Cleaning safety is sometimes an overlooked aspect of workplace safety because it is often seen a just a mop and broom! Machines and chemicals used by cleaners have largely replaced the mop and broom days and a safe workplace is a requirement for all workers.
Make sure you involve all your workers in your toolbox talks and specifically address the workplace safety issues that arise from the hazards of cleaning.
Keep an up-to-date Safety Data Sheet (SDS) on all chemicals
Make sure your cleaners have up-to-date SDS for all chemical and it is easily located. Provide training in understanding the SDS so that you workers become familiar with it in case of an emergency.
Make sure proper PPE is dispensed to all employees
Proper personal protective equipment is vital to keeping your cleaning workers safe. They should have access to rubber gloves, face masks, eye protection, and any other pieces of equipment they may need to keep their body parts safe from cleaning chemicals, high heat, or any other hazards that may encounter as part of their job tasks.
Train workers on the chemical hazards and using the right PPE at the right time
Personal protective equipment is useless unless your workers know how to use it. Train them in the safe handling of every chemical they use, and make sure they know what PPE to use. Not using the PPE provided is not acceptable. This will help in promoting a culture of safety in your workplace.
Make sure your workers wear non-slip shoes
Activities like mopping, spraying, or otherwise cleaning with water will make the floors slippery. Although water is probably the most innocuous chemical your workers will use, this does of course have the potential slips, trips and falls which can have anything from minor bumps and bruises through to catastrophic consequences. Help prevent slips and falls by making sure that wet floors are appropriately sign-posted and workers have non-slip footwear.
Of course, there are many more ways to keep your workers safe while they clean. By promoting a culture of workplace safety and providing proper training, you can help make your workplace the safest place your workers go all day.
For more information about cleaning and other types of safety, contact us today.
Related Toolbox Talks
Free eBook