Most employees know that eating on their desks is not a good idea. Most employers forbid it. However, despite companies frowning on said activity, many still cannot resist eating on their desks. Whether it is a simple snack, coffee, or a hearty lunch, employees still eat in front of their computer screens. It makes cleaning office desks more difficult and challenging.
Employees eat on their desks because they sometimes feel that they are too busy throughout the workday. They can only catch up and reply to some emails during break time.
Some eat on their office desks to work some extra time to meet a deadline. They feel like working over lunch is the only way.
Some just feel so exhausted that getting up and going to the pantry feels like a chore.
Whatever the reason may be, it does not change the fact that eating on your office desk is unhealthy and unsanitary.
Why You Should Stop Eating on your Desk
· It is not suitable for your health.
Eating lunch on your office desk means you are seated longer. Sitting all day is not good for anyone’s health. Sitting for long hours can increase risks of high blood pressure, high cholesterol levels, and diabetes. It puts you at risk of other diseases as well.
· It is not good for your back.
Sitting all day can put a strain on your back muscles and spine. It is even worse if you slouch when you sit. It is ideal if you are using an ergonomic chair that gives your back the support it needs. However, your back will still feel the toll of long sitting periods. Get up and have that coffee break in the pantry. It is beneficial for your back muscles and sanity.
· It decreases productivity.
You might believe that you are more productive when you do work over lunch or coffee. However, you are not as effective as you might think when you are multitasking. Quality work needs your undivided time and focus. You cannot be as efficient if you are savoring that tasty chicken sandwich you are having.
· It adds to your stress.
Work is stressful, but your food should not be. It is for enjoyment and savoring. Eating on your office desk does not give you time to recharge your batteries. It can lead to work burnout and fatigue. Taking a break from work can help increase your creativity, efficiency, and productivity. Take your lunch outside and help your mind relax for a while.
· You expose your desk to germs.
Did you know that an average office desk has 400 times more germs than a toilet seat? It puts two-thirds of office workers at risk of illnesses. The average office desk has 20,961 germs per square inch. On top of that, there the germs on your office phone, computer mouse, and computer keyboard as well.
Eating on office desks can leave behind crumbs and spills. Crumbs can get stuck in computer keyboards where they can become breeding grounds for germs and bacteria.
Importance of Clean Office Desks
Cleaning office desks is as important as cleaning the office lobby, restroom, and pantry. It is where the most critical assets of the company stay most of the time.
Here are the reasons why cleaning office desks should be taken very seriously by every employer.
· It protects the health of the employees.
Employees stay at their office desks for most of the time. If office desks are left unclean and dirty, employees will be exposed to thousands of germs and bacteria, which can cause illnesses.
· It increases employee efficiency.
A clean and neat office desk creates a pleasant atmosphere for work. Employees will most likely get more done with a clean and well-organized office desk. Employees will also not be exposed to office desk germs and bacteria, reducing the likelihood of absences.
· It is courtesy to your clients and co-workers.
Clean and sanitized office desks speak about the company’s image and what it values. It shows that the company values the health and welfare of its employees. It is also an act of courtesy to the company clients. You don’t want to entertain a client in front of a messy and dirty office desk.
Cleaning office desks is not just the employer’s responsibility. It is the responsibility and accountability of everyone. Employees should also be oriented with ways to help keep their desks clean and healthy.
Call Prestige Property Service for Your Office Cleaning Needs!
Are you looking for a reliable commercial cleaning service in Orange County, San Bernardino, and Los Angeles areas? Then call Prestige Property Services now. We can help you keep your office sparkling clean and safe from viruses and illnesses.
Cleaning office desks in offices with a large population can be daunting. Our cleaning professionals are equipped with the tools and experience to take on your office cleaning needs. Call us now for a free quote.
