Hygiene challenges for local businesses in the Virgin Islands

In the Virgin Islands, where 2,319 businesses employ 25,652 people, it’s easy to see how running a business here might feel like paradise, with gorgeous weather and ocean breezes.

However, the same tropical climate that makes the area so attractive also brings its own set of hygiene challenges. While you get the sun and sea, you also deal with high humidity, mold issues, limited access to quality cleaning supplies, and the ever-present threat of hurricanes—all of which can make keeping your business clean a bit of a challenge.

Humidity and Mold Growth

The average annual relative humidity in the Virgin Islands sits at 77.8%, with monthly humidity levels ranging from 74% in March to a peak of 81% in September. With such consistently high humidity, mold and mildew can easily grow in various places—on walls, ceilings, carpets, and even in the air. If businesses don’t stay on top of this, it can severely impact air quality, create unpleasant odors, and lead to an uncomfortable atmosphere for both employees and customers. Restaurants, gyms, and hotels are especially vulnerable to this problem due to the high moisture levels and the constant foot traffic they experience.