JMS of Houston LLC Blog

From Grime to Shine: Reviving Your Carpets with Professional Cleaning in Houston

ncalegacy@gmail.com (Casey Chadwick) — Wed, 15 May 2024 17:52:35 GMT

Introduction to Carpet Cleaning

Carpets play a significant role in enhancing the comfort and aesthetics of our homes, but over time, they can accumulate dirt, stains, and allergens, detracting from their appearance and affecting indoor air quality. In bustling cities like Houston, where foot traffic and environmental factors contribute to carpet wear and tear, professional cleaning services are essential to maintain the cleanliness and longevity of your carpets. In this article, we'll explore the benefits of professional carpet cleaning and why JMS of Houston stands out as a trusted provider in the area.

Carpet cleaning is a process designed to remove dirt, stains, and contaminants from carpets to restore their appearance and freshness. While regular vacuuming can help remove surface debris, professional carpet cleaning goes a step further by deep cleaning the fibers and eliminating embedded dirt and allergens.

Importance of Professional Carpet Cleaning

Professional carpet cleaning is essential for several reasons. First and foremost, it helps improve indoor air quality by removing allergens such as dust mites, pet dander, and pollen trapped in the carpet fibers. Additionally, professional cleaning helps extend the lifespan of your carpets by preventing premature wear and tear caused by dirt and debris buildup.

Understanding the Carpet Cleaning Process

Professional carpet cleaning typically involves several steps, including pre-inspection, pre-treatment of stains and high-traffic areas, hot water extraction or steam cleaning, and post-cleaning inspection. This comprehensive approach ensures thorough cleaning and maximum soil removal, leaving your carpets looking and feeling fresh.

Benefits of Professional Carpet Cleaning

There are numerous benefits to investing in professional carpet cleaning:

Improved Indoor Air Quality: Removal of allergens and pollutants trapped in the carpet fibers.
Extended Carpet Lifespan: Prevention of premature wear and tear, resulting in longer-lasting carpets.
Enhanced Appearance: Removal of stains, dirt, and odors for a cleaner and fresher look.
Healthier Environment: Reduction of bacteria and germs that can cause illness or allergies.
Convenience: Professional cleaners handle all aspects of the cleaning process, saving you time and effort.

Choosing the Right Carpet Cleaning Service

When selecting a carpet cleaning service, it's essential to consider factors such as experience, reputation, pricing, and cleaning methods used. Look for a company with a proven track record of quality service and customer satisfaction, and inquire about their process and equipment to ensure thorough cleaning and effective results.

Why Choose JMS of Houston

JMS of Houston is a leading provider of professional carpet cleaning services in the Houston area. With years of experience and a commitment to excellence, JMS of Houston delivers exceptional results and customer satisfaction. Their team of trained technicians uses state-of-the-art equipment and eco-friendly cleaning solutions to ensure the highest standards of cleanliness and safety.

The Difference JMS of Houston Makes

What sets JMS of Houston apart is their dedication to customer service and satisfaction. From the moment you contact them to the completion of the cleaning process, JMS of Houston strives to exceed your expectations and restore your carpets to their pristine condition. With attention to detail and a focus on quality, they deliver results that speak for themselves.

Conclusion

In conclusion, professional carpet cleaning is a valuable investment for homeowners looking to maintain a clean and healthy living environment. With its numerous benefits, including improved indoor air quality, extended carpet lifespan, and enhanced appearance, professional cleaning ensures that your carpets look and feel their best for years to come. And when it comes to reliable and exceptional service in Houston, JMS of Houston is the name you can trust.

Business Janitorial Services in Texas, USA: A Comprehensive Guide

ncalegacy@gmail.com (Casey Chadwick) — Sat, 24 Feb 2024 09:57:02 GMT

Keep Clean with Janitorial Services

In today's competitive business landscape, maintaining a clean and hygienic workspace is paramount. Businesses in Texas, USA, recognize the importance of creating a positive environment, not only for employees but also for clients and visitors. This article delves into the world of business janitorial services , exploring their significance, benefits, and factors to consider when selecting the right service provider.

Importance of Janitorial Services

Cleanliness and Productivity

A clean and well-maintained workspace directly correlates with employee productivity. A clutter-free environment reduces distractions, fosters focus, and creates a positive atmosphere that encourages efficient work.

Creating a Positive Impression

For businesses, first impressions matter. A well-kept office space not only impresses clients but also reflects a commitment to professionalism and attention to detail.

Understanding Business Janitorial Services

Customization

One size does not fit all when it comes to janitorial services. Tailored solutions, catering to the specific needs of a business, ensure effective cleaning and maintenance.

Frequency of Service

Determining the frequency of janitorial services depends on the size and nature of the business. Regular cleaning schedules can be daily, weekly, or customized to fit unique requirements.

Benefits of Outsourcing Janitorial Services

Cost-Effective

Outsourcing janitorial services proves to be cost-effective for businesses. It eliminates the need for in-house cleaning staff, reducing expenses related to salaries, benefits, and cleaning supplies.

Expertise and Professionalism

Professional janitorial services bring expertise to the table. Trained cleaning staff ensure thorough cleaning, utilizing industry-standard practices.

Focus on Core Business Activities

Outsourcing janitorial services allows businesses to concentrate on their core activities, promoting growth and efficiency without being burdened by cleaning responsibilities.

Selecting the Right Janitorial Service Provider

Assessing Cleaning Needs

Before selecting a service provider, businesses must assess their cleaning needs. Identifying specific requirements helps in choosing a provider that aligns with the business's goals.

Checking Credentials

A reputable janitorial service provider should have the necessary licenses, insurance, and certifications. This ensures reliability and adherence to industry standards.

