Six Tips on the Safe Handling of Cleaning Chemicals

Posted on February 12, 2015 by Rafco Clean

When used properly, both conventional and green cleaning chemicals are relatively safe. However, these products are not always properly handled and accidents do happen.

This is one reason why the U.S. Department of Labor continues to list cleaning and custodial work as one of the most dangerous jobs in the country, mainly because of the many accidents involving chemicals that occur each year. To cut down on such accidents, facility managers and commercial cleaning professionals should develop “Cleaning Chemical Safety Program”.

Key components of a Cleaning Chemical Safety Program include the following:

  1. A complete list of all cleaning chemicals used in the facility; this documentation should include details such as how many gallons (and multiple-gallon containers) are stored, where they are stored, and the potential hazards of and necessary precautions for each specific chemical (for instance, whether or not a chemical needs to be kept away from direct sunlight).
  2. Safety Data Sheets (formerly referred to as Material Safety Data Sheets) for each chemical used or stored.
  3. Keeping all cleaning chemicals in their original containers and never mixing chemicals, even if they are the same “type” of chemical.
  4. Storing chemicals in well-ventilated areas away from HVAC intake vents; this helps prevent any fumes from spreading to other areas of the facility.
  5. Installing safety signage in multiple languages (or, even better, using images and no words) that quickly conveys possible dangers and precautions related to the chemicals. This signage and training must follow new OSHA requirements.
  6. Making sure all cleaning workers know exactly what the following “signal words” mean:
    • Caution: the product should be used carefully but is relatively safe.
    • Warning: the product is moderately toxic.
    • Danger: the product is highly toxic and may cause permanent damage to
    skin and eyes.

Cleaning Chemical Safety” Programs should also include getting rid of chemicals that have not been used for a prolonged period of time. A good rule of thumb is to consider disposing of any chemical product that has not been used for six months, and disposing of any product that has not been used for a year.

 

 

Source: CleanLink 2014