Traditionally, cleanliness in facilities, whether it’s a workplace, school, hospital, or senior living facility, has been associated with visible standards—gleaming floors, clear windows, and surfaces free from visible dirt. However, the understanding of what constitutes a healthy indoor environment has expanded significantly. Today’s definition of health and safety includes the quality of the air occupants breathe, calling for a comprehensive strategy that integrates cleaning practices, air quality management, and regulatory compliance to support occupant health, well-being, and productivity. Understanding the indoor environment Buildings operate like complex ecosystems, with multiple interconnected factors influencing indoor air quality (IAQ). Building materials, ventilation systems, cleaning products and practices, occupant behaviors, and even furnishings all play a role in the indoor environment. Each of these elements can introduce or mitigate exposure to invisible pollutants, including allergens (e.g., pollen, dust mites, and mold), volatile organic compounds (VOCs), particulate matter, and airborne pathogens. The National Institutes of Health reports that 50% of illnesses are either caused or worsened by poor IAQ. Individuals with respiratory conditions such as asthma, or vulnerable sectors of society like children, are especially susceptible. Over 50% of U.S. homes contain at least one elevated indoor allergen, and buildings designed for energy efficiency without proper ventilation can trap hundreds of chemicals indoors, contributing to sick building syndrome (SBS). A term coined in the 1970s, SBS described the health problems caused by inadequate ventilation and pollutant buildup in tightly sealed office buildings. Though the term is less commonly used today, the underlying issues remain, manifesting in symptoms such as eye irritation, dizziness, and respiratory symptoms, which often resolve once a person leaves the affected building. The consequences of poor IAQ go beyond physical health. Occupants in buildings with high levels of VOCs often have lower performance scores on cognitive tests, up to 61% lower compared to occupants in low-VOC environments, according to a study in the journal Building and Environment. In contrast, occupants in green-certified buildings, which typically feature superior ventilation and material choices, have shown a 26.4% improvement in cognitive test performance, another study in the same journal reported. Emerging regulations, such as the American Society of Heating, Refrigerating and Air-Conditioning Engineers’ (ASHRAE) Standard 241, emphasize the importance of managing infectious aerosols and enhancing ventilation strategies, guiding facility managers toward healthier indoor environments. Standards such as this encourage facility managers to adopt evidence-based approaches to improve IAQ proactively. Interestingly, ASHRAE 241 is the first consensus-based, code-enforceable standard to address building preparedness and airborne infection risk reduction directly. Cleaning for air quality Traditional cleaning routines often fall short of addressing the root causes of poor IAQ, or worse, may contribute to poor IAQ. Many products and practices redistribute allergens into the breathing zone and release VOCs, negatively affecting air quality. Effective cleaning requires the selection of products that minimize chemical emissions and actively remove allergens. Low-VOC cleaning products, scientifically tested and independently verified through credible third-party programs like the Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America’s Asthma & Allergy Friendly® Certification Program, offer reliable solutions while supporting better IAQ. Effective ventilation, filtration, and humidity control are also essential considerations. Simple steps, such as regular maintenance of HVAC systems and timely replacement of HVAC filters, can greatly influence indoor environments. Choosing certified HVAC filters and air purification systems also can play a key role in reducing indoor pollutants. The use of verified systems ensures products have undergone rigorous, independent testing proving that they effectively remove allergens and particles without introducing harmful by-products, ensuring real-world performance and subsequent health benefits. Differentiating between certifications and selfie seals In today’s crowded marketplace, health claims, certifications, and seals are everywhere, but not all are created equal. Amid a sea of marketing claims and loosely defined standards, it’s essential to recognize the programs that go beyond surface-level messaging to deliver real, evidence-based assurance. Genuine third-party certifications provide transparency, accountability, and confidence. Programs like the Asthma & Allergy Friendly® Certification Program, the U.S. Green Building Council’s Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) rating system, and the International Well Building Institute’s WELL Building Standard® (WELL) set high standards, supporting informed decision-making for facility managers who seek products that are proven to contribute positively to occupant health. Backed by accredited laboratories like Airmid Healthgroup, these programs help facility managers make informed choices that align with both health goals and regulatory expectations. Certified products must pass scientifically validated protocols that assess performance in real-world conditions, not just ideal scenarios. This level of scrutiny stands in contrast to what are often referred to as “selfie seals”—unverified labels that appear to suggest third-party