Seeking Referrals

Word-of-mouth is a powerful tool. Seeking referrals from other businesses helps gauge the reputation and reliability of a janitorial service provider.

Tailored Solutions for Different Businesses

Office Spaces

Janitorial services for office spaces encompass daily cleaning routines, sanitation, and maintaining a presentable environment conducive to work.

Retail Establishments

In the retail sector, cleanliness directly impacts the customer experience. Regular cleaning ensures a welcoming and hygienic shopping environment.

Industrial Facilities

Industrial spaces require specialized cleaning to adhere to safety standards. Janitorial services for these environments focus on thorough cleaning and hazard prevention.

The Impact of Janitorial Services on Health and Safety

Reducing the Spread of Illness

Regular cleaning, especially during flu seasons, helps reduce the spread of illnesses among employees, promoting a healthier workplace.

Compliance with Safety Standards

Janitorial services play a crucial role in ensuring that businesses comply with safety standards and regulations related to cleanliness and sanitation.

Green Janitorial Practices

The importance of Environmentally Friendly Cleaning

Businesses are increasingly adopting green janitorial practices to minimize their environmental impact. This includes using eco-friendly cleaning products and sustainable practices.

Benefits of Green Janitorial Services

Beyond environmental benefits, green janitorial services contribute to a healthier workspace by reducing exposure to harsh chemicals and allergens.

Technology in Janitorial Services

Innovative Cleaning Equipment

Advancements in cleaning technology have introduced innovative equipment that enhances the efficiency and effectiveness of janitorial services.

Use of Apps for Communication and Monitoring

Mobile apps facilitate seamless communication between businesses and janitorial service providers. They also allow for real-time monitoring of cleaning activities.

Challenges and Solutions in Business Janitorial Services

Staffing Issues

The shortage of skilled cleaning staff can pose challenges. However, outsourcing janitorial services addresses this issue by providing access to a trained workforce.

Quality Assurance

Businesses often face concerns about the consistency of cleaning quality. Service providers counter this by implementing rigorous quality assurance measures.

Case Studies

Success Stories of Businesses with Effective Janitorial Services

Highlighting real-world examples of businesses that have experienced positive outcomes by investing in quality janitorial services.

Tips for Maintaining Cleanliness Between Janitorial Visits

Employee Responsibility

Encouraging employees to maintain cleanliness in their individual workspaces contributes to a consistently tidy environment.

Creating a Cleaning Schedule

Establishing a routine cleaning schedule for shared spaces helps prevent clutter and maintain a clean overall appearance.

Common Misconceptions About Janitorial Services

All Services Are the Same

Dispelling the misconception that all janitorial services offer identical levels of expertise and thoroughness.

Janitorial Services Are Only for Large Corporations

Addressing the belief that janitorial services are exclusively for large corporations. Small and medium-sized businesses can also benefit significantly.

Future Trends in Business Janitorial Services

Integration of IoT

The integration of the Internet of Things (IoT) in janitorial services allows for smart cleaning solutions, enhancing efficiency and customization.

Continued Emphasis on Green Practices

As sustainability becomes a top priority, janitorial services will increasingly focus on adopting and enhancing

Cleaning Tips For Offices and Commercial Buildings

Fri, 18 Nov 2022 17:47:00 GMT

An organized workplace is a productive office, but in a large office with many employees, it can be easy for the space to get messy and chaotic. Each person may feel they don't have time to clean up their coffee spill or dust their desk area because they are so focused on their tasks. Sadly, a little bit of ignored office cleaning can quickly add up to diminished productivity, uninterested employees, and alienated customers. Even though office cleaning is frequently disregarded, it plays a crucial role in a company's success. At JMS of Houston, we offer business janitorial services, and many other cleaning services that create the perfect working environment, but today, we have included six recommendations to maintain your workplace appearing and feeling like a place of business that deserves respect because sometimes it can be challenging to even know where to start with keeping an office or a commercial space clean!

1- Establish a clean office environment. This tip is listed first since it is arguably the most crucial. All workplace cleans will be much easier if you can educate all employees on the value of maintaining a tidy workspace and going above and above to be clean in common spaces. Make sure all new workers are aware that maintaining cleanliness is a crucial aspect of their job. Cleaning shouldn't be treated harshly or as a punishment; instead, it should be turned into a team effort that everyone enjoys and takes pride in.

2- Create Easy Access to Cleaning Supplies & Services. The optimal scenario is for each employee to have access to their own basic cleaning products, such as screen cleaners and disinfection wipes, at their desk. As a result, they no longer feel as though they must furnish their own supplies and begin to resent their boss for forcing them to clean their desk and purchase the necessary items. Although keeping the cleaning products on hand all the time may seem like a significant investment, the additional cleaning it will cause will more than make up for it. Also, make sure all employees have the contact number for companies such as JMS of Houston that provides cleaning and janitorial services and carpet cleaning services for whenever in need.

3- Remove Trash Everyday. There is nothing worse than a foul trash can. The only way to avoid this is to throw out the trash at the end of each workday, since it will then not accumulate overnight and cause a significant issue. Every employee ought to have a trash can at their desk, and they ought to be in charge of determining when it should be taken to the main office trash. As for the bathrooms, schedule a deep cleaning and sanitisation appointment, it’s preferable to do it through professional janitorial service companies that provide custodial cleaning services such as JMS of Houston to maintain cleanliness.

4- Clean the Floors. Vacuuming and sweeping should be done twice or three times per week. People are always dragging dirt in from the outside since there are so many people coming in, going out, and coming back in. Because everyone will be wearing shoes, it may be difficult to see a dirty office floor, but it does enter the field of vision, even if only unconsciously, which can be distracting. Additionally, kicking up dirt into the air can cause it to fall to other surfaces or cause allergy reactions. The floor should ideally be cleaned on specific days, such as Fridays or Mondays. Get in touch with JMS of Houston and we’ll be able to provide you with thorough janitorial & carpet cleaning services.

