Fundamentals of Housekeeping
An uncluttered workplace is fundamental to any safety program. In
addition to cleanliness, industrial housekeeping must include other
factors, such as orderliness and proper arrangement of materials. It is
important to know the benefits of good housekeeping.
WHY GOOD HOUSEKEEPING?
Sloppy working conditions can lead to a lack of pride in your work. We should not
overlook slippery floors, obstacles in aisles, tools on the floors, floors and
platforms that are not in proper condition, or other housekeeping hazards.
• In addition to encouraging poor attitudes, bad industrial housekeeping can
lead to: Slips from slick or wet floors, platforms, and other walking and
working surfaces.
• Trips from objects or materials that are left in walkways and work areas .
• Falls from holes in walking and working surfaces, uneven flooring,
uncovered pits or drains, and boxes and pallets that are used instead of
adequate platforms .
• Collisions caused by poorly stored materials, overhanging or protruding
objects, haphazard spotting of pallets, and use of aisles for storing materials
and equipment.
Poor industrial housekeeping creates hazards for all employees in the immediate
area.
Good industrial housekeeping:.
• Eliminates accident and fire causes
• Saves energy by eliminating the need to work
"around" congested areas and "deadwood" stored in
the work area
• Provides the best use of space
• Keeps inventory of materials to a minimum
• Helps control property damage
• Guarantees a good workplace appearance
• Encourages better working habits
• Reflects an image of a well-run operation
• Reduces the amount of cleanup and janitorial work