verification, but lack substantiated evidence, leading to consumer confusion and potential regulatory pushback. Regulatory bodies, including the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) and the European Commission, increasingly target these misleading claims, resulting in significant fines and consequential reputational damage for companies. Educating for action Despite growing awareness around IAQ, there remains a significant knowledge gap among cleaning and maintenance professionals, perhaps due to limited access to specific training. Tailored education programs are a fundamental tool in bridging this gap. One notable initiative is the Healthier Buildings Awareness training course, developed by the iAIR Academy in partnership with ISSA’s Global Biorisk Advisory Council (GBAC). Specifically designed for facility management professionals, the course addresses a broad array of factors relating to IAQ, including the impact of pollutants on respiratory health, the science behind pathogen control, and the opportunity for becoming an indoor air specialist. This educational support means professionals are equipped with practical knowledge, empowering them to implement efficient cleaning routines and select appropriate products that support a healthier indoor environment. For organizations that adhere to environmental, social, and governance (ESG) guidelines, the use of certified products contributes positively to their objectives, highlighting a commitment to occupant well-being and sustainability. Rethinking clean A genuinely effective approach to healthy buildings requires integrating building science, medical insights, and operational best practices. Implementing a holistic IAQ strategy involves careful selection of certified cleaning products and green building materials, rigorous adherence to improved cleaning protocols, and comprehensive staff training. Regular IAQ
Proactive facility managers, custodial teams, and building service contractors are gearing up for that time of year again: cold and flu season. The season usually runs from October through May—peaking December through February. The sooner you implement enhanced cleaning and disinfection protocols, the more successful you’ll be in reducing absenteeism, maintaining healthier indoor environments, and reassuring occupants that their well-being is a top priority. Why disinfecting matters Cold and flu viruses can survive on surfaces for hours or even days, making shared spaces a major factor in spreading illness. High-traffic facilities, such as schools, offices, and healthcare centers, are especially at risk. Ensuring these facilities are stocked with high-quality products, such as hospital-grade disinfectants, can help prevent the spread of germs and keep building inhabitants safe and productive. Effective disinfection is not about appearance; it’s about stopping the spread of germs. The lifespan of flu viruses varies from surface to surface. For hard, nonporous surfaces (like metal door handles, stainless steel, plastic): Influenza viruses can survive for 24 to 48 hours in measurable amounts. Infectious particles are strongest in the first two to eight hours, but traces can linger up to two days. The virus typically survives for only eight to 12 hours, sometimes less, on porous surfaces like fabric, paper, or tissues. Flu viruses can live on hands for up to five minutes after contact with a contaminated surface, which is why handwashing is critical. Unfortunately, common disinfection practices, like “spray and wipe,” often fall short. For disinfectants to work effectively, surfaces must stay visibly wet for the product’s required dwell time—usually between 30 seconds and five minutes, depending on the Environmental Protection Agency- (EPA) registered, hospital-grade List N disinfectant. Disinfectant wipes often offer better coverage because they naturally keep the contact time needed to kill pathogens. Best practices for high-touch surfaces Since restrooms receive most of the attention when it comes to cleaning and disinfecting, other common high-touch and high-use areas are often overlooked. These include: Door handles and push bars Light switches Water fountains and hydration stations Product dispensers Shared equipment and communal surfaces Be sure to disinfect these areas more frequently throughout the day during the cold and flu season. Posting signs and providing hand sanitizer at entrances or throughout buildings can help remind and motivate everyone to do their part in reducing the spread of illness. Partnering with your cleaning staff Whether working with in-house custodial teams or outside contractors, it’s essential to establish clear expectations about disinfection priorities. Consider increasing cleaning schedules and frequency during peak months, and communicate which areas require extra attention. At the same time, encourage personal responsibility. Simple messages like “If you’re sick, stay home” and reminders to wash hands regularly can have a measurable impact. According to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), proper handwashing can reduce respiratory illnesses by 16 to 21%, while the World Health Organization (WHO) reports that hand hygiene can reduce the spread of infections by up to 50% in healthcare settings. Ultimately, minimizing the impact of cold and flu season requires a multi-layered strategy: using appropriate products, applying them correctly, concentrating on high-touch surfaces, and encouraging personal hygiene. When all these elements work together, facilities can protect occupants, lower absenteeism, and show a clear commitment to health and safety.
