Fun Fact:
Reports show that absenteeism and presenteeism costs Australian workplaces up to $17 billion per year.
Absenteeism, the non-presence of an employee at their job, and presenteeism, when employees attend work despite being unwell, are often exacerbated by different factors including poor workplace hygiene and a lack of cleanliness that can lead to the spread of illnesses.
According to a 2020 report from Productivity Commission Australia , absenteeism and presenteeism costs Australian workplaces up to $17 billion per year. These issues are detrimental factors impacting workplace productivity and morale, and overall organisational success.
Maintaining high standards of hygiene and cleanliness in commercial spaces is therefore essential to mitigate these problems, ensuring a healthier, more productive, and motivated workforce. This comprehensive guide provides office managers and business owners with the best hygiene practices to maintain a clean and safe environment for employees and visitors.
Workplace Health and Safety
In Australia, Work Health and Safety (WHS) involves managing risks to the health and safety of everyone in the workplace. The model WHS laws, developed by Safe Work Australia in 2011, provide a comprehensive framework for these practices.
Maintaining workplace hygiene and cleanliness is a crucial aspect of adhering to work health and safety (WHS) regulations in Australia. Proper hygiene practices play a vital role in managing health risks by preventing the spread of illnesses and creating a safer work environment for everyone, including workers, customers, visitors, and suppliers.
According to an independent study by Winc, 91% of the surveyed Australian employees feel that workplace hygiene has grown more essential to them since the pandemic. By integrating robust cleaning routines and standards into daily operations, businesses can ensure compliance with WHS laws, thereby safeguarding employee well-being, enhancing productivity, and avoiding the severe consequences of neglecting workplace hygiene, such as fines, prosecution, and loss of valuable staff.
Employee Morale and Productivity
The workplace environment significantly influences employee behaviour, which can help in boosting productivity and enhancing overall business performance (Zenjing et al., 2022). This is because a tidy environment also reduces stress levels, contributing to better mental health and job satisfaction. Employees are more likely to feel valued and motivated when their workplace is clean and organised.
A well-maintained and hygienic workspace fosters a sense of pride and ownership among employees, leading to higher levels of engagement and commitment. Research has shown that employees who perceive their work environment as clean and well-organised are more likely to exhibit positive attitudes towards their job and employer. This, in turn, reduces turnover rates and absenteeism, as employees feel more connected to their workplace and less inclined to se3ek employment elsewhere.
Daily Cleaning Routines
Establishing and adhering to daily cleaning routines is fundamental to maintaining a hygienic and productive workplace. Regular cleaning tasks ensure that workstations and other areas are consistently kept clean, reducing the spread of germs and creating a pleasant environment for employees.
Keeping desks and workstations clean is crucial for maintaining hygiene. According to a report from ABC News Australia, the typical office desk is home to more than 10 million bacteria. Employees should carefully wipe down surfaces, keyboards, and monitors daily with disinfectant wipes. This practice helps eliminate germs and prevent the spread of illnesses.
Maintaining cleanliness in shared spaces like break rooms, kitchens, and meeting rooms is crucial to preventing the spread of germs. Daily cleaning tasks should include:
- Cleaning countertops and tables
- Sanitising microwaves and kitchen appliances
- Wiping down chairs and seating areas
- Emptying and disinfecting trash bins
- Cleaning and disinfecting door handles and light switches
- Restocking supplies such as paper towels, napkins, and utensils
Additionally, areas like reception desks, lounges, and communal workspaces should be regularly cleaned to ensure these spaces remain sanitary and pleasant for all employees, fostering a healthier and more enjoyable work environment.
SafeWork Australia specifically mentions that workers should have access to clean, hygienic and conveniently located toilets. Restrooms require daily cleaning and restocking to maintain hygiene. Specific tasks include cleaning toilets, sinks, and mirrors, and refilling supplies such as soap, paper towels, and toilet paper.
A clean restroom reflects positively on the business and ensures the well-being of employees and visitors. However, rigorous cleaning tasks in restrooms can be time-consuming and labour-intensive for businesses.
Partnering with a professional restroom cleaning service can help ensure that restrooms are thoroughly cleaned and maintained to the highest standards, freeing up valuable time and resources for other essential business operations.
High-touch surfaces like doorknobs, light switches, and elevator buttons are breeding grounds for germs. Regularly using disinfectant wipes or sprays on these surfaces can significantly reduce the risk of infections.
According to Training.gov.au (TGA), the national register of vocational education and training (VET) in Australia, effective cleaning of these high-touch surfaces—such as tabletops, counters, hand railings, and electronic devices—requires specific skills and knowledge. Applying the correct methods, cleaning equipment, and agents ensures that these frequently touched areas are properly dusted, wiped, and sanitised, thereby preventing cross-contamination and maintaining a healthier work environment.
Emptying trash bins daily is essential to prevent odours and pests. Proper disposal and recycling practices should be encouraged to maintain a clean environment. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) suggests having a recycling program in place to manage waste effectively.
