A new study conducted by Viking has disturbingly found that an increasing number of commercial spaces are riddled with germs. Not good news for either employee or employer, but it could result in a sudden surge in office cleaning contracts.
A new study conducted by Viking has disturbingly found that an
increasing number of commercial spaces are riddled with germs. Not
good news for either employee or employer, but it could result in a
sudden surge in office cleaning contracts.
Due to the lack of cleanliness throughout British workplaces the
likelihood of many office workers taking time off ill this winter
is high. By coming into contact with harmful bacteria staff can
become so ill that a day or two is needed to recover, this can cost
companies a considerable amount of money in lost productivity.
Of all staff members who work in commercial buildings, lawyers, accountants
and computer workers are considered to be the most unhygienic, as
many leave crumbs of food on their desks.
A survey was conducted as part of the study and the results are
astounding. Over half of respondents were unaware of the health
risks connected with keyboards or phones, saying they didn't
realise they could catch viruses from such devices. The survey also
revealed that two-thirds confessed to eating lunch at their desk
without making an effort to remove crumbs.
Dr Lisa Ackerley, a chartered environmental health practitioner
highlighted how imperative it is for the health of employees to hire commercial
cleaners, stating:
"Keeping equipment such as keyboards, phones and desks as
germ-free as possible is even more important during the cold and
flu season."