Discover 10 surprising workplace hygiene statistics that reveal how cleanliness impacts health, morale, and productivity in Canadian workspaces.

Did you know that poor workplace hygiene costs Canadian businesses more than just a few sick days—it can hurt productivity, morale, and even your company’s reputation?

Maintaining good hygiene at work isn’t just about keeping desks clean or stocking hand sanitizer. It directly affects your team’s health, how well they perform, and how they feel about coming to work. 

In fact, a 2022 Ipsos survey found that almost half of Canadian workers (47%) were concerned about hygiene in shared office spaces, especially washrooms and breakrooms.

And when basic cleanliness is ignored, it leads to more sick leaves, low morale, and higher turnover rates—issues no company can afford to overlook.

This blog explains 10 surprising workplace hygiene stats you probably haven’t heard but absolutely need to know. 

These numbers will help business owners, HR teams, and facility managers in Canada understand why investing in cleanliness is more than just a nice-to-have—it’s essential for safety, well-being, and performance.

Whether you're running a small office or a large facility, these stats will shed light on what’s often missed and show how workplace hygiene plays a big role in keeping your staff healthy and your business running smoothly. 

Let’s take a closer look at what the numbers reveal!

Why Workplace Hygiene is Critical

Workplace hygiene is more than just keeping things tidy—it plays a big role in employee health, morale, and how well a business performs. 

Clean, well-maintained spaces help reduce the spread of germs, which means fewer sick days and less downtime. When workers feel safe and comfortable in their environment, they’re more likely to stay focused, feel valued, and perform better.

In fact, good hygiene practices are directly tied to fewer cases of absenteeism, better productivity, and higher job satisfaction. 

On the other hand, poor hygiene can lead to costly problems. According to the Public Health Agency of Canada, infectious diseases like the flu cost businesses over $1 billion annually in lost productivity. 

Companies that neglect basic cleanliness often face increased employee turnover, more sick leaves, and added healthcare costs.

Understanding the real impact of workplace hygiene can help business owners and HR leaders make better decisions. 

The following statistics highlight just how important it is to prioritize cleanliness at work—and why it shouldn’t be overlooked.

10 Surprising Workplace Hygiene Stats You Shouldn’t Ignore

Workplace hygiene is often treated as a background concern—but the numbers show it deserves much more attention. 

Hygiene directly affects how employees feel, how often they get sick, and how long they stay with a company. For Canadian businesses, these hygiene stats aren’t just interesting—they’re a wake-up call.

Today, we uncovers 10 surprising workplace hygiene statistics that highlight the hidden costs of poor cleanliness and the benefits of maintaining high standards. 

Each stat tells a story of how small hygiene-related actions—like handwashing or sanitizing surfaces—can have a big impact on staff well-being, productivity, and even long-term business success.

Stat 1: Hand Hygiene Reduces Absenteeism

Hand hygiene is one of the simplest and most effective ways to prevent illness. Yet, it’s often neglected in the workplace. Touching shared surfaces like doorknobs, keyboards, or lunchroom appliances can easily spread germs among employees. 

When workers don’t wash their hands regularly or properly, the risk of infection spreads fast—leading to more sick days and lower productivity.

The Statistics That Prove It Works

Several well-documented studies and public health reports show the significant benefits of hand hygiene:

Reduces respiratory illnesses by 21%

• These include common colds and flu, which are among the top reasons employees call in sick.

Lowers diarrheal sickness by 31%

• This includes foodborne illnesses that often stem from poor hygiene in office kitchens or shared spaces.

Reduces diarrheal illness by 58% in people with weakened immune systems

• Vulnerable employees—like those recovering from illness or with chronic conditions—benefit greatly from good hygiene practices in the workplace.

Real-World Impact on Businesses

Healthier employees mean:

• Fewer sick days and more consistent attendance
• Lower health-related costs for employers
• Improved morale and reduced stress from covering absent coworkers
• Higher overall productivity, especially during cold and flu seasons

A 2021 study published in the Canadian Journal of Public Health found that companies encouraging regular hand hygiene saw a 30–40% drop in sick-related absenteeism.

What Businesses Can Do

To take advantage of these benefits, companies should:

Invest in Hand Hygiene Infrastructure

• Install handwashing stations in restrooms, kitchens, and common areas.
• Provide hand sanitizers at desks, meeting rooms, and entrances.
• Stock all washrooms with soap and paper towels regularly.

