Cleaning & Disinfection Standards

Everyone involved in the workplace must be committed to ensuring that satisfactory standards of hygiene are achieved. The requisite standards are clearly and effectively communicated and reinforced by management. Cleaning schedules are developed as a communication link between management and staff and are necessary to ensure that the premises and equipment are cleaned effectively and if necessary disinfected.

Associated Hazards

• Chemical storage and handling
• Mixing of chemicals in different containers
• Slips, trips and falls
• Dermatitis

Employer’s Responsibilities

MN Support Services Ltd has responsibility for formalising cleaning within the workplace, cleaning schedules have been compiled which outline:

• What needs to be cleaned e.g. floors, facilities, work surfaces, equipment etc.
• Who is to undertake the cleaning processes.
• The frequency of cleaning procedures to be undertaken e.g. daily/weekly.
• How the cleaning process is to be undertaken e.g. whether equipment needs to be moved in order to undertake the cleaning procedure.
• What chemicals/disinfectants and cleaning implements are to be used e.g. brushes, shovels, hoses etc.

In addition, the company:

• Train and supervise inexperienced staff until they are competent to undertake
• the activity safely on their own.
• Undertake suitable and sufficient risk assessments for the relevant work activities.
• Develop a safe system of work and train staff.
• Ensure chemical data sheets are available at all times.

Employees Responsibilities

• Co-operate with the employer in relation to maintaining a clean and tidy workplace.
• Follow training, guidance and instruction to prevent injury or ill health.
• Make use of any personal protective equipment provided.
• Report to the employer any hazardous or dangerous situation.
• Co-operate with management arrangements for health and safety.