Category Archives: COVID-19

COVID 19 Business Stories, COVID-19, News

Business revenues down by a third ahead of key holiday season

Despite announcements of additional government support and positive early signs on a variety of potential vaccines, businesses concerns rise ahead of a challenging holiday season. The latest figures from the ongoing ‘Coronavirus – The Impact on Business’ survey – conducted by the Data & Marketing Association (DMA) – suggest the optimism felt over the summer months may have dissipated slightly.

The estimates of revenue decline amid the pandemic had improved over the summer, from a low of almost half (-47.2%) in May to around a quarter in September (-27.9%). However, these early signs of recovery appear to have slipped as new restrictions have meant revenue decline has risen to around a third (-34.2%).

In November, the majority (79%) of organisations surveyed reported the economic impact of the pandemic as being negative – with a quarter believing (25%) it will be extremely so. Key concerns about cashflows (76%) and cut-backs (53%) continue to lead the way, but there is also rising sentiment about the burden of social distancing (41%) and restrictions disproportionately impacting certain sectors (38%).

Moreover, 59% of businesses expect to see overall budgets decrease in the coming year, with staffing (59% expect the budget to decrease), marketing (57%), and capital expenditure (56%) expected to be worst hit.

“Across the data and marketing industry, trading remains extremely difficult for many businesses. Revenues remain significantly below pre-pandemic levels and budgets for the coming year look set to be similarly reduced,” says Chris Combemale, CEO of the DMA. “Even as news of positive progress on vaccines offers a beacon of light, many businesses will have to make difficult decisions over the coming months. We welcome the government’s unprecedented support for business and will continue to represent our industry, ensuring it has the assistance it needs.”

Three-quarters (75%) of professionals surveyed reported they are continuing to work from home and avoid unnecessary travel, a rise from 66% in September. They also increasingly expect to remain in this home working environment well into the New Year – on average respondents expected to work from home for around 50 days, up from just under 40 just two months ago.

However, there are some concerns about the ability to continue to serve customers effectively in this environment. Over one in three of the organisations that responded to the survey said their ability to serve customers’ needs was becoming harder (43%) and to carry out marketing was also getting worse (35%).

For full details on the DMA Coronavirus Survey, visit:
https://dma.org.uk/research/coronavirus-november-2020-the-impacts-on-business

COVID-19

Scientists call for ‘Rethink of Christmas’ as COVID Rates Soar

Independent SAGE is urging UK residents to rethink Christmas plans as infections continue to surge in parts of the UK, warning that there is a  “very real danger of a third wave of the pandemic” if people take advantage of three household rule – pointing out that just because you can meet up under Government rules doesn’t mean it is safe to do so.

The scientists are urging members of the public to meet outdoors where they are able, which they say is far safer than meeting indoors, and called for the Government to support this with a fund to create outdoor community events, and said that families who decide to meet up must be advised how to keep their homes safe.

Independent SAGE is calling for a ‘pandemic fuel allowance’ so that people can keep their homes ventilated while at the same time turning up the heating to keep warm.

“Right now we are heading towards disaster,” said Professor Stephen Reicher of the University of St Andrews. “Given high levels of infection across the country and the increasing levels in some areas (such as London) it is inevitable that if we all do choose to meet up over Christmas then we will pay the price in the New Year.”

Professor Reicher added: “We need an urgent rethink about the Christmas break. Government must clarify the risks involved in indoor mixing and stress the fact that households can get together doesn’t mean that they should. They should provide the information and support to help people make the decisions that best keep themselves, their families and their communities safe. And for many of us, the right decision will be to show our love by waiting until we can meet and hug and celebrate without danger.”

 

About Independent SAGE:

Independent SAGE is a group of scientists who are working together to provide independent scientific advice to the UK government and public on how to minimise deaths and support Britain’s recovery from the COVID-19 crisis. Sir David King, the former Chief Scientific Adviser to the UK government, chairs the group and oversees its reports.

