How Dirty Is Your Office? Exploring the Hidden Culprits Hiding in Plain Sight
We all like to consider our offices and workspaces to be clean, professional, and conducive to productivity. Still, have you ever stopped to wonder how clean your office space really is? Unfortunately, dirty and poorly-maintained office spaces can cause a range of problems, from reduced air quality to an increased likelihood of sickness among employees. In this blog post, we’ll explore the hidden culprits that are hiding in plain sight in your workplace and the steps you can take to combat them.
1. Your keyboard and mouse are breeding grounds for bacteria:
It’s no surprise that our keyboards and computer mice are prime locations for dirt and bacteria to gather. Studies show that the average keyboard and mouse contain more bacteria than an average toilet seat. This creates a real risk of germs and perhaps even serious infections if you touch these components and then touch your face or mouth. Keeping your computer and work area clean and sanitizing your work accessories is recommended to keep yourself safe.
2. Your office phone is worse than you think:
Your phone is perhaps one of the most overlooked items in your office when it comes to cleanliness. Studies have suggested that the average office phone contains more than 25,000 germs per square inch, making them 10 times dirtier than a toilet seat. Wiping down phones every day with disinfecting wipes can make a considerable difference in reducing the germ load and keeping yourself healthy.
3. Your office vents need regular cleaning:
Your office’s air vents are necessary to circulate fresh and clean air around the building. Unfortunately, when you don’t clean your vents regularly, they harbor lots of dust and germs. This results in inferior air quality within your workspace. For employees, poor air quality can lead to symptoms such as fatigue, dryness of the skin and eyes, headaches, and more. Make sure your vents are cleaned or, at the very least, changed every few months to maintain healthy airflow.
4. Your workplace refrigerator may need some attention:
The communal workplace fridge may be a common source of contention and also a breeding ground for germs. Everyone is storing their food and drinks in the same spot, which can cause cross-contamination. Bacteria can quickly grow on food that has been left at less-than-adequate temperatures. Make sure the fridge is cleaned regularly, and all food is clearly marked with the staff member’s name and the date of storage. This helps to prevent food poisoning and ensure that no one’s lunch gets lost or eaten by someone who isn’t you.
5. Disinfectant wipes are your best friend:
One of the easiest ways to combat workplace germs is to keep different disinfectant wipes around for convenient cleaning. These wipes significantly decrease the spread of germs and bacteria and can be used on surfaces, phones, door handles, or anything you use daily in the office. Disinfectant wipes are an excellent tool to keep your office space safe and healthy.
In today’s fast-paced world, our office spaces may get neglected. However, whether working from home or in-person, keeping your office clean is essential for overall health and productivity. Small changes in hygiene and cleaning routine can make a massive difference in keeping an office space safe and healthy for everyone. Take a few minutes every day to sanitize your workspace, and you will be surprised how much better you will feel. Remember, cleanliness is next to health, hygiene, and productivity!