The Importance of Maintaining Hygiene in the Workplace

Over the past few years, hygiene has become increasingly important within the horticulture industry. Greenhouse disinfection is effective in preventing unwanted diseases and pests, but it's also crucial to address potential disease transmission by individuals, machinery, and tools. Incorporating hygiene practices that include personal hygiene, and the disinfection of transport equipment, is vital. In this article, our specialist explains the various hygiene measures.

The Importance of Hygiene

A common question we're asked is "Why is hygiene crucial?" Establishing stringent hygiene measures can dramatically reduce the risk of contamination in crops. This not only bolsters the health and quality of the crop, but also enhances overall production. Don't wait to implement more personal hygiene and transport equipment disinfection measures. Interested in developing a company-wide plan? Learn how to formulate your hygiene protocol.

Watch the video to learn more about a hygienic entryway in the greenhouse.

Personal Hygiene

Setting hygiene guidelines and standards for the employees entering the greenhouse is critical. This practice significantly reduces the risk of diseases and pests infiltrating or spreading through human interaction. You can choose to adopt a straightforward approach to personal hygiene, or implement a more rigorous hygiene policy, through specific integrated disinfection methods. The following measures should be applied:

Hand Disinfection

Hands are the primary method for the transmission of most diseases and pests. Therefore, hand disinfection targets two groups: employees and visitors. And especially visitors transitioning between different companies should required to disinfect upon their entry. For hand hygiene, employing a disinfectant suitable for dry hands is usually effective. This agent possesses antimicrobial properties that stop the spread of pathogens.

Foot Disinfection

Simple foot disinfection methods include sole disinfection, achieved through disinfecting mats strategically placed along pathways. Ensuring that the mat is positioned in a way that prevents people from circumventing it is key. This ensures thorough disinfection of each shoe.

Complete Integrated Disinfection

Opting for a more stringent personal hygiene approach involves using a hygiene station. This station facilitates the simultaneous cleaning and disinfection of hands, and of the feet through the use of brushes. These stations are available in varying designs, ranging from basic to highly advanced systems.

Transport Equipment Disinfection

Hygiene that is specific for disinfecting the wheels of forklift trucks, roll containers, carts, and pallet jacks is equally important. Using a specialized disinfecting mat, designed for transport equipment disinfection, will stop the spread of pathogens and pests. The mat is equipped with anti-slip foil on its underside to ensure stability and prevent slippage. These mats can be refilled with disinfectant, either manually or through an automated replenishment system.