Summer workspace refresh

10 Jul 2025

As we transition into the summer period on campus, we wanted to remind colleagues that it’s a great opportunity to refresh and reorganise their workspaces.

By working together, we can maintain a hygienic environment, which helps to boost wellbeing across our community.

Maintaining high standards of cleanliness and organisation across our offices and shared spaces is a collective responsibility and, by taking a few simple steps, we can ensure our campus remains a safe, professional, and welcoming place for everyone.

Key Actions for All Colleagues

• Clear your desk daily
  Ensure your workspace is free from clutter at the end of each day. This supports cleaning efforts and promotes a more professional environment.
• Store items appropriately
  Use designated storage areas for personal belongings and office supplies. Avoid leaving items on desks or in communal areas.
• Maintain cleanliness
  Wipe down desks and shared equipment after use. If you eat at your desk, please ensure surfaces are crumb-free and clean.
• Respect shared spaces
  Keep communal areas tidy and return shared items to their proper place after use.
• Dispose of waste responsibly
  Use the correct bins for general waste, recycling, and food waste. Avoid leaving rubbish on desks or floors. If you are going on annual leave, make sure to check over your workspace and ensure all waste is removed.
• Store food securely
  All food items, including fruit, tea, coffee, and sugar, should be kept in sealed, airtight containers. Food should never be stored in drawers unless properly sealed. Please remember to ensure any food items belonging to you have been removed ahead of any annual leave.

For colleagues in labs, workshops, and technical areas

• Regular decluttering is necessary to check that hazardous items are still in good conditions and are stored correctly. Some chemicals can become out-of-date or unstable over time, so any surplus items should be disposed of correctly.  Not only can this help to maintain a safe environment for everyone, it can also generate much-needed space. 

Reporting Issues

If you notice any cleaning issues within your workspace or shared areas, please contact House Services directly at houseservices@manchester.ac.uk.

Let’s work together to maintain a clean, safe, and efficient working environment this summer.