In the last post, we discussed some of the hazardous effects of being exposed to dirty carpets in a workplace environment. However, it’s important to understand the full range of health hazards to determine which industrial steam cleaning systems for carpets are right for your workplace cleaning needs. Here’s part two of our guide to understanding the health effects of dirty carpets on employee health.
Respiratory Illness
We mentioned in the last post that dirty carpets can trigger or exacerbate allergy attacks, but when inhaled, these allergens can lead to symptoms that replicate the flu. They can also cause many respiratory illnesses and issues, such as asthma — even if you’re otherwise healthy and are not prone to respiratory issues.
You should also keep in mind that the risk potential for respiratory illnesses may be higher in certain workplace environments, such as hospitals. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), almost 100,000 people die every year from diseases acquired inside U.S. hospitals, and letting carpets that get a lot of foot traffic stay dirty can only worsen these numbers and cause further illness.
Skin Irritation
Not many people are aware of this concerning fact, but it’s entirely possible for carpets or other upholstered surfaces infested with fungi or mold to cause skin problems on contact. These issues may be mild, but for those with sensitive skin and depending on the type and length of exposure, these conditions could be severe, including rashes, hives, itching, skin asthma, and athlete’s foot.
Now, it’s clear that dirty carpets can be a potentially extreme health hazard. As an employer, you need healthy employees to be able to do their jobs as effectively and productively as possible, and there’s no place for illness in the workplace. Sick employees can either spread their illnesses, cause your business to lose productivity, or both. Do your part as a responsible employer and keep the carpets clean using steam cleaning systems and industrial steam generators for carpets and other upholstery.
Ultimately, understanding the health effects of dirty carpets in the workplace is the key to creating a workplace environment that supports employee health and success.