Please describe your company's updated sanitation/cleaning efforts
implemented due to COVID-19.
Most respondents reported an increase in both the frequency and depth of cleaning and sanitization taking
place at their spas in response to the COVID-19 outbreak. Many of these noted that treatment rooms
received thorough disinfecting before and after service, with some leaving additional time between
services to build cleaning time into the schedule. Reception areas, common spaces, computers, doors and
doorknobs, light switches and other hard surfaces were mentioned numerous times as areas receiving
particular attention. Several respondents noted that their spas made use of overnight cleaning crews in
addition to staff efforts and added that these crews were either cleaning more frequently or for more time
than is typical.
As for frequency of cleaning and sanitization during regular hours, most respondents simply noted an
increase, though several did share the specific timing of their cleaning regimen. Common responses
ranged from two or three times per day to every half-hour, with hourly sanitization being among the most
frequent answers.
In addition to more robust cleaning efforts, the following changes were among the most commonly shared
by respondents:
An increase in staff sanitation practices such as hand washing and the use of hand sanitizer (many
respondents noted communication with staff about preventative measures as part of their increased
efforts)
The addition of hand sanitizing stations at strategic locations for use by guests and staff
The posting of CDC recommendations for sanitation as guidance guests and staff
Elimination of physical touch (handshakes, etc.) during guest greetings
The use of disposable items instead of reusable ones where applicable
The elimination of “self-serve” options, which most often applied to things like complementary snacks
and water, testers in retail areas and locker room amenities
Screening guests by asking if they had felt ill, had a fever or had been in contact with anyone meeting
those criteria and reserving the right to refuse service to those guests
Requiring guests and service providers to wash hands or use hand sanitizer prior to and after treatments
Overall, responses to this question were marked by substantial overlap. CDC guidelines and state and local
health officials’ recommendations were frequently noted by respondents as the basis for their COVID-19-
related cleaning and sanitation efforts. A small number of respondents mentioned having staff or service
providers wear masks or gloves during close contact with guests, but this practice was among the least
frequently mentioned.
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