The famous Punxsutawney Phil said an early spring is a certainty after seeing no shadow on Groundhog Day. Around the Post, you may have already noticed warmer weather and more activity. It’s the perfect time for some seasonal maintenance and spring cleaning before summer arrives.

Here’s a seasonal maintenance and spring cleaning checklist for Post facilities to get you started.

Spring Cleaning Checklist:

• Clean and vacuum entrance mats to remove soil, salt, dirt and grime, and replace any with damage that might create a trip hazard.
• Use compressed air and disinfectant wipes to clean dust and grime from office electronics.
• Check the stock for office supplies like printer ink, paper, pens, notepads, etc.
• Organize office space, file important documents and shred and recycle unnecessary paperwork.
• Make a secure backup of any important electronic files and keep in a safe place.
• Take down old flyers and announcements.
• Check directional and safety signage and replace any that are missing or damaged.
• Sweep and mop hard surface floors and vacuum or steam clean carpets.
• Check wood and tile floors for loose or uneven planks or tiles that could lead to a slip and fall accident.
• Examine carpet for loose corners, worn spots, bunching or fraying that could lead to someone tripping.
• Check tile grout and floor sealant and repair as needed.
• Dust and clean fans, baseboards, windowsills and light fixtures.
• Clean and disinfect doorknobs and light switches.
• Check emergency exit lights and signage.
• Disinfect all trash receptacles and trash areas to help avoid bug problems.
• Give the bathrooms and kitchen facilities a thorough cleaning.
• Check the expiration dates on foods in the kitchen pantry and clean out what’s gone bad.
• Test all smoke detectors and replace any batteries if needed.
• Take stock of facility consumables such as hand sanitizer, soap, bathroom tissue, paper towels, etc.
• Vacuum and dust air vents and replace any necessary HVAC filters.
• Get an HVAC inspection to check for air quality and contaminant and allergen build-up.
• Service your AC units now before the summer rush, which can save the Post on energy cost, efficiency and the life of your equipment.
• Check the exterior of the building, pathways and lighting.
• Examine the roof, awnings and overhangs for any damage from wind and snow or for any leaks.
• Make sure drainage pipes are unclogged and free of debris.
• Clean exterior windows and walls.
• Remove any leaves from walkways, parking and grass.
• Pressure wash walkways that get high traffic.
• Mulch trees, shrubs and flowerbeds.
• Check the condition of the lawnmower, trimmer and blower and make sure they’re ready.

Take your time and tackle the most important projects first. A clean, organized and safe Post helps reduce the risk of accidents and claims and increase enjoyment for everyone. Your efforts will be much appreciated by your Post members and guests.