FM newsroom – facility cleaning, employee well-being. In the cleaning sector, the health and well-being of workers are directly linked to the success and sustainability of businesses. A recent research, part of the international ErgoClean project, highlights how conscious cleaning and ergonomics can make a real difference in the lives of cleaning professionals.
The People Behind the Clean: Why Ergonomics Matter
In today’s world, sustainability and responsible business practices are often discussed in terms of Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) principles. Yet, one of the most vital aspects of sustainability in the cleaning services industry is often overlooked: the well-being of its workforce.
Cleaning professionals are the greatest resource of any cleaning company. However, the sector faces a significant challenge in Europe and beyond—an ageing working population. Numerous studies show that the average physical capacity of cleaning workers is relatively low, increasing their risk of work-related injuries and illnesses, the European Cleaning Journal claims.
Physical and Mental Well-being Go Hand in Hand
While physical health is crucial for cleaners to avoid overburdening themselves, mental health is just as important. Cleaning is often a customer-facing role, requiring interaction and dealing with pressures that can lead to stress. Research indicates that mental strain among cleaning workers increases year by year.
Musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs)—such as neck, back, and wrist problems—are the most common ailments experienced by cleaners. According to the European Agency (2020), these health issues are caused by a variety of physical risk factors inherent to cleaning tasks.
Alarming Statistics Highlight the Need for Change
An international survey conducted as part of the ErgoClean project shed light on the severity of the situation. Of the 267 cleaners surveyed across four countries, an overwhelming 93 percent reported experiencing pain in some part of their body. As workers age, these ailments tend to increase, often leading to more sick days and reduced quality of life.
This growing issue makes it clear: adopting ergonomic practices in cleaning isn’t optional—it’s essential.
Shared Responsibility for Healthier Workplaces
Ensuring healthy, ergonomic working conditions is a joint responsibility. Companies must create and maintain a safe working environment through education and continuous training. At the same time, cleaning staff must apply ergonomic principles in their daily routines to protect their health and well-being.
ErgoClean: Practical Solutions for Cleaner Health
As part of the international Erasmus+ ErgoClean project, a comprehensive set of tools has been developed to support cleaning companies and their staff. This includes 20 training videos, illustrated guides, and detailed training principles—all designed to teach ergonomic cleaning practices in an accessible, practical way.
These resources are grounded in thorough research and field experiments. By integrating them into daily routines, companies can positively impact their workers’ health.
These materials are freely available on the ErgoClean project website, making it easy for any company to get started on the path toward healthier, more responsible cleaning practices.
