Did you know that poor workplace hygiene costs Australian companies billions of dollars annually?

Recent research reveals that Australian companies have lost approximately $5.4 billion due to employee absenteeism, directly linked to inadequate industrial hygiene. This fact alone emphasises the massive effects of poor workplace cleanliness and health protocols. 

Neglecting business hygiene could lead to more than just financial losses for your company –  it can impact productivity, reputation, and overall business success. According to a survey, more than 33% of Australian employees believe their job satisfaction would be improved with better office hygiene. A clean and hygienic work environment can lead to increased efficiency among employees, as it reduces the risk of illness, work disruptions, and absenteeism.

Let’s explore the important link between workplace hygiene and business success in this blog post, highlighting the benefits of prioritising cleanliness in the workplace.

What You’ll See:

Understanding Business Hygiene and Its Legal Foundations

The Advantages of Investing in Business Hygiene

1. Improved Productivity and Efficiency
2. Reduced Costs
3. Enhanced Brand Reputation
4. Higher Employee Health and Morale
5. Compliance with Regulations

Best Hygiene Practices for the Workplace

1. Regular Cleaning and Disinfection
2. Proper Waste Management
3. Ventilation and Air Quality
4. Personal Hygiene

Sustainable Business Hygiene Practices

1. Employee Health and Hygiene
2. Sick Leave Policies
3. Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)
4. Use of Eco-Friendly Cleaning Products

Business Hygiene Package Deals Companies Should Consider Tips for Choosing the Right Hygiene Package

Understanding Business Hygiene and Its Legal Foundations

Business hygiene encompasses the practices and processes implemented to maintain a clean, safe, and healthy environment in the workplace. It goes beyond basic cleanliness to include measures that promote employee health, enhance customer perceptions, and ultimately contribute to the overall success of the business.

Ensuring a safe work environment is a legal requirement. Under the Australian Work Health and Safety (WHS) laws (business.gov.au), businesses must provide a safe working environment and keep their workers safe. This includes maintaining workplace cleanliness and promoting good business hygiene practices to prevent the spread of illness and ensure the well-being of employees. 

Implementing regular cleaning schedules, providing access to hygiene facilities, and educating employees about proper hygiene practices are essential steps in meeting these legal obligations. 

Business hygiene at its core, refers to the set of practices and protocols aimed at ensuring a clean, safe, and healthy work environment. Part of this are: 

• regular cleaning and disinfection of surfaces
• proper waste management
• maintenance of hygiene facilities such as restrooms and break rooms. 

It also extends to promoting personal hygiene among employees and implementing measures to prevent the spread of illness in the workplace.

Businesses that prioritise hygiene practices and safety measures can not only comply with legal requirements but also contribute to the overall well-being and success of their workforce.

The Advantages of Investing in Business Hygiene

More than just a cost, capitalising in business or workplace hygiene is an investment in the health, safety, and productivity of your employees. As the famous quote from Carlos Ghosn says, employees are your most valuable assets – they are the heart and guts of a company. Investing in workplace hygiene not only benefits employees but also has a ripple effect on the overall success and reputation of your business. 

A clean and hygienic work environment not only reduces the risk of illness and absenteeism but also enhances employee morale and customer perception. In this section, we’ll explore the numerous benefits that come with prioritising workplace hygiene, and how it can contribute to your business success as a whole.

• Improved Productivity and Efficiency

A clean and hygienic work environment can lead to improved productivity among employees. A clutter-free workspace and well-maintained facilities can help employees focus better on their tasks, leading to higher efficiency and output. 

A study from the NCBI (National Center of Biotechnology Information) reveals that employees who are satisfied with their work environment are more likely to have positive work output. The researchers of the study found that a pleasant workplace environment is crucial for staff to work efficiently, resulting in higher employee performance and organisational output.

More importantly, enhanced business hygiene can help reduce the risk of illness, which can result in fewer sick days and less disruption to workflow. At the end of the day, healthier employees indeed can be more focused and efficient.

• Reduced Costs

Investing in business hygiene can lead to cost savings for your organisation. A clean and hygienic workplace can result in lower absenteeism rates, as employees are less likely to get sick. This, in turn, reduces the need for temporary staff or overtime pay to cover for absent employees. 

One study found that employees working in clean environments took an average of 24% fewer sick days compared to those in less clean environments.It also showed that workers in clean environments had a lower rate of absenteeism due to sickness.