Run Awareness Campaigns

• Use posters or digital screens to remind employees to wash their hands.
• Include hygiene tips in newsletters or onboarding materials.
• Host quick info sessions or share short training videos on proper handwashing.

Create a Hygiene Culture

• Encourage team leaders to set a good example.
• Allow time for employees to wash hands before meals or after meetings.
• Reward departments that follow good hygiene protocols.

Something as basic as clean hands can make a big difference. Businesses that take hand hygiene seriously not only protect their people—they also strengthen their bottom line. The next statistic will explore how dirty desks may be harming employee health more than you think.

Stat 2: Dirty Restrooms Lead to Dissatisfaction

Restroom cleanliness might seem like a basic maintenance task, but it has a deep impact on how employees feel at work. When restrooms are dirty, poorly maintained, or lacking basic supplies, it creates discomfort and even stress. 

Employees who avoid using restrooms during the day are more likely to feel distracted, rushed, or physically uncomfortable—all of which hurt their focus and productivity.

The Stat That Says It All

According to a recent global workplace study, nearly 1 in 5 employees refuse to use office restrooms due to poor hygiene conditions. 

This isn’t just a minor inconvenience. It directly impacts morale and job satisfaction, especially in high-stress roles where people need to feel supported and comfortable throughout their workday.

Common Restroom Hygiene Issues

Here are the most frequently reported issues in workplace restrooms:

• Soap and paper towel shortages: Employees are less likely to wash hands properly when soap or drying options are missing.
• Unclean or wet floors: Wet or grimy floors create slip hazards and signal neglect.
• Overflowing trash bins or dirty toilets: This reflects poor cleaning routines and can create bad odours.
• Broken fixtures: Non-functioning toilets, leaky taps, or poor lighting discourage restroom use.

How This Affects Productivity and Engagement

Discomfort leads to distraction

• If employees don’t feel safe or clean using the restroom, they may be less focused on tasks.
• Reduced satisfaction = higher turnover
• Poor hygiene can contribute to overall dissatisfaction, pushing employees to seek better working environments elsewhere.

Hygiene as part of workplace culture

• A clean restroom sends a message: “We care about our staff’s well-being.”

Steps Employers Can Take

• Routine Maintenance and Cleaning: Create a clear cleaning schedule for all restrooms. Hire professional cleaners or assign internal responsibilities.
• Keep Supplies Stocked: Regularly monitor soap, toilet paper, paper towels, and hand dryers. Use automated systems that alert when supplies run low.
• Encourage Feedback: Set up a way for employees to report restroom issues anonymously. Take feedback seriously and act promptly.

In short, when restrooms are clean, employees feel respected, more comfortable, and ready to perform at their best.

Stat 3: High Costs of Workplace Injuries (Due to Foodborne Illnesses)

Foodborne illness doesn’t just impact restaurants—it affects office kitchens, breakrooms, and anywhere food is handled or stored. 

Poor hygiene practices around food can lead to serious health risks, resulting in unexpected sick days, medical costs, and even legal liability for employers.

A Costly Problem

In the U.S., foodborne illnesses cost an estimated $15.6 billion each year, according to the USDA. These costs cover hospitalizations, lost wages, long-term health issues, and business disruptions. 

While this figure includes consumer impact, it reflects a larger trend businesses can’t ignore—especially those in the foodservice, healthcare, or hospitality sectors.

Common Foodborne Illnesses & Causes

Here are the most common pathogens and how they spread in workplace settings:

• Salmonella – Undercooked eggs, poultry, or unwashed produce.
• E. coli – Contaminated meat, dirty cutting boards, or lack of handwashing.
• Norovirus – Spread through contact with infected surfaces or food handlers.
• Listeria – Found in deli meats, dairy, and food left unrefrigerated.

Vulnerable Groups

Certain groups are more likely to suffer severe complications:

• Pregnant women
• Older adults
• Employees with weakened immune systems
• Young children (in daycare facilities)

Real-World Examples

• Chipotle Outbreak (2015–2016): Several foodborne illness outbreaks linked to E. coli and Norovirus sickened hundreds and led to millions in lawsuits, fines, and a major reputation hit.
• Maple Leaf Foods Listeria Outbreak (Canada, 2008): Led to 23 deaths and triggered a national food safety review, highlighting the risks of inadequate cleaning and food monitoring.

