Is Your Business Making People Sick? The Hidden Costs of a Dirty Workplace

Clean desks, sparkling floors, fresh air—these aren't just for show. They directly impact how your employees feel, perform, and even how often they call in sick. If your office isn’t cleaned regularly and thoroughly, it could be making people sick—and quietly draining your profits.

‍

Can an Office Really Make You Sick?

Yes. The term Sick Building Syndrome (SBS) refers to a situation where occupants of a building experience acute health or comfort effects that seem to be linked to time spent in the building—but no specific illness or cause can be identified.

According to the EPA, causes may include poor ventilation, chemical contaminants (like cleaning agents or office equipment), biological contaminants (mold, bacteria), and more.

• The World Health Organization estimates that up to 30% of new and remodeled buildings may trigger symptoms of SBS.
• Common symptoms include headaches, eye/nose irritation, fatigue, and difficulty concentrating.

It’s not just a health problem. It’s a productivity crisis.

‍

How Office Cleanliness Affects Productivity

When employees work in cluttered, dusty, or poorly ventilated spaces, productivity suffers.

A study from the Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health found that better indoor environments led to 61% higher cognitive function scores.

In short: clean air = sharper minds.

A messy or unhygienic office may also impact morale. Employees take note when their environment feels neglected. Over time, that discontent shows up in higher turnover rates and reduced job satisfaction.

‍

What Germs Are Hiding in Your Office Right Now?

Most offices are a breeding ground for bacteria. Here’s where germs often gather:

• Keyboards & Mice – Often dirtier than toilet seats
• Doorknobs & Elevator Buttons – Touched by dozens daily
• Breakroom Surfaces & Microwaves – Shared, rarely disinfected
• Bathroom Faucets & Stall Doors – High-risk, especially if not cleaned daily

Even your HVAC system may be circulating mold, dust, or pollen.

Fun Fact: The average office desk has 400 times more bacteria than a toilet seat. (Source: University of Arizona study)

‍

5 Red Flags Your Office Cleaning Isn’t Working

1. Persistent Odors – Especially near restrooms or break areas
2. Visible Dust or Debris – On blinds, vents, behind monitors
3. High Rates of Sick Leave – Especially in fall/winter
4. Employee Complaints – About air quality, bathrooms, or smells
5. Grimy or Sticky Surfaces – Phones, desks, kitchen counters

If you’re seeing even two of these signs, it’s time to reconsider your cleaning strategy.

‍

What You Can Do Right Now

You don’t have to overhaul your entire cleaning system overnight. Start with these practical steps:

🧼 Daily Hygiene Checklist for Employees

• Wipe keyboards and mice
• Clean your desk before leaving
• Sanitize phone receivers and shared equipment

🗓️ Weekly Cleaning Priorities

• Mop and vacuum under desks and corners
• Wipe down all touchpoints
• Clean breakroom appliances and sink

🧽 Monthly or Seasonal Tasks

• Deep-clean carpets
• Disinfect air vents and duct covers
• Wash windows and blinds

Hiring professionals ensures consistency and proper technique—especially for deep cleans and specialized tasks like floor buffing or window washing.

‍

So, Is It Time to Audit Your Office Health?

If your workplace has high absenteeism, odd odors, or simply looks tired, cleaning might be the missing piece.

‍

At Five Stars Cleaning, We Specialize in Healthy Workspaces

We’re Salt Lake City’s trusted team for:

• Recurring office cleanings
• Deep seasonal sanitation
• Restroom & breakroom disinfection
• After-hours service to reduce disruption