Safety Equipment In The Cleaning Business

The business of cleaning offices and homes is a hazardous occupation. There are many dangers involved in the performance of the service. Not only does this result in higher cost for the operator, it also results in lost person hours and thus hurting the profit margins of the business. This is a small cost with a great way of avoiding greater expense for the business. Not only does one avoid fines by statutory authorities, it avoids lawsuits for the business from both the worker and the client. Here is a short list of the basic safety equipment for the cleaning business.

1) Goggles and face masks
In the cleaning business, it is important the small particles of dirt and grime are removed from the jobsite. But this does not mean that the cleaner must take in all the particles removed. Thus to protect the eyes from flying debris, a clear plastic set of goggles is a must for the cleaning worker. Also, a facemask would protect the cleaner from dust being inhaled or ingested through the mouth. The facemask and goggles also provide adequate protection from the fumes of chemicals used in cleaning. These chemicals include chlorox or acids used in removing dirt. Not only is this a safety issue, the protection of the worker is set forth in applicable labor statutes and failure to comply would result in heavy fines and sanctions.

2) Gloves and boots
Protection of the hands and feet are musts under the law. Not only is it mandated to protect the hands and feet, the use of gloves and boots actually make the performance of the work safer and more efficiently. The gloves provide not only protection but a better grip on the tools used in the cleaning. The boots also provide traction on wet floors and protection from cleaning fluids when applied to the jobsite. Thus, gloves and boots are simple wearable articles of clothing that can provide maximum efficiency in performing the task on hand and protection from injury at the jobsite. There are many designs and options available in the market. What is important is that the gloves and boots are adequate to perform the cleaning requirements at the jobsite.

3) Cover alls and waste receptacles
Cover alls is a one piece suit used to cover the body. There are many pockets for the items used in the performance. Often, there is a utility belt containing the items used in cleaning, such as rags to clean off spots, a holster for the cleaning fluid and a small knife to remove gum sticking on the floor. Made of heavy material, the cover all provide adequate protection from the rigors of the cleaning activity. Also required is a waste receptacle where the trash and other throwables are to be placed for removal from the jobsite. As required by law, there must be segregation of the waste material and this is the job of the cleaning company. It is for this purpose that waste receptacles are required at the jobsite.

For more: How to start a cleaning business