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Cleaning as a workplace foundation
18th of March 2026 Article by John Griep
John Griep at VSR in the Netherlands discusses the role of cleaning in workplace health and hygiene.
“Cleaning is not a luxury, but a necessity.” That message formed the core of a Hygiene Forum session organised by NVZ, Schoonmakend Nederland and Vereniging Schoonmaak Research (VSR) – where experts explored the role of cleaning in workplace health and hygiene. The discussion reflected a broader shift: professional cleaning is increasingly recognised as a preventive measure directly supporting health, safety and productivity at work.
Beyond appearance
Professional cleaning is often still associated with visual cleanliness alone. Yet its true value lies in prevention. Occupational hygiene research shows regular and targeted cleaning reduces exposure to micro-organisms, allergens and contaminants that contribute to illness and absenteeism.
This is particularly relevant in workplaces, where high-touch surfaces, sanitary areas, kitchens and ventilation systems can act as transmission points for bacteria and viruses. Scientific evidence supports this preventive role. A randomised controlled trial published in the Journal of Occupational and Environmental Medicine found that a combined intervention of hand hygiene and surface disinfection resulted in a 50 per cent reduction in sickness absence.This demonstrates cleaning interventions are not only operational measures, but effective tools for improving workforce health.
Cleaning also influences behaviour. Clean environments tend to encourage more hygienic conduct, reduce unsafe situations such as slips or exposure to substances and contribute to a sense of safety and wellbeing.
Invisible workplace risks
Workplaces host an invisible ecosystem of bacteria, viruses, moulds and allergens that can survive on surfaces for hours or even days. Everyday objects such as desks, keyboards, door handles and shared equipment become key transmission points through direct contact, contaminated surfaces or aerosols from coughing and sneezing. These exposure routes are closely linked to common work-related complaints such as colds, flu, gastrointestinal illness and allergic reactions - many of which could be reduced through systematic cleaning measures.
The impact of cleaning becomes particularly visible when linked to sickness absence. Across Europe, short-term absenteeism related to infections, respiratory complaints and gastrointestinal illness remains a significant challenge for employers. These conditions are closely associated with workplace exposure to contaminated surfaces, shared facilities and indoor air quality.
As highlighted by the evidence, preventive cleaning is not merely a supportive service, but a direct contributor to workforce health and organisational continuity.
From an economic perspective, even modest reductions in absenteeism translate into substantial cost savings. Fewer sick days mean lower replacement costs, less disruption and higher productivity. Preventive cleaning therefore represents one of the most cost-effective investments organisations can make in employee wellbeing.
The overall conclusion is clear: professional cleaning is a key pillar of healthy workplaces. When applied systematically - with the right frequency, appropriate products, trained staff and clear protocols - cleaning becomes powerful prevention.
As emphasised during the Hygiene Forum session, cleaning should no longer be seen as a secondary support function. It is a strategic choice that protects people, supports performance and strengthens organisational resilience. In a working world increasingly focused on health, safety and wellbeing, cleaning is not an operational detail; it is a fundamental condition for sustainable productivity.
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