What has the cleaning industry learned as it transitioned from the first pandemic year to the second? In this episode of BioTalk, a GBACtv production, learn the details about what went well and what didn't in 2021, and what we as an industry need to know right now. Infection prevention experts Patty Olinger, the executive director of the Global Biorisk Advisory Council (GBAC), a division of ISSA, and Dr. Paul Meechan, the former head of safety with the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and who now serves on the GBAC scientific advisory board, discuss these topics with ISSA Media Director Jeff Cross. This webcast also digs into the science and the layered support when it comes to cleaning, disinfection, and air purification, and how the omicron variant shouldn’t be considered just another type of “cold”. Olinger and Meechan also discuss the possibility of the end of the pandemic. This webcast is brought to you by our sponsor Breezy.
In 2023, Expedia employees discovered cameras in the restrooms of the company’s new Seattle campus and reported them to security. According to a class-action lawsuit filed against Securitas, Expedia’s contracted security firm, this occurred two months before Marcelo Vargas-Fernandez was arrested for the crime, The Seattle Times reported. Attorneys from Pfau Cochran Vertetis Amala, representing the victims, accused Securitas of mishandling employee reports in December 2023 and failing to remove the cameras until mid-January 2024, when law enforcement was notified. According to court documents, an Expedia employee first notified security on Dec. 3, 2023, about devices resembling cameras under a restroom sink. Two security officers inspected that restroom and an adjacent one, found cameras in both, and took photos, but did not remove the devices. Criminal case documents state that Vargas-Fernandez removed the cameras after their discovery and waited a month before reinstalling them. When the cameras were found again on Jan. 11, 2024, employees notified security, who then contacted Seattle police. Surveillance footage showed Vargas-Fernandez entering the restrooms with items resembling the devices found under the sinks, according to court documents in a civil lawsuit. Police arrested Vargas-Fernandez in February, obtained a search warrant for his home, and found 33 additional cameras, 22 memory cards, and six hard drives. A subsequent sweep of Expedia’s campus uncovered cameras in five more restrooms and under several workstations. Expedia temporarily closed the campus shortly after Vargas-Fernandez’s arrest to improve security, GeekWire reported. On Jan. 9, Vargas-Fernandez was sentenced to four years in prison after pleading guilty to voyeurism charges for placing spy cameras in Expedia office bathrooms and his ex-wife’s home. A trial for the Securitas lawsuit is scheduled for May 2027.
U.S. cases of meningococcal disease have increased sharply since 2021 and now exceed pre-pandemic levels, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). In 2024, 503 confirmed and probable cases were reported based on preliminary data. This is the largest number of U.S. meningococcal disease cases reported since 2013. NBC News reported that doctors warned deaths from this rare and serious bacterial infection may increase if adolescent vaccination rates decline. Following the CDC’s 2005 recommendation for adolescent immunization, U.S. cases dropped by 90%. In 2011, the CDC recommended a booster for 16-year-olds to extend protection into young adulthood. Since 2021, cases have increased due to bacterial mutations and lower vaccination rates, particularly among teens who have not received the recommended booster dose. Under Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr., the CDC no longer recommends a meningitis vaccine for all adolescents. The vaccine and booster protect against the most common types of the infection in the U.S. The new guidance recommends the vaccine for high-risk groups. However, parents can still request vaccination for their children through “shared clinical decision making.” Vaccination remains important not because the disease is widespread—about 3,000 U.S. cases occur annually—but because the infection is severe and progresses rapidly, according to doctors interviewed by NBC. Per the CDC, health departments respond to every case to implement control measures to limit transmission. Bacterial meningitis can advance rapidly, leading to brain swelling, gangrene, sepsis, and death within 24 hours. Among survivors, up to 20% experience lifelong disabilities or complications, such as limb amputation, hearing loss, or neurological issues.
