Taking the proper housekeeping and maintenance measures is key to ensuring your safety and the safety of others in the workplace. When you’re able to recognize, avoid, report, and eliminate housekeeping and maintenance hazards, you help create a safe environment for all. It starts with identifying these various potential dangers and placing proper techniques to help eliminate safety threats.
Below are a few tips to promote safety in the workplace:
Proper Storage
Safety in the workplace can be hindered in many different ways. One way is through improper storage of materials. Properly storing products and materials can help avoid common safety issues such as slips and falls, fires, and confined spaces. Here are some tips for proper storage:
- Stack cartons, drums and heavy objects on a firm foundation to reduce the chance of their movement.
- Flammable, combustible, or toxic materials must be stored in approved containers in designated areas.
- Do not obstruct aisles, stairs, fire equipment, or first aid stations.
Hazardous Materials
You play an important role in identifying and eliminating or controlling hazards in the workplace that can otherwise hinder safety. This requires you to be alert to any potential for harm or injury arising from the task, the tools and the work environment. Hazardous materials may include products which are labeled poisonous, toxic, flammable, corrosive, reactive or explosive. So, always read the label when handling certain chemicals.
- Be proactive. Think about the potential consequences certain hazards present before they become problematic.
- When you notice spilled chemicals and hazardous material, place a barricade (wet floor sign) around the area to avoid any slips and falls.
- Report the dangerous spill to a supervisor or maintenance crew member.
Designated Areas
Another method for ensuring safety in the workplace is using designated areas. Designated areas include facilities, such as showers, washing facilities, changing rooms, break rooms, and smoking areas. Such facilities must be maintained and cleaned as often to meet required standards of hygiene and good sanitation. Follow safety protocols for each areas.
- Do not consume food or beverages in areas where you may be exposed to hazardous or toxic substances.
- Be sure to thoroughly wash your hands and face prior to eating or drinking in your designated break room.
- Eating areas should be separate from work areas and should be cleaned properly during each shift.
- Smoking is both a fire and health hazard, so refrain from smoking anywhere except in designated smoking areas.
- If you smoke, be sure to thoroughly wash your hands and face to remove such contaminants prior to smoking in designated areas, especially if you were exposed to hazardous or toxic substances.
Service Keepers is serious about safety and health. Be sure to get in touch today to learn more about how we’re helping combat COVID-19.
