7 Safety Mistakes to Avoid When It Comes to Handling Chemical Cleaners
Commercial-grade cleaning chemicals are essential for keeping commercial facilities clean and healthy. However, some cleaning solutions can potentially be hazardous if they are used improperly. You need to avoid mistakes when using chemical cleaners at your commercial facility to keep both staff and customers safe. The following are seven chemical cleaner handling mistakes to avoid:
Being unfamiliar with the Safety Data Sheet for a given chemical cleaner
Safety Data Sheets are documents that detail the hazards that go along with using particular chemicals. They are essential documents for understanding the exact risks each chemical cleaner involves.
Switching the container in which a chemical cleaner is stored
Cleaners should always be left in their original containers. Switching the container can make it so that those using the cleaner aren't sure of exactly which chemicals it contains and what hazards its use could potentially involve.
Not knowing the meaning of "signal words"
Signal words include "caution," "warning," and "danger." These words indicate the severity of the safety hazards that a particular chemical cleaner will involve. The word "caution" on a cleaner container indicates general safety but recommends some care with its use and understanding of the hazards of its contents. The word "warning" indicates that a cleaner is mildly toxic. If the word "danger" is printed on a cleaner container, it indicates high toxicity and potential damage to eyes and skin.
Failing to compile a list of all the commercial cleaners used at your facility
When it comes to cleaner safety, one of the most important things is staff member training. You should compile a list of all the commercial cleaners used at your facility along with what the hazards are. This list should be shared with all staff members to ensure that they take the necessary care in using cleaners.
Keeping cleaners stored in an area that's not adequately ventilated
Ventilation is essential where chemicals are used and stored. Without proper ventilation, staff members can experience potentially severe injuries, depending on the toxicity of the particular chemical used. Make sure that your storage areas for cleaning chemicals are properly ventilated to avoid breathing issues and exposure to chemicals via the lungs.
Trying to use cleaners for purposes they're not intended for
Most cleaners are designed with specific uses in mind. If you decide to use a cleaner for something it's not intended for, you can create unnecessary hazards at your facility. Be aware of the intended purpose of all the cleaners you use, and make sure you don't use a cleaner for the wrong application.
Having a disorganized work area where chemical cleaners are used
A disorganized work area can make spills and other incidents likely. It's important to minimize clutter where chemical cleaners are used to avoid contamination and other potential hazards.