As temperatures drop and we head into cold and flu season, businesses face an annual challenge — keeping employees and customers healthy. Illnesses can spread quickly in shared spaces, leading to lost productivity, staffing shortages, and unhappy customers. Fortunately, with a few simple precautions and the right prevention products, you can create a healthier environment and reduce the risk of infection.
1. Understanding Cold and Flu Season
Cold and flu viruses thrive in colder, drier air and can survive on surfaces for hours. They spread mainly through droplets when people cough, sneeze, or talk — and through touch when contaminated surfaces aren’t cleaned regularly. Because these viruses are so contagious, prevention is key.
2. Promote Hand Hygiene
Encouraging frequent handwashing is one of the most effective ways to stop the spread. Make it easy for staff and visitors by placing:
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Touch-free hand sanitizer dispensers at entrances, workstations, and common areas
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Hand sanitizer pumps or wipes at customer counters and meeting rooms
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Moisturizing hand soaps in restrooms to prevent skin dryness from frequent washing
Choose sanitizers that contain at least 60% alcohol and are easy to access — the more convenient they are, the more likely people will use them.
3. Keep Surfaces Clean and Disinfected
High-touch areas such as door handles, countertops, phones, and keyboards can harbor germs. Regular cleaning is essential:
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Use EPA-registered disinfectant sprays or wipes designed to kill cold and flu viruses
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Provide disinfectant wipes for employees to clean their own workspaces
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Set up a daily cleaning schedule for shared spaces like break rooms and conference tables
4. Encourage Healthy Habits
Beyond cleaning and sanitizing, promote overall wellness among your team:
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Post reminders to cover coughs and sneezes with facial tissues or elbows
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Encourage employees to stay home when sick to prevent spreading illness
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Offer flu shots or information about local vaccination clinics
5. Improve Air Quality
Since cold and flu viruses can linger in the air, good ventilation matters. Consider adding:
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Air purifiers with HEPA filters to reduce airborne contaminants
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HVAC maintenance to ensure proper airflow and filtration
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Humidity control systems to maintain optimal indoor humidity (around 40–60%)
6. Stock Up Early
Don’t wait until your team is coughing and sneezing to act. Prepare ahead of time with a well-stocked inventory of:
7. Create a Culture of Clean
Prevention works best when everyone participates. Regular communication — such as weekly reminders or signage — helps keep hygiene top of mind. A clean, healthy workplace isn’t just safer; it also shows employees and customers that you care about their well-being.
Cold and flu season doesn’t have to disrupt your business. By promoting hand hygiene, maintaining clean surfaces, and preparing your space with the right prevention products, you can reduce illness, protect your people, and keep operations running smoothly. Blaisdell's is here to help support you and your business through cold and flu season. With thousands of items in stock and quick shipping, we have you covered.