Hand Hygiene in the Workplace — Beyond the Basics

Hand hygiene is one of the simplest, lowest-cost interventions a workplace can make — and one that's easy to under-invest in once initial setup is done.

Placement matters more than product. A hygiene station tucked away in a rarely-visited corner gets used far less than one placed at natural touchpoints — entrances, canteens, near shared equipment.

Not all sanitiser is equal. Alcohol content, skin compatibility, and dispenser type all affect both effectiveness and actual usage rates — a harsh product that irritates skin gets avoided, regardless of how effective it is on paper.

Consider the full hygiene chain, not just sanitiser. Hand hygiene provision typically includes soap, water access, drying (paper towels or dryers), and sanitiser as a supplement — not a replacement for proper handwashing facilities.

Facilities-specific considerations. Food service, healthcare-adjacent, and hospitality environments often have stricter hygiene requirements than general office settings — worth reviewing what's appropriate for your specific sector rather than applying a generic standard.

The business case. Reduced illness-related absence is a genuine, measurable outcome of good workplace hygiene provision — not just a compliance nicety.

Explore our Hygiene Supplies range for hand sanitisers, dispensers, and washroom products suited to a range of facility types.