By Samuel Rapley 28/06/2016

Under: Site Set Up / Team Welfare

7 Simple Ways to Improve Workplace Hygiene

1) Prioritise personal hygiene
Make it easy for team members to reduce the spread of infections by practising good personal hygiene. Ensure you have adequate wash stations, well stocked with cleansers, skincare lotions and drying facilities.

Hand sanitisers can also be a useful addition to the workplace. Use wall mounted sanitiser stations placed at entry and exit points to remind employees to keep hands clean. Studies have shown that good hand hygiene practices can reduce illness in the workplace by 50%.

2) Keep facilities and work stations in top condition
As well as maintaing clean and tidy working spaces, it's vital to keep toilets, washrooms, communal areas and canteens well sanitised. Surface cleaners, disinfectants and general cleaning equipment should stay well stocked and all staff members should be aware who is responsible for maintenance procedures and who to report problems to.

3) Check clothing and PPE regularly
Encourage employees to keep protective clothing in good order and report any damages immediately. Rips or holes in PPE can allow hazardous substances to reach the skin: repair or replace immediately. It's also vital to use clear signage to remind employees when PPE such as masks and eye protection must be worn.

4) Keep spaces free of debris
Debris can not only be a trip hazard, but can harbour bacteria and hazardous substances. Position enough bins and recycling stations so that debris can be easily disposed of. Appropriate signage can also remind team members to keep areas rubbish free.

5) Highlight procedures for spills and accidents
If a spill occurs, the area should be cleaned according to proper spill control measures, using a spill kit when required. Eye wash stations should be checked regularly and clearly signed. Team members should also be reminded that if a hazardous substance comes into contact with skin, the area should be washed promptly and carefully, even if there appears to be no reaction or injury.

6) Designate eating and smoking zones
Eating outside of designated areas can create mess and can be dangerous for employees if there are hazardous substances nearby. Canteens should be clearly indicated with signage. Safe smoking zones should also be carefully communicated with signs, while smoking prohibited signs can remind employees where smoking would cause a major hazard.

7) Encourage staff engagement
Keep your team involved in welfare and hygiene. Asking employees for feedback on how you could improve will keep them engaged in the process and more likely stay focussed on hygiene issues.

Talk to one of our experts today about how we can help you with site hygiene. From excellent value welfare kits, cleaning supplies, rubbish disposal and signage, we have all your hygiene needs covered.

Any tips of your own to add? Put your thoughts in the comments below