Top 10 COVID‑19 & Flu Season Cleaning Protocols for Houston Offices in 2025
Top 10 COVID‑19 & Flu Season Cleaning Protocols for Houston Offices in 2025
Stay ahead of outbreaks this season. Discover 10 essential COVID-19 and flu cleaning protocols for Houston offices in 2025 from the experts at PJS of Houston.
Understanding the Seasonal Health Threat in Houston Workplaces
Why Fall and Winter Pose Unique Risks
As temperatures drop in Houston, indoor air quality, employee crowding, and seasonal illness patterns create a perfect storm for the spread of COVID-19 and flu. Reduced ventilation and higher occupancy levels mean viruses can linger in the air and on surfaces longer than in warmer months.
What Houston Employers Need to Know About 2025 COVID & Flu Trends
Although COVID-19 has become more manageable, newer variants like BA.9 still pose threats in enclosed spaces. This year’s flu strain is projected to be more aggressive than in 2024, making proactive disinfection strategies a priority for every business.
Why Enhanced Cleaning Protocols Matter in 2025
Post-COVID Mindset Shift
Houston businesses have permanently shifted expectations around cleanliness. Clients and employees alike now view frequent sanitization as a standard—not a bonus.
Employee Wellness and Retention
Clean environments boost employee morale and reduce sick days. A recent CDC study found that workplaces with robust cleaning practices saw a 30% decrease in employee illness-related absences during peak flu season.
Protocol 1 – Daily Disinfection of High-Touch Surfaces
Identifying Common Touch Points
Think elevator buttons, door handles, breakroom appliances, and shared desks. These are hotbeds for viral transmission.
Best Disinfectants for Virus Elimination
Use EPA-registered disinfectants that kill both influenza viruses and SARS-CoV-2 within 1-5 minutes of contact.
Protocol 2 – Electrostatic Spraying for Broad Coverage
What It Is and Why It Works
Electrostatic spraying uses charged particles to uniformly coat surfaces—even the ones that traditional cleaning might miss. It’s ideal for offices with shared workspaces and high turnover.
When to Use It in Your Cleaning Schedule
Recommended bi-weekly during flu season or immediately following an illness-related incident.
Protocol 3 – Upgraded HVAC and Air Filtration Practices
MERV Ratings Explained
Use filters rated MERV-13 or higher to trap airborne particles carrying viruses. These capture up to 98% of viral matter.
Importance of Regular Filter Changes
Filters must be replaced every 30–60 days during flu season to prevent buildup and maintain air flow efficiency.
Protocol 4 – Professional Day Porter Services
Midday Touchpoint Cleaning
A day porter ensures continual cleaning of restrooms, kitchen spaces, and meeting rooms throughout the day—bridging the gap between morning and evening janitorial service.
Enhancing Employee Confidence
Seeing cleaning in action throughout the workday reinforces employee trust in management’s commitment to their health.
Protocol 5 – Nightly Deep Cleaning and Floor Sanitization
Why Flooring Matters for Health
Flu viruses can live on non-porous surfaces like tile and vinyl for up to 48 hours. Regular floor disinfection reduces these risks.
Best Equipment and Green Solutions
PJS of Houston uses advanced auto-scrubbers with eco-friendly disinfectants that meet Green Seal™ standards.
Protocol 6 – CDC-Compliant Restroom Sanitation
Frequency & Technique
Restrooms should be disinfected at least three times daily during flu season, focusing on faucet handles, flush buttons, and stall doors.
Choosing EPA-Approved Products
Look for products with claims against influenza A and human coronavirus on the label, along with fast dwell times.
Protocol 7 – Entryway and Lobby Protection Zones
Disinfecting First-Impression Areas
Your front door is your first line of defense. PJS applies targeted cleaning to lobby furniture, doorknobs, check-in tablets, and counters.
Traffic Flow and Hygiene Station Tips
Install hand sanitizer stations and antimicrobial floor mats to encourage clean habits upon entry.
Protocol 8 – Touchless Technologies and Cleaning Compatibility
Motion-Activated Fixtures
Touchless faucets and soap dispensers help limit germ spread—but require gentle, non-corrosive cleaners during wipe-downs.
Cleaning Without Damaging Sensors
Use microfiber cloths and avoid harsh sprays near electronic sensors to prolong the life of your hands-free tech.
Protocol 9 – Outbreak Response and Rapid Cleaning Teams
PJS’s Rapid Response System
If an employee tests positive or falls ill on-site, PJS deploys a certified response team within 4 hours for full disinfection.
What to Do When Someone Gets Sick
Immediately isolate affected zones, increase ventilation, and alert your cleaning provider to initiate protocol response.
Protocol 10 – Employee Education and Hygiene Support
Signage, Supplies & Staff Buy-In
Post hygiene tips near sinks and exits, restock masks and tissues regularly, and educate staff on personal disinfection etiquette.
Creating a Culture of Clean
Clean habits start with awareness. Make sanitation part of daily office rhythm—not just something that happens after hours.
Case Study: A Houston Tech Firm’s Winter Success Story
Client: Downtown co-working tech startup
Challenge: Frequent flu outbreaks during Q4
Solution: PJS implemented daily touchpoint cleaning, electrostatic fogging 2x per week, and upgraded HVAC.
Result: Zero outbreaks in Q1, employee attendance rose 18% over prior year.
How PJS of Houston Can Protect Your Office This Season
Custom Plans for Every Industry
Whether you operate a healthcare clinic, school, or industrial site—PJS tailors cleaning schedules and products to your exact risks.
Schedule a Free Protocol Audit
Get a complimentary assessment of your current cleaning practices and learn where improvements can keep your staff safer.
Contact PJS of Houston to Schedule Now
FAQs About COVID & Flu Season Cleaning in 2025
1. How often should our office be deep cleaned during flu season?
At least once per week, plus daily disinfection of touchpoints.
2. Does regular janitorial service include CDC-compliant flu disinfection?
Not always. PJS includes CDC protocols in every flu-season contract.
3. Is electrostatic spraying safe for computers and electronics?
Yes, when applied correctly and allowed to dry per protocol.
4. Do we need air purifiers in addition to HVAC filters?
Yes—especially in high-traffic or poorly ventilated areas.
5. Can PJS help with signage and hygiene station setup?
Absolutely. We provide complete hygiene kits and printed signage.
6. How do I know if my cleaning provider is flu-ready?
Ask for their protocol plan and confirm they use EPA-approved solutions.
Conclusion: Stay Open, Stay Healthy, Stay Ready
In Houston’s fast-paced business world, health security is business continuity. With proactive cleaning protocols and expert guidance from PJS of Houston, you can reduce risk, protect your people, and stay confidently open throughout the 2025 flu season.