Housekeeping (ST-7)

General: Maintaining a neat and orderly work environment not only creates a pleasant atmosphere, but can also keep hazards from developing.  For the next few minutes I want you to put on your thinking hat to see why good housekeeping is a critical part of your job.

1.     True or False?  OSHA has regulations related to housekeeping.
The answer is true.

-        Housekeeping is addressed in OSHA’s Walking-Working Surfaces Standards.
-        OSHA says that all places of employment, passageways, store rooms and service rooms must be kept          clean, orderly and in a sanitary condition.
-        The floor of every workroom must be maintained in a clean and dry condition.
-        Where wet processes are used, drainage must be maintained, and false floors, platforms, mats and            other dry standing surfaces should be provided.
-        Every floor, working place and passageway must be kept free from protruding nails, splinters, holes,            or loose boards.
-        Where mechanical handling equipment is used, sufficient clearances must be allowed for aisles, at            loading docks and through doorways.
-        Aisles and passageways must be kept clear and in good repair.
-        Permanent aisles and passageways must be appropriately marked.
-        Covers and/or guardrails must be provided to protect workers from open pits, tanks, vats, ditches,               etc.

2.      Here are some tips to follow regarding waste disposal.
-        Put waste in the appropriate place.
-        Don’t overfill trash cans.
-        Be cautious when disposing of hazardous materials.
-        Don’t mix dangerous waste in the same bin.
-        Empty full trash bins regularly.

3.      True or False?  Housekeeping is really the job of the janitorial staff.
The answer is false.

-     While the janitorial staff is responsible for keeping the workplace clean, housekeeping is really                   everyone’s responsibility.
-     If you see a spill, don’t just expect someone else to clean it up – clean it up yourself, or put out warning       signs and alert the appropriate person in the case of a hazardous materials spill.
-     If you see trash on the floor, don’t just shake your head and walk by, pick it up  and throw it away.
-     Keep your work area neat and tidy by cleaning up every day.
-     Remind your co-workers that they are responsible for good housekeeping, too.

4.      Using a checklist can help you keep your work area neat and orderly.  Can you think of other                   items that should be added to the below checklist?           
-        Clean up spills immediately.
-        Maintain tools in good working order.
-        Keeps tools, equipment and other materials in their proper place when not in use.
-        Use extension cords only when necessary and only on a temporary basis.
-        Do not run cords across walkways
-        Inspect cords and tools for damage prior to use.
-        Keep sharp-edges tools sheathed when not in use.
-        Do not allow trash to accumulate.
-        Make sure chemical containers are labeled properly.
-        Check chemical containers for leaks.
-        Store chemicals appropriately and safely.
-        Keep food and drinks out of the work area.
-        Report any potential housekeeping hazards.

Summary:  It is critical that we all take responsibility for good housekeeping.  Remember, your safety          and the safety of our co-workers is in your hands.  Let’s all work together as a team to keeping our              work area the safest possible.