According to Australasian Society of Clinical Immunology and Allergy (ASCIA), Australia has one of the highest rates of allergies in the developed world. Charity Allergy & Anaphylaxis Australia estimated that more than 650,000 Australians have a diagnosed allergy with about 30,000 new cases every year.
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What matters most is that allergies pose serious risks to health, welfare and consequently – business. Recent investigations (2017, MAY) established that nothing else but ignorance feeds allergy risks. The Galaxy Research study, based on responses from a representative sample of 1000 Australian adults, showed that 69% of Australian adults would not know how to help someone having a severe allergic reaction (anaphylaxis).
Awareness and action taken to prevent personal injuries is critical to your brand and willingness to care about one of the most disturbing society health problems.
However, there is still good news for your business: the big 4 triggers– dust, pollen, animal dander and mold can be taken care with the right cleaning equipment.
Alphaclean has developed this guide to provide you with helpful information about allergies and commercial cleaning and contained is a series of tips and suggestions. It should help you in making an educated decision about cleaning equipment to create an allergen free environment in your business facility. Of course, if you need any additional information, remember we’re here to help, and will answer any question where possible, in addition, we have provided you with other web links that may be of good use.
Every successful business understands that safety and risk management comes first because of the tragic consequences that may follow and destroy your future. However, it may never have incurred to you that allergies could be a threat to your business.
For example, you might be liable for personal injury or anaphylactic shock if an allergic reaction was to occur in your workplace . An allergic reaction falls into the broader category of personal injury.
There are several things to consider when understanding the impact of allergies on your business. Firstly, there are many forms of allergies and a variety of symptoms that torment allergy patients.
Timing and symptoms sometimes make it impossible to determine the source of the reaction. Symptoms can occur within 30 minutes following exposure, or may not develop until several hours later. In some cases, symptoms increase in severity for 8 to 12 hours. In 20–30 percent of patients with asthma, an allergic reaction can trigger an acute asthma attack.
In any case, allergies and sensitivities result in more frequent absenteeism in adults and reduced productivity at work, and therefore can cause considerable damage to business in any industry and any type of workplace.
The most common allergens you’ll need to combat depend on where your business is located and the type of work you do. If you own a veterinary practice or pet grooming salon – pet dander will be a trigger, but if you work outdoors, like in a construction company, then pollen could be your number one enemy.
Some of the industries have specific regulations and training regarding allergies.
Carpets, as well as area rugs and even cubicle walls, act as giant air filters, catching allergens and keeping them out of the air we all breathe at work.
Areas listed below have the highest exposure to mould: antique shops, greenhouses, saunas, farms, mills, construction areas, flower shops.
Location of allergens can be unpredictable. Have a thorough cleaning schedule with the highest quality cleaning equipment. This extra step will enhance safety and peace of mind within your workplace.
Outside environment may directly influence your businesses (clients and workers) susceptibility to allergies. Identify critically and make a threats list that you can see outside. Some pollutants like ozone, diesel exhaust particles and nitrogen dioxide, increase the risk of allergies and exacerbate symptoms.
Seasons such as summer and spring bring more risk of pollen allergy, however, all other allergies should be taken seriously any time of the year.
Astonishingly, indoor air can be up to 50 times more polluted than outdoor air. The pollution can be caused by several factors – building materials and furniture, carpet, personal care supplies, dust, or pesticides. Therefore, there is no question that continuous cleaning of your facility is mandate.
Companies that wish to demonstrate their concern about allergies should look for equipment with in-built features, that have been purpose built to produce an environment that has fewer allergens.
The three most common allergies can be easily avoided.
Mould minimization
Pollen minimization
Dust minimization.
As we see from statistics Allergies are very common in Australia and New Zealand. Around 1 in 5 people will develop allergies sometime during their life. The allergy can have a significant impact on quality of life and are even associated with other medical conditions. Unfortunately, many people confuse myth with reality in the way they view allergies.
Some of the myths
So, what is hypoallergenic? Hypoallergenic refers to materials that are just relatively unlikely to cause an allergic reaction. Moreover, products categorized ‘dermatologically tested’ are tested on the skin of volunteers who do not suffer from allergies. Unfortunately, today no regulation of hypoallergenic claims exists.
It is your responsibility to choose, use and provide information on premise about the lowest risk of cleaning chemicals. Your chemical supplier should assist you with the correct options.
The commercial steam cleaner can be the winner for many cleaning applications however not always the quickest in every application and technology is rapidly changing so it is important to seek advice before investing. With steam, there are several reasons why it is good insurance against allergic particles contamination on the premises. Below are some;
Commercial cleaning equipment providers have a wealth of information and experience that will prove useful during the course of seeking and purchasing equipment.
Make the best use of advice, but remember not to be swayed by a sales pitch – remain focused on your own buying criteria.
Summary
Your business nature and facilities are unique; therefore, you can have very specific requirements when dealing with health risks.
Despite many risks and the intensity of the allergies issue in Australia, equipment and cleaning solutions have been developed for every sector to cater for every need. In addition, what was used last year has most likely been updated this year.
Allocating enough time for research and consultations is always recommended so you can choose the best long-term solution for your current business or facility. Your equipment provider is your partner in this journey.