Top 10 Germiest Places at Work



If you've pumped gas, used a grocery cart, or touched an escalator handrail, you've come into contact with a few of our most germ-ridden public places. But what about less public spots, like your office? Turns out that's a hot bed of bacteria too. Before cold and flu season gets into full swing, let's take a look at the top 10 germiest places at work.

1Fax and copier machines - While the toilet seat gets regular cleaning, have you seen anyone sanitize these recently?

2Communal kitchen items - The communal coffee pot, refrigerator, and microwave are all laden with illness-causing germs.

3Water cooler - The spout rarely gets disinfected and you often see people filling their already used water bottles or cups with it, sometimes touching the spout directly.

4Shared pens - You might want to think twice about letting a co-worker use your pen. On average, surface germs lurk for up to 72 hours.

5Common areas - Conference room armrests, doorknobs, light switches, and railings, touched by many hands and cleaned only occasionally, if that.

6Vending machine - Beware the innocent vending machine. Fingers, money, and food - a great combination for harboring potential pathogens. Neither the vendor filling it nor the cleaning crew wipe down this germy beast.

7Elevator buttons - There's a reason you see people using their elbow to press their floor.

Even the cleanest person comes into contact with various bugs and bacteria on a daily basis. While frequent hand washing remains your best defense, add an extra layer of protection by using disinfectant wipes on frequently touched items and keeping a hand sanitizer available. And, just in case the bug bites, be sure to have a fresh supply of cold and flu medicine on hand. With these tips in mind, you can stay strong and healthy this season and all year long.