Women are 'worst offenders' in spreading office germs, Office Cleaning

Women are 'worst offenders' in spreading office germs - 14/08/2008

Women spread more bacteria in workplaces because of the kinds of foods they bring into their offices, new research suggests.

Experts from the University of Arizona have revealed that female colleagues spread more germs than males because they bring in foods such as bananas and apples which harbour more bacteria.

The survey shows that men tend to bring in crisps and pre-packaged snacks that are less likely to carry germs.

Although office cleaners can remove some rubbish they tend not to clean keyboards which the germs are often spread to.

Charles Gerba, author of the study, suggests that workers can keep their offices clean by regularly washing their hands, discarding food remains and keeping the workplace fridge clean which he has pinpointed as a hygiene issue.

"The office refrigerator is a total mess as well. People do not keep to the disposal rules, and the refrigerator is taking in food from many, many different households," he said.

Professional London office cleaners are also a possibility and can help to keep surfaces sparkling.