Scrubbing Out Obstacles: A SMART Approach to Hygiene and Compliance in the New Year.

Have you tried to establish clear hygiene standards for your workplace, but found over the years they have been forgotten? This may be because you are not setting specific, relevant goals that can be measured and are achievable in a timely manner.

Entering the New Year, the practice of setting resolutions is important. Why not extend this tradition to the workspace and make hygiene your workplace’s New Year's resolution? We’ve done some research into what makes resolutions stick, and SMART goals prove to be a game changer.

SMART goals—Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Realistic, and Timed—offer a structured approach that significantly increases the chances of success and bridges the gap between intention and behaviour.

For example, by the end of the month, all employees will consistently use hand sanitiser every time they enter the workplace. This goal is crucial because when employees travel between places, they can pick up millions of germs from public spaces. Eliminating cross-contamination upon entering the workplace is essential to stop the spread of germs. The implementation of SMART goals is a powerful method, providing individuals with clear objectives and success criteria, thereby empowering them to achieve the goal. Consistent reinforcement and repetition of goals are essential for achieving and maintaining desired outcomes.

The power of SMART goals is enhanced within a committed team, particularly when leadership is engaged. Research shows a 56% productivity increase with engaged leadership, while team collaboration amplifies motivation and performance by up to 5 times.

Coming into the new year with a holistic approach to hygiene within the workplace ensures that key risk areas are covered, and effective hygiene equipment is the first step to achieving your hygiene goals.

Here are some examples of SMART goals for your workplace:

1. Increase handwashing compliance rates by implementing a system to track and monitor employee handwashing within four months. Train all employees on proper technique and provide designated times during the workday.

1. Within two months, I want to improve the availability of sanitization supplies in my workplace. I’ll do this by purchasing supplies and ensuring they are readily available in all office areas.