In a recent interview, Alicia Morgan, ISSA Oceania’s Membership Coordinator, highlighted the growing importance of commercial cleaning as a strategic asset for business performance and organisational sustainability. It’s no longer just an operational requirement—cleaning practices now directly impact profitability, workforce well-being, and environmental goals.
Commercial Cleaning and Business Profitability
A key insight from Morgan’s discussion was the undeniable link between cleaning practices and cost efficiency. She illustrated how proactive cleanliness and commercial kitchen cleaning protocols can significantly lower costs associated with workplace injuries and illnesses.
“More than half a million Australians experience a work-related injury or illness annually, costing an estimated AUD $6.21 billion,” Morgan noted.
Investing in advanced commercial cleaning technologies, such as waste digestion systems and odour reduction solutions, not only prevents these costly disruptions but also enhances employee productivity and reduces absenteeism. In sectors like commercial kitchen cleaning, where hygiene is critical, these investments ensure regulatory compliance while creating a safer, more efficient workspace.
Employee Well-Being and Productivity
Beyond cost savings, maintaining a clean and healthy environment directly affects workforce morale and resilience. Poor air quality, inadequate hygiene, and cluttered spaces contribute to presenteeism, stress, and mental health issues. Morgan pointed to UK data revealing that such challenges account for 46% of total workplace costs, amounting to nearly £24 billion ($48 billion).
For Australian businesses, this highlights the importance of effective commercial cleaning protocols, particularly in high-traffic environments like commercial kitchens. Cleaner spaces foster greater productivity, reduce the spread of germs, and ensure employees feel valued and protected.
“Maintaining a clean environment helps businesses get staff back into the office, prevents the spread of germs, and enhances productivity,” Morgan explained.
Sustainability and ESG Reporting in Australia
Morgan also underscored the role of commercial cleaning in achieving Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) goals. For Australian businesses focused on ESG reporting, sustainable cleaning practices offer significant opportunities to align operational activities with environmental and social objectives.
Key aspects of sustainable cleaning that support ESG reporting in Australia include:
- Eliminating Single-Use Plastics: Reducing waste generated by cleaning processes.
- Eco-Friendly Chemicals: Minimizing dependency on harmful cleaning agents.
- Resource Management: Improving efficiency in energy, waste, and water use.
- Workplace Inclusivity: Enhancing employee well-being and creating equitable environments.
Implementing sustainable cleaning practices not only reduces the environmental footprint of a business but also strengthens its governance framework, fostering transparency and accountability in ESG reporting.
Why Sustainable Cleaning Practices Matter
In today’s business climate, where health, environmental concerns, and efficiency are front and center, investing in commercial cleaning is more than a necessity—it’s a critical enabler of success. By embracing commercial kitchen cleaning practices, businesses can reduce illness, improve profitability, and build healthier work environments.
From fostering workforce productivity to supporting ESG reporting in Australia, the message is clear: maintaining clean, safe, and sustainable spaces is no longer just about aesthetics—it’s about delivering measurable value across all aspects of the business.
By prioritizing cleanliness and sustainability, businesses can align operational excellence with broader environmental and social goals, ensuring long-term success in a competitive marketplace.