Highly Touched Objects or Surfaces
How do you really make sure that every surface has been cleaned? Are Highly Touched Objects included in your list of things to clean?
Highly Touch Objects (HTOs) are surfaces or objects that are frequently touched. Sometimes called Frequently Touched Objects, these objects or surfaces are where most bacteria harbour. Once a sick person touched this surface, it can easily be transmitted to another person who also touched that same surface.
Imagine someone with a cold sneezed on his hands and decided to go out of the room. The first thing that he is going to hold is the doorknob to open the door. How about those elevator buttons? Imagine in a hospital where patients come and go and use the elevator.
Proper handwashing is one way of making sure that you don’t easily pick up the germs from these surfaces. The correct way of cleaning and disinfecting these surfaces is also a good defence against these bacteria.
Have you ever wondered why some public toilets do not have any doors when you are entering or exiting the toilets? We all know that some people do not wash their hands after using the toilet. Without these doors, there is one less surface to contaminate.
Below are some common HTOs:
- Door Knobs
- Light Switches
- Elevator Buttons
- Faucets & Sinks
- Toilet Seats
- Keyboards
- Mouse
- Telephone
- School Desks
- Touch Screen Terminals
- Chair Arm Rest
- Bed Rails
What is your cleaning program when it comes to HTOs? Have you identified them? Do you have a process and frequency of cleaning them? Talk to one of our Green Rhino hygiene experts to create a customized hygiene plan for your company!
Disclaimer: The articles are written with the best intentions but are of a general nature only for users who accept full responsibility for its use. Where advice is sought for specific requirements then the advice from a Professional consultant would be required. We do not make any warranties about the completeness, reliability and accuracy of the articles. Any action you take upon the information from this blog is strictly at your own risk. We will not be held liable for any losses and damages (whether direct or consequential) in connection with the use of this blog. We suggest that you seek professional advice to obtain solutions specific to your cleaning needs.