Bicycle service during the coronavirus epidemic

We won't pretend to be an expert on the spread of the coronavirus. But we did manage to find a unique text written by American doctors who are also amateur bicycle builders. Based on this, we've prepared our recommendations.

Rules, not only for the coronavirus epidemic

We are currently dealing with the coronavirus (COVID-19) epidemic. However, the following suggestions are things that should be incorporated into daily work regardless of the epidemiological situation. Personal protection and common sense are key to staying healthy. Anyone who may come into close contact with bodily fluids should follow standard precautions. This includes proper hand hygiene and the use of personal protective equipment (gloves, masks, goggles) whenever exposure to bodily fluids is anticipated. Current recommendations of the Chief Sanitary Inspector can be found here: https://www.gov.pl/web/rozwoj/zalecenia-dla-obiektow-handlowych-w-zwiazku-z-rozprowadzaniem-sie-koronawirusa

Cycling and viruses plus other pathogens, unfortunately

In the cycling industry, we are often exposed to bodily fluids while cleaning or working on bikes. It's common to find urine, feces, and blood on bikes, even if it's not visible. The presence of these bodily fluids increases the risk of exposure to bacteria or viruses. Wearing rubber gloves, safety glasses, and even a face mask is recommended when washing bikes, especially when using a pressure washer. Pressure washers can aerosolize particles, making them easier to inhale.

Which is better: soap or disinfectant gels?

Viruses, bacteria, and fungi live on many surfaces found in a bike shop or fitness studio. You can use a disinfectant spray or cloth to clean these surfaces. Counters, chair arms, doorknobs, and elevator buttons are just a few places where pathogens can live. If you use a surface cleaner to disinfect, read the label carefully, as some require a certain amount of time to remain on the surface to kill bacteria and viruses. Alcohol-based hand sanitizers do not kill all pathogens. They should not be used if hands are visibly dirty, after using the bathroom, or before eating. Soap and water are much more effective at killing and removing germs, as long as you use the proper technique.

Is everything clear? Let's repeat it again...

In addition to maintaining the required social distancing, hands must be washed with soap and water before and after each customer. Hands must also be washed after performing mechanical work on the bike. From Bicycleretailer: "Covid-19-hygiene-advice-bike-industry-including-retailers-and-bike-fitters"