Accounts and Accountancy, COVID-19, Finance and Banking, News

ACCA Reports innovative support available to scale up businesses amid Covid-19 recovery

A number of new business support models are available to small businesses, providing a one-stop shop of support and facilitating their growth, according to a new study by ACCA (Association of Chartered Certified Accountants).

Traditionally, government initiatives and high street advice outlets provided a business support infrastructure for SMEs.  ACCA’s new report Space to Grow examines how new and emerging business support models are being used to allow more SMEs (small medium-sized enterprises) to achieve rapid growth, but also to support business recovery post Covid-19. The report is based on a number of case studies from around the world and provides practical insight to SMEs and accountants looking to interact with these support models.

Accountants and small and medium-sized accountancy practices have an important role within this space. Start-ups and growth businesses need sound financial management and data as they start and grow their businesses. Accountants and small and medium-sized practices (SMPs) can provide much more than mere compliance – they can become growth partners, and grow alongside their clients.

Some of the innovative mechanisms supporting scale-ups include:

  • Incubators: supporting business creation and development. They are typically physical spaces, which provide additional services such as training and mentoring for entrepreneurs, access to networks, and sometimes specialist equipment or facilities such as laboratories.  They can be non-profit institutions set up by Universities, Governments, agencies or donors, or commercial enterprises set up by private sector companies and investor groups.

 

  • Accelerators: focused on growth and often including assistance in developing the business plan, investor pitch deck, prototypes, and initial market testing. In contrast to incubators, accelerators more often base their business model on equity from the start-ups. Historically, accelerators have been highly focused on funding, although elements such as networking, mentoring and market access are increasingly seen as equally important.

Lloyd Powell, Head of ACCA Cymru Wales, said: “Success of scale-ups depends increasingly on new business models of support. This is particularly important in the post Covid-19 recovery of small businesses.

“Covid-19 has put extreme pressure on smaller businesses, many of which have closed their doors as a result.  Others have experienced extremely rapid growth.

“SMPs have a crucial role to play in the future provision of small business support and should explore new opportunities to work more closely with the developers of accelerator and incubator programmes. Accountants provide clients with the solid financials and forecast needed to enter incubation and acceleration programmes and pitch to investors.

“This challenging period has also highlighted the need to develop and strengthen partnerships with other stakeholders (such as technology hubs) of the small business support ecosystem. Covid-19 has also reconfirmed the importance of the SMP and we have seen an unprecedented mobilisation of the SMP community: practitioners have been working individually and collectively to keep thousands of small businesses afloat.”

Lloyd continues: “Policymakers focused on supporting growth oriented businesses need to do more to consider the role of finance professionals developing the start-up and small business support ecosystems.”

COVID-19

Northampton General Hospital one of the first to start biggest ever NHS vaccination programme

Northampton General Hospital has been unveiled as one of the first COVID vaccination hubs as the NHS begins the biggest immunisation programme in history. People aged 80 and over as well as care home workers will be first to receive the jab, along with NHS workers who are at higher risk.

Northampton General Hospital and Kettering General Hospital Group Chief Executive Simon Weldon said: “The COVID vaccine is really good news for us all as it is the most effective way to protect ourselves from the virus and, hopefully, start our return to normal life again.

“Rolling it out across Northamptonshire is a huge logistical operation and we are working at some pace to be ready to start vaccinating people as soon as possible.

“I am extremely proud of all involved, which includes staff from across the health system in Northamptonshire working alongside our pharmacy team to create the Northampton General Hospital hub. They are creating the systems needed so we can play our part in the biggest ever vaccination programme.”

Northampton General Hospital is one of 50 hubs in the first wave and more hospitals will start vaccinating over the coming weeks and months as the programme ramps up. The first vaccines are expected to be given on Tuesday but no date has yet been confirmed for Northampton.

