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|  | HousekeepingSome may think the word “housekeeping” refers to cleaning floors, removing dust, and organizing clutter. But in the workplace, it means much more as it is crucial to maintain a safe workplace, which leads to healthier employees, higher morale, and increased productivity.
Good housekeeping is the responsibility of all employees at all levels and is a continual process that reduces hazards, accidents, and operational downtime. It's important that you understand the hazards associated with poor housekeeping and strategies to ensure your safety and the safety of your colleagues. |
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| Did you know?Approximately two-thirds of all workplace accidents can be traced back to housekeeping issues! |
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| Slip, trip, and fall prevention
- Report and clean up spilled liquids immediately.
- Keep walkways clear of cables, materials, tools, and equipment; if cables must pass through work or public areas, ensure cable covers are utilized.
- Replace worn, ripped, or damaged flooring.
- Install anti-slip flooring in areas that are frequently slippery.
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|  | Reduce fire hazards
- Handle flammable products (e.g., paint thinner, gasoline, and alcohol) in accordance with their safety data sheets, and store them away from ignition sources and in approved storage cabinets.
- Do not store items in a way that can block, damage, or impair emergency equipment, such as fire extinguishers, electrical panels, fire alarm systems, and sprinkler heads.
- Avoid storing items in exit paths and stairwells, and ensure stairwell and other fire doors remain closed at all times.
- Remove worksite trash and empty trash receptacles frequently to avoid the accumulation of combustible materials (e.g., cardboard, pallets, and plastics).
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| Other safety tips
- Prevent pests like insects and rodents by keeping food out of work areas and not letting food waste accumulate by disposing of it properly.
- Establish a regular housekeeping routine to keep your work area safe and orderly.
- Avoid falling objects that could cause injury by:
- Stacking boxes and materials straight up and down
- Placing heavy objects on lower shelves
- Keeping equipment away from the edges of desks and tables
- Not stacking objects in areas where people regularly walk or work, such as corridors
- If you observe a housekeeping issue that you are not equipped or trained to address, inform your supervisor and others in the work area.
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