FM newsroom – facility management, building hygiene. Facility managers play a crucial role in maintaining hygiene standards in their buildings – especially if the complex has a gym. This responsibility has gained urgency in light of recent scientific findings. According to microbiologist Dr Primrose Freestone, gyms are hotbeds for bacterial, viral, and fungal pathogens, with workout equipment acting as reservoirs for disease-causing germs.
The Microbial Landscape of Gyms
Dr Freestone, a senior lecturer in clinical microbiology at the University of Leicester, warns that sweat, a rich nutrient source for bacteria and fungi, enables microbial growth on gym surfaces—even after it has dried. From dumbbells and barbells to treadmills and benches, nearly every surface in a fitness centre harbours germs. However, the most alarming breeding grounds are the warm and wet areas such as saunas, showers, swimming pools, and hot tubs.
Among the most common bacteria found in gyms is Staphylococcus aureus, known to cause skin infections. Viral pathogens such as rhinovirus, influenza, COVID-19, and respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) have also been detected, posing risks of airborne and surface transmission, European Cleaning Journal points out, adding: These pathogens can linger in the air for hours and persist on surfaces for days, making routine disinfection imperative.
Facility Management’s Role in Gym Hygiene
Facility managers must adopt a proactive approach to hygiene and sanitation to mitigate these risks. Here are some essential strategies to enhance gym cleanliness:
- Enhanced Cleaning Protocols: Implement a rigorous cleaning schedule focusing on high-touch surfaces such as exercise machines, weights, and locker rooms. Disinfectants with proven efficacy against bacteria and viruses should be used.
- HVAC and Ventilation Improvements: Proper ventilation helps reduce airborne transmission of infectious agents. Installing HEPA filters and maintaining air circulation in enclosed spaces can significantly minimize the spread of airborne pathogens.
- Accessible Hygiene Stations: Place hand sanitizing stations at key locations, including entrances, workout areas, and restrooms. Providing antiseptic wipes for gym-goers to clean equipment before and after use can also be a game-changer.
- Educating Gym Users: Clear signage reminding users to wipe down equipment, wash hands frequently, and avoid sharing personal items like towels.
- Regular Facility Audits: Conduct periodic hygiene audits to assess cleanliness levels and identify potential hotspots. This helps promptly address any hygiene lapses.
Special Considerations for Office and Hotel Gyms
Gyms located in office buildings and hotels require additional attention, as they serve a diverse group of users who may not follow the same hygiene practices as regular gym-goers. In office complexes, employees often use the gym facilities before or after work, increasing the risk of germ transmission in shared corporate spaces. Implementing mandatory wipe-down policies and ensuring frequent deep cleaning can help mitigate these risks.
Hotel gyms, on the other hand, cater to transient guests, which means there is a constant influx of new users who may be unaware of hygiene protocols. Providing clear instructions upon check-in, ensuring rapid turnover cleaning, and equipping gyms with automatic sanitizing stations can significantly improve cleanliness.
A Shared Responsibility
While facility managers play a pivotal role in maintaining cleanliness, ensuring a hygienic environment is a shared responsibility. Encouraging gym users to practice good hygiene and adhere to facility guidelines is equally critical. By implementing stringent hygiene measures and fostering a culture of cleanliness, facility managers can create a safer workout space for all patrons, reducing health risks and enhancing overall user confidence.
