Prevent workplace accidents with proper employee training. Because of the chemicals and equipment that are a part of a cleaning company's daily routine, employers should take added precautions and safety measures. Make sure your employees are aware of your company's policies and procedures.
Following are some basic guidelines that should be covered as part of your safety training program:
Make sure your employees know how to use a piece of equipment before taking it on a job site. Equipment should only be used for its intended purpose.
Employees should always put out caution signs before mopping, waxing or doing other floor maintenance. They should never use equipment such as mops or brooms to block or detour a walkway. They should only use the proper warning devices.
Tell employees how to lift properly. Always lift by using the legs, and not by bending over, using the back. In addition, twisting or turning while lifting can seriously injure the back.
Employees should always check electric cords on cleaning equipment before plugging in the item. They should not use the equipment if the cord is frayed or the prongs are bent or broken. Employees should never yank electric cords out of outlets.
Train your employees to always sweep up -- never pick up -- even small amounts of trash or debris.
Tell your employees what personal protective equipment, gloves, goggles, aprons, etc, is required for each job they are doing.
If employees notice any potential safety hazards, they should report it immediately to their supervisor.
Keep treated mops away from furnaces, light bulbs and other heat sources.
Never leave trash in the janitor's closet, as it can be a fire hazard.
Use rubber wedges to prop open doors. Never use a piece of equipment to keep a door open.
If you need to move an item that is on the floor (trash receptacles, boxes, cabinets, etc.), never place it on top of a desk.
When moving objects, mats, or boxes, lift the item - don't pull or tug it over to a new place. If necessary, the employee should ask another employee for help.
Steve Hanson is co-founding member of The Janitorial Store (TM), an online community for owners and managers of cleaning companies who want to build a more profitable and successful cleaning business. Sign up for Trash Talk: Tip of the Week at http://www.TheJanitorialStore.com and receive a Free Gift!
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