Colour Coding - Why is it important?

Friday 15th April 2022

Colour Coding

Why do we need colour coding?

The simple answer is to minimise cross contamination. For example if we just used one mop for cleaning floors in food preparation areas, toilet areas, reception areas and more, the risk of germs being spread is greatly heightened. This risk can then result in illness which has a detrimental effect on the reputation of the business and your cleaning procedures.

Is there a set rule for colour coding?

Whilst Summit Hygiene will always stick with the BICSc universal colour code chart , if your facility has always used a different system we recommend you dont change this immediately. The reason being that if your employees are used to a certain colour coding scheme and it gets changed without warning, colour coding could get confusing for them and cause cross contamination.

What do Summit Hygiene suggest?

The BICSc colour coding chart suggests the following. As the industry leader in cleaning standards, this should be followed wherever possible.

Blue - General lower risk areas (Excluding food areas)
Red - Sanitary and washroom
Green - General food and bar use
Yellow - Clinical & Healthcare

The Golden Rule...

Always work from the cleanest area to the dirtiest area as this greatly reduces the risk of cross contamination.

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