Guidance on hazards faced by cleaners

Cleaners are exposed to a wide range of hazards and work in precarious circumstances, according to a new report from the European safety agency, EU-OSHA.

Cleaning workers are exposed to a broad range of different chemicals such as volatile organic compounds, acid, biocides and additives. They are exposed to biological agents such as bacteria, viruses and moulds, fungal secretions and bacterial endotoxins present in dust as well as in aerosols created during the cleaning process.

Physical hazards encountered in cleaning work encompass falls from ladders, platforms and slippery floors, falling objects, sharp objects, and moving or rotating machinery parts. There are additional risks from musculoskeletal disorders, noise, vibration and heat stress.

The occupational safety and health of cleaning workers is at: http://osha.europa.eu/en/publications/literature_reviews/cleaning_workers_and_OSH