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10/24/2016

Tips For Cleaning Up Spills in the Workplace

By SR Max

Tips For Cleaning Up Spills in the Workplace

Tips For Cleaning Up Spills in the Workplace

Everyone is probably familiar with the saying, Dont cry over spilled milk.Spills can be dangerous, and could lead to crying when they happen the workplace.

 

When any type of oil or liquid is spilled, it should be taken very seriously and cleaned up promptly. In every workplace, there are different types of substances that could cause a major slip and fall, thus resulting in a workers comp claim.

We put together a couple of tips to help your workplace better understand how to clean up spills with ease.

Use Appropriate Materials

You will encounter different spills. Use the right materials for the job so you can protect yourself and the people around you. Various spills may require different equipment, but it is best to be prepared for anything in the workplace. Spills should be wiped up, cleaned, and dried before the area is considered safe for work-related activities.

Mopping the area will clean the spill, but it may create a more dangerous area for slip and falls.

Your workplace spill station should include:

  • Absorbent materials (Rags, towels, cloths etc.)
  • Paper towels for small spills
  • Detergent Solution for oil or grease spills
  • Spill Kits
  • Wet floor signs
  • Mops
  • Squeegee
  • Hand-held Squeegee Vacuum

Keep an eye out for leaks

Sometimes liquid on the floor doesnt come from a spill. It may have come from a leak in a pipe, ceiling, plumbing, or something else. Keep an eye out for leaks coming from underneath the sinks or from the ceiling. By continually checking this, you could prevent employees or customers slipping and falling.

Oil vs. Water

Make sure that you determine whether the spill is oil or water. Oil is flammable at times and can be more dangerous than water spills. Oil also can produce gas, which would cause a dangerous situation for your workplace.

Consider the Size of the Spill

While cleaning the spill, take the size of the spill into consideration. You will have to treat a large spill differently than a small spill. Do not take a paper towel to clean 3 gallons of spilled water. Whatever the size of the spill, clean it with the appropriate equipment.

Wear Slip Resistant Shoes

Lastly, wear the most important piece of your work outfit. Slip resistant shoes will protect you from slipping while you are trying to do your job. Your shoes alone can lead to the difference between going to the hospital or going home that day. Do not try to clean a spill without slip resistant shoes on. All of our shoes have been tested to provide optimal slip protection for your feet, so you can be prepared for anything that comes your way.Learn more about our slip resistant testing here.Find a pair of slip resistant shoes here!

  Authored by: SR Max  |  Posted: 10/24/2016