Hygiene in the workplace
We probably spend most of our time at work. At this time, we are exposed to the people we work with. If one of these people are not well, the chances of you being exposed to it, for quite a while, is very likely. Luckily, there are a lot of precautions that can be taken to minimize the effect and ensure good hygiene in the workplace.
The golden rule when it comes to keeping a healthy and hygienic workplace is to stay at home when you are sick. A lot of people feel that they must go to work and that the employer will think badly of them when they take a sick day. As an employer, you should move away from this perception. Let your employees know that when they are truly sick, it will be best if they stay at home. This will prevent other employees from also catching a disease.
How to practice good hygiene in the workplace
Washing your hands
This is one of the most commonly used methods used to stop the spread of germs. Since a very young age, we have been told to wash our hands before we eat and to wash our hands when we have been in an unhygienic environment. Even in your workplace this is still a very important thing to remember. When coming in contact with a lot of people, you will shake a hand here and there and handle files. You never know where the things have been that you touch. So it is still advised to wash your hands regularly with an anti-bacterial soap.
Your desk
A recent study has shown that your desk is populated by an enormous amount of bacteria and germs. The most common places where these germs are found are on your mouse, keyboard and telephone. These items should be cleaned regularly to ensure optimal hygiene. Also try not to eat at your desk, since it can lead to a hygiene hazard.
In the kitchen
Motivate your employees to store their food in the refrigerator. This will minimize the chances that the people in your workplace might get food poisoning. Dishes should also be washed as soon as the employees are finished with them. It will ensure a clean and more neat looking kitchen.
Most important facts
The most touched surfaces are the places that germs tend to thrive in. Always ensure that these surfaces are kept clean. Also, be extra careful when you are around these places that are ideal for germs and bacteria.
Maintaining a hygienic environment
The following tips will aid in the prevention of infections and promote a hygienic environment.
- Getting a yearly vaccine will help you to build immunity against viruses and bacteria. You will also be less likely to get sick and your overall health and wellbeing will be improved.
- Use hand sanitizer on a regular basis to eliminate all germs from your hands.
- When you need to sneeze or cough, do so in the fold of your elbow when you are turned away from other people.
- Do not share cups or glasses with your fellow employees. The employer should see to it that there are enough dishes and cutlery in the office for the use of all the employees. There can also be an arrangement made that the employees should bring their own.
Be sure that your workspace is cleaned at least once a week. Always remember that a workplace that is hygienic and well cleaned will ensure healthy and productive workers, ultimately leading to higher profits.