Patients aged 80 and above who are already attending hospital as an outpatient, and those who are being discharged home after a hospital stay, will be among the first to receive the life-saving jab. Hospitals will also begin inviting over 80s in for a jab and work with care home providers to book their staff in to vaccination clinics.

Any appointments not used for these groups will be used for healthcare workers who are at highest risk of serious illness from COVID. All those vaccinated will need a booster jab 21 days later.

GPs and other primary care staff are also being put on standby to start delivering the jab. A small number of GP-led primary care networks will begin doing so during the following week (week beginning 14 December) with more practices in more parts of the country joining in on a phased basis during December and in the coming months.

Vaccination centres treating large numbers of patients in sporting venues and conference centres will subsequently stand up when further supplies of vaccine come on stream.

Professor Stephen Powis, NHS national medical director, said: “Despite the huge complexities, hospitals will kickstart the first phase of the largest scale vaccination campaign in our country’s history from Tuesday.  The first tranche of vaccine deliveries will be landing at hospitals by Monday in readiness.

“The NHS has a strong record of delivering large scale vaccination programmes – from the flu jab, HPV vaccine and lifesaving MMR jabs – hardworking staff will once again rise to the challenge to protect the most vulnerable people from this awful disease.” 

The life-saving vaccine is typically delivered by a simple injection in the shoulder but there is a complex and difficult logistical challenge to deliver from the manufacturers Pfizer to patients. It needs to be stored at -70C before being thawed out and can only be moved four times within that cold chain before being used.

Northampton General Hospital and Kettering General Hospital are one of the key partners in the ‘Best of Both Worlds’ recruitment campaign. The campaign brings together the University of Northampton, Northamptonshire Healthcare NHS Foundation Trust, Northampton General Hospital, Kettering General Hospital (KGH), St Andrew’s Healthcare and Northants GP and aims to recruit nurses, doctors and healthcare professionals to live and work in Northamptonshire.

To find out about other vacancies across Northamptonshire visit http://bestofbothworlds.uk.net/

COVID-19, News

P-Wave’s innovative door furniture helps reduce the spread of bacteria and viruses

As a direct result of the Coronavirus pandemic, health, hygiene and above all safety is at the top of everyone’s agenda – and in premises, people need to feel as safe as possible.
“We are working closely with facilities managers to recommend that they take the right steps to ensure the safety of their staff and visitors, and to restore confidence”, said P-Wave® Sales and Marketing Manager Mark Wintle.

One of the biggest challenges in any building is keeping regularly touched surfaces, or ‘hotspots’ clean and free from bacteria and viruses. Door furniture is among the ‘most-touched’ of all hotspots in business premises, and is one of the fastest ways for infections and viruses to spread. The typical handle in a public toilet is home to up to 40,000 germs per square inch, and standard handles are without doubt the largest carrier of healthcare associated infections.

Keeping surfaces clean can only ever be a temporary measure as each person who touches a door handle transfers new bacteria, which multiplies and spreads to other users. Traditional stainless steel or painted handles increase the spread of infections by providing an area for transmission to occur, creating more carriers.

“What if the door furniture was antimicrobial and anti-bacterial, creating a permanent solution, which is effective against bacteria and viruses and continues to protect in between your standard cleaning intervals?”, asks Mark Wintle. “P-Wave® is delighted to introduce the perfect solution, which is not only affordable, but also features an additive which lasts for the entire lifecycle of the product.”

Antimicrobial to the core

P-Wave’s Steri-Core antimicrobial silver ion technology door furniture helps reduce the spread of bacteria and viruses. Tested and proven effective against MRSA, E-Coli, Salmonella and Norovirus, the products feature a high concentration of antimicrobial which is blended with the polymer during the manufacturing process and forms part of the molecular structure of the product. This ensures that the silver Ion technology is active all the way through to the core of the handles. So unlike coated products or films, even if they become scratched or damaged, Steri-Core handles will continue to kill pathogens effectively for the life of the product, and each handle has a 10 year manufacturer guarantee.

