Chemical Safety in Industrial Cleaning

Understanding Chemical Risks in Industrial Cleaning

Industrial cleaning often requires the use of powerful chemical agents to remove stubborn contaminants, grease, scale, and other industrial residues. While effective, these chemicals can pose significant health and safety risks if not handled properly. Understanding these risks is the first step in implementing appropriate safety measures.

According to the Health and Safety Executive (HSE), thousands of workers in the UK suffer from health issues related to cleaning chemical exposure each year. Common health effects include:

• Skin irritation and dermatitis
• Eye injuries
• Respiratory issues
• Chemical burns
• Long-term health conditions from chronic exposure

Beyond health concerns, certain cleaning chemicals can also create physical hazards such as fire, explosion, or hazardous chemical reactions when improperly mixed or stored.

Legal Requirements and Compliance

In the UK, several regulations govern the use of hazardous chemicals in workplace settings, including:

• Control of Substances Hazardous to Health (COSHH) Regulations 2002 - Requires employers to control substances that are hazardous to health
• Classification, Labelling and Packaging of Chemicals (CLP) Regulation - Sets standards for chemical classification and labeling
• REACH (Registration, Evaluation, Authorisation and Restriction of Chemicals) - Regulates chemical substances in the EU/UK
• The Dangerous Substances and Explosive Atmospheres Regulations 2002 (DSEAR) - Focuses on fire and explosion risks

Compliance with these regulations is not just a legal obligation but a crucial aspect of ensuring workplace safety.

Risk Assessment for Chemical Cleaning

A thorough risk assessment is essential before implementing any industrial cleaning program involving chemicals. This process should include:

1. Identify the Hazards: Review the Safety Data Sheets (SDS) for all cleaning chemicals to understand their potential hazards.
2. Evaluate the Risks: Assess the likelihood and potential severity of harm from each identified hazard.
3. Determine Control Measures: Identify ways to eliminate or reduce risks to an acceptable level.
4. Implement Controls: Put the necessary safety measures in place.
5. Review and Update: Regularly review the assessment, especially when introducing new chemicals or processes.

Remember that COSHH regulations require employers to conduct and document risk assessments for all hazardous substances used in the workplace.

Safe Storage of Cleaning Chemicals

Proper chemical storage is crucial for preventing accidents and maintaining chemical efficacy:

• Dedicated Storage Areas: Store chemicals in designated areas with appropriate ventilation, temperature control, and security.
• Compatibility: Never store incompatible chemicals together. For example, acids and alkalis should be stored separately to prevent hazardous reactions if containers leak.
• Containment: Use appropriate bunding or spill containment systems to contain leaks.
• Original Containers: Keep chemicals in their original containers with labels intact. If transfer to another container is necessary, ensure it is properly labeled.
• Inventory Management: Maintain an up-to-date inventory of all stored chemicals and regularly check for expired products.
• Access Control: Restrict access to chemical storage areas to authorized personnel only.

Safe Handling and Application Procedures

When working with industrial cleaning chemicals, follow these handling guidelines:

• Follow Manufacturer Instructions: Always use chemicals according to the manufacturer's guidelines for dilution, application, and contact time.
• Use Appropriate PPE: Personal Protective Equipment should be selected based on the specific hazards of each chemical. Common PPE includes:
• Chemical-resistant gloves
• Eye protection (safety glasses, goggles, or face shields)
• Respiratory protection when working with volatile chemicals or in poorly ventilated areas
• Chemical-resistant clothing or aprons
• Appropriate footwear
• Proper Dilution: Use accurate measuring tools when diluting concentrated products to ensure correct concentrations.
• Ventilation: Ensure adequate ventilation when using chemicals that release fumes or vapors.
• No Mixing: Never mix different cleaning products unless specifically instructed to do so by the manufacturer.
• Clean Equipment: Maintain cleaning equipment in good condition and clean it after use to prevent chemical residue buildup.

Safer Alternative Products

Where possible, consider using safer alternatives to traditional harsh cleaning chemicals:

• Eco-certified Cleaning Products: Many effective industrial cleaners now come with environmental certifications and reduced hazard profiles.
• Enzymatic Cleaners: These use biological enzymes to break down organic matter and can be effective alternatives to caustic cleaners in some applications.
• Steam Cleaning: For some applications, high-temperature steam can provide effective cleaning with minimal chemical use.
• Microfiber Technology: Advanced microfiber cloths and mops can reduce the quantity of chemicals needed for effective cleaning.

Emergency Procedures and Spill Management

Despite preventive measures, accidents can still occur. Be prepared with proper emergency procedures:

Chemical Spill Response:

1. Alert: Notify others in the area about the spill.
2. Assess: Determine the nature and extent of the spill.
3. Protect: Don appropriate PPE before approaching the spill.
4. Contain: Use spill containment materials to prevent spreading.
5. Clean Up: Use appropriate methods and materials for the specific chemical.
6. Dispose: Ensure proper disposal of contaminated materials according to regulations.
7. Document: Record the incident and review procedures to prevent recurrence.

First Aid for Chemical Exposure:

• Skin Contact: Remove contaminated clothing and rinse the affected area with plenty of water for at least 15 minutes.
• Eye Contact: Flush eyes with clean water for at least 15 minutes, holding eyelids open.
• Inhalation: Move to fresh air immediately. If breathing is difficult, seek medical attention.
• Ingestion: Do not induce vomiting unless specifically instructed by a medical professional or the chemical's SDS.
• Seek Medical Attention: Always seek medical help after significant chemical exposure, bringing the chemical's SDS if possible.

Training and Documentation

Comprehensive training is essential for anyone handling industrial cleaning chemicals:

• COSHH Training: Ensure all staff understand the principles of COSHH and how they apply to cleaning operations.
• Chemical-Specific Training: Provide training on the specific hazards and safe handling procedures for each chemical used.
• Documentation: Maintain records of all training, risk assessments, and chemical inventories.
• Regular Updates: Review and update training materials when new chemicals or procedures are introduced.
• Emergency Drills: Conduct periodic drills for chemical spill response and emergency procedures.

Conclusion

Chemical safety in industrial cleaning is not just about compliance with regulations; it's about protecting the health and wellbeing of your workforce while ensuring effective and efficient cleaning operations. By implementing comprehensive safety protocols, providing proper training, and staying informed about safer alternatives, you can significantly reduce the risks associated with industrial cleaning chemicals.

At Zimnyaya Lazaniya, we prioritize safety in all our industrial cleaning operations. Our teams are thoroughly trained in chemical safety protocols, and we continuously assess and improve our procedures to ensure the highest standards of safety for our staff and clients. When you partner with us, you can be confident that your industrial cleaning needs will be met with both effectiveness and safety as top priorities.