5- Establish cleaning standards for each space. Employees should be aware of the ideal design for their workspaces so they have something to strive for. Papers should be organized, drawers should be tidy, screens should be kept clean, keyboards should be periodically dusted, and chairs should be cleaned once a week. Holding brief meetings in each person's space is a wonderful approach to ensure that individual workspaces remain tidy because they are required to be presentable to the rest of their coworkers.

6- Hire a Competent Commercial Cleaning and Janitorial Services Company. Find a business that specializes in commercial business cleaning services and schedule frequent visits from them. Keeping an office tidy is a difficult undertaking, as you can see from reading these suggestions. You will be surprised by how reasonably priced office cleaning services are after you factor in all the advantages of hiring a cleaner. The best way to ensure that your office is as clean and functional as possible is to hire a dedicated local janitorial services company. Having your personnel clean the office can only go so far.

If you’re looking for a cleaning service company in Houston, Texas , get in touch with us anytime for inquiries, free estimates and booking appointments!

A New Normal: Touchless Offices In The Post-Pandemic World

Tue, 29 Dec 2020 21:30:00 GMT

As politicians and business leaders scramble to imagine life in the post-pandemic world, large tech companies like Apple and Facebook are actively assembling their back-to-work strategies. Apple’s secretive product strategy makes it difficult for workers to maintain security while working remotely. What does a return to work look like, while protecting the health and safety of employees? Companies will be implementing different strategies to balance the need for corporations to resume profitability and yet be responsible to employees. Some are changing floorplans: separating desks and walling in workstations. Others are implementing staggered shifts. New measures in sanitization and hand washing may become the norm. BBC Future asks what “normal” really is. They challenged their readers to define normal and abnormal in psychological terms. As people grow increasingly nervous about the spread of germs, the definition of normal continues to shift.

Perceptions of what is considered normal behavior pre-pandemic may shift dramatically in the future. Technology as a reflection of the needs and habits of the populous will change as well. How many companies will be utilizing technology as a way to facilitate a new normal? Workers are already using technology in unique ways to facilitate current needs. Business communication apps are being widely adopted. Remote data exchange and collaboration tools such as Dropbox and Google Docs are gaining traction. Will this continue as people return to office life? What other technologies will help facilities cope, as we enter the next chapter?

The building automation industry is positioned to see drastic changes to help facilitate a healthy workplace. Standards for fresh air and Indoor Air Quality (IAQ) will certainly come to the forefront. How a space is utilized and how people interact with their environment is equally important. ASHRAE defines a minimum range of 15-20 cfm of fresh air per person in an office environment. This does not take into account all of the other factors in ASHRAE standards 62.1 and 62.2 that pertain to ventilation requirements. Total volume of space, expected activity requirements and total utilization of the space are all factored into the minimums. But fresh air won’t mitigate infection points. Door handles, AV remotes and common-use appliances are all at play when it comes to transmitting disease. Building automation will have to expand in scope if it is going to contribute to a safer work environment. Likewise, increases to filtering and ventilation requirements won’t be enough to prevent or mitigate the next pandemic. The industry will need to embrace the need for a touchless office environment to help workers re-gain the confidence of working at a desk with hundreds of other people in cubicles nearby.

The biggest change will be the separation of technologies in buildings. There is an expectation that building automation systems and the equipment that people use in a facility are separate. Typically, in a boardroom, an access system controls entrance into the space if access is automated. It is booked for use through proprietary software at a PC. Temperature is controlled by a wall thermostat. Users adjust lighting by common switches and dimmers. Automatic blinds are controlled by remotes or touchpads. AV equipment is manually switched on by another remote control. All of these are potential infection points when used by multiple people every day. As long as these systems remain separate, they will remain infection points. All of these systems will need to become more commonly integrated to have a meaningful effect on the safety of office spaces.

Integration starts with networks. Building automation systems are poised to become the central communication hub of any facility. Building networks are implemented using IP communication with increasing frequency. IP communication is the same network type as computers. If employees book meeting rooms with Microsoft Outlook or similar proprietary booking apps, they could be connected directly to the building automation system. This is a key point in the integration of equipment. Access and lighting systems have been increasingly integrated into building automation. Automatic blinds are relatively simple devices by building automation standards. They require simple wireless protocols or direct-wired connections from the BAS to control. With these systems and devices connected, a user can book a meeting room, adjust preferred lighting, open the doors to the room and adjust the blinds for presentations. Nonetheless, infection points still remain. Integrated or not, lighting is typically controlled from wall switches. Blinds use remotes or touch panels. Temperature is controlled by thermostats. People will need to turn on a projector to deliver presentations.

Building automation systems can do better, though. Design of these systems needs to start from the perspective of being user-centric. Building systems are typically designed with the thought that only select individuals in a building will access the system directly. These people are frequently facilities managers, maintenance staff or energy managers. In user-centric design, it is assumed that anyone in the building could access the system in order to avoid the infection points. Users need to access the system from their phones. In an era where an app exists for everything, it is surprising how infrequently apps are designed and implemented for building control. When those apps are available, they are mainly designed for use by a small portion of people in the building. The COVID-19 pandemic may change all of this. In an era where touching a door handle or light switch is risky business, the industry will have the motivation necessary to overhaul these designs. When that happens, the reality of a touchless office will begin taking shape.

However, there’s still the matter of the television in the boardroom. People will naturally search for a remote control to turn on the screen, adjust volume and change inputs. That’s where the extension of system integration comes in. As IoT protocols such as MQTT grow more prevalent, building automation systems can use those protocols to control devices that are used every day, but rarely are integrated into the system. IoT provides a common point of integration. Other communications can be integrated as well, including Bluetooth, IR communications and API.

