COVID- 19 and Water Cooler Sanitation

Last night, the Prime Minister (PM) made a public announcement addressing the nation on the current Coronavirus pandemic. He informed us of a “COVID alert system” that rates the level of danger of COVID- 19 from 1 to 5, 5 being the most critical. According to the PM, the UK is currently at level 4 and aiming to reduce this to level 3. In order to achieve this, we must all ensure that sanitation levels remain high, this will prevent infection and save lives.

The government and the NHS have released some official advice and guidance to prevent the spread of the Coronavirus. Below are links to the official sites for your information:

COVID- 19: Infection Prevention and Control (IPC)

Coronavirus (COVID- 19)- Latest NHS information

It is important to recognise that water coolers are often communal and being used by multiple people throughout the day. Therefore, people must stay alert at this stage of the pandemic and take extra precautions to reduce the chances of infection. Here is our hygiene advice to protect your staff in the workplace. 

Water Cooler Sanitising

Regularly sanitise the outside of your water coolers with an antibacterial spray that will kill any germs on the surface. Sanitising will clean the areas that pick up germs from touching the water dispenser and tap mechanism. Biofilms are a collective term for many microorganisms that can grow on different surfaces. An antibacterial spray will remove biofilms from the water cooler and reduce the rate of bacteria multiplying on the surface. Please note that we only recommend using antibacterial sprays that are safe to use around food. We do not recommend using bleach or any other tainting products.

Sanitisation

Workplaces that have water coolers, dispensers, and fountains need to abide by the correct cleaning procedures to prevent the rate of infection. Ensure that communal areas are regularly cleaned, monitored, and fit for purpose.

Our Sani Spray is a food safe antibacterial sanitiser that is proven to kill 99.99% of germs, including MRSA, and has passed BS EN 13697, making it safe for food and beverage areas. This sanitiser uses a non-bleach formula, ensuring there is no tainting of food contact surfaces.

To find out more about our Sani Spray product, contact us by email or contact a member of our team who will be pleased to assist you.

Prevent

Once your water cooler and communal areas are clean it is important to monitor and maintain high standards of hygiene; we recommend:

• Emptying the drip tray regularly to prevent the build-up of water
• Install notices in all areas near drinking facilities advising staff to take extra care when making their food and drinks.
• Advise staff that a water bottle that has touched the mouth should not make contact with the tap
• The tap/dispensing component should be regularly cleaned with a sanitising spray
• Always provide facilities nearby for handwashing with an adequate amount of soap for everyone.

The team at Cooleraid takes your health seriously and would like to wish you all the best in these uncertain times. Do not hesitate to contact us if you need any advice regarding your water cooler, dispenser, bottle refilling station, or water fountain.