What Workplaces Should Do

Implement Food Safety Training

• Educate employees on basic hygiene, food handling, and storage temperatures.
• Encourage handwashing before and after handling food.

Regularly Clean Shared Appliances

• Wipe down fridges, microwaves, and coffee machines daily.
• Discard expired food regularly and post fridge-cleanout dates.

Invest in Storage and Temperature Control

• Use thermometers in breakroom fridges.
• Post signs about safe food storage practices.

Post Visual Hygiene Reminders

• Simple posters reminding employees to clean hands and shared areas can significantly reduce contamination risk.

By prioritizing food safety—even outside the kitchen—businesses can avoid unnecessary health risks, protect their teams, and steer clear of the massive costs linked to foodborne illness outbreaks.

Stat 4: Occupational Exposure Limits (OELs)

Occupational Exposure Limits (OELs) are legal or recommended limits that define the maximum amount of a hazardous substance workers can be exposed to in the workplace.

These thresholds are set to protect employees from the harmful effects of chemical, biological, or physical agents encountered during their work.

In Canada, organizations like the Canadian Centre for Occupational Health and Safety (CCOHS) and provincial authorities such as WorkSafeBC establish or adopt these limits to reduce both short- and long-term health risks.

Types of OELs and What They Mean

There are several types of OELs depending on the nature and duration of exposure:

Time-Weighted Average (TWA)

• Represents the average exposure over a typical 8-hour workday or 40-hour workweek.
• Used for substances with effects that occur after long-term exposure.
• Example: Exposure to low levels of silica dust daily over years can lead to chronic lung disease.

Short-Term Exposure Limit (STEL)

• A 15-minute exposure limit that should not be exceeded more than four times a day.
• Designed for chemicals that have immediate or short-term effects.
• Example: High levels of ammonia can cause eye and respiratory irritation quickly.

Ceiling Limit (C)

• The concentration that must not be exceeded at any time.
• Applies to very dangerous substances with immediate harmful effects.
• Example: Hydrogen sulphide has a ceiling limit due to its risk of sudden toxicity.

Why OELs Matter

OELs are crucial in:

• Preventing acute health effects such as dizziness, nausea, or chemical burns.
• Reducing long-term exposure risks like cancer, reproductive issues, and respiratory diseases.
• Creating a framework for risk assessments and industrial hygiene plans.
• Meeting regulatory compliance, helping businesses avoid fines or lawsuits.

Practical Measures for Employers

• Air Monitoring: Regularly measure airborne substances in workplaces using approved sampling methods.
• Ventilation Systems: Ensure adequate airflow in areas with potential exposure.
• PPE Enforcement: Provide proper personal protective equipment such as respirators and ensure usage compliance.
• Training and Education: Teach workers how to read Safety Data Sheets (SDS) and understand exposure risks.

By understanding and applying OELs, businesses can better protect their workers and reduce the chance of occupational illnesses, creating a safer and more productive environment.

Stat 5: Deadly Impact of Occupational Airborne Diseases

Occupational airborne diseases are a major concern in Canada, especially due to their delayed symptoms and deadly consequences. 

These illnesses result from breathing in harmful particles like asbestos, silica dust, welding fumes, and diesel exhaust over a long period—often unnoticed until it's too late.

According to the Association of Workers’ Compensation Boards of Canada, in 2017, occupational diseases accounted for 64% of all accepted workplace-related deaths, with most linked to long-term airborne exposures. 

This stat highlights how severe and common these invisible risks really are.

Common Occupational Airborne Diseases

These diseases usually develop after years of low-level exposure and are often diagnosed late:

Mesothelioma

• Caused by asbestos exposure.
• Often takes 20–50 years to show symptoms.
• Extremely aggressive and often fatal.

Asbestosis

• A chronic lung condition also caused by asbestos.
• Leads to scarring in lung tissue and breathing problems.

Lung Cancer

• Occupational exposure to asbestos, silica, or radon increases risk significantly.

Silicosis

• Caused by inhaling crystalline silica dust in construction, mining, and manufacturing.
• Leads to lung inflammation and scarring.

