There is an unspoken rule in private fitness and health clubs: “After using the machine, clean it”. Well, not necessarily that you have to thoroughly clean it, just a simple wipe of your sweat would be enough. These facilities receive high traffic from different individuals and trying to keep the equipment germ-free and clean is of utmost importance.
As for the admin of the facility, it is essential to have commercial vacuums to suck in all dirt and dust before they start to accumulate in any part of the gym.
As per the CDC or the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, one very common issue in athletic facilities is MRSA, which is a contagious staph infection. MRSA can spread easily through contact both person-to-object-to-person and person-to-person. Other known diseases that are frequently found in these facilities include warts and athlete’s foot.
While these said disease can be treated easily, it is better if you don’t reach to that point by preventing them from ever happening.
With that said, here are basic yet effective tips that gyms can implement in their facilities to avoid the spread of diseases.
Tip number 1. Provide Appropriate Cleaning Supplies
EPA registered detergent-based cleaners must be easily accessible. This cleaner effectively kills MRSA and any other fungal diseases. As much as possible, refrain from using bleach-base cleaners as they may cause skin irritation and could trigger asthma among people. Paper towel or fresh towels must be available to wipe down benches, machines and all other gym equipment.
Tip number 2. Educate Staffs and Athletes regarding Cleaning Protocol
Different machines will have a different cleaning instruction. Some of the machines tolerate being sprayed with cleaner directly while others usually those that have built-in electronics require a more delicate cleaning process.
Tip number 3. Schedule Regular Interval for Janitorial Cleaning
Having staffs and athletes take part in day to day maintenance of the facility is a really nice way of preventing diseases to spread. However, hiring janitorial personnel is better and they have to take it up a notch. They must be proactive in doing deep clean of the facility and should have the tools to clean bigger areas similar to bathrooms, showers and floors. Have a schedule and tweak it as per the volume of traffic your facility gets.