In a touchless office, an employee can use a Bluetooth access reader to open the doors of the building using their phone. They can book meetings, schedule hot-desk assignments and schedule times that they’ll be in the office or working from home from a single app. This app will turn on lights and adjust the room temperature. When they need to attend a meeting, this same app turns on televisions and opens meeting space doors. With Bluetooth beaconing it will all be automatic, or they can fine-tune their settings. There’s no limit to what can be controlled. One day, employees could order a coffee from the company canteen using their phone, the same way they order from their local coffee shop today. This isn’t a future vision reliant on technologies that have yet to be created. The vision described here uses communication technology that’s in existence and in operation today. With the right building system, corporations need to be exploring a touchless office as the centerpiece for their return-to-work strategy. Welcome to the new normal.

Hemmerdinger, Robert. “A New Normal: Touchless Offices in the Post-Pandemic World.” Work Design Magazine, 20 May 2020, www.workdesign.com/2020/05/a-new-normal-touchless-offices-in-the-post-pandemic-world .

List N: Disinfectants for Coronavirus (COVID-19) | EPA

Tue, 22 Dec 2020 15:45:00 GMT

Things to know:

EPA expects all products on List N to kill the coronavirus SARS-CoV-2 (COVID-19) when used according to the label directions.
To find a product, locate the EPA Reg. No. on the product label, then enter the first two sets of numbers into the tool. For example, if EPA Reg. No. 12345-12 is on List N, you can buy EPA Reg. No. 12345-12-2567 and know you’re getting an equivalent product. Read our step-by-step guide.
These products are for use on surfaces, not humans.
Inclusion on List N does not constitute an endorsement by EPA. Additional disinfectants may meet the criteria for use against SARS-CoV-2 (COVID-19). EPA will update this list with additional products as needed.

CORONAVIRUS AND CLEANING

Thu, 17 Dec 2020 21:15:00 GMT

What is Coronavirus

According to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control & Prevention (CDC), coronaviruses are a large family of viruses, some of which already circulate among humans and cause mild illness, like the common cold. The virus causing coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) is a new strain first identified in China. Health experts continue to learn more about this new strain.

The virus has symptoms associated with respiratory illnesses, including fever, cough and shortness of breath. It seems to spread like other respiratory illnesses as well, primarily through person-to-person contact.

Preventing Coronavirus

At this time, the differing parts of the U.S. are experiencing different levels of novel coronavirus activity and everyone needs to be prepared. Targeted hygiene practices can go a long way to help keeping families safe. Following product use and safety information is critical in this regard. It is especially important now to make sure cleaning and hygiene precautions are not just being done, but being done correctly, to ensure effectiveness.

Cleaning for Coronavirus

Handwashing: Proper handwashing is particularly important because it is such a critical step in preventing the spread of germs, yet a study found that 95 percent of people are doing it incorrectly.

Wet hands with clean, running water before applying soap.
Lather both hands, including the backs of your hands, between your fingers and under your nails.
Scrub hands for at least 20 seconds before rinsing and drying.

Hand Sanitizer: The CDC notes that this can be a useful alternative if soap and water are not readily available, as long as it contains at least 60 percent alcohol.

Use one or two squirts or pumps of the product.
Rub hands together briskly, including the front and back, between fingers, around and under nails until hands are dry.

Disinfecting: There are a number of disinfectant and cleaning products that can be effective against the novel coronavirus on hard, nonporous surfaces, in accordance with the EPA Viral Emerging Pathogen Policy.

EPA-registered disinfectant products to use against Novel Coronavirus (COVID-19)

There is also an app for finding this information.

Cleaning and disinfecting tips to remember:

Pre-clean any surfaces prior to disinfecting to remove any excess dirt or grime.
After disinfecting, let the surface air dry as recommended on the product label.
If disinfecting food contact surfaces or toys, rinse with water after they air dry.
Pay particular attention to disinfecting things that come into frequent contact with your hands, like your phone.
If using a disinfectant wipe, throw out after using. Do not flush any non-flushable products.

Disinfectants are meant to kill germs or viruses on hard surfaces. Under no circumstances should they ever be used on one’s skin, ingested or injected internally.

Always store products used for cleaning and disinfecting up and out of reach of children.

If you still have questions about a product's specific effectiveness, check out the product or company website, which can provide additional information.

Key TImes to Clean

At School: Watch our on-demand webinar on cleaning and hand hygiene for reopening schools and download our toolkit of back-to-school resources.
At Work: For businesses returning to the workplace, we've created a free online Healthy Returns toolkit with resources on cleaning and disinfecting effectively to help ensure a safe and successful reopening.
At Home: Wash your hands before and after food prep, before eating, after using the bathroom, after touching garbage or diapers and after handling pet food. Clean and disinfect frequently touched objects, like door handles and light switches. If someone in your home is sick, follow these CDC guidelines for additional cleaning and disinfecting actions.

“Coronavirus and Cleaning | The American Cleaning Institute (ACI).” Https://Www.Cleaninginstitute.Org/Coronavirus , 20 Nov. 2020, www.cleaninginstitute.org/coronavirus .

Gov. Abbott establishes strike force, lays out plan to reopen Texas businesses safely

Tue, 15 Dec 2020 15:45:00 GMT

Gov. Abbott told KVUE in a live interview on April 10 that any plan to reopen businesses in Texas must include strategies to prevent the spread of coronavirus.

AUSTIN, Texas — Gov. Greg Abbott announced the state’s economic response to COVID-19 at a news conference on Friday, which included plans of reopening Texas businesses amid the coronavirus pandemic.

Gov. Abbott issued three executive orders outlining how the state will begin to reopen businesses. He said the plan must be guided by data and doctors to reopen Texas businesses without spurring the spread of the coronavirus.

