New England is facing a Quad-demic of respiratory illnesses—COVID-19, influenza, RSV, and norovirus—that’s overwhelming hospitals and disrupting daily life. Hospitals in Rhode Island, Connecticut, and Massachusetts are feeling the spike, and it’s time for us to step up our game when it comes to keeping our offices and community spaces clean.

FAQs: Why is the Quad-demic a big concern for businesses?

Is the Quad-demic disrupting your office?

Why Professional Cleaning Keeps Productivity Up and Absenteeism Down 

As a 20+ year trusted leader in janitorial cleaning, serving Rhode Island, Connecticut, and Massachusetts, we urge businesses to prioritize heightened disinfection practices to safeguard employees, customers, and communities.

Hospitals Sound the Alarm

The Stats Don’t Lie  

With emergency departments reporting a surge in flu cases and hospitals reinstating mask mandates, it’s clear that we need to be proactive. For instance:  

• Flu-related emergency room visits have doubled compared to last year, with two flu deaths confirmed already this season, prompting local hospitals to take action.     
• Brown University Health and Care New England hospitals (Kent and Butler) reinstated mask mandates in January due to surging cases.  

• Hospitals are seeing respiratory illnesses hit 1.5 times the baseline levels, which means more people are getting sick and needing care. 
• Major hospitals like Mass General Brigham and Beth Israel Deaconess reintroduced universal masking. 
• Boston-area ERs are grappling with norovirus spikes alongside respiratory viruses.  

When you think about it, every employee who stays healthy contributes to a more productive workplace. 

Why Clean Spaces Matter to your Employees, Customers and Visitors 

Let’s face it—nobody wants to deal with sick days. A clean workspace isn’t just about looking good; it’s about keeping everyone healthy and happy. Here’s how maintaining a clean environment can help your business thrive during this tough season:  

- Boosted Productivity: When employees feel safe in their environment, they’re more likely to stay focused on their work instead of worrying about germs lurking around. A clean office means fewer distractions and a more motivated team.  

- Reduced Absenteeism: It’s simple math—fewer germs mean fewer sick days. By investing in regular cleaning and disinfection, you can help keep your team healthy and reduce those pesky absences that can slow down your operations.  

Why Disinfection Can’t Wait  

These viruses spread through droplets, surfaces, and close contact. For example:  

- Norovirus survives on surfaces for weeks and requires EPA-approved disinfectants to eliminate.  

- Influenza A (the dominant strain) remains infectious on hard surfaces for up to 48 hours.  

With hospitals overwhelmed and mask mandates returning, businesses must act to reduce transmission risks in offices, schools, and public spaces.  

Our Cleaning Solutions: Keeping You Covered  

Here’s our expert cleaning tips to help you create a safe space for your team and workplace:

• Daily High-Touch Surface Cleaning: Focus on disinfecting doorknobs, light switches, and shared equipment—those spots that everyone touches but often forgets about!  
• Air Quality Management: With HEPA filters and UV-C light treatments, you can help reduce airborne pathogens that could make your team sick.  
• Norovirus-Specific Protocols: Use hospital-grade cleaners specifically designed to tackle those nasty gastrointestinal bugs that can spread like wildfire in communal spaces.  
• Flexible Scheduling: Work with your janitorial provider to see if they offer increased cleaning frequency during peak illness periods to keep you covered when you need it most.  

Let’s Work Together!  

Don’t let the Quad-demic disrupt your operations. This winter is all about staying safe while keeping our businesses running smoothly. System4IPS offers customized cleaning plans backed by 20+ years of expertise in combating seasonal pathogens. By partnering with us for your cleaning needs, you’re not just investing in cleanliness; you’re investing in the health and productivity of your entire team.  

Are you ready to learn more? Give the experts at System4IPS a shout! Our commercial cleaning services in Rhode Island, Connecticut or Massachusetts boast the cleanest workplaces around. Want a peek at pricing? Visit our website to use our customized online quote calculator!

Stay safe out there, New England!

FAQs: Why is the Quad-demic a big concern for businesses?

Q1. What is the Quad-demic, and why is it an issue for businesses?

A: The Quad-demic refers to the simultaneous rise of four respiratory illnesses: COVID-19, influenza, RSV (respiratory syncytial virus), and norovirus. This surge in illnesses can lead to increased absenteeism among employees, impacting productivity and overall business operations. Ensuring a clean and sanitized workplace is crucial to minimize the spread of these viruses.

Q2. How can professional cleaning services help during the Quad-demic?

A: Professional cleaning services provide thorough disinfection of high-touch surfaces, deep cleaning of common areas, and specialized sanitation protocols tailored to combat viruses. By maintaining a clean environment, businesses can reduce the risk of illness among employees and customers, promoting a healthier workplace.

Q3. What specific cleaning practices should businesses implement during this time?

A: Businesses should focus on high-touch surface disinfection (e.g., doorknobs, light switches, shared equipment), regular deep cleaning of common areas, and enhanced air quality management through HEPA filtration systems. It's also important to have protocols in place for addressing any potential outbreaks quickly.

Q4. Are there any new regulations or guidelines regarding cleaning in light of the Quad-demic?

A: Yes, many local health departments and hospitals have reinstated mask mandates and recommended stricter cleaning protocols to prevent the spread of respiratory illnesses. Businesses should stay updated on local guidelines and consider implementing enhanced cleaning measures to comply with health regulations.

Q5. How can I choose the right commercial cleaning service for my business?

A: When selecting a commercial cleaning service, look for companies with experience in infection control, positive customer reviews, and certifications in cleaning protocols. It's also beneficial to choose a service that offers customized cleaning plans tailored to your specific needs during the Quad-demic.

Q6. Are there free resources to elevate my cleaning crew?

A: Absolutely! Here’s an online restroom quiz & test. It’s the perfect training tool for your cleaning staff and janitorial team. 

Lacking janitorial staffing?

Concerned about a staffing shortage or whether you are using the right cleaning service for your workplace? It's not too late to find the perfect janitorial team that will keep your facility clean and safe. Look for solid custodian referrals and consult with System4 IPS. 

Which custodian or janitorial team is best for you? System4IPS specializes in creating customized janitorial programs  that meet the unique need of businesses like yours!

If your workplace experiences a flu or virus outbreak, call System4 IPS and schedule your disinfection service today. Our professional team listens to your needs, requirements, and timing. See our many satisfied customer testimonials and public Google ratings.