To better adjust and integrate into the Singaporean household, here are some advisories about cleanliness and hygiene for you to follow. These are approved guidelines adapted from the National Environment Agency and Health Promotion Board, and will serve as clear and useful reminders for you. 

 

Proper hand washing means washing your hands for at least 30 seconds with soap and water. This can get rid of 99% of the germ count on your hands, which leaves you feeling both fresh and clean. 

 

Before and after: 

• Handling or preparing food

• Meals

• Attending to a child or sick person

• Using the toilet

• Wiping or blowing your nose

• Coughing and sneezing

• Changing diapers

• Touching common surfaces like lift buttons, handles and table tops

For more information, visit https://www.healthhub.sg/live-healthy/47...

 

Food poisoning can occur as a result of improper handling of food. As a result, it is very important to know the basic steps to maintaining cleanliness in food preparation. 

1. Do not cook, prepare, or serve food if you are sick. Instead, inform your employers immediately to explain your condition.

2. Do not cough or sneeze into food. 

3. Keep your fingernails short and clean, and your hair neat and tidy. 

4. Wash fruits and vegetables thoroughly before preparing and eating them. 

5. Soak vegetables in fresh tap water for 15 minutes. There is no need to use detergent/ washing liquids. 

6. Clean dirty surfaces such as table tops and chopping boards thoroughly after each use, using food-grade disinfectant. 

1. Always keep raw food below cooked food in the freezer/chiller. Ensure that it is properly covered.

2. Keep fresh produce separate from raw meat, poultry and seafood products. 

1. Purchase only from licensed sources. 

2. Select fruits that are not bruised, moldy or show signs of spoilage.  

For more information, visit http://www.nea.gov.sg/public-health/food...

 

By doing your part to maintain a clean environment, streets and places for public use will be pleasant and conducive for all. Reputed as a clean and green city, everyone living in Singapore has a part to play. 

1. Do not litter.

2. Show consideration by keeping public places clean, and cleaning up after yourself.

3. Encourage people around you to keep their surroundings clean.

4. Picking up litter and throwing it away when you see it.

 

With a rising rate of obesity in Singapore, it is more crucial than ever to maintain a healthy diet among Singaporeans. “My Healthy Plate” is a useful guide for you from the Health Promotion Board, to plan and cook meals that are healthy for both your employers and you.

 

When purchasing groceries from supermarkets, do look out for products that have the ‘Healthier Choice Symbol’ (HCS) too. Food products awarded the HCS are generally lower in fat, sodium and sugar, and higher in calcium and dietary fiber. 

 

For more information, visit https://www.healthhub.sg/programmes/55/my-healthy-plate and https://www.healthhub.sg/live-healthy/211/make_healthier_choice. 

 

Keeping the house clean can prevent the build-up of bacteria and dirt in the house, which can cause illnesses to be spread. The following handy tips are for you to keep in mind, as you go about carrying out household duties. 

1. Do change wiping cloths and sponges regularly to prevent growth of germs. 

2. Sinks and taps should be clean as well to avoid contamination. 

3. Remember to wash your hands after emptying out the rubbish bin every day. 

1. Toothbrushes should be placed separately so that the bristles do not touch and spread bacteria among family members. They have to be replaced regularly as well. 

2. Close the toilet lid after use to stop polluted water vapour from escaping into the air. 

3. Always clean your hands thoroughly after using the toilet. 

Remember, these lists are not exhaustive- do communicate with your employers to understand the family’s needs and requirements! Together, we can create safe and hygienic homes for everyone.