How Do You Handle Office Pantry Mess? Seeking Effective Solutions for Persistent Issues

I work in a manufacturing company in the UAE as an HR Incharge and have been receiving regular complaints about the mess created by the staff after eating lunch in the office pantry. This includes dropping food, leaving used food containers on the table, and spilling food in the fridge, among other things.

I have put up warning notices on the pantry walls and have also sent emails to the staff outlining the guidelines on the dos and don'ts of using the common lunch area. Despite these efforts, the problem persists.

Can anyone share any tips or solutions that have been effective in addressing a similar issue?

Dear HR Team member,

I am sorry to mention now that it shows the bad attitude of your employees, which can be changed by regular counseling, whether one-on-one or in groups. We should aim to spread the organizational culture and maintain cleanliness inside the common areas used by other employees for their convenience.

Last but not least, remember that "spare the rod, spoil the child." It is important to address any issues by identifying and warning the defaulters, and if necessary, imposing fines to encourage positive change.

Thank you for your attention to this matter.

Best regards

How many times have you had lunch, dinner, or breakfast with the staff members? Why do you think they are not concerned about cleanliness? Is there any dissatisfaction in their mind or heart for some reason? More interaction with them will help you to conclude.

Dear, you may circulate the following type of circular among the employees and please do not forget to obtain the signature of each and every employee. I feel it will create moral pressure.

CIRCULAR

Usage of Canteen Space

It is observed and found that there are ants and cockroaches on certain desks in the office. The company has designated enough space with all facilities except food for staff members. It is advisable and expected for all staff members to avail themselves of the lunch break at the designated place. It is advisable for all staff members to observe and adhere to the following:

1. It is our moral responsibility to keep our desks neat and clean. The office peon cleans every desk in the morning, and one should not expect him to carry out this work frequently throughout the day.

2. In view of the above, it is our moral responsibility to have lunch at the designated place. Any staff member can utilize the company’s utensils available at the place, but it is advisable for everyone to clean such utilized utensils. It is not the duty, nor is it advisable to expect the office peon to clean such utilized utensils every time.

3. It is also advised/requested that all staff members not dump polluted food or non-consumed food either on the plate or in the dustbin.

4. It is also our moral as well as ethical responsibility to keep the canteen area neat and clean because it is a multipurpose space and is equipped with all ultra-modern facilities to conduct all types of meetings with staff members as well as with clients.

Henceforth, it is advisable for all staff members to comply with and obey the above suggestions.

Regards, A. Prakash