Do cleaners work in homes with COVID-19 cases?
By Cleaner-Kenya (Cleaner.co.ke)
Key Points:
- Professional cleaning services can work in homes with COVID-19 cases, but require enhanced safety protocols and proper protective equipment
- Cleaners should be informed in advance about active COVID-19 cases to make informed decisions and prepare adequately
- Specialized disinfection services differ from regular cleaning and may be more appropriate for active infection scenarios
- Most cleaning companies recommend waiting 24-72 hours after an infected person vacates before deep cleaning the space
- Post-COVID cleaning focuses on high-touch surfaces and requires EPA-approved disinfectants effective against coronaviruses
The COVID-19 pandemic has fundamentally changed how we approach home cleaning and hygiene. One question that continues to concern both homeowners and cleaning professionals is whether cleaners should work in homes with active COVID-19 cases. The answer is nuanced and depends on several critical factors including safety protocols, timing, and the type of cleaning required.
Understanding the Risks
When a household member tests positive for COVID-19, the home becomes a potential transmission zone. The virus can survive on various surfaces for hours to days, depending on the material and environmental conditions. This reality creates legitimate concerns for cleaning professionals who may be exposed to contaminated surfaces during their work. However, with proper precautions and protocols, professional cleaning can be conducted safely.
Communication is Essential
The most important aspect of cleaning COVID-19 affected homes is transparency. Homeowners have an ethical and often legal obligation to inform their cleaning service about any active cases in the household. This advance notice allows cleaners to make informed decisions about accepting the job and gives them time to prepare with appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE). Many professional cleaning companies have specific policies regarding COVID-19 cases, and these should be respected.
Timing Matters
Most cleaning professionals and health experts recommend waiting before having cleaners enter a home with active COVID-19 cases. The ideal waiting period is typically 24 to 72 hours after the infected person has left the space or completed their isolation period. This waiting period significantly reduces the viral load on surfaces and decreases transmission risk for cleaning staff. During this time, the home should be well-ventilated with windows and doors open when possible.
Enhanced Safety Protocols
When cleaners do work in homes that have had COVID-19 cases, enhanced safety measures are essential. This includes wearing appropriate PPE such as N95 masks, disposable gloves, and in some cases, face shields or protective eyewear. Proper ventilation during cleaning is crucial, with windows and doors opened to increase air circulation. Cleaners should focus on high-touch surfaces including doorknobs, light switches, countertops, bathroom fixtures, and electronic devices.
Specialized Disinfection Services
It’s important to distinguish between regular cleaning services and specialized COVID-19 disinfection services. Regular house cleaners may not have the training or equipment necessary for biohazard situations. Specialized disinfection companies use hospital-grade disinfectants and follow strict protocols designed specifically for infectious disease control. For homes with active COVID-19 cases, these specialized services may be more appropriate than standard cleaning services.
The Right to Refuse
Cleaning professionals have the right to refuse work in homes with active COVID-19 cases, especially if they are at high risk due to age, underlying health conditions, or inadequate PPE. This decision should be respected without penalty. Many cleaning companies have policies that support their employees’ safety decisions while also offering alternative solutions for clients, such as rescheduling or connecting them with specialized services.
Moving Forward
As we continue to live with COVID-19, the cleaning industry has adapted with improved protocols and better understanding of viral transmission. Professional cleaners can safely work in homes that have had COVID-19 cases when proper precautions are taken, adequate time has passed, and open communication exists between all parties. The key is balancing the need for cleaning services with the safety and wellbeing of cleaning professionals.
For homeowners seeking cleaning services after a COVID-19 case, honesty and patience are paramount. For cleaners, having clear policies and access to proper protective equipment ensures they can serve their clients while protecting their own health.