The New Normal: COVID-19 Cleaning Protocols in the USA

To remain open businesses have had to adapt swiftly since the COVID-19 pandemic has impacted around the world. In the US leading brands have faced real financial difficulties if they haven’t managed to adapt and for hospitality businesses, including many top hotel chains, a change in approach to cleaning has been key. The CDC has provided comprehensive reopening guidance to help businesses in all sectors and cleaning companies like us are also on hand to support bringing businesses back to their best and helping them operate safely.

Cleaning Protocols for COVID-19

COVID-19 is not fully understood, which is why comprehensive and attentive cleaning protocols are essential. Cleaning and disinfection need to become regular in all businesses and need to be carried out much more regularly than before. Reducing the risk of exposure to COVID-19 is vital for any business looking to remain active and provide their customers with the safety they deserve. In the US there are a range of ways companies can prove their commitment to proper cleaning and disinfection and should at least:

1. Water and soap should be used regularly and as the most common combination for cleaning surfaces and objects at risk of exposure to the virus. Normal routine cleaning should be carried out regular.
2. EPA-approved disinfectants against COVID-19 can be found and are fully labeled, They can help to reduce risk and are listed on the EPA website. These should not be relied on as a guaranteed way of removing the virus from any potentially infected area.
3. Alternative disinfectants can also be used and may provide a good level of disinfection from the virus.

   What are America’s Biggest Hotel Chains Doing?

   Some of the biggest brands in American and international hospitality have been transparent in the way they are changing their cleaning protocols and approach to business. This is great for smaller businesses who want to follow their model and also provides trust in the brands. Below are some examples of well-known brands working to make a difference:

   Hilton

   Hilton announced their change in protocol on 27th April and it came into practise in June 2020. The Hilton CleanStay with Lysol Protection program was described in their own words as delivering an “industry-defining standard of cleanliness and disinfection in Hilton properties around the world”. Combining the industry experience of cleaning brand Lysol with their own in-house experience, Hilton will has expert advise across their brands.

   Wynn Las Vegas

   The Wynn Las Vegas health and disinfection program was released on 21st April. They took advise from public health medical professionals and fellows from John Hopkins and Georgetown University. They plan to use a customized set of procedures for each of their operating departments and this will support the health and safety of guests, staff and their local community. Steps for employee and guest health may include face covering and PPE requirements, physical distancing, and additional security.

   Best Western Hotels and Resorts

   Best Western have called their new approach to cleaning and safety as the “We Care Clean” program. This was launched on 30th April and is an extension of their existing “I Care Clean” program which has been in place since 2012. The program is driven and guided by resources including the Occupational Safety and Health Administration, the Environmental Protection Agency and Health Canada.

   Marriott

   Marriott International announced their new cleaning protocols on 21st April. They released the formation of the Marriott Global Cleanliness Council which was to focus solely on concerns around COVID-19. Their focus was on safety for guests and employees with next-level technologies such as electronic sprayers with hospital-grade disinfectant considered for their properties. Their Council incorporated leaders within Marriott as well as infectious disease specialists, public health employees and professors from institutions including Cornell University.

   A Commitment to Cleaning

   Businesses who want to open successfully in a world where Coronavirus seems set to remain present have to adapt to change. A commitment to new cleaning protocols and developing new ways of combatting the risk of infection are essential. Transparency is also key as customers will want to return to businesses who provide a safe environment they can trust. Professional COVID-19 cleaning also helps to create environments which are fully disinfected in line with government expectations.

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