Housekeeping in the workplace is more than just sweeping the floors or taking out the trash. Maintaining spic-and-span surroundings is essential to worker safety and productivity. It is also mandated by government as part of industrial regulations.
Why you should keep your Work Site Clean
- Prevent injuries.
- Control allergens.
- Remove distractions.
- Make a good first impression.
- Protect the environment
Tips on How to Keep Your Work Site Clean
Tip #1: Prevent slips, trips, and falls.
Most accidents in the workplace are caused by slips, trips, and falls. In factories, warehouses, and construction sites, it is common to have equipment and production materials lying around. Spills can leave wet spots on the floor – putting workers at risk for electrocution.
To prevent accidents:
- Clean up spills and leaks right away.
- Remove debris from aisles, exits, and blind spots.
- Use anti-slip mats and drip pans.
- Replace worn out flooring.
Tip #2: Be wary of falling objects.
- Stack boxes properly.
- Place heavy objects on lower shelves.
- Keep equipment away from edges of tables.
- Equip scaffolding with debris netting, wind screens, and guardrails.
Tip #3: Check fire hazards.
- Store flammable materials away from ignition sources.
- Change clothes if contaminated with flammable liquid.
- Do not block fire doors and stairwells.
- Do not pile materials up to the ceiling.
Tip #4: Clear clutter.
Workers need enough space to move. A cluttered work space can slow down productivity and even cause injuries.
- Return tools to their proper storage after use.
- Dispose of materials that are no longer needed.
- Empty trash bins before they overflow.
- Clear clutter from aisles, stairways, emergency exits, and electrical panels
Tip #5: Check indoor air quality.
Construction dust can trigger asthma and allergy symptoms. It can also cause long-term respiratory problems if left to pollute the indoor air in the workplace.
- Test all work areas for air quality.
- Control dust accumulation by vacuuming regularly.
- Wash down flooring with industrial cleaning equipment.
- Use powerful blowers to clean hard to reach areas.
Tip #6: Provide cleaning supplies.
- Make trash cans and garbage bags available for workers.
- Rent a dumpster or dump trailer.
- Maintain a utility room with brooms, vacuum, window cleaners, microfiber mops.
- Invest in proper tool storage and utility buckets.
Tip #7: Waste management.
- Separate trash for recycling.
- Keep waste in covered bins.
- Maintain a chute or other waste-removal apparatus.
- Seal waste containers tightly.
- Do not dispose waste into sewers.
- Follow government codes when disposing scrap and surplus materials.
Employers must implement a routine housekeeping program and get everyone on board. Don’t wait for accidents to happen. If there is a loose nail or wood debris, clean it up immediately. Good housekeeping at the workplace not only minimizes injuries but protects companies from lawsuits as well.
By maintaining a clean and well-organized work environment, workers are more focused on the task at hand. Having access to the right tools when they need them enables the workforce to finish the job done faster and safer. For cost effective equipment for rent, contact your trusted equipment rental company today!
Written by Lindsey Rentals. Lindsey Rentals offers the best equipment rentals in Columbia, MO.