Industries at Highest Risk

• Construction and demolition
• Shipbuilding and repair
• Manufacturing
• Mining and tunneling
• Automotive repair (brake and clutch work)

Challenges in Diagnosis and Prevention

• Long latency period: These diseases may not show symptoms until decades after exposure.
• Lack of early screening: Many workplaces do not routinely test for respiratory health.
• Underreporting: Symptoms are often mistaken for age-related illness or smoking effects.

Preventive Steps for Employers

Workplace Controls

• Use water sprays or dust suppressants during cutting, grinding, or sanding.
• Install local exhaust ventilation systems.

Regular Medical Surveillance

• Conduct baseline and periodic lung function tests for workers in high-risk roles.

PPE and Fit Testing

• Supply approved respirators and ensure proper fit and training.

Education and Awareness

• Train employees to recognize early symptoms and report them.
• Display posters or digital boards showing long-term effects of exposure.

Occupational airborne diseases are preventable. But they require long-term commitment, proper monitoring, and a proactive approach from employers. 

With such a high percentage of worker deaths tied to these diseases, businesses cannot afford to ignore the risks.

Stat 6: Dirty Office Desks Harbor Germs

Most people don’t realize that their office desk may be one of the dirtiest places they encounter all day. 

In fact, studies have shown that the average desk can contain more than 10 million bacteria—making it 400 times dirtier than a toilet seat. That’s because desks are touched constantly throughout the day, but rarely cleaned properly.

What Causes Such High Bacteria Levels?

Office desks become bacterial hotspots due to:

Frequent Touch Points

• Keyboards, computer mice, and phones are used daily and rarely disinfected.
• Coffee mugs, pens, notepads, and mobile devices also collect germs.

Poor Cleaning Routines

• Most offices focus on floor cleaning and waste removal, not personal desks.
• Employees often eat at their desks, leaving behind crumbs and spills that invite germs.

Shared Equipment

• Items like shared printers, phones, and desk chairs increase the spread of bacteria across workstations.

Health Risks of Poor Desk Hygiene

A dirty desk isn’t just gross—it can lead to:

• Common colds and flu: Germs linger on surfaces and spread through touch.
• Gastrointestinal illnesses: Bacteria like E. coli and salmonella can live on contaminated surfaces for hours.
• Skin irritations and eye infections: Often caused by transferring germs from hands to face.

How to Improve Desk Hygiene

Daily Disinfection Practices

• Use disinfectant wipes on keyboards, mouse devices, and desktops.
• Clean phone receivers and headset surfaces regularly.

Provide Cleaning Supplies

• Stock office areas with alcohol-based wipes and hand sanitizers.
• Encourage employees to clean their personal space at the start or end of each day.

Create a Clean Desk Policy

• Limit clutter to make cleaning easier.
• Promote end-of-day wipe-downs before leaving.

Educate Employees

• Include hygiene in onboarding materials and internal newsletters.
• Post visual reminders about handwashing and sanitizing surfaces.

When desks are kept clean, workplaces not only reduce sick days—they also improve overall wellness and professionalism in the office.

Stat 7: Impact of Clean Workspaces on Employee Productivity

A tidy and hygienic workplace does more than keep things looking good—it directly influences how people feel and perform. 

A recent survey found that 94% of workers feel more productive in a clean workspace, while 77% said they produce higher-quality work when their environment is clean and organized.

These stats prove that cleanliness isn't just about aesthetics—it affects focus, energy, and job satisfaction.

Why Cleanliness Improves Work Performance

• Reduced Distractions: A clutter-free environment helps employees concentrate better. Workers waste less time looking for things or navigating messy desks.
• Lower Stress Levels: Clean spaces promote calmness and mental clarity. Employees feel more in control and less overwhelmed.
• Boosted Morale and Motivation: When workplaces are clean, it signals that employers care about the environment. This small but powerful detail can improve employee loyalty and engagement.
• Fewer Sick Days: Clean environments mean fewer germs and less illness-related absenteeism. Employees feel safer, especially in shared or open-plan offices.

Practical Steps for Businesses

• Invest in Professional Cleaning Services: Schedule regular deep cleaning, especially for carpets, windows, and HVAC systems.
• Provide Organization Tools: Offer desk organizers, cable management, and shelving to reduce clutter.
• Encourage Clean Habits: Launch "clean desk challenges" or monthly awards for tidy workspaces. Make it easy for employees to access cleaning products.
• Design for Cleanliness: Use easy-to-clean furniture and flooring. Ensure proper lighting and ventilation to keep spaces fresh and inviting.

