| W.E.U Admin | Personal Development & Support
The cleaning sector is no longer just about a mop, a bucket of water, and a squeegee. With today’s range of chemical cleaning solutions, there’s much more to consider—and using these products incorrectly can lead to serious injury.
Understanding COSHH and Protecting Your Health
Control of Substances Hazardous to Health (COSHH) regulations are at the heart of professional cleaning services. A proper COSHH assessment will:
- Identify hazardous chemicals on site
- Recommend PPE and safe work techniques
- Detail emergency procedures in case of exposure
The Modern Cleaning Sector: More Than Just a Mop and Bucket
Today’s cleaning involves a wide variety of chemical solutions. These products can be hazardous if not used correctly, causing:
- Burns or eye injuries
- Skin conditions (dermatitis)
- Respiratory issues such as asthma
For more on effective cleaning techniques, explore our detailed cleaning services guide.
Common Health Risks for Cleaners
- Skin Problems (Dermatitis): Repeated exposure to wet hands or irritant chemicals can inflame the skin.
- Allergies and Asthma: Certain detergents and disinfectants may trigger allergic reactions or respiratory distress.
- Burns and Eye Injuries: Corrosive substances can cause permanent damage on contact.
Stay Safe – Preventive Measures
- Use Safe Work Techniques
- Avoid direct contact with chemicals.
- Minimize spills and splashes.
- Store products in original containers with labels intact. - Wear the Right PPE
- Don protective gloves, aprons, and eye protection as required.
Learn more about PPE in cleaning services. - Practice Good Hand Care
- Wash hands thoroughly after tasks.
- Dry hands completely.
- Apply moisturising creams regularly to prevent dermatitis. - Ventilate Work Areas
- Ensure adequate airflow to reduce harmful vapours.
Discover ventilation best practices.
REMEMBER: The right controls depend on the task. Always follow your site’s COSHH assessment and safety guidelines.
Your health is in your hands—handle chemicals with care!
workersofengland.co.uk | Independent Workers Trade Union
This Article is Tagged under:
Cleaning Services, Work Wellbeing
