Ultimate Safety Tips for Commercial Cleaning

Public bathroom cleaning courses

Posted / 10th December 2018

With most commercial cleaning operations requiring the use of chemicals or equipment, there is substantial risk to safety. It’s crucial that cleaning staff receive sufficient training and all other building users are familiar with hazards in their workplace. By keeping risks to a minimum, you can provide professional and safe commercial cleaning services for your clients.

 

Follow our top tips to ensure your cleaning health and safety practices are up to scratch…

 

1. Storing cleaning chemicals

Many cleaning substances contain hazardous chemicals and must be stored safely. The first step in efficient chemical management is labelling. Make sure each product is clearly labelled to avoid confusion and place warning signs where appropriate. When using flammable chemicals, chose a secure storage area away from ignition sources. Always ensure shelves are fit for purpose and place heavier products on lower shelves to prevent falls.  Always keep chemicals out of the reach of the vulnerable.

 

 

2. Personal Protective Equipment

Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) includes workwear and equipment such as eyewear, gloves and shoe covers to protect cleaning staff from equipment and harmful substances. Cleaners have a duty of care for themselves to follow PPE protocol to prevent avoidable accidents in the workplace.

 

 

3. Make others aware you’re cleaning

Floor cleaning can present significant risk to building users; Vacuum cleaner or cleaning equipment ca and damp mopped floors are a serious slips/trips and fall risk. Use highly visible signage or access restriction to prevent slips, trips and falls in the workplace. Cleaning staff are encouraged to wear strong grip footwear to lower the chance of preventable falls.

 

 

4. Electrical equipment

Cleaning staff must be properly trained to operate machines and understand the risks associated with powered equipment. Ensure users can identify any apparent damage and remove faulty equipment from use. Always adhere to manufacturer’s instructions for use, replacements, cleaning and repairs.

 

 

5. Supervision

A cleaning supervisor should instil safe working practices and ensure consistent standards are met with every task carried out. Supervisors must ensure that all cleaning staff are aware of the risks in the commercial cleaning environment and how to control such hazards. Regular assessments will highlight reoccurring issues, downfalls and any gaps in training.  The effective supervisor is the critical link in providing an outstanding team based cleaning service.

 

 

6. Training

Whether you’re managing a team of cleaners or flying solo, up to date training instils safe cleaning practices to create a safe commercial environment. With lots of cleaning training courses now available online, you can easily widen your skill base within your busy schedule.

 

Health and safety is critical in any line of work and commercial cleaning is no different. By instilling safe cleaning procedures and best practices you can ensure a safe working environment for both cleaning staff and building users.