Tips for Safely Using Chemicals in the Workplace

This guide provides essential information on the safe use of cleaning chemicals, particularly in the context of heightened cleaning protocols due to COVID-19. It outlines the significant increase in workers' compensation claims related to chemical exposures and emphasizes the importance of proper handling and self-protection when using cleaning products. The document defines various types of cleaning agents as per the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), including cleaners, sanitizers, and disinfectants, and discusses their respective roles in infection control. Recommendations from the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) are included, advocating for the selection of the least potent cleaner necessary for the task. The guide details best practices for reducing exposure to harmful chemicals, including proper storage, ventilation, and the use of personal protective equipment (PPE). It stresses the importance of being informed about the chemicals being used and the potential hazards associated with them.