by Silva Payne

Created on: October 30, 2009

There is a mantra that says "a messy desk is a productive desk". While this may be true, a messy desk need not be a dirty one. If you work in an office, there are a few ways in which you can maintain a clean work environment that will help reduce the risk of injury, loss or illness.

Typically, desks are grouped either in cubicles where 2 workers sit with their backs to each other, or placed to create small islands where workers face each other. If you share a cubicle, it is very easy to become possessive about the space you and your co-worker occupy. This is particularly the case if your co-worker is less interested in hygiene or tidiness than you are.

Start with the most obvious basics: cups, plates, food wrappers and hot food. There are often occasions when you may want to work through lunch, and eat at your desk. It is always best to avoid eating hot food directly over your keyboard, as any dropped between the keys will be almost impossible to remove completely. Disposing of hot food containers should be done away from your desk. Your co-worker may love a good hot curry as much as you do, but may not want to smell it all afternoon long. Take the debris into a disposal area where it can be enclosed to prevent odors escaping.

Crumbs from cold snacks can also find their way into the keyboard, and more likely into your computer mouse. Remember to remove the ball and clean the insides of your mouse regularly as it will pick up a large amount of fluff and dust just though normal use. If you regularly have tea, coffee or other beverages at your desk, try to use a place mat. This will help prevent sticky rings appearing on other surfaces, which will almost certainly make their way onto any important documents you have.

Being aware of your surroundings will also help you to maintain a clean working environment. When you get up from your desk, remember to push your chair in and not leave it in the walkway. Try to keep your paperwork and files in from the edge of your desk so that any passer-by will not knock them onto the floor. If you have a waste paper basket, keep it tucked under your desk, and use a plastic liner; this stops any liquid waste from sitting at the bottom of the basket and turning sour.

Finally, maintaining a clear desk also extends to data security practices. When you are away from your desk, put away any documents or data out of sight, preferably locked in a drawer. Remember to either turn off your computer or lock the screen, and never disclose your password to anyone. Shred all documents after use, and never place them in the waste paper bin. Pay particular attention to documents containing client contact details and financial information, but getting into the habit of shredding all documentation is a good thing.

Keeping your work space clean and tidy will help you find things in a hurry, hopefully without knocking over your coffee onto them in the process!

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