Cleaning up the office

In a strange way the cleanliness of our offices matters more than that of our homes. This may seem like heresy but visitors to our homes tend to be friends who will forgive the odd lapse into untidiness. An untidy or smelly office on the other hand is likely to be visited by current and future clients all of whom will subconsciously judge the ability of the business by the state of the office.

Apart from the wish to appear to be an efficient and sound business there is one other strong reason why offices need to be kept tidy. Studies have proved that employees work more efficiently in clean and tidy surroundings than in dirty smelly ones. So, cleaning the office can more than pay for itself in improved efficiencies.

When appointing a cleaning company, the first step is to have a meeting and decide on an appropriate rota. This should include daily, weekly and more infrequent tasks as well as agreeing cleaning times which will minimise disruption to the office routine. So, for example, daily tasks could include emptying bins, vacuuming floors and cleaning kitchen and toilet areas.

On a weekly basis you might want a more thorough clean including cleaning of desks and surfaces. If employees are aware that on a set day each week they need to tidy their papers prior to a desk clean then this encourages them to use part of that day in filing and tidying, adding to office efficiencies. On a more infrequent basis you might want to schedule in tasks such as steam cleaning of carpets, washing windows or sanitising office equipment.

Once you have agreed the schedule with the office cleaning London then the next step is for them to provide health & safety assessments or method statements to comply with your insurance/landlord’s requirements. This will enable you to brief your employees on the future cleaning protocols whilst the office cleaning company can provide a thorough brief to their cleaning staff.

Then all that you need to do is to enjoy the benefits of a cleaner fresher office environment, safe in the knowledge that the office cleaning company is taking care of the cleanliness of your office. Do make sure though that you have regular update meetings with the office cleaners to give and receive feedback on both sides.

Finally, if you are planning any disruption within the office such as a rearrangement of desks, redecoration or an office party then make sure that your office cleaners are included in your plans. An upheaval is a great time to carry out a thorough clean in areas that aren’t usually accessible. Your office cleaning company might also be able to help with party preparations including food preparation and cleaning, leaving you time to concentrate on your guests.