Healt h and hygiene brand’s business-to-business arm, Reckitt Pro Solutions, is sharing actionable advice for businesses, like pharmacies, on ways to promote positive hygiene habits this winter. In Jan, one of Australia’s warmest months, around 90,000-100,000 people are usually away from work due to sickness for an entire week. However, Jan 2022 saw that number jump to around 450,000 people per week, Reckitts stated. Jonathan Weiss, Commercial Director for Global Business Solutions EUANZ at Reckitt said, “Reckitt Pro Solutions understands the importance of running and maintaining holistically successful businesses, but also acknowledges there are many different factors at play”. “Following and committing to a rigorous hygiene and cleaning program can offer businesses the opportunity to provide a better environment for staff.” Here are a few simple ways that pharmacists can promote positive hygiene habits across their businesses to ensure staff and visitors are protected from the spread of germs, said Weiss. “Work closely alongside cleaning teams to identify high-traffic areas and hotspots within spaces, aligning on the frequency at which they need to be disinfected with efficacious and efficient products. “Remind employees to stay home if they are unwell,” he said. “Encourage and remind employees to keep their hands clean, by washing their hands with soap for at least 20 seconds.” Importance of this peaks during crucial times such as after using the restroom, following a commute and before eating, he added. “If washing hands isn’t possible, encourage staff to carry hand sanitiser on their person.” Research has shown that hightouch points such as door handles and hand dryers can become contaminated by dirty hands, which can be transferred to the hands of the next person who touches them, Weiss explained. “Continuously assess the effectiveness of initiatives and programs by collecting feedback from employees, monitoring sick leave trends, and making adjustments as necessary.” The Australian treasury estimated that 31,000 people missed work each day in Jun 2022 alone, due to ongoing health issues associated with contracting COVID-19. “If establishing a healthy workplace isn’t prioritised, the costs associated with sick leave, and needing to replace those workers can lead to a potential productivity issue that can impact the overall business. “Reckitt Pro Solutions values creating workplaces and businesses where the health and wellbeing of staff is a priority and wants to help other businesses follow suit,” Weiss concluded.