What your organisation should think about when it comes to the debate on gender-neutral washrooms
Unisex washrooms may soon become the norm in our increasingly evolving and equal society. It’s an issue that can still cause some debate, but putting aside the moral arguments for and against gender-neutral bathrooms, there are some practical considerations that all organisations need to consider.
The realities and norms of single-sex toilets
In most countries, it is accepted that all washrooms in public buildings and most in the workplace will be segregated into ladies’ and gents’ facilities. But times are changing and we live in a much more inclusive society.
The non-binary and transgender communities in particular are challenging the need to divide washrooms by gender. A recent YouGov survey in conjunction with Stonewall concluded that nearly half of transgender people felt unsafe using single-sex public toilets.
Aside from the debates on rights and safety concerning transgender, non-binary and people who identify as either gender – which continues to rage – it’s also true that unisex washrooms remove the worry that parents or caregivers may have when taking children or less-abled people of a different sex to the toilet. It’s simply not acceptable for children or people with an impairment to have to visit a bathroom unaccompanied when they are probably unable to do so.
Covering all needs – the basics of gender-neutral bathrooms
Meeting the needs of all people who use a bathroom is becoming increasingly essential for all organisations. Each cubicle should be equipped with a toilet roll, a sanitary bag dispenser and a waste bin. It is also good practice to include a supply of toilet seat disinfectant and hand sanitiser. It matters not for whom the washroom is designated as these are practical basics that will promote hygiene and dignity for all.
But on top of the essentials, it’s also increasingly common for those who provide bathrooms and toilets to supply products that appeal to everyone. This should include air fresheners, fragrances, lotions and soaps.
There have been some high profile controversies when public buildings have adopted gender-neutral bathroom policies. Most commonly these have arisen through a lack of forethought and consultation. For example, there have been instances when schools have introduced unisex washrooms while leaving urinals in situ in facilities that girls have been expected to use.
Professional cleaning services for your washrooms
Whatever your thoughts on this subject, the fundamentals of washroom hygiene and cleanliness must apply to all. It’s no longer the case that the gents’ is accepted as a smelly place while the ladies’ always has a queue. Adopting policies that apply to all people will also assist those with hidden disabilities, cognitive issues and temporary impairments such as an injury.
Thinking about hiring a professional cleaner to help with your commercial property? There are many benefits of doing this, including freeing up time for more important jobs or removing the need for an in-house cleaner.
Here are 4 reasons that professional cleaning really is worth the money.
Your property will always impress
If you are in charge of a commercial premises, like an office, school or restaurant, you will be responsible for making sure that it is always spotless. As well as ensuring that visitors are happy with the cleanliness, there are also health and safety regulations like food hygiene ratings that need to be met.
Our professional team of cleaners are trained to the highest standard so that you can rest assured your workplace always meets every standard.
Cleaners can be flexible
Need someone to come and clean on a Saturday? Or perhaps you want to arrange for cleaning out of your working hours?
One of the great things about hiring a cleaning company is that it is flexible to suit your individual needs. Our cleaners can come to your premises at a convenient time to guarantee minimal disruption to you and your employees.
It’s cost-effective
You may think that commercial cleaning is expensive but it really doesn’t have to be.
We offer a wide range of packages to suit every budget, whether you’re looking for daily visits or something less frequent, like fortnightly or monthly cleans.
ACC works hard to make sure that you don’t pay more than you need to and still get a reliable, professional service.
It saves you time
As a manager or business owner, you probably have much more important things to be doing than cleaning.
It is still an important job that needs to be done, but is it worthwhile for you or one of your employees to be doing it?
Our commercial cleaning service is a hassle-free way to maintain the tidiness and cleanliness of your property while saving you hours of valuable time. So, leave the cleaning to us (it’s what we do after all!)
If you would like to discuss the needs of your North West business, we would be more than happy to help. Get in touch with us by calling 01204 495 222 or emailing us at info@acc.uk.com.
Construction is a thriving industry here in the UK, with many residential, industrial and commercial projects continuously underway. While building work requires skilled tradespeople to perform specialist tasks, like bricklayers, plumbers and electricians, professional cleaners are also an asset to any construction scheme.
All construction sites in the UK must remain compliant with the rigid code and operating protocols established by the Health and Safety Executive (HSE). Expert cleaners can help operations adhere to these rules by enhancing hygiene standards and keeping work areas clear to avoid accidents. Read on to find out the advantages offered by a professional cleaning service on-site.
Protecting worker health in construction
Since March 2020, when the pandemic started, there has been an increased awareness of the importance of hygiene standards in all working environments, including construction. Ensuring that adequate facilities exist on-site, including toilets and areas for washing and eating, is essential, but their maintenance is also vital.
It is understood that such communal areas used by construction workers will see higher levels of dirt and debris due to the nature of their duties. However, contract cleaning services can ensure they are kept at optimum hygiene levels to keep construction sites compliant.
Avoiding accidents and injuries
Constant site cleaning is crucial to sidestep the potential risks. A messy construction site can present trip hazards and slippery surfaces that often lead to injuries. Regular cleaning will keep on top of such issues. Specialist cleaners can ensure work areas and walkways stay clear from debris and spills, reducing accidents and ensuring sites pass HSE inspections.
Preparing to present
Finally, while a site in progress might be littered with scrap materials and tools, when it is time to hand over a building to its new owners, developers must ensure it is pristine. Professional cleaning teams can make sure sites are in perfect condition after work is completed and ready to display.
With the skills, experience, and specialist equipment necessary for every job, our expert team at ACC can help your construction site improve health and safety standards. Contact us today for a free quote.