On Jan. 10, New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani launched a new program to expand access to public restrooms across the city, committing US$4 million to a request for proposals (RFP) for high-quality modular public restrooms. The New York City Economic Development Corporation (NYCEDC) will release the RFP within the administration’s first 100 days in office, seeking bids to install public restrooms at a lower cost and on a faster timeline than existing public restroom installations. Similar projects in Los Angeles, Washington, D.C., Portland, and other cities have delivered restrooms within months at lower costs. “Everyone knows the feeling of needing a bathroom and not being able to find one,” Mamdani said. “With this new commitment to public toilets, we're ensuring New Yorkers can travel through our city with a little less anxiety.” “Making our streets the envy of the world means creating welcoming public spaces where New Yorkers are safe, can get where they’re going easily and with dignity, and feel cared for — yet today in New York it can feel impossible to find a public bathroom for our most basic needs,” said NYC DOT Commissioner Mike Flynn. “Public restrooms improve the quality of life for everyone, especially our seniors, parents with young children, delivery workers, people with disabilities, and so many more.” This commitment is a part of the Mamdani administration’s efforts to improve the public environment and to ensure New Yorkers can enjoy and travel around their city safely and with dignity. He made the announcement at a new public restroom at 12th Ave. and St. Clair Place, which is fully accessible, self-cleaning, and contains a water bottle filler. Currently nearly 1,000 public restrooms operate in New York City, roughly 70% of which are in parks. This program will significantly grow the number of public restrooms elsewhere in the city, including public plazas—exponentially increasing the number of new restrooms that the city adds each year. City agencies, including the New York City Department of Transportation, will determine where the additional new facilities will be located. CBS News reported 20 to 30 high-quality modular restrooms will be installed across the city as part of the mayor’s pilot program. The franchise agreement states the modular restrooms are to be self-cleaning and have maintenance conducted twice a day. This news follows last year’s law in which the New York City Council passed a bill to create and maintain a citywide network of public restrooms, with a goal of adding 1,000 new restrooms in the next decade.
The streaming rights to Cineverse’s film The Toxic Avenger have been acquired by Hulu and began streaming on the platform last week. The Toxic Avenger received an overwhelming critical reception which praised director Macon Blair's execution along with strong performances from the all-star cast, including: Peter Dinklage, Kevin Bacon, Elijah Wood, Jacob Tremblay, and Taylour Paige. The campaign from the film is also credited with helping wipe out over US$15 million dollars in medical debt for over 10,000 people in need with the help of Undue Medical Debt. Screenrant called the film "a great and hilarious film held up by a talented cast, intelligent writing, and beautiful cinematography," while MovieWeb said it was "the summer's most entertaining superhero film." The horror/comedy movie, written and directed by Blair, is produced by Legendary Entertainment and distributed by Cineverse. It is based on Troma Entertainment President and Co-founder Lloyd Kaufman's The Toxic Avenger franchise. The film depicts a downtrodden janitor, Winston Gooze (Dinklage), who is exposed to a catastrophic toxic accident and transformed into a new kind of hero: The Toxic Avenger. Now, Toxie must rise from outcast to savior, taking on ruthless corporate overlords and corrupt forces who threaten his son, his friends, and his community. In a world where greed runs rampant—justice is best served radioactive.