In the workplace wherein busy bodies seem to be always preoccupied and distracted whenever they do tasks – meaning messy surroundings is actually a common thing. From a fallen paper clip holder to a nasty coffee stain that has been there for days, it’s almost startling how some employees keep it up without batting an eye from the mess.

But how can this be avoided? Cleanliness is not impossible – it just needs discipline in order to accomplish it without fail. The best way to begin a productive day is to implement a cleaning schedule and eventually develop it into a habit. Not only does it helps maintain the office’s cleanliness, it also promotes good habits as well as memory benefits.

How to implement proper sanitation rules? Here are a few tips:

• Putting up signages – not only does this help your employees remember the things they need to do, but it also helps them how to do things properly. The more they follow the signs and instructions posted on the wall, the more it will be embedded in their heads – meaning there will be a higher chance it will turn into a habit.
• Lead the new lifestyle – while you may be the new boss or a manager, it’s important to show your subordinates that you do in fact care about the cleanliness and you are leading through example. It also helps when you build a specific schedule yourself that you can openly share with your subordinates so they can follow it as well. As they say, practice what you preach.
• Be strict about it – how can you put up a new rule if you don’t strictly implement it? It might be as common as washing the dishes after using or throw the trash properly, but if it’s not strictly implemented, there’s a big chance wherein they might ignore it and continue living like how they’re used to it. Inspections is also a good thing, meaning it will actually urge employees to keep their stations and shared spaces clean for everyone.
• Post about benefits and hazards – it actually works – this gives them an idea what will happen and what bad side effects they will suffer if they continue to go about their messy ways. It can be as simple as injuries and productivity issues, then slowly go to the extremes if they keep it up – sickness and such that will make them rethink their ways. It’s considered scaring them but it’s actually an effective tactic for them to take the new sanitation rules seriously.
• Give rewards – actually, the reward system is an effective tool for employees to take this rule seriously. If it’s a reward that would benefit them, they will do their best to accomplish their goals and make sure they can keep up. It’s a good and fun way to entice your employees to take sanitation seriously and implementing it without hassle.