In the United Kingdom, numerous cleaning businesses thrive, all relying on various cleaning chemicals and equipment. However, ensuring the wellbeing of cleaning staff goes beyond chemical use; it’s imperative to create a safe working environment.
Common Risks to Cleaners and Best Practices:
“Slip and trip” accidents are among the most prevalent insurance claims in the cleaning industry, especially because of the diverse working environments such as shops, hotels, restaurants, supermarkets, public transport, cafés, hospitals, offices, and public spaces.
Here are examples of hazards, some more obvious than others, that everyone needs to be aware of to help minimise incidents:
- Open drawers, and objects on the floor, like bins, cables, and cords, can pose significant hazards, especially in an unfamiliar environment.
- Poor housekeeping practices that fail to safely store items after delivery or leaving them in unexpected places
- Cleaning stairways or landings should be approached with caution. They are usually heavy traffic areas, but often not kept in the same condition as main areas. They can become slippery, tiles could be cracked or carpets frayed. Lighting is frequently automatic, so may switch off unexpectedly or lighting might not be adequate.
- Using ladders and stepping stools is an accident waiting to happen if you’re not prepared, and had adequate training.
- Cleaning in diverse UK weather conditions can prove unpredictable, so take precautions for varying conditions like snow, ice, rain, or heatwaves. Protect yourself with appropriate clothing and assess whether outdoor cleaning is safe, especially in icy conditions.
- Safe lifting practices are a must. When any lifting is involved, follow proper lifting techniques. Everyone should be trained in correct lifting.
- Injuries resulting from even small falls typically result in injuries like sprains, muscle tears, bruises, back and neck injuries – even concussions and broken bones. Any injuries can lead to work absences and medical expenses but worst of all is general concern across the whole work force.
BOTTOM LINE – Always be alert and cautious, even in areas you’re used to working. Always ask for assistance where possible.
Creating a safe cleaning environment
Proper usage of signage is required to control the environment more safely, you should employ wet floor signs to caution customers, clients or other cleaning staff about potential hazards stemming from mopping, spilled liquids, or tracked-in rainwater or snow. These signs are indispensable in reducing accidents and costly claims.
Compensation for Injuries
Compensation for injuries varies depending on their severity. Check the stats on this legal “claims” website. The amounts claimed are scary!
The Importance of Risk Assessments
Regardless of the job’s size, managers must conduct thorough risk assessments for areas where cleaning staff work, including access routes as well as equipment and chemicals required. This is the basis for systematically identifying potential risks and then taking measures to prevent accidents. Also ensure you also consider and “Working at height”. This refers to any work that takes place where a “person could fall a distance that can cause personal injury”. Falling from one level to another. Of course the obvious “heights” covers ladders etc, but also falling “down” into something. You only need to fall “off” something a few inches to “hurt yourself”
(Different regulations cover risks being on the same level or permanent staircases). –https://www.hse.gov.uk/work-at-height/faqs.htm
One specific element that needs to be carefully considered particularly for cleaning roles is that the working “environment” is often “uncontrolled” meaning that the operation is not in control of the area or the people that be in the area. This can range from new trip hazards appearing or being in different locations, to the public having access to the work area.
Almost for this reason alone, lone working risks need to be carefully considered and solutions sort.
For a wealth of guidance and information on health and safety matters, and examples of risk assessments, please visit the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) website
In conclusion, mastering health and safety in cleaning operations is not just a legal necessity, but a moral obligation to protect the –wellbeing of staff. By conducting thorough risk assessments, addressing common risks, considering “uncontrolled” ones and implementing best practices, we can create a safer environment that reduces accidents and ensures the utmost care for those who work tirelessly to keep our spaces clean. Remember, safety is not a choice; it’s an essential commitment that defines the ongoing success of any cleaning operation. Together, let’s prioritise the health and safety of our cleaning professionals for a brighter, accident-free future in the industry.
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