Hygiene and cleanliness are often associated with an individual’s manners and way of life. As important as it is at home, having a clean, organized working environment is equally important if not more. Just as employees need to look sharp and be professionally dressed, employers have an obligation to provide a safe, hygienic workplace for their staff. It is necessary not only for good impressions and reputation, but also for the health and well being of every visitor, employee, and client.
Moreover, a good environment can affect the worker’s satisfaction and also boost their productivity, effectiveness, and motivation. This is why having a clean, well-equipped washroom is just as significant. Hygienic bathrooms are a must for your staff but more importantly for your paying customers.
Even if you have the best company in the world with the greatest service, if your bathrooms are dirty, it is something people are most likely to remember. If you are interested in bettering your business’s bathrooms, here are some things you will need and some tips to help you get started.
Unhygienic Restroom Risks
The lack of sanitation can affect your company negatively in several ways with the worst one being the spreading of germs and viruses. Humid, wet bathrooms are an ideal place for these micro-organisms to disperse, putting everyone using these facilities in danger of getting sick. Some of the bacteria that can be found in such places include E-coli, salmonella, and streptococcus.
E-coli – Although it is present in our bodies and helps with digestion, an increased amount of it can cause some serious problems such as fever, cramps, and more. This bacteria can be found on the bathroom floor, in the toilet bowl, soap, and even the doorknob.
Salmonella – It is a bacteria that is commonly spread by eating undercooked or raw pork or chicken, but it can be found in restrooms as well. It can be disseminated if the toilet seat lid is not closed before flushing and also, by not washing one’s hands. Symptoms can include headaches, nausea, vomiting, and stomach cramps.
Streptococcus – The bacteria are most commonly found on the skin, particularly the hands, however, it can easily be avoided by thorough hand washing at different times throughout the day. If the micro-organism goes unchecked it can lead to a series of health issues such as sore throat, kidney disease, and others.
Key Items
1. Soap Dispensers
Infections are mostly transmitted by hands, so installing hand dispensers is a must. Make sure they are regularly refilled and always available for use to create a healthy space and also promote handwashing. They are also cost-effective since they hold larger amounts of soap and are safer because they collect fewer bacteria.
2. Both Hand Drying Options
For maximum employee and customer satisfaction, consider integrating both hand dryers and hand paper towel dispensers into your bathroom. Many have debated which one is better, but the truth is that they are both a great option for different reasons. Although paper towels are known to spread fewer bacteria, dryers use automatic sensors that require no touch. Also, companies such as Dolphy offer special types of hand dryers that provide 100% clean air.
3. Toilet Paper Dispensers
Toilet paper dispensers are probably the most used item and although it seems like a no-brainer, it is still important to choose a type that is durable, robust, and easy to clean.
4. Sensor Taps
These types of taps are increasing in popularity and rightfully so. Since they are activated automatically, people will never have to touch them, meaning there is a lower chance for germs or bacteria to spread. They also help conserve water because they run for a short time only.
When it comes to sensor technology, you should also consider adding sensor activated flush which works in the same way taps do and which can be easily be added to both toilets and urinals.
5. Air Fresheners
No matter how good your company’s restrooms look, it can get quite uncomfortable if they have an unpleasant smell. This is why it is advisable to install air fresheners that can neutralize odors and not simply mask them.
The next two items are not necessarily essential, however, adding them into your bathrooms can showcase your attentiveness, openness, and care, especially if customers are coming in and out of your business.
6. Baby Changing Station
For the child’s safety and the parent’s happiness, opt for a station that is durable, sturdy, and reliable and make sure to keep it clean at all times.
7. Female Sanitary Care
Female consumers will greatly appreciate your consideration of providing adequate sanitary bins and bag dispensers, offering them a discreet and safe solution. These feminine hygiene services are something that a business should never neglect.
Things to Have in Mind
For areas that are often overlooked during daily cleaning, performing a routine deep clean once a month will ensure that all the built-up bacteria and dirt is removed and that everything is completely sanitary.
Make sure that your restrooms are always stocked with supplies and that items such as toilet paper, soap, and paper towels are available at each station. Add bins to every cubicle to avoid toilet clogs or waste being thrown on the floor and also consider seat sanitizers in each to improve the user’s experience.
Tiles are extremely hard to clean and the grout lines provide a great place for bacteria to thrive. This is why opting for wall cladding and an anti-slip floor covering might be a better choice for your space. Double swing doors can additionally help reduce the dispersion of harmful particles and doors with brackets are also a good pick because they can be opened using the forearm.
Conclusion
Having clean bathroom facilities positively reflect on your business and brand and can greatly help improve both consumer and staff satisfaction. It will perfectly show how much you care about the people around you and will ensure that everyone stays safe and healthy. Understanding the importance of sanitation will reflect on your business’s productivity, perception, and profit as well.