Practical Tips For Chemical Handling

A reader comments: “Do you have any practical tips for chemical handling?”

The poison control number is (800) 222-1222 and should be posted appropriately. You might have a small reward for those on staff who can dial the number from memory. All of this information will be available on the MSDS/SDS information as well. You should only have cleaning products on hand that the worker needs to perform their tasks. Try to keep any specialty chemicals locked away to avoid the possibility of a worker mistakenly using the wrong product. I remember when one of my workers (hopefully innocently) used a bowl acid to clean a desk top. He did figure out that is was not the right product and stopped but not before damaing it enough to require the entire top be replaced.

Always take the time to read the warning labels on any chemical product you use. The same label will usually provide guidance on how to use the product safely as well as storage directions. It will usually guide you on proper PPE’s (personal protective equipment) such as gloves, eyewear or ventilation. If it requires a respirator or full body protection you need to make sure all workers exposed to it have been trained to that standard.

Never assume that a similar sounding named product does the same job. The same goes for color, odor and other characteristic. It is important that products are color coded and numbered in such a way that there is no confusion on its use. My recommendation is to simplify your daily cleaning product line to 3-5 items that are color coded and numbered.

The goal is always safety.

Your comments and questions are important. I hope to hear from you soon. Until then, keep it clean...

Mickey Crowe has been involved in the industry for over 35 years. He is a trainer, speaker and consultant. You can reach Mickey at 678-314-2171 or CTCG50@comcast.net.