Workplace Kitchens

Helping to prevent the spread of illness in the workplace is in our hands

Keeping our workplace clean

Many of us spend a lot of time at work, mixing with other people and touching lots of surfaces. But have you ever stopped to think about the germs that could be spreading?

To help us uncover what could be potentially lurking in your communal kitchen space, we asked a team of scientists to study a number of items, across a variety of different work settings.

These included kettles, fridge door handles and microwave buttons, with the results showing large numbers of potentially dangerous bacteria.

Some items showed evidence of microbes often found in faeces, while others revealed the presence of E.coli.

Because we can’t see these germs, it’s important we wash our hands thoroughly, especially after going to the loo, and before/after eating.

Keeping staff healthy

It may sound obvious, but handwashing is one of the simplest ways to prevent the spread of illness. Sometimes, we all need a reminder though, so here’s how you can encourage colleagues:

Ensure hand sanitisers and surface cleaning products are regularly checked and refilled when needed
Place signage around communal kitchen areas to remind staff to wash their hands and wipe surfaces after use
Nominate a designated ambassador to do regular checks of the kitchen space and sanitise handles and other high touchpoints
Keep toilets sanitary and well-stocked with soap and hand-towels or working hand-dryers, as wet skin can help to spread bacteria
Encourage staff to keep their own workstation clean, as well as communal areas, by ensuring they have access to cleaning essentials

Download our business toolkit

With many of us now back in the workplace more regularly, it’s important to remember the simple things that help keep our colleagues and ourselves well.

Together, let’s keep washing our hands, sanitising surfaces, covering our mouths when we cough or sneeze and circulating air.