Gov. Abbott said he formed a strike force consisting of Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick, Speaker of the House Dennis Bonnen, Attorney General Ken Paxton and Comptroller Glenn Hegar. Additionally, the strike force will be joined by a team of state health officials and specialists.

Texas Department of State Health Services Commissioner John Hellerstedt was appointed chief medical officer of the strike force, who will be supported by Dr. John Zerwas, Dr. Mark McClellan and Dr. Parker Hudson.

The strike team will develop medical architecture that will allow Texas to safely reopen while waiting for the development of immunizations, according to Gov. Abbott.

Gov. Abbott the team will work with an advisory committee of Texas entrepreneurs to advise how to successfully reopen the Texas economy. Gov. Abbott said the committee will be run by Chairman James Huffines.

The governor reported he has already been working with this team to discuss how to reopen Texas businesses.

"The particular task that we have over the next several days is to help the governor and his public health advisers understand that there are many parts of Texas where probably today would be safe to open the economy," said Kevin Roberts, executive director for the Texas Public Policy Foundation. He is part of the governor's advisory team for reopening the state.

He said the team will be paying close attention to new data about the virus every day.

"The real smart thing about taking the seven- to 10-day approach and soliciting input from us on the strike force, the advisory council, is that we're going to be elevating these these ideas, these recommendations of which sectors of the economy can be reopened safely and steadily," Roberts said.

According to Gov. Abbott, the reopening of businesses will come in stages. The first stage, which goes into effect on Friday, April 17, includes the reopening of businesses that pose little to no threat of spreading COVID-19. The second stage will include additional openings after receiving additional input from medical experts. This stage is expected to come on April 27. More openings will be announced in May for the third stage once it is determined that testing capabilities are able to detect and contain outbreaks of COVID-19.

State Rep. Donna Howard (D-48) said she's in favor of getting the economy moving again, but has hesitations about moving too quickly when there isn't enough data and testing being provided.

"We're talking about 10 days looking at this again, perhaps opening more businesses, but that's before the date that we've been told we can expect to have more tests," Howard said.

Regarding elective surgeries, Gov. Abbott said that since the state has enough hospital capacity and personal protective care, effective April 22, current restrictions on surgeries will be loosened. This order also increases the standards for nursing homes and assisted living facilities.

Gov. Abbott said all stores in Texas will be able to operate "retail-to-go" starting on April 24.

Additionally, Gov. Abbott said state parks will be reopened starting on April 20. Visitors will still be required to stay approximately six feet apart.

Texas Parks and Wildlife Department said state parks will reopen on Monday for day use only, with overnight camping to be allowed at a later date. People will not be able to pay fees at the park – visitors must make advance reservations and pay online at www.texasstateparks.org .

Regarding education, Gov. Abbott said Texas schools will be closed for the rest of the 2019/2020 school year. Gov. Abbott said officials will soon be providing advice on how to conduct graduations and finish the rest of the school year.

The Texas Education Agency issued the following statement after the announcement:

"Following on Governor Abbott's Executive Order on schools issued this afternoon, it is important to note that while the governor's decision continues the closure of school buildings for in-person classroom attendance for the duration of the 2019-20 school year, it in no way ends at-home instructional support for Texas's millions of students.

School districts across Texas have worked diligently to make the transition to virtual learning. Students must continue to receive daily academic support from their teachers and schools for the remainder of the 2019-20 school year.

Thank you to our superintendents, principals and teachers for their leadership in ensuring that academic progress continues during this unprecedented public health crisis. We fully support your efforts."

On Monday, April 27, Gov. Abbott said additional ways to reopen Texas will be announced. Gov. Abbott said the new plans will be based on how well COVID-19 has been contained in Texas and will outline safe practices for businesses to use. Additionally, Gov. Abbott said it may also expand the availability of elective surgeries.

After the announcement on Friday, The Austin Chamber said it supports the plan to reopen the economy.

"We recognize this effort will need to balance public health considerations while restarting economic activity in a phased and gradual approach that guards against subsequent spikes in infections," said Greater Austin Chamber of Commerce CEO Laura Huffman. "While each of our communities is different, we recognize that businesses play a vital role in enacting specific measures to keep their workforce safe and thereby protecting the entire community. We are encouraged by the governor’s willingness to work collaboratively with the business community."

The new orders, Executive Order No. GA-15, Executive Order No. GA-16 and Executive Order No. GA-17 can be found online.

In a live interview on KVUE live at 6 p.m. on Friday, April 10 , Texas Gov. Greg Abbott said any effort to reopen businesses in Texas must include strategies to prevent the spread of coronavirus.

Turner, Sammy, and Paul Livengood. “Gov. Abbott Establishes Strike Force, Lays out Plan to Reopen Texas Businesses Safely.” KVUE (ABC AUSTIN) [Austin, TX], 17 Apr. 2020, www.kvue.com/article/news/health/coronavirus/coronavirus-texas-update-gov-abbott-reopening-business-plan/269-5bc600d9-d5fc-4902-a1e8-94e3013d7485 .

Texas Health offers tools for reopening safely

Thu, 10 Dec 2020 18:00:00 GMT

Texas Health Resources, in collaboration with the Blue Zones Project Fort Worth, is helping provide North Texas businesses with tools to safely reopen their doors and remain open during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Texas Health is offering business operators free guides and materials that include cleaning and disinfecting tips and strategies for keeping employees healthy and safe, the organization said in a news release.

“As a health system, safety is at the heart of everything we do,” said Winjie Miao, Texas Health senior executive vice president and chief experience officer. “We heard from our consumers and business owners who were eager to plan their reopening or return to work, but many were understandably cautious. We saw an opportunity to create the Open Safe Initiative and provide them with the expertise and guidance that is specific to their needs.”