To withstand heavy usage, the handles are one-piece injection-moulded from strong polymer material with rounded edges and no joints or joins, 100% recyclable and scratch and water resistant, the unique material will not rust, unlike standard metal handles. Available in two widths (75mm or 100mm), in blue, black or grey/silver, the handles are fire rated and UV and fade resistant, making them perfect for indoor and outdoor use.

The non-porous polypropylene material stops dirt embedding and staining the surface, making the removal of dirt and bacteria easier compared with traditional materials. The material used in the Steri-Core products enables quick effective all over cleaning using detergents, steam cleaning, and chlorine disinfectants (BS EN 12720:2009[1]). European standard specifies a method for the assessment of the resistance to cold liquids of all rigid furniture surfaces regardless of materials.

Patents have been granted for the range and independent tests prove that P-Wave’s Steri-Core products are made from the world’s only material clinically proven to kill the non-enveloped EPA FCA Strain F9 of Human Norovirus (ISO 22196:2011). P-Wave® is currently awaiting results of tests to prove that its Steri-Core products are also effective against Coronavirus, which – according to the American Chemistry Council – is an enveloped virus and easier to kill[2] than non-enveloped viruses.

“P-Wave’s P-Hold Steri-Core, P-Plate Steri-Core and P-Lever Steri-Core not only provide a high level of protection against virus transmission, but also save money over many alternatives,” said Mark Wintle. “This solution avoids the regular and costly replacement of antibacterial covers or films as well as their ongoing maintenance. We are delighted to be making a positive, and affordable, contribution to keeping people safe.”

To learn more, visit: https://p-wave.co.uk/

Business Advice, COVID-19, News

COVID-19 Recovery Tips for Businesses in 2021

By Thom Dennis, CEO at Serenity In Leadership

Organisations must plan for post lockdown reality. There has been a huge cost to the pandemic but there has also been a lot of necessary learning which needs to be integrated into current organisational cultures to be sustainable, resilient and to last beyond the pandemic. While this lockdown is likely to create increased anxiety, it will also create new perspectives as to which work practices are outdated and need to change within organisations. Many businesses will need help to come back in a different way.

1. LEADERS NEED TO LEAD. There has never been a time more important for leaders to lead with compassion, clarity, courage and conviction. Whilst the future for many businesses is uncertain, 2021 will not be a time for going back to as we were. It will be a year where we have to look at what worked, what didn’t, how we adapted and stayed agile and nimble, and what we need to do going forwards.

2. BUILD TRUST – Trust is at the core of any healthy relationship. Building, or in some cases rebuilding, trust starts through recognising each other’s efforts and showing gratitude. Being transparent and communicating clearly through shared knowledge and welcoming honest feedback are key. Experiential learning means listening openly too instead of just being ‘spoken to’. It is not possible to force people to engage, they must do it willingly. This is really not the time for token gestures.

3. IDENTIFY PRE-EXISTING SYSTEMIC VULNERABILITIES – Look behind the wallpaper and under the carpets at how things worked and didn’t work well for the last few years, and in particular in 2020. Business leaders need to re-evaluate long term vision, purpose, values, mission statements and goals – not as add-ons but as values to be lived and breathed throughout the organisation. Change is here whether we like it or not so we should always choose changing for the better.

4. FLEXIBLE PLAN – Leaders need to have a flexible plan that prepares for today whilst also being ready for whatever tomorrow brings in the world and workplace which are in constant flux. Being rigid will close doors and remove opportunities.

5. ENSURE REAL EQUALITY. Many of us are feeling increasingly insecure about our jobs at the moment, so showing unconscious bias or favouritism or providing unequal opportunities at work will deplete all aspects of the business including the bottom line. We need to create the space to hold difficult conversations, particularly if individuals are speaking from a place of frustration, anger or personal experience. A successful conversation is characterised by the amount of listening that took place.

