26 Jun Practice Good Housekeeping

Practice Good Housekeeping

Good housekeeping is one of the foundations of a safe and productive workplace. A clean, orderly work area helps prevent injuries, reduces fire hazards, improves access to emergency equipment and exits, and makes it easier for everyone to perform their work safely.

Housekeeping is everyone’s responsibility. It is not something that should be done only at the end of the shift or when an area becomes noticeably cluttered. Good housekeeping means maintaining the work area throughout the entire workday.

Prevent Slips, Trips, and Falls

Poor housekeeping is a common contributor to slips, trips, and falls. Help prevent these incidents by:

• Keeping aisles, stairs, walkways, and work areas clear.
• Cleaning up spills promptly or guarding the area until cleanup is complete.
• Obeying wet-floor signs and other warnings.
• Keeping cords, hoses, cables, and leads out of walkways whenever possible.
• Removing scrap, packaging, and other debris as work progresses.
• Keeping drawers, cabinets, and doors closed when not in use.
• Correcting uneven surfaces and other trip hazards when possible.
• Reporting conditions that cannot be immediately corrected.

Never assume someone else will take care of a housekeeping problem.

Keep Materials and Tools Organized

Proper storage prevents falling objects, blocked access, damaged equipment, and unnecessary handling.

• Return tools and equipment to their designated storage locations after use.
• Stack and store materials securely so they cannot fall, slide, or collapse.
• Keep heavier materials on lower shelves when practical.
• Do not block electrical panels, fire extinguishers, emergency equipment, or exits.
• Keep storage areas organized and free of unnecessary materials.
• Remove protruding nails, sharp edges, and other hazards or protect employees from them.
• Store flammable and hazardous materials in designated areas according to company procedures.

Do not allow materials to accumulate simply because they may be needed later.

Dispose of Waste Safely

Waste and debris should be removed regularly.

• Place trash and scrap in designated containers.
• Use appropriate containers for sharp objects and hazardous materials.
• Never pick up broken glass or other sharp debris with bare hands; use a broom, dustpan, or appropriate tool.
• Dispose of oily or chemical-contaminated materials according to established procedures.
• Keep combustible waste from accumulating.
• Empty waste containers frequently enough to prevent overflow.

Keep Equipment and Work Areas Clean

Good housekeeping also includes maintaining the condition of tools and equipment.

• Keep tools clean and in good working condition.
• Clean work surfaces as tasks are completed.
• Store cords and hoses properly when not in use.
• Keep access to controls and emergency shutoffs clear.
• Remove defective equipment from service when required.
• Clean up leaks and identify their source so the condition can be corrected.

Fire and Emergency Safety

Clutter and accumulated combustible materials can contribute to fires and make emergency evacuation more difficult.

Always keep:

• Exit routes and doors unobstructed.
• Fire extinguishers readily accessible.
• Emergency equipment clearly visible and accessible.
• Electrical panels and disconnects accessible.
• Stairs and passageways free of stored materials.
• Combustible waste under control.

Never store materials where they could interfere with an emergency evacuation or access to emergency equipment.

Everyone Is Responsible

If you create debris, clean it up. If you use a tool, return it to its proper location. If you see a spill, obstruction, or other housekeeping hazard, correct it when you can safely do so or report it promptly.

Good housekeeping is not simply about appearance. It is an ongoing safety practice that can prevent injuries, fires, property damage, and unnecessary delays.

Remember

A clean workplace is a safer workplace. Do not wait until the end of the day to clean up. Keep your work area organized as the job progresses and leave it safe for the next person.