The recent flu pandemic has called for everyone to review the general hygiene and cleaning practices within their workplace. The following information from the NHS direct website highlights the importance of the upkeep of these practices. 

These general hygiene and cleaning rules should be followed by everyone.  The flu virus can live on a hard surface for up to 24 hours, and a soft surface for around 20 minutes.

• Always cover your nose and mouth with a clean tissue when coughing or sneezing.
• Dispose of dirty tissues promptly and carefully.
• Maintain good basic hygiene, for example washing hands frequently with soap and warm water to reduce the spread of the virus from your hands to face, or to other people, see the diagram below for details.
• Clean hard surfaces, such as door handles, frequently using a normal cleaning product.