Photo Credit: Kaivac
As winter approaches, many parks and recreation centers have concerns about possible flu or virus outbreaks. For example, during the winter of 2012-2013, a serious flu outbreak occurred, and the vaccine available at the time was only about 60 percent effective.^(*)
Typically, when there is an outbreak in a school or public facility, managers increase both cleaning frequency and intensity—at least for a while. In fact, sometimes increases in cleaning even go overboard. For example, when the SARS epidemic hit Hong Kong more than 10 years ago, many inhabitants reported that the entire city smelled of chlorine bleach because so much of the powerful chemical was used.
Having consistent cleaning standards in place at all times to keep facilities clean and pathogen free—rather than increasing cleaning efforts in response to an immediate risk—generally proves to be a more effective strategy in the long-term, as such an approach is less costly, healthier, and potentially more environmentally friendly. Also, with such standards in place, cleaning professionals can handle any outbreaks that occur in a calmer and more efficient manner. (See Sidebar: What are cleaning standards?)