6. PRIORITISE WELLBEING & WORK BOUNDARIES – If we are working from home, we need to have home/work boundaries. Many of us are very efficient at working from home but some find it hard to stop working based on the need to constantly prove ourselves and the absence of a natural break brought about by the travel home. These new issues in the home and office mean employers’ priorities need to change around wellbeing. Find out what your employees need, and bear in mind that different people may well have contrasting needs. Be clear about expectations and the importance of physical and mental health. Far more than before, individuals will successfully tackle the same problem in a variety of different ways – the approach to management needs to reflect this.

7. MAINTAIN DIVERSITY – Amplifying diverse voices will lead to a more innovative, balanced and creative workplace. Relatability and cultural sensitivity may work well with some audiences, but potentially alienate others. We recommend workshops that try role play/switching and reverse mentoring, or storytelling through true stories as just a few ideas.

8. EFFECTIVE COMMUNICATION – 50% of what lands when we are speaking/communicating is our body language, 43% is tone, and just 7% is the content of the words. When it comes to being heard, it shouldn’t be about convincing people to have the same view. It is important to create spaces and cultures where people can have conversations to exchange opinions, views and understand why these may result in different emotional responses. Employees need to truly be heard, if not seen at the moment.

9. LEARNING AS A TEAM – Unity and commitment by the whole team is needed and will only happen if everyone buys into the company’s values. Find ways to develop the team even if it’s just through virtual teamwork. Meetings, education and connection can all happen online in a safe space – establishing and maintaining psychological safety is probably more important now than ever.

10. ALIGN THE BUSINESS – Reinvent communication and operational plans, knowing and mitigating your risks to produce the best possible outcome for the business and people who make up the business. Tap into the thoughts of your employees, colleagues and customers at all levels to develop 20:21 vision.

 

To learn more about the author, visit www.serenityinleadership.com

 

COVID-19, News

THE PSYCHOLOGY OF ADHERING TO COVID-19 RESTRICTIONS

Dr Lynda Shaw, neuroscientist, business psychologist and change specialist, considers the psychology behind adhering to Covid-19 restrictions

Being under Covid-19 related social restrictions for most of the year, now being back in national lockdown with infection rates spiralling out of control again, the long-term reality of Covid-19 is a frightening and unknown prospect. There is in addition a lot of confusion and restriction fatigue, but putting aside any political frustrations, why do we struggle to adhere to the guidelines and rules and what can we do to help?

1. The long-term reality… Whilst there have been periods in which restrictions were eased, our freedoms have been curtailed in a more permanent than originally thought way, leaving many of us feeling overwhelmed and disheartened. Most difficult of all is not knowing what is going to happen next and when this unprecedented time will be behind us. For now, living in the present and knowing that this isn’t forever may be the mindset that will help many of us get through.

2. Not naturally compliant… Unlike other societies around the world where they take their leader’s word as law, we are more likely to openly question our politicians. At the beginning of lockdown, adherence to restrictions amongst the Brits was very high, but increasing frustration and feelings of defeat of those who have been adhering to the rules means they too may start taking increased risks.

3. Lack of trust… Trust is essential in difficult times, but trust is at an all-time low. Brits don’t trust that their jobs, their health or that of their families are safe. There is also a lack of trust in the leaders making the decisions that are affecting all our futures. If the trust isn’t there when we are being told to do something, then the rules are less likely to be adhered to. Honesty, transparency, and being authentic, timely and decisive are key.

4. Economic pressures… are practical barriers to adherence to rules. You are more likely to take risks if you are struggling with money and have a sense of personal unfairness.

5. Weighing up the cost. When deciding to embark on any major health treatment, we need a reason to believe the treatment is helpful even if the side effects are unpleasant or reduce quality of life or we feel anxious about it. We have to know the benefits outweigh risks. In the case of Covid-19 there is a split between focusing on public health versus the effect on the economy and other areas of physical and mental health. Focusing on the benefits rather than the side effects will help.