To simply put it, maintaining workplace hygiene and good cleaning practices can lead to decreased healthcare expenses, as employees are less likely to require medical treatment for preventable illnesses. In the same way, improved business hygiene can help reduce the number of workplace accidents, leading to lower workers’ compensation costs and insurance premiums. That is how investing in business hygiene results in significant company cost savings.

• Enhanced Brand Reputation

A clean and hygienic workplace reflects positively on your brand image. Customers, clients, and business partners are more likely to trust and respect a business that prioritises workplace hygiene. Clean restrooms, in particular, contribute significantly to this perception. 

As supported by a survey from Bradley Corporation, 64% of consumers will make a conscious decision to choose a business based on whether it has clean restrooms. Therefore, ensuring that your workplace, including restrooms, is clean and well-maintained can have a direct impact on your brand’s reputation and customer loyalty.

Pro Tip: 

Consider hiring a professional restroom cleaning service to ensure that your restrooms are consistently clean and well-maintained. Professional cleaners bring expertise and use quality products that can help maintain a high standard of cleanliness, enhancing your brand’s reputation and customer satisfaction.

• Higher Employee Health and Morale

Investing in business hygiene demonstrates that you care about your employees’ well-being. A clean and healthy work environment can boost employee morale, leading to higher job satisfaction and improved employee retention rates. 

According to a study from the University of Michigan, employees in clean work environments are more satisfied and have a positive attitude toward their work. They also experience less stress and burnout.

When employees work in a clean and hygienic environment, they are more likely to feel valued and motivated. As a result, demonstrating a commitment to employee well-being increases satisfaction and loyalty.

• Compliance with Regulations 

Meeting hygiene standards and regulations is essential for businesses to operate legally. It not only enhances the well-being of your employees but also signifies your adherence to legal requirements. This proactive approach also minimises legal risks such as fines or lawsuits related to workplace safety.

As mentioned in the Work Health and Safety laws, investing in work health and safety (WHS) upfront might seem costly, but the consequences of inaction are far more expensive – fines, legal trouble, and the loss of valuable employees.

Best Hygiene Practices for the Workplace

Maintaining workplace hygiene and good cleaning habits are not only a matter of personal health but also essential for the well-being of your colleagues and the business environment. A clean and hygienic workplace reduces sick days, enhances the company image, and creates a more pleasant and productive atmosphere for everyone.

Let’s explore in this section, the most effective hygiene practices to adopt in the workplace, covering everything from handwashing and desk cleanliness to shared space etiquette.

• Regular Cleaning and Disinfection

Regular cleaning and disinfection of surfaces, equipment, and common areas are essential to maintain a hygienic workplace. According to WHS laws, effective cleaning management systems require suitable cleaning methods, schedules, equipment, trained cleaners, and reliable communication and consultation.

Utilising appropriate disinfectants and sanitizers too can further help in preventing the spread of germs and maintaining a safe and healthy work environment. Implementing these practices can help prevent the spread of germs and reduce the risk of illness among employees, promoting a safe and healthy work environment.

• Proper Waste Management

Segregation of waste

Provide clearly labelled bins for different waste types (recyclable, compostable, general trash) to prevent contamination and make disposal easier. Educate staff on correct waste segregation and the importance of placing items in the correct bins.

This includes restrooms, where it’s essential to have appropriate bins for disposal of paper towels, sanitary products, and other restroom waste. Look for suitable bins and units that are easy to clean and maintain, and ensure they are emptied regularly to prevent overflow and odours.

Recycling and composting initiatives

Partner with waste management services for recycling programs. Set up a composting system for food scraps and other organic waste, reducing landfill contributions. Encourage employees to bring reusable containers for lunches and drinks, minimising single-use waste.

• Ventilation and Air Quality

Did you know the average person spends 87% of their life indoors? 

This makes indoor air quality a critical factor in maintaining a healthy workplace. Good indoor air quality is essential for a healthy work environment. Proper ventilation can help remove pollutants and improve air circulation, reducing the risk of airborne illnesses. Consider using air purifiers and ventilation systems to enhance indoor air quality, especially in areas with limited natural ventilation. 

Regular maintenance of these systems is crucial to ensure they are functioning effectively. Encouraging employees to take regular breaks outside and keeping windows open when possible can also help improve air quality in the workplace.

• Personal Hygiene

Personal hygiene also helps in preventing the spread of germs and maintaining a healthy workplace environment. Implementing policies on handwashing and hygiene practices can help ensure that employees adhere to best practices. 

