Proper workplace housekeeping helps keep employees safe from falls, fires, and other hazards. Every employee must take responsibility for maintaining a clean, safe work environment - it isn't just up to the cleaning and maintenance crew.

See how your workplace stacks up against the following housekeeping standards.

  • Are floors clean and free of water, mud, ice, grease, oil, waste, and clutter?
  • Are leaks and spills cleaned up promptly?
  • Are traffic areas clear and free of obstacles such as cords, air hoses, or boxes?
  • Are exits and stairs clearly marked?
  • Are garbage cans utilized and emptied regularly?
  • Are unused materials disposed of or stored safely, rather than being allowed to accumulate in out-of-the-way places?
  • Are stored materials safely stacked, correctly labeled, and in proper order?
  • Are stairways and doorways kept clean and well-lit?
  • Are oily rags stowed in approved covered metal cans?
  • Are hazardous materials kept in authorized containers that are labeled clearly and correctly? Are containers kept away from sources of ignition and other hazards?
  • Are flammable materials stored away from sources of ignition?
  • Are machines and tools kept clean, free of oil and dust, and properly maintained to prevent fires and accidents?
  • Are tools cleaned and put away right after use?
  • Are workstations left clean at the end of each shift?
  • Are equipment and other surfaces checked regularly for jagged edges, rough surfaces, dangerous nails, and hooks (which could cause cuts, puncture wounds, or eye injuries)?
  • Are chairs and stools correctly placed to prevent tripping accidents? Are they in good repair and, when damaged, are they removed so they will not be used accidentally?
  • Are drawers and cabinet doors kept closed to prevent both tipping and tripping accidents?
  • Is smoking done only in designated areas? Are ashtrays used?
  • Are lunch areas kept clean by putting lunch scraps where they belong?
  • Are washrooms kept clean and dry?
  • Is a procedure in place to report and monitor any safety hazards or other problems as soon as they arise?

These are just some of the housekeeping guidelines that will help keep your workplace safe. Every employee must contribute to keep things orderly, clean, in good repair, and safe.

Additional Resources
WCF Insurance Safety Department
(385) 351-8103

Ask a Safety Consultant

osha.gov
cdc.gov/niosh

NOTICE: This guide may make reference to the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) regulations; however the guide is not legal advice as to compliance with OSHA or other safety laws, codes, or regulations. Compliance with OSHA and other safety laws codes or regulations, and maintaining a safe work environment for your employees remains your responsibility. WCF Insurance does not undertake to perform the duty of any person to provide for the health or safety of your employees. WCF Insurance does not warrant that your workplace is safe or healthful, or that it complies with any laws, regulations, codes, or standards.