Worker Safety and Proper Training Go Hand in Hand
As with any job, employee injuries are an inherent risk to cleaning business owners. There are several injury-related risks in the cleaning industry but the three most common workplace health issues are slips and falls, contact dermatitis and musculoskeletal repetitive injuries.
Unfortunately, slips and falls are very common occupational hazard in the cleaning industry. However, they are totally preventable if your employees are properly trained. This training should include using the correct amount of cleaning product as using too much cleaning product can leave a film on the floor which can make it more slippery. If the floor is greasy, be sure to instruct employees on allowing enough time to allow the cleaning agents to break down the grease before attempting to mop. Employees should use a dry mop or squeegee on wet floors to help reduce the time it takes the floor to dry. Also it is a good idea to train employees how to use spot cleaning where possible. Finally, as an employer be sure to regularly inspect and maintain cleaning equipment so that it is remains effective.
Work-related contact dermatitis can develop when unprotected skin comes into contact with cleaning agents. The most susceptible parts of the body are the hands and forearms. Symptoms include, redness, itching, swelling, blistering, flaking and cracking of the affected skin. You can help your employees prevent contact dermatitis with a few simple measures. Firstly, be sure to provide gloves and protective clothing when needed for your employees. Give clear and concise instructions on how and when to use this protective gear. Secondly, make sure that employees understand how to properly handle and use cleaning agents. This includes knowledge of how to mix and dilute concentrated substances as well as, a definitive safety protocol in event they accidentally spill the substance onto themselves. Thirdly, make hand washing after completing a cleaning project a mandatory part of your company process, regardless of whether or not the employee used gloves. Lastly, educate employees on the signs and symptoms of contact dermatitis and encourage them to report any symptoms to a supervisor, as treatment is much more effective if treated in the early stages.
Cleaning work is demanding and labor intensive. Many tasks involve using cleaning machines and heavy manual work, including mopping, wiping surfaces, polishing, moving heavy trash bags, furniture and equipment. Additionally, cleaners are often required to work in awkward postures for long periods, all of which may put undue strain on muscles and joints. Most of these types of injuries can be easily prevented. Employers should select equipment that is easy to handle but can still efficiently clean. Employees should have ongoing instruction on how to properly operate all cleaning equipment as well how to properly position the body while cleaning. When necessary, employees should wear supportive devices when lifting or bending for extended periods. Techniques in how to properly lift and bend the body when lifting heavy objects are also necessary.
By providing proper ongoing training, you can ensure that your employees will be kept healthy and can provide a high caliber of service to your clients.