The Cleaning Chemicals Found In Housekeeping And Janitorial Supplies

Posted by Sanju k on December 8th, 2016

When used properly, both conventional and green chemicals are relatively safe and don’t pose much (if any) threat. It should be noted, however, that these products are not always handled properly and that accidents can (and do) happen. To cut down on the accidents and incidents that occur when using janitorial and housekeeping supplies, we have provided our top tips for handling the various chemicals required of these professions:

• Make a complete list of all chemicals used
  As well as a list of all cleaning chemicals used in your workplace, the document should also include details like: how many litres are stored, where they’re stored, the potential hazards and the necessary precautions for each specific product in your cleaning cart.
• Create Safety Data Sheets
  These were formerly known as Material Safety Data Sheets and should be filled out for each chemical used or stored amongst your janitorial supplies. Data Sheets are slightly different to the list outlined above; be sure that you’ve covered each requested piece of information.
• Keep all chemicals in their original containers
  Every product found amongst your housekeeping supplies should be kept in their original containers (so that you have access to the instructions and safety information). You should also never mix chemicals, even if they’re the same ‘type’ (such as bleach).
• Store chemicals in a well-ventilated area
  It is important that janitorial supplies are stored in a well-ventilated area and away from HVAC intake vents. This will help to prevent any fumes from spreading to other areas of the workplace, as well as help to ensure that the fumes aren’t overwhelming upon entry.
• Install safety signage (in multiple languages)
  You must install safety signage (in multiple languages if possible) that quickly conveys the possible dangers and precautions related to the housekeeping supplies. Better yet, use images and no words so that people of all backgrounds will be aware.
• Ensure that all workers know the ‘signal words’
  Those using janitorial supplies must be aware of important signal words: caution (the product is relatively safe but must be used carefully), warning (the product is moderately toxic) and danger (the product is highly toxic and may cause permanent damage to eyes and skin).
• Get rid of old chemicals
  It is also important that you properly dispose of any chemicals that haven’t been used for a prolonged period of time. A good rule of thumb is to throw away any products that haven’t been used for 6 months to a year or longer. Follow disposal instructions.

If you are a regular user of housekeeping and janitorial supplies, we hope that you found the above list of tips useful in understanding how to properly handle them with your safety in mind. Each year, a number of incidents and accidents are recorded as a result of not using cleaning chemicals properly – to ensure that you don’t become just another statistic, it’s essential that you’re aware of how to use your janitorial and housekeeping supplies properly.