1. Purpose
AJ Cleaning & Property Maintenance is committed to providing a safe and healthy environment by minimizing the risk of infection transmission during cleaning and maintenance activities. This policy outlines the measures and procedures implemented to prevent and control infections, protecting employees, clients, and visitors.
2. Scope
This policy applies to all employees, contractors, subcontractors, and visitors involved in cleaning, disinfecting, waste handling, and maintenance across all AJ Cleaning & Property Maintenance sites and client premises.
3. Policy Statement
AJ Cleaning & Property Maintenance commits to:
- Implementing infection control procedures consistent with Australian health standards and legislation.
- Ensuring appropriate use of Personal Protective Equipment (PPE).
- Providing adequate training and resources to staff on infection prevention.
- Regularly reviewing infection control practices to adapt to emerging health risks.
4. Responsibilities
- Employees: Follow all infection control protocols, use PPE correctly, practice hand hygiene, report illness, and participate in training.
- Supervisors and Managers: Ensure staff compliance, provide resources and training, monitor infection control practices, and investigate reported issues.
- Health and Safety Officer: Coordinate infection control training, perform audits, and update the policy as necessary.
5. Infection Control Procedures
- Hand Hygiene: Employees must wash hands thoroughly with soap and water for at least 20 seconds or use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer:
- Before starting work and after breaks.
- After handling waste or contaminated materials.
- After coughing, sneezing, or touching the face.
- Personal Protective Equipment (PPE): Gloves, masks, eye protection, and gowns must be worn according to the cleaning task and client requirements. PPE must be disposed of or sanitized appropriately after use.
- Cleaning and Disinfection: Use only approved disinfectants effective against viruses and bacteria. Follow manufacturer's instructions for dilution and contact time. Pay special attention to high-touch surfaces.
- Waste Management: Segregate and dispose of biological and hazardous waste safely and legally. Use sealed containers for infectious waste.
- Illness Reporting and Management: Employees must notify supervisors if they experience symptoms of infectious diseases and stay away from work until cleared medically.
- Training and Communication: All staff will receive infection control training during induction and ongoing refresher courses.
6. COVID-19 Specific Measures
In response to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, AJ Cleaning & Property Maintenance enforces additional protocols:
- Daily health screening of staff for symptoms.
- Physical distancing and reduced team sizes on sites.
- Increased frequency of cleaning high-touch areas.
- Use of N95/P2 masks where required.
- Immediate isolation and reporting of suspected COVID-19 cases.
7. Monitoring, Auditing, and Continuous Improvement
Compliance with this policy will be monitored through regular site inspections, audits, and employee feedback mechanisms. Findings will inform continuous improvement to infection control procedures.
8. Review and Updates
This policy will be reviewed annually or whenever new health regulations or scientific evidence necessitate updates. The Health and Safety Officer is responsible for ensuring currency of the policy.