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Understanding Hazards – Housekeeping

Poor housekeeping can result in dirty, untidy, overcrowded and obstructed workplaces. This often leads to a variety of hazardous situations.

Poor housekeeping creates hazards for everyone. For example, if you don’t clean up spillages and tidy away tools after use, there’ll be a slip and trip hazard. Poor storage of materials may also present a fire hazard, not only because of the nature of the materials but also because they block the route to a fire exit.

Encourage members of your team to tidy up after themselves and to report any problems with housekeeping to you. Regular housekeeping inspections will help to keep on top of this common but often overlooked hazard.

Welfare facilities
Employers must provide a number of facilities to ensure the welfare and comfort of their workforce:

  • toilets and washing facilities
  • drinking water
  • storage for clothing and changing areas, if appropriate
  • rest and eating areas
  • showers, depending on the type of work.

In addition, toilets and washing facilities must be kept clean, ventilated and well lit.  Including these areas in regular inspections will help to make sure they stay in a good condition.  Encourage your team members to use these facilities.