The 4 Most Common Occupational Hazards for Cleaning Services
The cleaning service industry is faced with all types of dangers and hazards when an individual is performing cleaning tasks. This is why this line of work is often listed as one of the most dangerous professions in the U.S. Slip-and-fall accidents, chemical splatter to skin and eyes, inhalation of chemical fumes, and other hazardous occurrences happen far too frequently. Some can be prevented while others may be due to inevitable exposures. Cleaning service insurance is prepared to cover your business if these cases arise that are unique to the industry, but it is important to understand how accidents happen and how they can be prevented.
Most hazards fall into the following four categories:
1. Biological Hazards
Biological hazards would include any exposure to infectious pathogens, bacteria, fungi, or mold. These elements can be quite harmful yet are prevalent in the cleaning service industry. Training in the discard of these hazards should be part of every onboarding process.
2. Chemical Hazards
Many cleaning chemicals contain a variety of ingredients that may be toxic and health-threatening if inhaled or even touched. Green cleaning chemicals can also be dangerous, especially if they are not used properly or are mishandled. Each employee should be properly trained on chemical usage. If a cleaning worker is working in an enclosed area, the fumes from powerful cleaning chemicals could result in health-risking indoor air quality.
3. Physical Hazards
Certain equipment and tools used in the cleaning industry can pose to treat to the well-being of the worker. Also, it is common that cleaning tasks require considerable repetitive movement such as vacuuming or mopping floors. The tasks often result in exposure to heavy lifting, prolonged standing, and regular bending.
4. Stress
It is not always recognized as a hazard, but stress is common among cleaning workers.
These factors are known to heighten stress levels:
- Feeling inadequately trained to perform their cleaning tasks
- There is poor communication with supervisors
- Poor work organization
- Poor working conditions
- Overexertion
- New cleaning tools, equipment, or procedures are introduced
Removing stress is often the first hazard that should be addressed.
Protect your business from its unique risks with cleaning service insurance. Most of these hazards can be minimized if not eliminated. Once you have secured proper protection, all the hazards and associated risks can be dealt with more calmly and appropriately.
About Moody Insurance Worldwide
Moody Insurance Worldwide, a division of Moody & Associates that was founded in 1914, is a leading provider of risk management programs and insurance coverage to individuals and businesses across the East Coast. We write all sizes of businesses, with technical expertise in many key industry areas, and provide personal insurance programs for estates and high net worth individuals. Our licensed, experienced commercial account managers can work with you to determine the coverage that you need at a competitive rate. Contact us today at (855) 868-0170 to learn more about what we can do for you.