CoSHH Guidelines - How to use Cleaning Products Safely



Posted: Sunday, February 28, 2010

by Dale
Ethos Solution Ltd

As most of use cleaning products on a regular basis as part of out daily lives, it can often be the case that we forget just how hazardous the chemicals in these products can be. It is imperative then that we use them safely, as if we don't accidents can readily occur.

Most products used for cleaning are labelled "corrosive". A corrosive substance is one that can destroy the texture or substance of human flesh. Inhalation or ingestion of a corrosive substance can damage the respiratory and gastrointestinal tracts. All acids and bases are corrosive and most cleaning products contain acids and bases.

Cleaning products must not be mixed as they can be highly reactive. If the fumes are toxic and are mixed this can be lethal. It may seem like a good idea to use multiple products to tackle a specific problem, but you never know what kind of chemical reaction could occur as a result. An example is to avoid mixing products containing liquid household bleach with products that contain ammonia. This mixture will release hazardous gases.

It is always important to remember that when using any chemical based cleaner, that you open as many windows as possible to discourage a possible build up of fumes. Inhaling some chemical fumes can be damaging to health.

It is crucial that cleaning products are stored safely and away from any source of heat. This is because some chemicals in cleaning products can react and if placed near heat can potentially explode and give off toxic fumes. Ensure that they are not stored near food or in a place which is easy for children to access. Keep cleaning products in their original packaging so that the product usage and disposal instructions can always be referred to.

Any time you buy a cleaning agent, it would be wise to read and follow the instructions or safety data sheet that accompanies it. Industrial chemicals used in businesses do come with safety data sheets and it is a legal requirement that a record is kept of any hazardous chemicals on site. Labels on household cleaning products also contain crucial information relating to the product and its safe and effective use.

It is imperative to remember that in order to protect yourself and those around you, to treat chemical products with the respect they deserve.

--------

Dale Allen develops systems and online software to help you succeed in HSE CoSHH compliance. Find out more about how to effectively manage and produce compliant CoSHH assessments free with the UK's leading CoSHH compliance authority, COSHH365.
This Article has been viewed 649 times. (Not updated in real-time.)
No comments yet.
We want your comments! If you can read this, you don't have javascript enabled, so you can't use this comment system. Please enable javascript.