Maintaining workplace hygiene has always been essential in creating a safe working environment.
UK Employers have always been legally obligated to maintain safety standards in the workplace for several reasons. Many people are under the impression that workplace hygiene is not a major concern, though it does have a direct impact on the health and productivity of employees.
Illness can have a negative impact on productivity and profitability. A clean and sanitised workspace helps to prevent the spread of germs, reducing absenteeism. When you implement cleaning standards, you reduce the risk of illness spreading throughout your workforce, ensuring improved staff morale, job satisfaction, and productivity, while complying with legal requirements.
When you have an active interest in workplace hygiene and sanitisation, you send a message to your employees that you care about their well-being. This has a positive impact on staff morale.
Workplace hygiene doesn't have to be daunting or overwhelming. With the right planning, high cleanliness standards can be maintained. This includes having a customised cleaning schedule including high touch surface cleaning.
We also recommend having a clean desk policy, encouraging employees to play a role in workplace hygiene. When you create a culture around hygiene, it makes a major difference with everyone playing their part in keeping the office spotless and healthy.
In addition to your moral obligation as an employer to maintain workplace hygiene, you also have a legal responsibility to provide a safe and healthy working environment. There are a number of laws governing workplace hygiene and safety in the UK:
As an employer, its your responsibility to ensure employee health, safety and, welfare. This means creating a safe working environment with proper ventilation and hygiene facilities.
Workplace Regulations 1992 outline workplace hygiene requirements, such as hand washing facilities, drinking water stations, and rest rooms. Complying with these regulations help you ensure workplace cleanliness.
Hazardous substances must be handled and disposed of as per legal regulations. COSHH requires employers assess and manage any risks associated with hazardous substances, such as safe handling and storing of cleaning chemicals.
Some workplace incidents and illnesses must be reported to the applicable organisation. This involves following RIDDOR when overseeing a business premises with employees.
It's essential as a business owner in the UK that you are aware of and are following workplace hygiene legal compliance. When you are educated on the various regulations, implementing them correctly, you ensure high levels of workplace hygiene. Sloane Cleaning Services is a leading professional commercial cleaning agency operating throughout London, backed by more than forty years experience. We have a wealth of information on creating cleaning schedules and plans that ensure you comply with regulations. Contact us today to find out more.