The use of cleaning products is essential for maintaining cleanliness and hygiene, with proper storage of these products being crucial to prevent serious risks to health and safety. In this article, we discuss the best practices for properly storing cleaning products and equipment in workplace environments to mitigate potential health and safety risks to sustain a healthy and productive workplace environment for staff and customers.
How To Store Cleaning Products
Knowing how to store cleaning products properly is important for several reasons. Properly storing cleaning products in the workplace minimizes the risk of accidents including spills and leaks, in addition to chemical reactions. Many cleaning products are sensitive to temperature, light, and moisture and the proper storage of cleaning products helps to maintain their effectiveness and extends their shelf life by protecting them from these elements. Several cleaning products are flammable, and keeping them safely away from heat sources and open flames reduces the risk of fire. Discussed below are guidelines to effectively store and maintain cleaning products.
Use Clear Signage To Identify Products
Ensure that cleaning chemicals are properly labeled with instructions, contents, and hazard warnings. In addition, store the chemicals in their original containers whenever possible, and if cleaning chemicals are transferred to different containers, label the new containers appropriately.
Have A Designated Storage Area For Cleaning Products
Storing cleaning products in the workplace involves keeping chemicals in a designated area away from food and food preparation areas. Also, ensure that the storage area is well-ventilated to prevent the buildup of harmful fumes. In addition, ensure that the storage area is away from high heat, direct sunlight, water, and electricity sources. Cleaning chemicals should be stored in a designated cupboard where possible, and should remain locked when not in use to ensure that the area is not accessed by any untrained or unauthorized staff and visitors.
Utilize Safety Data Sheets (SDS)
It is essential to keep one controlled copy of the Safety Data Sheets and a hazard register for all chemicals that are stored in the workplace. SDS includes information on safe handling, storage, and chemical disposal. It also guides the use of personal protective equipment (PPE), safe storage conditions, and the actions to take in the event of a chemical spill or accidental release. In addition, ensure that all employees know where the SDS are stored and how to interpret them.
Rotate Stock
Cleaning chemicals have a shelf life and it is crucial to ensure that older products are being used first, and this is to ensure that new stock does not get used before older stock products which may result in any products becoming less effective or expired.
Storage Of Cleaning Equipment
Properly storing cleaning equipment is crucial for ensuring safety, efficiency, and organization in any setting. The following are measures to consider when storing cleaning equipment in the workplace:
Have A Designated Storage Room/Area For Equipment
Designate areas for storing cleaning equipment such as mops, brooms, vacuum cleaners, and other tools, and ensure that these storage areas are clean, dry, and well-ventilated to prevent mold and bacteria growth.
Clean Equipment After Use
Clean equipment after each use to prevent the buildup of dirt and bacteria. In addition, dry mops and brooms thoroughly before storing them to prevent mould and mildew growth and for odour control.
PPE Storage
Keep PPE such as gloves, goggles, and masks in a clean and dry place where they can be easily accessed when needed.
Accessibility
When storing cleaning equipment, ensure that the equipment is stored in an organized manner to avoid clutter and is accessible to those who need it with easy access, and utilize hooks, shelves, and racks as required.
Train Your Employees
Storing cleaning products in the workplace, along with storing cleaning equipment appropriately, requires the proper knowledge of how to store, handle, and use cleaning products and equipment. It is essential to train employees about cleaning protocols and conduct regular refresher training sessions. To facilitate this, post clear signage in storage areas indicating the proper storage procedures and safety precautions. In addition, ensure that employees are aware of emergency equipment such as fire extinguishers, eye wash stations, and first aid kits.
Proper storing of cleaning products in the workplace is essential for maintaining a safe and efficient environment. Implementing appropriate storage practices can help prevent accidents, mitigate health risks, and ensure adherence to safety regulations. Prioritizing safe cleaning product storage also protects workers’ health and well-being, boosts operational efficiency, and promotes a culture of safety and responsibility in the workplace. Regency Cleaning Services can help your business display a great first impression with our impeccable cleaning services. Contact us today to learn all about the services that we offer.