The Business Payoff

Clean workspaces don’t just benefit workers—they help employers too:

• Improved output and work quality
• Reduced employee turnover due to better morale
• Enhanced company image during client visits or inspections

When companies treat cleanliness as a strategic investment rather than an afterthought, they unlock better results, healthier teams, and a more energized workplace culture.

Stat 8: Rapid Spread of Germs in High-Traffic Spaces

You might not think a single contaminated doorknob or tabletop could lead to a widespread outbreak, but research shows otherwise. 

A widely cited study by the University of Arizona found that a virus placed on a single doorknob or tabletop in a building could spread to 40%–60% of people and surfaces in just 2 to 4 hours. 

This alarming speed of transmission was noted in diverse settings like offices, hotels, and healthcare facilities, where shared spaces are common.

Why High-Traffic Areas Are Risk Zones

The spread of germs in busy spaces happens because:

• Multiple people touch shared surfaces (e.g., door handles, elevator buttons, light switches).
• Viruses survive on surfaces for hours or even days, depending on the material and temperature.
• Cleaning often focuses on visible mess, not disinfection.

Common High-Touch Surfaces at Risk

• Door handles and knobs
• Elevator buttons and stair railings
• Light switches
• Reception counters and desks
• Shared phones and office equipment
• Washroom faucets and flush levers

Implications for Businesses and Health

This rapid transmission poses serious health risks:

• Employees and customers can quickly become infected and spread illness further.
• Outbreaks in healthcare settings can be life-threatening.
• Frequent absenteeism due to colds, flu, or stomach bugs.
• Higher healthcare costs and reduced trust in the safety of the business environment.

How to Prevent the Spread

• Frequent Cleaning Protocols: Increase the frequency of disinfection during the day, especially for shared surfaces. Use EPA-approved disinfectants that kill viruses and bacteria.
• Touchless Technologies: Install motion-sensor faucets, soap dispensers, and automatic doors.
• Educate and Remind: Post reminders for employees and visitors to sanitize hands before and after touching shared surfaces.

It only takes one contaminated surface to impact the entire building—frequent cleaning in high-traffic spaces is essential.

Stat 9: Regular Cleaning in Reducing Workplace Illnesses

While it may seem like just another item on the janitorial checklist, regular cleaning can reduce workplace illness by up to 80%, according to multiple workplace hygiene studies. 

The link between surface cleanliness and health is stronger than most employers realize.

How Illnesses Spread in Offices

• Viruses and bacteria linger on surfaces like desks, phones, and shared kitchens for hours or days.
• Employees touch their face 16–23 times per hour, increasing the chances of infection.
• Pathogens like cold, flu, and stomach viruses spread quickly via surfaces if not cleaned.

Real Impact: Stats and Outcomes

• At a Fortune 1000 company, consistent access to alcohol-based hand sanitizers reduced absenteeism by 13.4%.
• The same program cut healthcare claims by 24%, showing a measurable ROI for workplace cleanliness.

What Should Be Cleaned, and How Often?

Daily Disinfection Areas

• Workstations, phones, and desk surfaces
• Door handles, light switches, and shared remotes
• Breakroom tables and fridge handles

Weekly or Bi-Weekly Deep Cleaning

• Carpets and flooring
• Window sills, HVAC vents
• Upholstered furniture and chairs

Other Hygiene Support

• Install hand sanitizer stations near entry points and elevators.
• Encourage employees to clean keyboards and desks at the end of each day.
• Schedule cleaning crews for mid-day rounds in high-traffic offices.

Business Benefits

• Lower absenteeism = fewer disruptions in productivity.
• Healthier employees = higher morale and less stress.
• Cost savings from fewer health claims and temporary staff replacements.

By building cleanliness into the daily rhythm of work, companies can create healthier environments and see real financial returns.

Stat 10: Cleaner Office Can Boost Productivity

By 2025, it's estimated that 87% of companies will have formal employee wellness programs, and a growing number of these include hygiene and sanitation components. 

This shift shows that employers are realizing the strong connection between a clean workspace and worker performance.

What These Programs Include

Modern hygiene-focused wellness programs often feature:

Enhanced Cleaning Protocols

• Frequent sanitation of high-touch surfaces.
• Scheduled deep cleans of workspaces.

