Cleaning businesses need to do more to reduce workers' risk of exposure to dangerous substances.
Around four million people are employed by cleaning organisations across Europe and many come into close contact with dangerous substances every day.
Risks arise from the use of potent chemicals in cleaning agents, the substances being cleaned - especially dust, soot and mould - and chemical reactions caused by applying cleaning agents to substances or using them with other products. Many cleaning agents include fragrances or perfumes which can cause allergic reactions it said.
It is advised that cleaning companies should record the products being used and to conduct a workplace risk assessment considering the type, intensity, length and frequency or potential exposure to each product.
Comprehensive procedures should also be put in place to manage, identify and safely dispose of chemicals being used and companies should substitute as many "dangerous" substances as possible.
Where dangerous substances cannot be eliminated or substituted, employers should ensure that substances are used and diluted as per the manufacturer's instructions and that they are not mixed with other products. They should also consult and inform workers and ensure that cleaning work is supervised and carried out in a well-ventilated space.
Other recommendations include ensuring staff are provided with personal protective equipment and work clothing; offering training on safe working practices; drawing up a skin protection plan and monitoring the health of workers who use potent cleaning products.
(www.europeancleaningjournal.com)
