1. Cleaning Chemicals PPE Administration Engineering Substitution
Elimination
Substitution
Engineering
Administration
PPE
Cleaning Chemicals

2. Cleaning Chemicals
In the modern day working environment even the most mundane of cleaning chemicals can pose health risks.
Chemicals that can be purchased straight off supermarket shelves and used without a second thought at home can pose significant health hazards under the right conditions.
Exposure risks of chemicals may include absorption, inhalation and ingestion.

3. Cleaning Chemicals Cleaning chemicals may include those that are;
Corrosive - one that will destroy and damage other substances with which it comes into contact.
Reactive - can react alone, or with other substances in a violent uncontrolled manner.
Flammable - a liquid having a flash point of not more than 93c
Combustible - any liquid, other than a flammable
liquid, that has a flash point, and has a fire point that is
less than its boiling point.

4. Safety Data Sheets
Manufacturers are required by law to produce Safety Data Sheets ( Formerly Material Safety Data Sheets – MSDS ) for the chemicals they produce.
An SDS is an important tool for eliminating or minimising the risks associated with hazardous chemicals in the workplace.
You should be aware of the SDS and the information it contains before using chemicals.

5. Safety Data Sheets
The Safety Data Sheet contains information including items such as
- The name and address of manufacturer
- The composition and ingredients of the chemical
- First Aid measures
- Toxicological information
- Disposal considerations
- Accidental release measures / Emergency procedures
- Handling and Storage and,
- PPE required.

6. Personal Protective Equipment
The Safety Data Sheet outlines the appropriate PPE to be worn when handling specific chemicals.
PPE is supplied and must be worn whilst working with chemicals.
PPE may include;
- gloves
- eye protection
- face shield
- safety footwear

7. Dilution of Chemicals
Remember PPE must be worn when handling specific chemicals.
Any time you are diluting chemicals observe the manufacturers instructions for dilution rates.
Use appropriate measuring containers to ensure correct dilution rates.
Ensure adequate ventilation whilst decanting.
Never decant and store chemicals in unmarked containers…

8. Mixing Chemicals Never mix chemicals
Chemical mixtures may be dangerous
Mixed chemicals will not have a SDS hence the risks will be unknown.
May cause a dangerous reaction and release toxic gases, liquids etc.
Can neutralise a chemical making it useless.
Remember mixing chemicals is strictly prohibited.

9. Using Chemicals Always wear appropriate PPE
Ensure work area is well ventilated.
Ensure there are no ignition sources nearby.
Always follow manufacturers instructions and guidelines.
Understand the associated hazards with chemicals.
Ensure chemicals stored in safe place
Never sniff chemicals

10. Spillages Always wear appropriate PPE Clean up spills immediately
Contain the spill and mop up
Avoid contact with skin and eyes
Prevent contamination with waterways
Place waste in suitable labelled container and dispose appropriately.
Refer to SDS for further instructions
Ensure incident reports are completed

11. First Aid / Emergencies
Swallowing
- Contact a doctor or Poisons Information Centre ( )
- Do not induce vomiting unless SDS says so
- Give a glass of water
- Rinse mouth with water if conscious
- Contact 000
Skin
- Remove contaminated clothing ( do not wear again until washed )
- wash skin with soap and water

12. First Aid / Emergencies
Breathing
- Move to fresh air
- rest patient ( DRABC )
Eyes
- Flush with water for at least 15 minutes
- Cover eye and see doctor

13. Summary Always wear PPE Know where the SDS is kept
Ensure adequate ventilation
Follow manufacturers guidelines
Never mix chemicals
Store chemicals in safe place
Understand the risk / hazards of chemicals
Call 000 in the event of emergency
If swallowed call P.I.C on
Refer to SDS for first aid information
Notify supervisor immediately
Complete incident reports as required