When we think of 'housekeeping' we tend to think of the common phrase: "A place for everything and
everything in its place." But housekeeping means more than this. Good housekeeping means having no
unnecessary items about and keeping all necessary items in their proper places.
Importance of housekeeping
Think about what could happen if a bunch of oily rags suddenly caught fire one night, or if, in an
emergency, employees couldn't get out of the work area safely because aisles were cluttered. Imagine
those same employees unable to get out altogether because of a blocked exit.
Experience has shown that good housekeeping is an essential part of your company's health and safety
program.
Benefits of good housekeeping
Good housekeeping at work benefits both employers and employees alike. Good housekeeping can:
Eliminate clutter which is a common cause of accidents, such as slips, trips, and falls, and fires
and explosions
Reduce the chances of harmful materials entering the body (e.g., dusts, vapours)
Improve productivity (the right tools and materials for the job will be easy to find)
Improve your company's image (good housekeeping reflects a well-run business. An orderly
workplace will impress all who enter it – employees, visitors, customers, etc.)
Help your company to keep its inventory to a minimum (good housekeeping makes it easier to keep
an accurate count of inventories)
Help your company to make the best use of its space
Make the workplace neat, comfortable and pleasant – not a dangerous eyesore
Signs of poor housekeeping
There are many signs of poor housekeeping. You may recognize some of these in your own workplace:
Cluttered and poorly arranged work areas
Untidy or dangerous storage of materials (e.g., materials stuffed in corners, overcrowded shelves, etc.)
Dusty, dirty floors and work surfaces
GOOD HOUSEKEEPING AT WORK
WSPS.CA
