Good housekeeping – health and safety

04/09/2013 Claire News and Information 0

4 Sept

Good housekeeping can keep you safe

What does housekeeping have to do with safety? It wouldn’t be wrong to say ‘everything!’ From cuts and bruises to slip, trips, and falls, poor housekeeping is one of the major causes of employee injuries.

When good housekeeping practices are in place, there is a significant reduction in work place hazards.

However, good housekeeping can do more than just reduce workplace hazards and associated accidents. Working in a clean, organized environment is more enjoyable and can increase employee pride. Good housekeeping can also save time and increase productivity. When tools and materials are returned to their proper place, time is not wasted looking for needed items. This provides the worker more time to spend on productivity.

To keep your work area safe, maintain your daily housekeeping tasks and use the following tips:

  • Wipe up accidental spills immediately, even if they aren’t yours.
  • Stack materials neatly – place heavy or bulky items at waist height.
  • Keep cabinet doors and drawers closed. In corridors and circulation areas, this is essential!
  • Return equipment and tools to their proper place after use.
  • Properly dispose of waste and scrap as it collects, and ensure that it is placed in the appropriate receptacle. This particularly includes flammable liquids, oily or paint-covered rags, and paper waste.
  • Keep floors free of clutter and trip hazards.
  • ALWAYS keep stairs, aisles, and walkways clear.
  • Ensure that exits are completely free of obstructions.
  • Do not overfill racks, bins, and storage areas.
  • Always report promptly any problem you cannot tackle safely and easily yourself.
  • Follow cleaning and maintenance routines.
  • Ensure that containers that hold hazardous substances are leak free and correctly labelled with the name of the substance and the hazards.
  • Ensure that tools, especially those with sharp edges or pointed tips, are stored properly when not in use.
  • Keep fire extinguishers, call points and exit signs free of obstructions.
  • Do not obstruct the vision panel in the door.