Workers Apprehensive About Returning to Germy Offices Post-Pandemic

Survey finds employees fear high-touch surfaces such as restroom door handles

April 29, 2020

As states end their shelter-at-home orders and employees return to their offices, they most likely will be concerned about the cleanliness of their workplaces. Georgia-Pacific Professional released the results of a survey detailing office workers’ heightened concerns related to workplace hygiene after the COVID-19 pandemic.

In a survey of more than 500 employees who worked in an office prior to the pandemic, 73% said they will be somewhat or very concerned about illnesses spreading in their workplaces. Almost half (47%) were somewhat or very concerned that their workplace would not take adequate steps to ensure a hygienic building.

Amid survey respondent concerns about high-touch surfaces:

  • 64% stated that post COVID-19, they are more concerned about touching restroom door handles than they were before the outbreak
  • 51% stated that post-COVID-19, they are more worried about touching restroom soap dispensers than they were before the outbreak.

When asked what would make them feel their workplaces were more committed to hygiene:

  • 88% of survey respondents said they would feel safer if there were hand sanitizer near the main entrance, yet only 59% said their offices offered it prior to the pandemic
  • 72% said they would feel safer if there were facial tissue at each desk, yet only 40% said their offices offered it prior to the pandemic.

Set your building occupants’ minds at ease by following best practices for cleaning high-touch surfaces in offices and other facilities. Check out other results from the survey below. 

GP Pro Office Cleaning Survey

GP Pro Cleaning Survey 2

 

Latest Articles

Kim Althoff, ISSA's Executive Director
November 6, 2025 Jeff Cross

A New Era at ISSA: Kim Althoff on Leadership, Legacy, and the Road Ahead

November 5, 2025 Jason Jones

Cleaning and Comfort Challenges in Today’s Hybrid Offices

November 4, 2025

Stop Leaks Before They Drain Your Budget

Sponsored Articles

Stop Leaks Before They Drain Your Budget
November 4, 2025

Stop Leaks Before They Drain Your Budget

October 29, 2025

Predictive Intelligence in Smart Buildings—Transforming Restroom Management

October 27, 2025 Sponsored by SPARTAN CHEMICAL CO.

CASE STUDY: Revolutionizing Commercial Cleaning Operations

Recent News

brush fire near houses

California FAIR Plan Won’t Cover Smoke Damage

ISSA & National Service Alliance Partner to Benefit Building Service Contractors

Disinfectant Wipes Found to Reduce Viral Load and Cross Contamination