Cleaning industry icon, Clayburn Figredo, warns poor cleaning is now one of the nation’s biggest risks to workplaces and brands

Businesses, retailers and employers across all industries who fail to properly clean and disinfect their workplaces are exposing themselves to serious and costly risks that extend far beyond surface appearance. Poor hygiene standards can lead to higher staff absenteeism, customer health complaints, reputational damage and even legal or regulatory action. In an era where cleanliness and safety are directly linked to consumer confidence and employee wellbeing, neglecting proper hygiene isn’t just careless, it’s a business risk with real financial consequences.

“Cleaning is one of the most underestimated risk management processes in any business,” Cleaning Edge Solutions founder and CEO and industry thought leader, Clayburn Figredo said. 

“Employers that don’t place emphasis on hygiene face greater risk across the board; staff health, customer safety, compliance and even culture.”

Staff health and morale at risk

Dirty or poorly maintained workplaces are proven breeding grounds for bacteria and viruses. Offices, kitchens, bathrooms, shared equipment and even carpets can harbour germs that spread quickly among staff. Higher illness rates translate into absenteeism, lost productivity and lower morale.

Equally damaging is the message that poor cleaning sends. 

“If people feel their environment is neglected, they feel neglected,” Figredo said.

“This leads to disengagement, poor morale and ultimately higher staff turnover.  If staff feel you are not investing in the workplace and their health and wellbeing, they will not fully invest themselves in their role or job.”

Customer risks and reputational damage

The risks don’t stop with employees. Customers and visitors are directly affected by the hygiene standards of a business. Contaminated food preparation areas, unhygienic retail spaces or dirty waiting rooms can result in foodborne illness, infections or accidents.

“Customers are quick to lose trust if they see or experience a dirty environment,” Figredo said.

“They won’t just stop coming back, they’ll tell others. In today’s world, one bad review about hygiene can spiral online within hours and cause real reputational damage.”

Living and working through a global pandemic has changed how people view cleanliness and it has also increased focus and attention on the implications for health and safety. 

Legal and compliance consequences

Workplace health and safety laws require employers to provide a safe environment. Poor cleaning increases the risk of breaches, fines and even lawsuits if illness or injury occurs. Insurers are also placing greater emphasis on hygiene standards, with some organisations facing higher premiums if their risk profile is poor.

“The legal and financial risks are real. Cleaning is not optional, it’s fundamental to compliance,” Figredo said.

“The important point to note here is that not all cleaning is equal.  Running a vacuum over a floor is not cleaning.  Cleaning involves the right tools, products, approach and methods.  It also requires  skill and industry knowledge.

“Unfortunately, many people find out the hard way that this is the case.  My advice is always, engage the experts.   Not only will they do a good job, they will certify their job and maintain attendance and work records.  This ensures compliance and adherence to regulatory requirements.”

A non-negotiable investment

Far from being an overhead, cleaning is an essential investment in safety, trust and performance. Businesses that prioritise cleaning reduce absenteeism, improve morale, protect their customers and avoid costly legal or reputational fallout.

“Every employer needs to understand that cleaning is about protecting people, protecting business and protecting reputation,” Figredo said.

“The risks of ignoring it are simply too high.”

About Cleaning Edge Solutions

Cleaning Edge Solutions is a national commercial cleaning and facility management provider based in Mulgrave, Victoria. Founded in 2008 by Clayburn Figredo, the company has built a reputation for innovation, compliance and social impact, with ISO certifications across quality, safety, environment, food safety and information security. Cleaning Edge ventures across commercial and industrial cleaning, facilities maintenance, waste management and property development. Visit: www.cleaningedge.com.au