To give us some motivation for dealing with these difficult topics, let’s explore some of the benefits of discussing personal hygiene.
On a personal note.
Ultimately, discussing personal hygiene with your employees stems from a place of care and concern. Wouldn’t you want the same consideration if the roles were reversed? In 101 Tough Conversations to Have with Employees, author Paul Falcone emphasizes this perspective with a poignant example: “Most of us would appreciate it if someone pointed out that we had spinach in our teeth or that our zipper was down, as it saves us from potential embarrassment. This conversation may be uncomfortable, but it’s truly in your best interest.”
By approaching these discussions thoughtfully, you can help your employees maintain professionalism and confidence in the workplace.
A Business Case
Issues related to personal hygiene can intersect with two significant legislative areas.
- Hostile Work Environment
The first area concerns the concept of a hostile work environment, which is a fundamental aspect of harassment legislation. For instance, if an employee struggles with body odour and coworkers respond by leaving deodorant on their desk, spraying perfumes in their cubicle, or leaving derogatory notes, yet the supervisor fails to address the issue directly, the employer may inadvertently foster a hostile work environment. This situation could expose the organization to potential harassment lawsuits.
- Accommodating Employees with Disabilities
The second area relates to the obligation of employers to accommodate employees with disabilities. In many jurisdictions, employers are required to provide reasonable accommodations. For example, if an employee has a colostomy bag that occasionally produces an odour, it is the employer’s responsibility to work collaboratively with the employee to address the situation. This might involve informing other staff members that the odour is related to a medical condition and apologizing for any inconvenience. Neglecting to assist the employee in this manner could result in legal ramifications for the company.
By addressing personal hygiene issues thoughtfully and proactively, employers can mitigate legal risks and foster a more respectful workplace environment.