In addition to local businesses, the program aims to assist places of worship and universities. One of the tools offered through the initiative is the Safe Reopening Guide, a free, downloadable resource for small- and medium-sized businesses and other establishments. The guide offers cleaning and disinfecting guidelines, COVID-19 education for employees and other ways to help prevent the spread of the virus in the workplace.

Business operators can also order free materials through Texas Health, including posters, floor decals, stickers and buttons with safety tips and recommendations. Supplies are limited to one order per business and can be found at: www.Texashealth.org/Back-to-Work-Guidelines

“We’re helping fill in the gaps with advice from our own health experts and clinicians while incorporating state and federal guidelines,” Miao said in the news release.

Texas Health is working with the Blue Zones Project Fort Worth to get the word out to the community and help distribute thousands of face masks and gloves to small businesses. Blue Zones Project is a community-led effort to improve the health and well-being of people who live, work and play in Fort Worth.

“The Open Safe initiative has allowed us to meet the needs of our partners, enabling them to continue to operate their businesses while prioritizing safety for all,” said Matt Dufrene, vice president of Blue Zones Project Fort Worth.

Lori Henson, who works for a non-profit organization that prepares and delivers food to low income individuals in North Texas, said safety is the No. 1 priority.

“The materials have enabled us to supply our volunteers with a safe way to protect themselves when delivering meals, as well as keeping our clients safe,” said Henson, executive director of Cuisine for Healing.

Annalise Martinec recently used the supplies for the reopening of All Saints’ Episcopal School in Fort Worth.

“We are currently using the proper mask wearing and hand washing posters as a teaching tool and reminder for students, faculty and staff during our summer programs,” said Martinec, manager of communications and marketing at All Saints’ Episcopal School.

For information on other ways Texas Health can help, including safety consultations at your business, email: OpenSafe@TexasHealth.org

Texas Health Resources is a faith-based, nonprofit health system that serves 16 counties and more than 7 million people. The system has more than 4,000 licensed hospital beds, 6,200 physicians with active staff privileges and more than 25,000 employees.

www.TexasHealth.org

– FWBP Staff

Staff, FWBP. “Texas Health Offers Tools for Reopening Safely.” Fort Worth Business Press, 20 Aug. 2020, fortworthbusiness.com/business/texas-health-offers-tools-for-reopening-safely/.

Coronavirus (COVID-19) State Updates

Tue, 08 Dec 2020 15:30:00 GMT

"The state of Texas is strong; our people, resilient. As we have seen during past natural disasters, when neighbors help neighbors, our resilience is redoubled. As we open Texas, we are each called upon to be Texans: to act responsibly and safely as we re-engage the economy, to continue following all health precautions, and to care for our most vulnerable neighbors. Lives depend on our actions. I know you will respond as Texans."

- Governor Greg Abbott

Read the Latest from The State of Texas Governor on COVID & Economic Development ⤚

What’s next for the workplace after COVID-19?

Thu, 03 Dec 2020 15:30:00 GMT

Office owners and employers are looking for tips about how to reopen when work-from-home orders are lifted.

What’s next after work from home?

That’s the question major office employers and real estate companies all over the country are trying to navigate.

Cushman & Wakefield has gone so far as to print a detailed “Recovery Readiness Guide” for its business customers.

Ran Holman, the Cushman & Wakefield managing principal who heads the Dallas office, said businesses are scrambling to figure out how to safely reopen their workplaces.

“We are fortunate for our clients the perspective we have in Asia and China,” Holman said. “We manage 800 million square feet in China.

“We have helped 10,000 companies go back to work,” he said. “There were a lot of lessons learned.”

The real estate firm’s checklist for companies includes:

Preparing the building with cleaning plans, inspections and mechanical checks.
Controlling the access with protocols for safety and health checks, building reception areas, deliveries and visitor policies.
Creating a social-distancing plan with decreasing density and rethinking office traffic patterns.
Reducing touch points and increasing cleaning by opening doors, cleaning common areas and using clean desk policies.

"We are preparing the building and preparing the workforce,” Holman said. “We have visual boundaries around workstations that give people an indication how close to get.

“We will have Plexiglas barriers between workstations,” he said. “We have way-finding in offices with one-way directions.”

These changes are a big turnabout from recent office space designs that emphasized closer quarters and more shared work areas.

COVID-19 will definitely dial back office densities.

“We are in rapid evolution right now in response to this,” Holman said.

Office building owners are understandably worried that some businesses may decide that a substantial number of their employees can continue to work from home when the pandemic is over.

“That could reduce demand for space,” Holman said. “At the same time, there is a pretty good argument we have reached an apex for density and because of the need for distance between employees, the office density will have to pull back.

“That will be a counterbalance for work for home.”

Brown, Steve. “What's next for the Workplace after COVID-19?” Dallas News, 27 Apr. 2020, www.dallasnews.com/business/real-estate/2020/04/27/whats-next-for-the-workplace-after-covid-19/ .

Disinfecting supply, cleaning service companies work to help Katy-area businesses, homes sanitize during coronavirus

Tue, 17 Nov 2020 23:58:00 GMT

Unlike many businesses in the Katy area that are struggling amidst the social distancing recommendations and ordered closures due to the coronavirus, some are experiencing steady or even increasing calls and sales.

Jennifer Pierce, a territory manager in the Katy area for State Chemical‚ also known as State Industrial Products, said she has seen a jump in demand for the company’s disinfecting products over the past week.

“Overall, there’s been a dramatic increase in the industry for products that work against the coronavirus,” Pierce said.

State Chemical began preparing by increasing its supplies for this expected surge long before it became a news item, she said.