Access to Hygiene Tools

• Hand sanitizers at workstations and communal areas.
• Sanitizing wipes for shared equipment.

Education and Awareness

• Posters and workshops on proper hand hygiene.
• Regular communication about staying home when sick.

The Performance Payoff

Productivity Gains

• A clean space reduces distractions and promotes better focus.
• 77% of employees report doing higher-quality work in clean environments.

Fewer Sick Days

• Cleaner workspaces reduce the spread of contagious illness.
• Lower absenteeism helps teams stay on schedule and maintain consistency.

Mental and Emotional Benefits

• Clean offices reduce stress and create a sense of care.
• Employees feel more comfortable and supported by management.

Why Clean = Competitive

Companies that invest in hygiene as part of wellness programs enjoy:

• Higher employee retention
• Stronger performance during flu season
• A better reputation with clients and partners

Cleanliness is no longer just the janitor’s job—it’s a business strategy tied to health, performance, and long-term success.

How to Improve Workplace Hygiene

Improving workplace hygiene isn’t just about wiping down desks—it’s about building a culture of cleanliness, safety, and shared responsibility. A cleaner workplace protects employee health, reduces sick days, and boosts morale. 

Whether you manage a small office or a large facility, following the right hygiene practices can make a major difference in well-being and productivity.

Below are practical, proven strategies every Canadian business should follow to improve hygiene standards at work:

Establish Regular Cleaning Schedules

Routine cleaning is the foundation of workplace hygiene. Every area—especially shared spaces like kitchens, meeting rooms, and restrooms—should be cleaned and disinfected daily.

Key actions:

• Create a daily and weekly cleaning checklist for janitorial staff.
• Use approved disinfectants for high-touch surfaces like doorknobs, phones, and keyboards.
• Schedule deep cleaning for carpets, HVAC systems, and upholstery at least once a month.

Install Easily Accessible Hand Sanitizer Stations

Hand hygiene plays a critical role in stopping the spread of viruses. Providing hand sanitizer throughout the workplace encourages employees to clean their hands regularly—especially after touching shared surfaces.

Where to place sanitizers:

• Entrances and exits
• Meeting rooms and breakrooms
• Near elevators and shared equipment
• Individual workstations (optional but helpful)

Choose alcohol-based hand sanitizers with at least 60% alcohol for maximum effectiveness.

Ensure Clean and Well-Stocked Restrooms

Restroom hygiene affects employee satisfaction and health. If restrooms are dirty or lack soap and paper towels, employees may avoid them or skip handwashing altogether.

Best practices:

• Inspect restrooms several times daily.
• Ensure a constant supply of soap, toilet paper, and paper towels or working hand dryers.
• Install touchless fixtures like faucets and soap dispensers where possible.
• Use air fresheners and proper ventilation to keep spaces pleasant.

Provide Waste Disposal Solutions

Proper waste management reduces the risk of bacterial growth, odour, and pest problems.

Recommendations:

• Place covered garbage bins in all common areas, restrooms, and food prep zones.
• Empty trash daily—more frequently in high-traffic areas.
• Encourage recycling and composting with clearly labelled bins.
• Provide biohazard containers where needed, especially in health or lab environments.

Educate Employees on Hygiene Practices

Awareness is just as important as infrastructure. Staff should understand how their habits affect overall hygiene.

Ideas to promote awareness:

• Display posters about handwashing, desk cleanliness, and respiratory hygiene.
• Include hygiene reminders in internal emails and team meetings.
• Provide mini training sessions on how to maintain personal and shared space cleanliness.
• Encourage employees to stay home when sick and report sanitation issues.

Conduct Hygiene Awareness Campaigns

Regular awareness campaigns remind employees why hygiene matters and keep it top of mind.

What to include:

• Weekly hygiene tips shared via email or Slack
• Monthly “Clean Workspace” challenges with small rewards
• Guest speakers or safety officers providing brief health talks
• Annual health and hygiene week with giveaways and learning sessions

Implement Bloodborne Pathogen Training

For workplaces where there’s a risk of exposure to blood or bodily fluids (e.g., healthcare, janitorial, first aid), Bloodborne Pathogen Training is essential.