Providing hand sanitiser and other supplies, such as tissues and disinfectant wipes, can also encourage good hygiene habits among employees. Regular training and reminders about the importance of personal hygiene can further reinforce these practices and contribute to a cleaner and safer workplace.

Sustainable Business Hygiene Practices

Incorporating sustainable hygiene practices into your business not only benefits the environment but also contributes to a healthier workplace for your employees. Here are some sustainable hygiene practices to consider implementing:

• Employee Health and Hygiene

Educating and training employees on good hygiene practices is essential. Consider implementing hygiene training programs and promoting good hygiene habits in the workplace. Encouraging regular handwashing, proper coughing and sneezing etiquette, and personal hygiene can help prevent the spread of germs.

• Sick Leave Policies

Encourage sick employees to stay home to prevent the spread of illness in the workplace. Consider implementing flexible work arrangements to accommodate sick employees, such as work from home (WFH) set-up or offer flexible hours.

• Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)

Provide employees with personal protective equipment (PPE) such as masks and gloves, especially in environments where close contact is unavoidable. Ensure that PPE is used properly and disposed of correctly to minimise environmental impact.

• Use of Eco-Friendly Cleaning Products

Switching to eco-friendly cleaning products can reduce the environmental impact of your cleaning practices. Look for products that are biodegradable, non-toxic, and made from sustainable materials. These products are not only better for the environment but also for the health of your employees.

Business Hygiene Package Deals Companies Should Consider

Businesses need to prioritise hygiene practices to ensure the safety and well-being of their employees and customers. Here are some essential components of business hygiene package deals that companies should think about:

• Essential Cleaning Supplies

Eco-friendly cleaning supplies are not only effective but also environmentally responsible. These supplies help reduce the impact of cleaning on the environment while maintaining a clean and hygienic workplace.

• Informational Posters on Hygiene Practices

Posting informational posters on hygiene practices can help educate employees about the importance of good hygiene habits. These posters can serve as a reminder to wash hands frequently, cover coughs and sneezes, and maintain a clean work environment.

• Employee Hygiene Kits

Providing employees with hygiene kits containing hand sanitizer, tissues, and other essential items can help them maintain good hygiene practices throughout the day.

• Professional Cleaning Services

Regular cleaning services can help ensure that the workplace is thoroughly cleaned and disinfected. Professional cleaners have the expertise and equipment to effectively clean and sanitise all areas of the workplace.

• Air Quality Monitoring Devices

Monitoring air quality can help identify potential issues and ensure that the workplace has clean and fresh air for employees to breathe.

• On-Site Health Screenings

On-site health screenings can help identify health issues early and provide employees with the information they need to take control of their health.

Tips for Choosing the Right Hygiene Package

Choosing the right business hygiene package deals for your business is crucial to ensuring a clean and safe work environment. Here are some tips to help you make the best decision:

• Conduct a Needs Assessment

Before choosing a hygiene package, identify your unique workplace challenges. Consider factors such as the size of your workspace, the number of employees, and any specific hygiene requirements.

The WHS board also recommends assessing the risk.  Effective cleaning reduces contamination, but inadequate cleaning can increase it. Signs of poor cleaning include wet floors, unattended spills, residue build-up, obstructed walkways, ad hoc cleaning, and the use of inappropriate equipment or products.

• Set a Budget

Determine your budget for hygiene services and products. This will help you narrow down your options and choose a package that fits within your financial constraints.

• Get Employee Feedback

Involve your employees in the decision-making process by seeking their feedback on hygiene practices and services. This will help ensure that the package you choose meets the needs and expectations of your workforce.

• Seek Reputable Cleaning Service Providers

Research and compare hygiene service providers to find a reputable company that offers the services and products you need. Look for providers with experience in your industry and positive reviews from other customers. 

Lastly, consider a provider that specialises in restroom cleaning, as the cleanliness of restrooms is proven to be a significant factor in maintaining a healthy and hygienic workplace.

Let Impact Hygiene do the dirty work through our expert commercial restroom cleaning services. We specialise in top-quality restroom hygiene services with flexible plans that cater to your needs. Impact Hygiene offers a range of services designed to keep your restrooms clean and hygienic, including sanitary bin services, air fresheners, and hand hygiene products. 

With Impact Hygiene, you can trust that your restrooms will be maintained to the highest standards, ensuring a clean and pleasant environment for your employees and customers. Contact us at 1800 494 369 | www.impacthygiene.com.au/contact-us.