Today`s working environments are increasingly diverse, that means fostering inclusivity is a main priority for businesses that want to create a positive culture. Diversity and inclusivity include various factors from gender and race, to personal beliefs, and cultural practices.
Most conversations surrounding inclusivity focus on broad aspects, though the one area that is most often overlooked is hygiene. Hygiene plays a vital role in creating a comfortable, welcoming and equitable workspace for employees, no matter their background.
Hygiene impacts how comfortable your employees feel at work. Comfort is also an important part of inclusivity. For example, odours in shared spaces, such as wash rooms and break rooms can affect the comfort level of all employees. At the same time, personal hygiene standards can impact the perception of cleanliness.
Cultural differences do influence personal hygiene, some employees may use perfumes, while others may wear different clothing. The frequency of showering also differs among cultures. It is important to ensure employees understand the basics of personal hygiene.
Of course, you cannot enforce a standard of hygiene, you will need to find middle ground, fostering respect. Encourage employees to have open conversations regarding their hygiene expectations, helping employees understand and respect cultural differences, without feeling judged or alienated.
Workplace hygiene extends far beyond personal hygiene. Shared spaces, such as wash rooms, break rooms, and meeting rooms, should be clean and well-maintained at all times. This sends a positive message about your business values, and how you value your employees and their well-being.
When the workspace is clean and healthy, it has psychological benefits, creating a sense of order, attention to detail, and professionalism. These qualities promote mutual respect, while creating a sense of belonging. Employees that feel comfortable in their surroundings are more engaged and productive, no matter their background.
When you have employees coming from diverse backgrounds, you will find that some have allergies, sensitivities, or medical conditions, that make hygiene essential. Cleaning chemicals, for example, can trigger certain allergies and respiratory issues.
Addressing hygiene practice in the workplace, such as using eco-friendly cleaning products, ensures all employees are protected from potential health risks. In addition to this, cleanliness also impacts your employees mental health. Unhygienic and dirty working environments leads to discomfort and anxiety, contributing to negative workplace culture.
Employees from minority grounds may feel vulnerable in a dirty environment. A clean and healthy workplace shows your commitment to the well-being of your employees, increasing safety and trust.
You may not think that hygiene plays a role in workplace diversity and inclusivity, but in reality, it is important in creating an environment where all employees feel welcome and respects. Hygiene plays a major role in the comfort and health of your employees, reducing absenteeism, improving their overall well-being. It's about creating an environment where employees from all backgrounds, feel respected. If you need help creasing a hygienic workplace to improve inclusivity, the Sloane Cleaning Services team are here to assist. Contact us now for a free, no obligation quote.