6. Confusion. Using the same analogy, equally many of us are confused about when and how much of the treatment is required. Because Covid-19 is a new disease we still lack knowledge and fake news, changing opinions and confusion means compliance will naturally be lower. Good clear communication about what is expected and why is essential. We need to fully understand the rationale to agree to comply.

7. It won’t happen to me – Those of us who believe we are unlikely to be at risk of Covid-19 are less likely to comply with regulations although we are more likely to adhere to rules if we think it will affect us or a loved one. Avoid statistic overload as it can be exhausting.

8. Personal action – If you believe your personal action will have an impact then you are more likely to comply. The slogan “Stay at home. Protect the NHS. Save lives.” was effective at the start of the lockdown because it was clear and asked for action to be taken be each individual. Building a sense of unity is important as is understanding why this is personal to each of us.

9. It is a very divisive time…with Covid-19. Brexit, the US election and George Floyd’s murder amongst just a few enormous issues we currently face, which means that agreement to follow guidelines are at risk. By being aware and respectful and listening well and putting others first we can get through this time with greater ease.

10. Young Adults…feel both thoroughly fed up and are naturally inclined to put their own needs first, but as a generation they are extremely compassionate so we need to stop blaming them and focus on showing them why they are so important and how they can help.

To learn more, visit www.drlyndashaw.com

COVID-19, News

Lockdown 2.0: UK Workers Want Positive Action to Avoid Fatigue from First Lockdown

5th November 2020 saw the start of the second lockdown in England, and the government insisted workers work from home, where possible. The shift in mindset has been felt and the latest research from Totaljobs reveals that while employees are better prepared to avoid lockdown fatigue this winter they’re still looking for support from their employers.

The research shows a generally positive approach will be taken to lockdown 2.0. Workers are applying learnings from their experiences since March 2020, to support their own and others’ welfare throughout.

There is evidence, however, that our enthusiasm for some of the activities which came to be a hallmark of the first lockdown is on the wane. Only 5% of workers would like to take part in virtual pub quizzes this time around.

Whilst 29% of the workforce don’t see their working situation impacted by lockdown this month, but for those who are affected, over 76% will take stock from the previous lockdown and adapt their daily routine this winter.

Shut-in, not shut down

Despite 58% of those having to adapt to the second lockdown believing that it will not affect them, 1 in 3 (33%) are concerned about loneliness and isolation, with more than 1 in 3 worried about the overall effect of lockdown will have on their stress levels (36%).

This is unlikely to be helped by the additional negative side-effects lockdown is expected to have on people’s sleeping habits (28%), eating habits (26%), and physical health (27%).

Concern for our physical wellbeing is one reason exercise routines have become more important for UK workers, with 1 in 4 (27%) committing to maintain or increase their exercise levels during the second lockdown.

However, as the weather shifts into winter and concerns about the virus continue, only 35% say they’re going to make an effort to leave the house on a daily basis. This doesn’t mean we’ll remain inactive, however, with 1 in 5 (19%) wanting to pursue a hobby or attempt to learn a new skill this time around.

A helping hand

With only 6% of workers openly talking about their wellbeing and mental health with colleagues and managers during lockdowns, it’s not surprising to see 15% of employees wanting more support and workshops to be provided by either their HR departments or external helplines.

As with the first lockdown, the onus is on employers to reach out to their workforce during this time to ensure that these important conversations are taking place as we progress through the winter months.

Worryingly though, there are signs that despite our new working environments, employees are beginning to fall back into some of the traditional bad habits of the workplace. More people are choosing to take fewer breaks during working hours during this lockdown, with only 14% planning to take time off for a lunch break or time away from the computer.

It’s no stretch of the imagination to see that 64% of workers still want additional support from their bosses as they experience the effects of a second lockdown. In fact, 53% believe that their bosses will be more conscious of their team’s mental health, and 42% believe that more resources will be put in place this time.

