Break Room Clean-Up Etiquette
Break rooms in the workplace are communal areas. It is important to consider your co-workers when using the break room and to consider how you would want them to treat the area for your benefit. There are some simple rules that should be applied to the break room to make it convenient and useful for all and to ensure that the short time for the break can be enjoyed.
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The Refrigerator
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In most break rooms a refrigerator is available, so workers can store their lunches and drinks. While the refrigerator may be for everyone's use, the items within it do not become community property. Likewise, it is not okay to leave something that you decided not to eat or finish in the refrigerator until someone else decides to throw it away for you. Do not touch your co-worker's items and do not use the break room refrigerator as your personal storage device.
The Microwave
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Another common break room appliance is the microwave. It is a wonderful luxury to be able to quickly heat up a meal. It is extremely annoying to have to clean the microwave before you use it. If you are using the microwave and have a spill or create some other mess within, clean up after yourself. It's you mess, deal with it on your time. A co-worker should not have to waste his precious minutes of the break to clean up after you.
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Seating Area
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Cleaning up after yourself extends beyond the inside of appliances. Be sure to throw away wrappers and clean up the area of the break room that you were using, so it is ready for someone else to enjoy.
Sink
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Having finished your break your may have dishes that need to be dealt with. Make sure you leave yourself enough time to clean your dishes and put them away. Do not leave them in the sink for later. Be mindful that others need to use the same space. If you do not have an area to store your dishes, place them somewhere out of the way after cleaning them, so they cab be taken home at the end of the day.
General Cleaning
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Despite everyone's best efforts, the break room will need some regular cleaning. The floor will need to be mopped;, the tables and seats will need occasional thorough cleaning. Set up a schedule, so these tasks are shared by all the people who use the break room.
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References
Resources
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