Over the past few weeks, Pierce said she had been visiting clients and, more recently, sending out emails to help businesses train their employees on how to properly disinfect, to ensure they have enough supplies and to ensure they do not hoard cleaning items.

“People are taking it seriously,” she said. “I haven’t seen the people in our area panic buying.”

Pierce noted that many businesses and organizations are increasing their cleaning procedures, which will be the new normal going forward. Cleaning supply companies—including State Chemical, which has its own manufacturing facility in the U.S.—is working around the clock to keep up with the increased demand.

“Everyone has increased their amount of cleaning,” she said. “So it will take a while for the world’s stock [to resupply].”

Because of limited cleaning supplies, MKT Distillery LLC at 5373 First St., Katy, is helping the Fort Bend County Sheriff's Office by making hand sanitizer at its location, according to a Feb. 20 Facebook post.

“The first five gallons of hand sanitizer left MKT yesterday, and we are working on producing more today and this weekend,” the distillery stated.

The sheriff's office will use the supply for the You Are Not Alone program, which helps seniors and disabled citizens who live alone.

However, Pierce is more worried about businesses that are not properly using disinfectant solutions.

“Reading and following the directions [of disinfectant] can make the difference between containment and making [the coronavirus] worse,” she said.

Some solutions need up to 10 minutes to properly disinfectant surfaces, she said.

Meanwhile, Merry Maids’ Katy location at 22503 Katy Freeway, Ste. 31, Katy, has seen an increase of requests for disinfectant calls and steady business, said Brian Houtman, who owns and operates three locations of the home cleaning chain in the Greater Houston area with his wife.

“All our cleanings right now include a disinfecting service for all high-touch areas as recommended by the [Centers for Disease Control and Prevention],” Houtman said.

Houtman said his Merry Maid team uses disinfecting products that meet Environmental Protection Agency guidelines for the coronavirus. Employees have all gone through training about how to clean and disinfect for the coronavirus. Additionally, maids are equipped with masks, and between service calls, the cleaning kits and gear is sanitized.

“We definitely have enough supplies for the next few months [to ensure we can operate],” he said and clarified that he is not stockpiling but rather ensuring the business can operate.

In addition to gathering additional supplies, Houtman said his team gathered together at the start of the coronavirus to ask how they can help the Katy and Greater Houston areas.

“Community is really important,” he said. “First thing we did is we reached out to customers at high risk [for getting the coronavirus], such as the elderly and homebound.”

Merry Maids offered to deliver groceries or provide other help, he said.

“It’s important that the community comes together and share resources,” Houtman said.

Para, Jen. “Disinfecting Supply, Cleaning Service Companies Work to Help Katy-Area Businesses, Homes Sanitize during Coronavirus.” Impact, Impact, 20 Mar. 2020, communityimpact.com/houston/katy/coronavirus/2020/03/20/disinfecting-supply-cleaning-service-companies-work-to-help-katy-area-businesses-homes-sanitize-during-coronavirus/ .

Return to School cleaning protocols

Tue, 17 Nov 2020 23:54:00 GMT

As our schools prepare to welcome students back to in-person learning, the Facilities Services Department is continuously working to ensure each campus has the training, materials, and resources to properly clean and disinfect their school building. These systematic protocols will help mitigate the spread of germs.

New daily checklists and procedures have been created for administrators, educators in classrooms, and our custodians. These expectations will clearly detail the importance for cleaning, documenting, and monitoring each school building. Training has been provided on the enhanced cleaning protocols including an overview on the important steps in disinfecting.

Custodial staff is using EPA approved disinfectant against SARS-CoV-2 when cleaning frequently touched services such as door handles, light switches, stair railings, desks, chairs, hand sanitizing stations, break room tables, restroom surfaces, and faucet handles. These high touch areas as well as restrooms will be cleaned and disinfected twice per day. Classroom teachers will disinfect desks daily as students transition in and out of class and at the end of the school day. In the event there is a positive COVID-19 case in a classroom, guidance has been provided by the CDC, North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services, and the Craven County Health Department on the proper disinfection procedures.

The Facilities Services Department has been instrumental in the implementation of the district’s new signage at all school buildings and district offices. When students arrive at school, they will notice signage that clearly communicates the entrance and exit doors, floor decals spaced 6 feet apart displaying social distancing requirements, directional arrows in the halls to help minimize traffic flow, and reminders of the 3 W’s-Wear, Wait, and Wash. Each classroom also has floor markers for placement of desks, so they are properly socially distanced. Hand sanitizer stations have been installed throughout the school so students and have multiple opportunities to clean their hands.

The health, safety, and well-being of our students and staff remains a top priority. Our custodial teams are doing a tremendous job in their commitment to keeping our schools safe and clean for students and staff. With all of us working together, these routine cleaning, disinfecting, and sanitizing measures will help reduce the spread of COVID-19 and other sickness. As an additional safety precaution, Craven County Schools is requiring any students and staff who are not feeling well and/or experiencing any symptoms of illness to stay home.

Russell, Jeremy. “Return to School Cleaning Protocols.” New Bern Sun Journal, Sun Journal, 6 Oct. 2020, www.newbernsj.com/story/news/2020/10/06/return-school-cleaning-protocols-craven-county-schools/3635956001/ .

A $100,000 cleaning machine? A 'silver bullet' disinfectant? Businesses cash in on coronavirus panic at schools

Tue, 10 Nov 2020 15:31:00 GMT

Disinfectant room sprayers. Commercial cleaning companies. Online learning programs. Rehydration beverages.

While the spread of the coronavirus continues to unnerve Americans, some companies are experiencing a boom in business – even if there's no guarantee their products will stop the spread of the virus.