Weekly and Monthly Deep Cleaning Practices
While daily cleaning routines are essential for maintaining basic hygiene, implementing weekly and monthly deep cleaning practices is crucial for ensuring a thorough and long-lasting cleanliness in the workplace.
These deeper cleaning tasks target areas that accumulate dirt and germs over time, such as carpets, windows, and air vents, providing a comprehensive clean that daily routines might miss.
Did you know that carpets can accumulate up to four times their weight in dirt? This means that if your carpets haven’t been cleaned recently, a significant amount of grime could be hidden beneath the surface.
Routine cleaning in carpets and floors involves higher cleaning frequency, aimed at keeping carpets in good condition by addressing surface dirt and light soiling on a consistent and immediate basis. This can be done on a weekly and daily basis.
Monthly deep cleaning of carpets and floor surfaces helps remove embedded dirt and allergens. The Carpet and Rug Institute (CRI) emphasises the importance of regular carpet maintenance to improve indoor air quality.
Weekly dusting of window sills and blinds prevents the buildup of dust and allergens. Monthly washing of windows and deep cleaning of blinds ensure a clear and pleasant view, enhancing the overall appearance of the office.
Weekly dusting and spot cleaning of office furniture help maintain a clean environment. Monthly professional cleaning of upholstery removes stains and allergens, ensuring the furniture remains in good condition and free from harmful substances.
Weekly dusting of air vents improves air quality by preventing the circulation of dust and allergens. Monthly replacement of air filters ensures proper ventilation, contributing to a healthier work environment. According to the Australian Climate Systems, organisations can actively manage indoor air quality by understanding and maintaining HVAC systems, ensuring cleaner air at home and at workplaces.
Weekly dusting and disinfecting of electronic devices and office equipment are crucial for maintaining hygiene. Monthly deep cleaning of devices such as printers, copiers, and telephones ensures they remain in good working condition and free from germs.
The Role of Professional Cleaning Services
Professional cleaners bring expertise and training to ensure high standards of cleanliness. They often hold certifications and undergo specialised training in commercial cleaning, providing peace of mind to business owners.
In particular, professional restroom cleaning is crucial for maintaining a hygienic environment. With over 20 years of experience, Impact Hygiene delivers exceptional restroom cleaning services for commercial spaces and other industries. Our expert team not only ensures clean and odour-free restrooms but also helps prevent the spread of germs, enhancing the overall health and safety of your workplace.
Modern cleaning equipment and techniques used by professional cleaners ensure thorough cleaning. Eco-friendly and safe cleaning products protect both employees and the environment. The use of advanced technologies can effectively disinfect large areas quickly.
Impact Clean
Impact Clean™ from Impact Hygiene is a specialised restroom cleaning service that utilises a unique combination of our most advanced disinfection techniques including the use of our Impact Clean equipment and environmentally safe cleaning agents.
With Impact Clean™, you can be rest assured that your facility is in the best hands and is maintained with the utmost care and professionalism. Contact us today.
Professional cleaning services offer customised plans tailored to the specific needs of each office. This flexibility allows businesses to schedule cleaning services at convenient times, minimising disruption to operations. Customised plans ensure that all areas of the office receive the attention they need.
Professional cleaners provide a range of services, including deep cleaning, regular maintenance, and emergency cleaning. This comprehensive approach ensures that all aspects of office hygiene are covered, maintaining a consistently clean environment.
Impact Hygiene’s Restroom Cleaning and Supplies offers an all-encompassing solution that not only includes thorough restroom cleaning but also timely supply of essential hygiene products. We ensure that your facility is not only impeccably clean but also well-stocked, eliminating any concerns about running low on necessary supplies.
Measures such as regular inspections and feedback mechanisms ensure high standards of cleanliness. Professional cleaning services often provide guarantees and follow-up services to address any concerns. This commitment to quality ensures client satisfaction and a hygienic workspace.
Summary: Maintaining a Clean and Healthy Workspace
Proper hygiene measures are crucial for employee health, productivity, and overall business success. Backed up by an independent study from Facility Management, 40% of employees believe that better workplace hygiene would improve job satisfaction. Maintaining a clean and healthy workspace benefits employees and visitors in the long term.
A commitment to hygiene creates a safe, productive, and positive work environment. By prioritising hygiene, businesses demonstrate their dedication to providing a safe and welcoming space for everyone.
Office managers and business owners should prioritise hygiene practices and consider professional cleaning services to maintain a healthy workplace. Investing in professional restroom cleaning services in particular, is an investment in employee well-being and business success.
Ready to improve your office hygiene? Contact us today to schedule a consultation or service and take the first step towards a cleaner, healthier workplace.
The cleanliness of restrooms is vital to maintaining a healthy work environment, reflecting directly on your business’s overall hygiene standards. Impact Hygiene specialises in comprehensive restroom cleaning services that not only ensure cleanliness but also enhance the well-being and productivity of your workforce. Trust our expertise to keep your restrooms immaculate and well-supplied, making your workplace a model of cleanliness and efficiency.
