A purr-fect plan or barking mad?

Whether you think it’s a purr-fect plan or barking mad, there’s no denying that pets are becoming an increasingly common feature in UK workplaces, prompting organisations to reassess their workspaces and cleaning regimes

You may have noticed an increase in photos of furry friends on social media over the last year, lounging in office breakout areas or welcoming visitors to receptions across the UK. With 75% of workers expressing a desire to bring their pets to work, it’s clear that we’re a nation of animal lovers. However, for businesses, allowing pets on site presents a complex set of challenges. Health, hygiene, and productivity all need careful consideration and management. Here’s how dealers can help their customers create pet-friendly environments that ensure safety and harmony for both employees and their four-legged companions.

Health and hygiene

One of the primary concerns with bringing pets to work is maintaining effective hygiene. In the UK, more than 5.4 million people suffer from asthma, and 40% of them are sensitized to dog allergens. Even if dogs are kept in separate areas, organisations must maintain stringent cleaning routines to mitigate the risk of allergic reactions. Dealers can assist customers in selecting cleaning products and equipment specifically designed to remove pet hair and particles that may trigger reactions in sensitive individuals.

Maintaining air quality is crucial in these situations, and customers should be educated about the advantages of installing air purifiers and regularly cleaning HVAC air filters to reduce the risk of dust and fur particles. On the other hand, ensuring the safety and health of any animals visiting the work environment is equally important. Many cleaning products are toxic to pets, so dealers should emphasise the use of cleaning solutions that are safe for animals.

Designated space

Not all areas within the workplace are suitable for animals. Dealers can assist customers in marking out and delineating pet-friendly zones. Choosing the right type of furnishings is crucial, as pet hair tends to cling to certain fabrics more easily, making cleanliness maintenance more challenging. Customers may opt for microfabrics or microsuede for soft furnishings and upholstery, such as seating areas and benches, due to their stain resistance. Surfaces where pets may lie or sit should ideally be wipeable, and rugs should be easy to remove and clean as needed. In workspaces where dogs need to be separated from visitors, customers may consider installing gated areas where pets can be safely kept away from people’s feet. Dealers can suggest using color-coded signage to easily identify pet-safe areas.

Freshen it up

As much as we may love our pets, there is no getting away from the fact that they can often smell less than fresh – and this may cause a problem, especially in workspaces where multiple pets may come and go. Dealers can help address this issue by providing a wide range of odour-neutralizing air fresheners. There are several SMART systems available that can be installed in the office to dispense air fresheners on a pre-set timer. Additionally, dealers should stress the importance of regularly using sanitizers on areas frequented by pets to eliminate any unpleasant odours.

With the option to bring pets to work increasingly influencing employees’ choice of employer, and with organisations striving to attract more workers back into the office, the concept of pet-friendly workplaces may indeed be another way forward. With careful planning and the guidance of dealers towards appropriate products and furniture, businesses can create environments where both employees and their furry friends can thrive.