1 in 10 (10%) employees would even like to be offered more days off to look after themselves with a further 1 in 10 (10%) open to the option of receiving a lockdown care package or food vouchers from their employer.

Jon Wilson, CEO of Totaljobs says:

‘‘For many nowadays, the office has been replaced by a kitchen table or a precariously balanced laptop on the sofa – and that will last a little longer for workers who aren’t able to return to their workplaces.

“We are living in anxious times and our work lives have taken a very different shape from what it was just at the start of the year.

“It is alarming to see in today’s results that during this second lockdown, workers in the UK are feeling less inclined than before to take breaks away from their computers, enjoy a lunch break or even leave the house. Taking time to move away from your workstation has many proven benefits and can allow workers to carry on with their day refreshed and reinvigorated and keep a physical activity if coupled with a walk outside for example.

“Keeping this routine is also necessary for workers’ well-being and mental health. Regrettably, loneliness continues to blight the wellbeing of many workers this year, especially during lockdown conditions.”

As we all work our way through this winter period, employers should continue to take practical steps to maintain the wellness of our teams and ensure that individuals don’t end up isolated or disconnected. WFH may have been something we got accustomed to this year but isn’t always a fully positive experience for all workers.

Keep an eye on your team, consider training and workshops on how to deal with anxiety, encourage them to take breaks and speak with each other, and assess if there’s anything you can do as an employer, to improve their physical and mental wellbeing in their working conditions, be it for the remainder of this current lockdown, or longer as the situation develops.’’

To see the full research visit https://www.totaljobs.com/media-centre/uk-workers-want-positive-action-to-avoid-fatigue-from-first-lockdown

Cleaning & Facilities Management, COVID-19, News

Top five cleaning tips for Covid-secure workplaces

As the government changes its advice to ‘work from home if you can’ amidst a national increase in Covid-19 cases, good hygiene in the workplace has never mattered more – especially to keep the virus at bay and protect those who need to be in the workplace.

14forty, part of Compass Group UK & Ireland, provides integrated facilities management services including cleaning. It is working with businesses to ensure their cleaning protocols are sufficiently robust, especially with winter looming.

Mauro Ortelli, managing director of 14forty, said: “There has never been more focus than now on cleaning. Implementing increased cleaning protocols during a pandemic can present wide-ranging challenges for businesses of all kinds, in some instances without the correct resources and tools to ensure an area is cleaned to the highest standards possible.

“This is a standard of cleanliness that most businesses will never have had to adhere to before. However, it’s crucial that they put in place the most robust processes possible in order to safely operate in compliance with guidance from the Department of Health and Social Care and Public Health England.”

Here are our top five tips for businesses faced with the daunting task of becoming and staying Covid-19 secure:

1. Consider new ways of working:
Before considering how a space is cleaned, first think about how it is used. Think about which spaces in the business have the most foot traffic and be creative in reimagining how they can be used in order to distribute people evenly, reducing the risk presented by clusters of employees.

Consider implementing a one-way system to help employees and visitors adhere to social distancing. Ensure this is easy to navigate and clearly signposted. Keep the windows open if possible and check there is a well-maintained air extraction system.

2. Use appropriate cleaning products:
Using suitable products and making sure staff know how to use them is vital. One example is Tersano Ozone, which we use across our sites.

The product attracts bacteria, germs and other contaminants, eliminating them and leaving only water and pure oxygen following the cleaning process. It is a natural product that is considered environmentally friendly and can be used on a wide range of surfaces including food preparation areas.

 

3. Update and review cleaning procedures regularly:
Divide surfaces into two categories: frequently touched points (e.g. rails, door handles, light switches, tabletops etc.) and minimally touched points (e.g. ceilings, floors and walls). Ensure these are cleaned regularly in line with use, i.e. the more frequently they are touched the more frequently they are cleaned.

