Health in cleaning work

1. Working alone is the norm

Cleaners are usually on duty at off-peak times so that they don't get in the way of other people. As a result, they spend their everyday work in isolation, they lack human interaction, and they are left to their own devices when they have problems. Working hours between 8 a.m. and 6 p.m., on the other hand, promote social interaction.

2. Age as a health factor

The average age of cleaning workers is 45 years. This makes the industry significantly older than other service industries. The majority of cleaners do not believe that they will be able to practice the profession until retirement age. Daytime working hours would bring more younger employees into the industry.

3.    Mental stress

Sick leave due to mental illness has increased in recent years. For cleaners, this is mainly due to high time pressure. Working together with the beneficiaries of the cleaning work creates conversations, which alleviates mental stress.

4.    Cleaning is hard work

Swinging the broom, hauling buckets, pulling off windows - all of this puts a one-sided strain on the body. In addition, cleaning work is usually done standing up. This often leads to overuse of the musculoskeletal system in employees. More visibility of these physical exertions would set change processes in motion.

5.    "Charming" working conditions

What serves cleanliness is not necessarily good for health. Cleaning agents and disinfectants are sometimes toxic, irritating or harmful to the eyes. Some substances are considered carcinogenic. If cleaning happens during the day, other employees will also become more aware of these risk factors.