Chapter 1: General Safety Information
Carrying Equipment:
When carrying equipment, such as vacuum cleaners, always ensure one hand remains free for balance. Never carry a vacuum cleaner up or down stairs if both hands are occupied with other equipment.
Ladder Usage:
Only use ladders for climbing two steps, even during deep cleanings like "Top to Bottom" or spring cleaning. The kitchen should only involve two steps when cleaning high surfaces.
Cleaning Tall Shower Stalls:
Clean only as high as you can naturally reach in tall shower stalls. Do not climb or step inside showers to reach higher areas.
Handling Chemicals:
Ensure chemical containers are tightly sealed before placing them down to prevent spills. Use towels to protect the floor outside of showers and bathtubs. Clean spills immediately.
Navigating Wet Floors:
Avoid walking across wet floors, especially in socks or bare feet, as they become slippery. If necessary, place rags under your shoes for traction, especially when cleaning large showers.
Vacuuming Stairs:
Invest in or recommend a lightweight hand vacuum for cleaning stairs. Heavy vacuums are risky to use on staircases.
Chemical Usage:
Never mix bleach and ammonia-based products. These common household cleaners, when mixed, create dangerous fumes.
Interacting with Pets:
If a pet appears aggressive, leave the property and notify the office for rescheduling. Do not continue cleaning under these circumstances.
Personal Safety:
If the behavior or presence of anyone in the home makes you uncomfortable, leave immediately and report the incident.
Handling Trash:
Avoid compressing trash with your hands to prevent injury from sharp objects. Never sort through a client's garbage.
Reading Work Orders:
Do not read work orders while driving. Ensure the car is stationary before reviewing them.
Operating Electrical Equipment:
Do not use electrical devices on wet floors to avoid electrical shock.
Chapter 2: Preventing Slips, Trips, and Falls
Footwear:
Non-slip, closed-toe shoes are mandatory to prevent accidents. Ensure proper fit and condition at all times.
Climbing and Reaching:
Only use approved ladders and step stools. Do not climb on counters, shelves, or railings.
Cleaning Up Spills:
Clean spills immediately and use wet floor signs to notify others until the area is dry.
Housekeeping:
Keep tools and equipment organized to avoid trips and falls. Cords should be managed properly to avoid being a tripping hazard.
Lighting:
Ensure adequate lighting when working in dim areas. Use portable lamps when necessary.
Chapter 3: Proper Equipment Use
Reporting Equipment Issues:
If equipment malfunctions, do not attempt repairs. Report the issue immediately and set the equipment aside.
Ladder Use:
Use step stools responsibly for heights up to 3-6 feet and avoid balancing ladders on scaffolds.
Chapter 4: Chemical Safety
Mixing Chemicals:
Never mix cleaning chemicals to avoid harmful reactions.
Protective Equipment:
Always wear gloves and eye protection when handling hazardous materials.
Chapter 5: Ergonomics and Physical Safety
Lifting and Hauling:
Use proper lifting techniques by bending your knees and keeping your back straight when lifting heavy objects.
Overreaching:
Do not overreach while cleaning. Use proper equipment to reach difficult areas.
Chapter 6: Security and Reporting Procedures
Locking Doors:
Ensure all doors are locked upon entering and leaving a home or office.
Report Unfit Behavior:
If a team member appears under the influence, report them immediately.
Injury Reporting:
Report any injuries to the office and document them properly.
Chapter 7: Heat-Related Illness Prevention
Stay Hydrated:
Always have water available, and drink half your body weight in ounces of water each day.
Take Breaks:
Rest when needed, especially in hot and humid conditions.
Chapter 8: Vehicle Safety
Seatbelt Use:
Always wear seatbelts while driving or riding in company vehicles.
No Distractions:
Avoid distractions such as cell phone use or eating while driving.
Chapter 9: Home/Building Security
Locking Premises:
Lock the door behind you when entering a home or office and keep it locked throughout the cleaning process.
Handling Intruders:
If someone arrives at the home unexpectedly, do not let them in unless they've been pre-approved.
Safety First:
If at any point you feel unsafe, leave the premises and contact the office immediately. If unable to leave, lock yourself in a bathroom and call 911.
At CleanFlorida, safety is our top priority. We believe in maintaining a secure and respectful workplace for everyone, and we count on every team member to follow these guidelines for the well-being of the team and the quality of our service. Stay safe, stay alert, and always prioritize your well-being!