Ensuring Worker Safety When Mixing Floor Chemicals

Floor care chemicals can be some of the most toxic chemicals a janitor deals with, so employees need to have the proper education, training and equipment to stay safe on the job.

Many newer chemicals, including those that are green or environmentally preferable, have been formulated with the health of users in mind and feature low volatile organic compounds, more pleasant odors, and are less harmful to the skin. Still, workers should always use gloves when mixing and applying floor care chemicals.

Proper clothing and eye protection is also a priority. Labeling of products is essential to protecting workers and building occupants from mistakenly using or mixing chemicals. Material Safety Data Sheets should always be consulted and made available to those who use each chemical.