Clean businesses reduce chances of employees catching a cold/flu by 80 percent
As cold snaps start to hit New Zealand and sickness rears its head, consider the financial and productivity savings
businesses could make by modestly investing in cleaning.
A clean facility can reduce occupants’ chances of catching a cold or flu by up to 80 per cent, slashing absenteeism by
almost half.
In a thought provoking video on “the value of clean” released by OCS partner Sealed Air: http://bit.ly/1S2Nbjl research shows the cost of employee absences. In New Zealand, there’s a total cost to the economy of around $1.26
billion annually and these unplanned absences are accountable for a reduction in productivity, sales and customer
service.
OCS and Sealed Air suggest keeping an eye on common work surfaces such as key boards, computer mice, fridge and
microwave door handles and vending machine buttons to name a few, as these are among the dirtiest surfaces in a typical
work environment.
Often viewed as simply a cost centre, cleaning historically has been an afterthought to managers, however conscious
businesses around the globe are starting to realise the value of clean and are seeing significant financial benefits.
OCS managing director Gareth Marriott believes the fundamental of outstanding customer service is good hygiene, in terms
of both people and environment.
“Staff want to work in clean bright environment that’s conducive to feeling good about their job, while customers want
to be in an environment which is well cared for. Otherwise they can vote with their feet and shop elsewhere.
“A clean environment therefore adds to the value your business is delivering.”
OCS partners with Sealed Air as its chemical cleaning partner in New Zealand and have had examples of clients who have
changed to other products and returned again because of declining cleanliness and sales.
He says its important for people to realise the value of clean for business vibrancy, employees and improving the bottom
line.
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