School leaders and parents have been particularly eager clients, especially for cleaning services and products. One Ohio school district recently spent $16,000 on room-cleaning machines. A Florida district spent $45,000 on disinfectants. Some Wisconsin districts have inquired about locally made machines that blast an aerosol fog to decontaminate rooms – priced at $90,000 to $110,000 per unit.

Given the concern over students' health, there has been little to dissuade such actions. The federal Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has issued only basic guidance to schools and day care facilities about the importance of washing hands, routinely cleaning surfaces, talking with local health departments and shutting down if they have a confirmed infection.

Education Secretary Betsy DeVos was pressed by an Oregon lawmaker in a hearing Thursday about why the Education Department couldn't better advise schools when to shut down and how, exactly, the facilities should be cleaned.

"We've had in the last five days a sixfold increase in cases," said Sen. Jeff Merkley, D-Oregon.

If the rapid pace of infections continues, he added, "schools are going to be affected, and they're all going to be asking the same questions, and you're in a position to help make sure they understand the answers."

DeVos said her department is passing along information from the CDC.

Schools seek a deep clean amid deadly coronavirus outbreak

The U.S. death toll hit at least 14 over the weekend – 13 in Washington state and one in California – and Colorado, Nevada and Maryland reported their first cases of the virus. There were more than 370 confirmed cases nationally as of Thursday night.

Most patients who have died have been elderly and had underlying health conditions. But in a rapidly evolving landscape, anxious school leaders and parents have made all sorts of reflexive purchases.

Amazon was sold out of hand sanitizer as of Wednesday. Electrolyte beverage company SOS – which recently targeted advertising to parent-focused websites about flu- and virus-induced dehydration – has seen sales increase 23% in the past week, a spokeswoman said.

Companies specializing in cleaning services or products that disinfect surfaces have become particularly visible – despite the fact that the CDC believes COVID-19 is more readily spread person-to-person via respiratory droplets.

A spokeswoman for Stratus said most of the new inquiries and clients are businesses, gyms and offices seeking deep-cleaning and disinfecting services. She said cleaning fees can range from $500 to $1,500 and up, depending on the size of the facility.

The marketing for some products includes hard-to-verify claims.

One manufacturer advertised its disinfectant in a news release as "a silver bullet against human coronavirus, common flu and other germs." The company said its PURE Hard Surface product is "powered by patented silver ion-citric acid molecules."

The president of Altapure, a company in suburban Milwaukee that makes machines that spray a disinfecting fog into rooms, said facilities are right to consider paying six figures for his product.

"I’m surprised school systems haven’t taken greater steps to provide a safe place of employment, especially when dealing with germs and bugs that could kill you," said Carl L. Ricciardi, president of the company.

Ricciardi said Altapure received inquiries from a school district, ambulance company and a hospital on Wednesday – and that was just over the lunch hour. The company sells primarily to hospitals, he said.

"The peer-reviewed literature shows the hand method of cleaning is suboptimal," Ricciardi said. "The gold standard ought to be to employ the technology that gives you the best possibility" of eliminating the virus.

How can people tell what products work against COVID-19?

Infectious-disease experts have been reluctant to weigh in on the effectiveness of certain products, given the political sensitivity around the global health crisis.

Lawrence Muscarella, president of LFM Healthcare Solutions, an independent health care safety company, said customers should ask manufacturers if their products have been proven to kill COVID-19, the new strain of the virus.

"You'd want a label claim from the manufacturer that says 'Kills COVID-19,'" Muscarella said. "If it just says 'kills coronavirus,' ask if that includes COVID-19."

In addition, Muscarella echoed the CDC, stressing that people should follow the cleaning product's directions for use. The agency has linked to a list of cleaning products approved by the Environmental Protection Agency for use against COVID-19.

Jonah Berger, a marketing professor at the University of Pennsylvania and author of the 2013 book "Contagious: Why Things Catch On," said people probably are purchasing a lot of unnecessary items.

"Fear and anxiety cause us to take actions, like sharing news and buying products, even if those actions aren't always useful," Berger said.

"What's tough in this case is that there's a lot of political pressure on the CDC to either say or not say certain things. I wish it was all just based on science, but it's not."

... continued on https://www.usatoday.com/story/news/education/2020/03/08/coronavirus-schools-public-fear-cleaning-health-crisis/4957448002/

Richards, E. (2020, March 09). A $100,000 cleaning machine? A 'silver bullet' disinfectant? Businesses cash in on coronavirus panic at schools. Retrieved November 05, 2020, from https://www.usatoday.com/story/news/education/2020/03/08/coronavirus-schools-public-fear-cleaning-health-crisis/4957448002/

Going Back to Work Soon? Keep Your Work Space Sanitized

Thu, 05 Nov 2020 21:27:00 GMT

HOUSTON, Texas (KTRK) -- As some businesses prepare to reopen, many workers will be expected to keep their work spaces clean and sanitized.

ABC13 spoke with a commercial cleaning expert about best practices and he said plans may vary depending on the different variables.

"I think it comes down to what kind of business do you run and who are the stakeholders that are involved in that business," said President and CEO of Vanguard Cleaning Systems of Houston Michael Brett. "Whether that's your employees, your customers, your visitors, and you've got to consider all those aspects before you put your plan together."

He recommends companies regularly sanitize commonly touched surfaces, keep signs posted encouraging social distancing and good hygiene, and maintain a daily cleaning plan.

"Do the touch points with the chemicals, and if you want the added layer, kind of the hammer version, it would be going toward something more comprehensive, like what we have, which is electrostatic, cleaning at least once a week to make sure there's a strong blanket of chemical that basically disinfects everything."

The company recommends using disinfectants that contain antimicrobials and are EPA approved.

Ambers, R. (2020). Going back to work soon? Keep your work space sanitized. Retrieved 5 November 2020, from https://abc13.com/coronavirus-cleaning-disinfectant-workspaces/6125691/