Flu season peaks between October and April, but the best time to prepare is now. According to the CDC, flu activity often begins to rise in late August and September, which means early planning can make all the difference. Facilities that proactively stock supplies and reinforce best practices are better equipped to protect their staff, and visitors.
Here’s your step-by-step guide to reducing the spread of the flu and other seasonal illnesses before they start.
Step 1: Promote Healthy Hand Hygiene Practices
The CDC lists frequent handwashing as one of the most effective ways to prevent the spread of the flu. The first step in supporting that effort is creating a visible, active hygiene culture within your facility.
Buckeye’s Symmetry® Hand Hygiene Program makes this easier with the Symmetry Behavior Modification System (SBMS). SBMS uses engaging visuals and educational cues to encourage healthy hand hygiene habits. Posters, digital placards, and motion-sensing placards are all tools you can use to keep hygiene front and center.
Pair that messaging with Symmetry Touch-Free Dispensers, designed for safety, ease-of-use, and minimal contact. They help reinforce healthy behavior while making hand hygiene more accessible to everyone in your facility.
Step 2: Clean and Disinfect Surfaces Daily
Cleaning frequently touched surfaces is critical to slowing the spread of flu-causing viruses. Buckeye offers a wide range of disinfecting products and step-by-step usage guides to help you maintain a healthy space.
Top product options for flu season include:
Sanicare Disinfecting Wipes – Quick and effective for high-touch surfaces.
Sanicare Quat 256™ – Broad-spectrum disinfectant for schools, offices, and public spaces.
Watchdog™ NF – Ideal for facilities with animals or sensitive environments.
Sanicare Mint, Lemon, or Pine™ – Disinfect and leave behind a pleasant, clean scent.
Whether you’re managing a classroom, office building, or healthcare space, these solutions are easy to implement and highly effective when used consistently.
Step 3: Train Staff with Step-by-Step Resources
When it comes to preparing for the flu season, prevention isn’t just about products, it’s about people. Training your janitorial and maintenance teams ensures proper protocols are followed consistently throughout the season.
Buckeye representatives can assist with demonstrations for your team that cover each product we offer to fit your facility and showcase how effective those products are.
Whether you’re looking to implement the Symmetry® Hand Hygiene Program or adopt the Buckeye Eco® Proportioning Program, our team makes sure your staff is equipped with the knowledge and confidence to keep your facility safer.
Start Preparing Now
The earlier you prepare, the more protected your facility will be during the height of flu season. Stocking up on supplies, reinforcing hygiene habits, and empowering your team with training are the best ways to prevent the spread of illness and promote a safer, healthier environment for all.
Want to learn more? Contact your local Buckeye representative and ask about our Prepare for the Flu packet that covers effective steps to stay prepared for this flu season.
CONTACT US