Tips For Keeping A Facility Safe For Industrial Cleaning Staff

Tips For Keeping A Facility Safe For Industrial Cleaning Staff

The most efficient type of manufacturing plant or warehouse is one that is clean, organized, and well-maintained. A tidy facility doesn’t just look professional it functions better, reduces downtime, and most importantly, promotes safety for every employee. Whether cleaning is handled internally or through a specialized industrial cleaning company in Michigan, the same goal remains: creating a safe and efficient work environment.

For companies that hire an outside Michigan industrial cleaning crew, it’s worth noting that although the team may not be familiar with the facility at first, reputable contractors quickly adapt to the workflow, expectations, and unique challenges of the site. Any professional cleaning company will ensure its employees are properly trained in workplace safety, OSHA regulations, and the correct handling of cleaning materials and equipment.

That said, even the most experienced teams face risks in an industrial environment. Cleaning staff must remain vigilant, follow strict safety protocols, and coordinate with plant management to ensure no accidents or injuries occur. Below, we outline the most common hazards an industrial cleaning crew may encounter and the steps that can be taken to ensure a safe, accident-free workplace.

Having Assigned Work Areas

Just as plant employees have designated stations, assigning cleaning staff to specific areas ensures safety and accountability. When each crew member is responsible for a certain section such as a paint booth, office area, or production floor it reduces overlap, confusion, and unnecessary risks.

Dedicated work areas also allow industrial cleaning crews to have the right supplies readily available for the specific tasks they’ll be performing. For example, the tools needed for cleaning rafters or high ceilings differ from those required for sanitizing office spaces. Keeping cleaning supplies organized in designated spaces prevents clutter, reduces tripping hazards, and makes it easier to complete tasks efficiently.

Storage is another critical safety factor. Cleaning equipment and chemicals should always be stored in a well-ventilated area with clear pathways for access. Personnel must avoid stacking products haphazardly, which could lead to spills or falling containers. Adequate space for preparation, storage, and movement helps prevent injuries and allows cleaning staff to perform preventative maintenance without obstacles.

Proper Handling of Chemicals

Industrial cleaning involves working with a variety of chemicals some of which can be dangerous if not handled correctly. Bleach, degreasers, solvents, and sanitizers are common in the cleaning process, but without proper training, they can cause skin burns, respiratory issues, or more serious health problems.

To minimize risks, cleaning crews should follow these best practices:

• Clear Labeling & Safety Data Sheets (SDS): Every container should be properly labeled, and SDS sheets must be easily accessible. This ensures staff know exactly what they’re handling and how to respond in the event of exposure or a spill.
• Training on Mixing & Dilution: Many accidents occur when staff attempt to dilute concentrated solutions. Proper training on chemical handling and mixing procedures is essential to avoid dangerous reactions.
• Personal Protective Equipment (PPE): