Housekeeping in an office environment means more than just dusting off the desk area or running a mop across the floor. Regular housekeeping in workplace ensures a safe & hygienic work environment that can go a long way on making sure employees are safe and injuries are infrequent. In addition, a workplace that is clean and well organised makes a great first impression on the visitors. Every workplace safety program should have a place for housekeeping and should get help from employees and a commitment from management.

Prevents Trips, Falls, and Slips
Work areas should be kept clear of clutter. They should be clean and sanitary—that includes areas like storage rooms and service areas. Floors should always be kept clean and dry. Wherever the water is used, there should be adequate drainage. Materials like grease and oil should be cleaned up from common areas as soon as possible, using systematic cleaning technique and methods. Floor coverings like mats should be used in dry areas, and floors should be kept clear of nails, holes, loose boards, or splinters.

Gets Rid of Fire Hazards
Professional housekeeping service provider use materials that are combustible from accumulating in the work environment. It is imperative for the housekeeping company providing services to make sure that all the combustible items are in metal receptacles and removed from the premises at the end of each day.

Controls Dust
If the dust covers more than five percent of a workroom surface, it may create an explosion hazard. A workplace that creates dust, a woodworking shop, for instance, should be tested by an industrial hygienist for air quality. Housekeeping in these areas should be recurrent and certainly include frequent vacuuming with an industrial vacuum or wash the area down thoroughly with water.

Clutter-Free Areas
Cluttered workplaces may lead to injuries since employees have space limitations. It is also more difficult to set up workstations in cluttered spaces, and injuries could occur from more twisting of the body, rather than moving around entirely. If employees return machines or equipment after use, clutter is less likely to happen. Disposing of items and materials that are no longer being used is also helpful. Emergency exits, aisles, and stairwells should also be kept clear of items. Trash cans should be emptied when full and not when they’re overflowing.

Write the Rules down
Proper housekeeping policies should be written down and accessible to all employees. Having them written makes them more formal. The document should make mention of specific cleaners, methods, and tools to be used in various areas.

Source: http://www.sunrise-cleaning.com