Although maintaining hygiene standards has and always will be critical for creating a safe working environment, workplace hygiene is now, in 2023, a central figure in public discourse.
In the following article, we at Galleon Supplies are going to explore best workplace hygiene practices and relevant legal literature surrounding hygiene. We hope by doing so, any business owners reading this article will understand how to properly create hygiene and sanitation in the workplace.
Why Is Personal Hygiene Important in the Workplace?
Employers in the UK have always had a legal and moral obligation to maintain safety standards in the workplace, and this remains the same now. This starts with creating a culture around workplace hygiene.
Personal hygiene standards in the workplace are important for several reasons. Although many people think hygiene standards and requirements are a superficial concern, they have a direct impact on the health and productivity of employees.
Employees that work in a hygienic environment are less likely to fall ill and experience dissatisfaction with their job. Specifically, workplace hygiene, and maintaining standards, is important for the following reasons:
- Disease Prevention
Disease and sickness can effectively erode productivity and profitability. Cleaning and disinfection of common areas, surfaces and shared equipment can help prevent the spread of illnesses such as colds, flus and viruses. We recommend using a combination of couch roll and disinfectant spray in order to prevent diseases from spreading, particularly in the workplace.
- Employee Health
Implementing company wide and personal hygiene standards reduces the risk of employees contracting illnesses. This ensures productivity and job satisfaction remains high, as well as compliance with regulatory requirements.
- Productivity
A clean and well kept workplace, with sufficient hygiene standards, can inspire mental clarity.
- Employee Morale
Managers who display an active interest in hygiene and sanitation in the workplace send the message that they care about their staff. For yielding optimal morale, this is of the utmost importance.
Hygiene and Sanitation in the Workplace: Best Practices
The good news is, creating sanitary conditions at work is easy. With a bit of planning and perseverance, standards can be not created but maintained for years to come. Allow us to explain.
Firstly, managers should seek to create a cleaning schedule that includes daily high-touch surface cleaning as well as more strenuous areas. Moreover, hand sanitizer should be provided at designated areas and cleaning staff should have access to PPE.
Another possibility is to conduct regular training and create a culture around maintaining hygiene standards. Done in the correct way, this can make a monumental difference.
Lastly, HVAC systems should be maintained and inspected regularly. Don’t just rely on these systems though. Nothing beats natural ventilation, so try to use windows and doors when possible.
Legal Obligations for Workplace Hygiene in the UK
Besides a moral obligation, employers are legally compelled to provide a safe and healthy working environment. Several laws and regulations govern workplace hygiene and safety.
Here are some of the key legal obligations related to workplace hygiene in the UK:
- Health and Safety at Work Act 1974
Employers must work to ensure employee health, safety and welfare. This is done by creating a safe working environment with proper ventilation and hygiene facilities.
- Control of Substances Hazardous to Health (COSHH) Regulations 2002
In some workplaces, hazardous substances need to be handled and disposed of. The above regulations compel employers to assess and manage risks related to these substances. A common example is the safe handling and storage of cleaning chemicals.
- Reporting of Injuries, Diseases, and Dangerous Occurrences Regulations 2013 (RIDDOR):
Certain workplace incidents and illnesses need to be reported to the applicable organisation. Any one responsible for overseeing a premises with employees must follow RIDDOR.
- Workplace (Health, Safety and Welfare) Regulations 1992
These regulations stipulate and outline workplace hygiene requirements. Some of the requirements include handwashing facilities, drinking water stations and clean restrooms. The regulations also make reference to general workplace cleanliness.
- COVID-19 Specific Regulations
Although this is less common now, some workplaces must still follow COVID-19 specific regulations. A number of measures, including hand washing and social distancing, may be implemented to reduce transmission of the virus.
Being aware of the following and taking an active role in compliance is the best way to avoid serious consequences, such as fines, closure or legal action. We would recommend educating yourself on the relevant literature and implementing the recommended workplace hygiene practices.
Creating clean conditions is not just good practice. It is a fundamental aspect of creating a safe and healthy working environment for employees. By doing so, you meet your legal and ethical obligations as an employer.
As one of the UK’s leading suppliers of janitorial supplies, we have a wealth of information on creating standards that meet stipulated law. Our article on how to disinfect surfaces, for example, is a prime example.
Beyond that, we have a huge range of products that can help you to meet your obligations as an employer. Browse our product offering online today or, for enquiries, contact us.