Why it matters:

• Teaches employees how to handle sharps and contaminated materials safely.
• Covers PPE use, decontamination, and incident response procedures.
• Helps meet occupational health regulations and prevent bloodborne pathogen exposure in the workplace.

Ensure WHMIS Training is Provided

In workplaces where chemicals are handled, Workplace Hazardous Materials Information System (WHMIS) training is a legal requirement in Canada.

How WHMIS supports hygiene:

• Educates workers on hygiene protocols when using or disposing of hazardous substances.
• Emphasizes the importance of handwashing after chemical use.
• Helps employees identify proper protective gear and understand label warnings and safety data sheets.

Make Hygiene Everyone’s Responsibility

When workplace hygiene is a shared value—not just the job of cleaning staff—it becomes easier to maintain a clean, healthy, and safe environment. Encourage accountability and make sure everyone understands their role in keeping the workspace clean.

The Impact of Hygiene on Business Performance

Workplace hygiene doesn’t just protect health—it drives business performance. A clean, well-maintained environment boosts employee morale, reduces sick days, and enhances focus.

When employees feel safe and comfortable, they’re more likely to stay engaged and do their best work. These benefits all contribute directly to the company’s bottom line.

How Hygiene Drives Business Results

Here are the common ways hygiene drives business results: 

Improves Employee Morale

• A tidy, fresh-smelling workplace sends a message that employees are valued.
• Clean breakrooms and restrooms show respect for workers' comfort and dignity.
• When employees don’t have to worry about cleanliness, they’re more relaxed and motivated.

Reduces Absenteeism

• Regular disinfection of surfaces and shared spaces reduces the spread of viruses and bacteria.
• As discussed earlier, proper hand hygiene alone can cut absenteeism by over 13%.
• Fewer sick days mean more consistent staffing and better workflow continuity.

Enhances Productivity

• Clean, clutter-free workspaces reduce distractions and improve focus.
• Workers in clean environments report producing higher-quality work and feeling more energetic throughout the day.
• Less stress over hygiene concerns leads to fewer interruptions and mental fatigue.

Real-World Examples

Google

Google’s campuses are known for their strong emphasis on cleanliness and employee wellness.

Hygiene is part of their workplace culture, contributing to consistently high employee satisfaction and productivity levels.

Kimberly-Clark

Kimberly-Clark, a company specializing in hygiene products, implemented a global hygiene program across offices and manufacturing sites.

As a result, they observed improved worker health, fewer disruptions, and a noticeable boost in employee morale.

Canadian Hospital Networks

Several Canadian hospitals introduced enhanced hand hygiene and surface cleaning programs.

According to Infection Prevention and Control Canada, these measures reduced hospital-acquired infections significantly—demonstrating how hygiene practices can protect both staff and patients.

Business Benefits Beyond Health

• Lower turnover rates: A cleaner environment encourages employees to stay.
• Stronger reputation: Clients and visitors judge companies on their physical space—cleanliness builds trust.
• Higher operational efficiency: Fewer disruptions due to illness or complaints lead to smoother daily operations.

Workplace hygiene is more than a maintenance task—it’s a smart business investment. Companies that prioritize cleanliness are more likely to enjoy healthier teams, better performance, and long-term success.

Conclusion

Workplace hygiene is no longer just a matter of appearance—it’s a critical factor in employee health, morale, and business performance. 

The workplace hygiene stats shared throughout this blog paint a clear picture: poor hygiene can lead to widespread illness, discomfort, and lost productivity, while clean and well-maintained environments support happier, healthier, and more focused employees.

We’ve seen how something as simple as hand hygiene can reduce absenteeism, how dirty desks and restrooms negatively affect well-being, and how airborne diseases and chemical exposure pose long-term risks. 

On the other hand, companies that invest in cleanliness—through regular cleaning, hygiene training, and accessible sanitation supplies—report lower sick days, stronger engagement, and higher-quality work. 

In fact, 94% of workers say they feel more productive in a clean workspace, and organizations that prioritize hygiene often outperform those that don’t.

Improving workplace hygiene doesn’t have to be complicated. Small changes like installing sanitizer stations, cleaning shared surfaces more often, and offering WHMIS and bloodborne pathogen training can go a long way.

Now is the time for businesses to act. A healthier work environment isn’t just good for your staff—it’s good for business. Prioritizing hygiene today lays the foundation for a safer, more resilient workplace tomorrow.