Why Hygiene in the Workplace Should Not Be an Afterthought

Hygiene in the workplace should not be an afterthought….

Did you know that one in four workers does not wash their hands after going to the toilet? Of course, you didn’t. It’s not like anyone is keeping track of it.

Unchecked behaviors and dangers can have serious implications for your organization. For instance, when employees become sick and continue to work, they can spread germs around the office, leading to more illnesses and decreased productivity. This phenomenon is known as “presenteeism” and costs companies over $150 billion annually in the U.S. alone.

Here are three reasons to prioritize and formalize a culture of workplace hygiene;

1. Reduces Illness and Absenteeism

We all know that offices can be breeding grounds for dirt and germs. It’s not just the expected spots like shared kitchens and bathrooms that could be problematic. Phones, keyboards, door handles, and even the trusty printer could also harbor potential infection points.

2. Improves Employee retention

Inadequate office hygiene can negatively impact productivity and employees’ overall job satisfaction. A lack of focus on hygiene in the workplace may lead workers to believe that their employer does not prioritize their health and well-being, causing them to become disengaged. Individuals who are concerned about the cleanliness of their environment are unlikely to perform at their best, whether personally or professionally.

3. Protects your Brand’s Reputation

Making a good first impression is crucial, especially when it comes to the cleanliness of your business and the well-being of your staff. This is especially important for companies in the service and hospitality industries, where a lack of proper sanitation can jeopardize public health and business operations. In a traditional office setting, it’s essential to project the right image to customers, employees, and investors. Poor office hygiene reflects poorly on an employer and is unlikely to be recommended by employees to friends and business contacts. This negative association with your brand can be difficult to overcome.

How to Establish a Culture of Office Hygiene

If you do not already have a proactive office hygiene policy, then you should consider it:

1. Install hand soaps, disinfectants, touch-free containers, paper towel dispensers, and touch-free hand dryers in bathrooms.
2. Place signs with hygiene labels in appropriate locations.
3. Introduce formal hygiene education training for staff.
4. Hire a commercial cleaning company to maintain a clean and healthy workspace.

Hygiene in the workplace should not be an afterthought. Employers should lead by example when it comes to the health and well-being of employees by ensuring that quality facilities are available and by giving priority to hygiene awareness. The benefits for a company are improved employee productivity, stronger financial performance, and a clear return on investment (ROI).

If you need help, connect with Westmark Facility Services. For 40+ years we’ve served businesses in Tulsa with carpet cleaning, floor cleaning, upholstery cleaning, and product inventory management.

Our services will help you establish a clean workspace where employees thrive and great impressions are made. You focus on what you do best and let us take care of your space.

Experience the Westmark cleaning difference. Get in touch – 918.779.7870

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