Ensure surfaces are cleaned using the appropriate products and in accordance with manufacturer guidelines. Keep a record of all instances of cleaning and who is accountable – there are apps that can help with this.

Consider ‘deep cleaning’ offices or other premises regularly using third party professional contractors. Every building is different, but a deep clean should consist of everything from dusting walls and cleaning light switches to wiping down equipment and sanitising kitchen cabinets, appliances and furniture.

 

4. Ensure cleaning staff are visible and equipped with PPE:
Cleaners and the general workforce used to be like ships in the night, with only the early birds and night owls ever seeing cleaners in their workplace. Now, visible cleaning teams help to reassure employees and visitors to the building that cleaning is taking place throughout the day, not just when everyone else has left. Equipping cleaning staff with PPE and ensuring they are using it is fundamental to keep all staff safe and reassured.

 

5. Ensure changes are long-term, not temporary:
Unfortunately, Covid-19 is likely to continue to impact businesses in the coming months and even years. Therefore, ensure that all changes made are long-term, while easily adaptable to account for changing Covid-19 regulations, government guidance and recommended cleaning procedures.
Businesses are keen to protect employees who need to visit the premises to do their job – it is of utmost importance. A Covid-19 outbreak in a business that failed to put proper cleaning protocols in place or appoint an appropriate service provider could have serious consequences.

To learn more about 14forty, please visit 14forty.co.uk.

Cleaning & Facilities Management, COVID-19, Healthcare News, News

Virus-killing coating offers a revolutionary solution for businesses in the fight against coronavirus

A revolutionary protective coating that is proven to kill bacteria and viruses – including some forms of coronavirus – for up to a year is now available for businesses across the UK.

Liquid Guard®, a single-application spray unlike anything currently available on the UK market, is easy to apply and will provide 12 months of protection on surfaces in just 6 hours.

Approved UK retailer, Protection Zone has brought the award-winning antimicrobial solution to the UK SME market to provide an effective and simple solution that will help people protect workplaces from the spread of common, and potentially life-threatening illnesses.

Liquid Guard®, works by creating an antimicrobial nano-coating on surfaces that will rupture germs cell walls, killing any bacteria, virus and fungi that come into contact with it.

The spray has passed more than 30 independent, internationally recognised tests and has been proven to kill some forms of coronavirus, Influenza A and E. coli. It is also currently undergoing tests against SARS-CoV-2 (commonly known as COVID-19) at one of Europe’s leading test laboratories.

Piran Littleton, Managing Director at Protection Zone said: “The COVID-19 pandemic has forced everyone to prioritise their health and safety in a way we’ve not seen in generations.

“Whilst Liquid Guard was developed in 2018, and has been used in larger commercial settings, the product was inaccessible for most people, which is why we felt it was important to bring this revolutionary product to a wider UK market in a form that can be easily applied within workplaces to create highly sanitised and disinfected environments. It’s ideal for offices, cafes, hairdressers and many other SME’s.

“Touchpoints, such as door handles, light switches or even toilets, are some of the most common ways that coronavirus and other common bacteria and viruses are spread, and with Liquid Guard you are able to eliminate this risk for a year in just one easy application.

“The spray is completely odourless and safe for human use and can be used on any non-porous surface. It’s simple to apply, long-lasting and can withstand everyday cleaning, continuing to protect for 12-months.”

Liquid Guard is a German Product Innovation award winner of 2019 and is manufactured by Nano-Care UK.

Piran continued: “What really sets Liquid Guard apart from anything else is the scientifically proven long-term results. The product has been independently tested to illustrate at least three years weathering resistance and high-level abrasion resistance.

“We’re really excited about the impact this could have and truly believe it could be a game changer in the fight against the spread of viruses and bacteria, including coronavirus.”

To find out more about Liquid Guard, or to purchase the product, visit: https://protectionzone.co.uk/