The Dos and Don’ts of Commercial Chemical Cleaning Products
Certain messes require a bit more than a simple bottle of Pledge or Clorox to ensure an inviting and hygienic environment. For example, businesses and public buildings often employ cleaning crews with access to much more powerful chemicals and cleaning agents. Read on to learn the “dos and don’ts” of commercial chemical cleaning products, from proper usage practices to ideal storage considerations.
DO Take Special Care When Storing Products
Chemical cleaning products are much more reactive than residential alternatives. As such, you can’t simply throw a bottle of scale remover or surfactants into a cabinet and expect it to be ready for future use. These volatile mixtures and compounds require special storage and care. It’s best to store chemical cleaning products in cool, clean, and dry environments with sufficient ventilation and elevated, eye-level shelving. Additionally, mark this storeroom with warning signs to warn others of potentially harmful materials.
DON’T Mix Different Chemicals
Commercial chemical cleaning products are incredibly effective at what they do. Therefore, they don’t typically gel well with other chemical compounds and mixtures due to their reactive nature. As such, you should NEVER mix two or more chemical cleaners when sanitizing a surface or space. Introducing abrasive chemicals to one another can produce an entirely new and potentially deadly chemical reaction.
DO Wear Proper PPE
Commercial chemical cleaning products are hazardous materials that require the operator to wear specific PPE. PPE, or personal protective equipment, is a classification for garments and wearable accessories. Many industrial sectors and dangerous environments use these items to some degree. Hygiene technicians, in particular, should always wear eye protection, including splash goggles and face shields. Additionally, most hygiene service providers recommend their employees wear nonslip gloves and shoes before handling harsh chemicals. Certain chemical products may require respirators for further lung protection.
DON’T Use On Treated Surfaces
Commercial chemical cleaning products are simply too strong for certain tasks. For example, you should NEVER apply abrasive chemicals to a specially treated surface, as this action can actually damage the treatment. Instead, use gentle soaps and warm water when maintaining a powder-coated surface or object.
Understanding the dos and don’ts of commercial chemical cleaning products, from their use to how to properly store and care for them, ensures a safer and more hygienic environment for everyone. Along with these four tips, ensure you train your custodial staff on the dangers of all their chemical cleaning products.
