For those who work in cleaning and maintenance, the majority of their work is done on their feet performing tasks that require lots of bending, stooping, pushing, pulling, carrying, and handling a variety of items that range in size, shape, and weight. All this together can put a toll on someone’s physical health in just one day, let alone over a period of time.

Workers in the cleaning industry have a high rate of injury compared to other occupational groups. And while injuries can be somewhat expected given the fact that this work is physical in nature, there are ways to avoid further damage on joints and muscles of those in the industry.

One way in which safety can be increased is through the implementation of better ergonomics among workers. While it’s important to be trained and educated on issues related to injuries from toxic chemicals used in cleaning, it’s just as important to know about ways to protect and support the musculoskeletal nature of the job.

Problems and Solutions in the Cleaning Industry

Custodial companies can enhance the general physical support of their employees by making sure the machines and items they use are ergonomic. These are products designed to fit the employee instead of causing the worker to have to fit the equipment’s size and shape.

The point here is to reduce the amount of stress on the body while still being efficient and effective in the worker’s daily tasks. What’s more, using ergonomic products and performing cleaning tasks the right way can minimize injury and encourage safety and wellness.

Here are some tips when it comes to ergonomic products and their use:

• When buying vacuums, make sure the handles are comfortable for gripping and conform to the hands of the users. A vacuum should be light in weight and include brush-assisted movement, which helps to reduce stress.
• Noise is also a factor in the health of an employee as high noise will cause fatigue and limit productivity by not being able to focus. Quieter machines and ear protection are helpful here.
• Sprayers should come with ergonomically designed handles that fit right into the user’s hands and come with textured grips to improve handling.
• Buckets and mops should be lightweight and mobile. Alternatives to buckets and mops are microfiber flat mops or floor cleaning machine.

Tips of Movement and Handling

Cleaning workers should also be educated around the effects of how they move and handle cleaning items. Performing cleaning tasks more efficiently will help to minimize injuries and keep work running smoothly.

• When cleaning, workers should make sure to stand upright and practice looking up instead of looking down at what’s being cleaned. This will help to stretch the neck and reduce stress on the neck and upper back.
• Always have a relaxed grip when handling tools and equipment to reduce hand and wrist strain.
• Carts should be used to transport heavier items.
• For mopping and sweeping, it’s important to have workers move their feet from side to side to cut down on upper body strain.

The cleaning industry as a whole has been slow to improve on the ergonomics of cleaning equipment and in training their employees on proper cleaning techniques. Those businesses that do start to integrate ergonomics into their procedures will have a major advantage.  Making a few simple adjustments in purchasing and training will help your employees be more productive and contribute to the success of your business.