Hygiene is important regardless of where you are. It’s not just a matter of looking good for others, your personal hygiene can affect your job prospects and your health. For example, poor oral hygiene has been linked directly with an increased likelihood of age-related diseases.
Yet, despite it seeming like an important and unforgettable item, many people in the workplace seem to suffer from hygiene problems. It can be because of a lack of time or a lack of motivation, but taking care of your personal hygiene is important.
Start At Home
If you’re struggling to find the time to complete personal hygiene at home then you need to get up earlier. It’s important to have enough time to have a wash, do your teeth, and do your hair.
This only takes between 5 and 15 minutes, you can get up a little earlier to do that!
- Aftershave
Don’t forget that putting on cologne or perfume only temporarily masks smells and it will seem overpowering to colleagues, which is almost as bad as the poor hygiene you’re trying to cover.
A little dash of aftershave or perfume is fine.
Don’t forget deodorant. There are a few people that really don’t need this but most people do. It’s better to use it when you don’t need to than it is not to use it when you do!
- Oral Care
You also need to do your teeth every morning and evening. Brush them thoroughly but don’t use excessive force. You should also floss at least once a day to help keep the gaps between your teeth clean.
It’ also essential to visit a dentist regularly as this will ensure any issues are picked up and resolved early.
- Bath or Shower
You need to take a shower at least 3 times a week although you can have one every day if you like. It will help to remove dead cells and restore a natural glow to your skin. You won’t just be clean, you’ll look it.
- Washing Hands
At home and at work you need to keep your hands clean. This means washing them after you’ve been to the toilet, prepared food, or have been in contact with anything that could carry germs. You may find it advantageous to keep sanitizing wipes by your desk
It’s not Just The Employees
The employer also needs to help! By having the right washroom services available every member of staff has the opportunity to use the facilities and maintain their hygiene level throughout the day. This is one area where it is essential that the employer gets the best appliances possible and ensure hygiene standards are maintained.
In short, they are setting an example for employees to follow.
It is also important for employers to develop a hygiene policy and gently enforce it. This can be a difficult area and you should take specialist advice to ensure you get the balance right. If an employer gets it wrong they can be accused of discrimination despite honourable intentions.
