible products, systems, and services have appeared to meet the challenge. Consumers throughout North America and the world have begun to incorporate scores of green measures into their cleaning routines. More and more consumers are learning that they can use green cleaning practices and products rather than resorting to the use of conventional, and potentially environmentally harmful, products and procedures.
One of the first steps in preventing disease transmission is learning all the facts about H1N1 and cross contamination in general. For instance, proper hand hygiene is still at the top of the list when it comes to preventing the spread of a variety of diseases.
Use natural, environmentally friendly cleaners properly and often instead of harsh sanitizers and disinfectants that have an adverse impact on the environment.
Sometimes the most common transmission points for disease are frequently overlooked or unrecognized, which can increase the risk of infection. Examples of these are television remote controls, telephones, keyboards, railings, door knobs, and light switches. To prevent the spread of contamination, these “touch points” should be cleaned frequently.
The good news is that there are products that can disinfect and sanitize surfaces while still minimizing any effect on human health and the environment. When used correctly, a combination of hydrogen peroxide and citrus ingredients are an effective cleaning and disinfecting tool. This is because citrus ingredients break down surface oils and soil while hydrogen peroxide acts as a disinfectant. These safe, effective products have also been certified as Green by key organizations, making them a perfect choice for any Green cleaning program. In fact, many hospitals use hydrogen peroxide as a disinfectant wherever possible.
Maid Brigade House Cleaning Services cares about the health of you and your family. For more information on healthy green living and green cleaning, please log on to greencleancertified.com or maidbrigade.com. For more information on "Household Cleaning Products and Breast Cancer", please watch our video at greencleancertified.com/greentv.
