Workplace Housekeeping

To some people, the word “housekeeping” calls to mind cleaning floors and surfaces,removing dust, and organizing clutter. But in a work setting, it means much more. Housekeeping is crucial to safe workplaces. It can help prevent injuries and improve productivity and morale, Experts agree that all workplace safety programs should incorporate housekeeping, and every worker should play a part. Here are a few tips in helping keep your workplace safe.

1.  Prevent slips, trips and falls

To help prevent slip, trip and fall incidents:

•  Report and clean up spills and leaks.

•  Keep aisles and exits clear of items.

•  Consider installing mirrors and warning signs to help with blind spots.

•  Replace worn, ripped or damage flooring.

•  Consider installing anti-slip flooring in areas that can’t always be cleaned.

•  Use drip pans and guards.

2.  Eliminate fire hazards

•  Keep combustible materials in the work area only in amounts needed for the job. When they are unneeded, move them to an assigned safe storage area.

•  Store quick-burning, flammable materials in designated locations away from ignition sources.

•  Avoid contaminating clothes with flammable liquids. Change clothes if contamination occurs.

•  Keep passageways and fire doors free of obstructions. Stairwell doors should be kept closed. Do not store combustible items in stairwells.

3. Control Dust

Dust accumulation of more than 1/32 of an inch – or 0.8 millimeters – covering at least 5 percent of a room’s surface poses a significant explosion hazard, according to the National Fire Protection Association. This dust accumulation is about as thick as a dime or paper clip.

4. Prevent Falling Objects

Other tips include stacking boxes and materials straight up and down to keep them from falling. Place heavy objects on lower shelves, and keep equipment away from the edges of desks and tables. Also, refrain from stacking objects in areas where workers walk, including aisles. Keep layout in mind so workers are not exposed to hazards as they walk through area

5. Clear Clutter

A cluttered workplace can lead to ergonomic issues and the possibility of an injury because workers have less space to move. When your work area is cluttered, you will not have the amount of room you need should you move around. You’re going to be twisting your body rather than moving your whole body.

Its important to return tools and other materials to storage after using them, and dispose of materials that are no longer needed. Keep aisles, stairways, emergency exits, electrical panels and doors clear of clutter, and purge untidy areas. Empty trash receptacles before they overflow.

6.  Use and inspect personal protective equipment and tools

Wear basic PPE – such as closed-toe shoes and safety glasses – while performing housekeeping, Gray said. Determine what type of PPE to don based on the potential risks.

Regularly inspect, clean and fix tools. Remove any damaged tools from the work area.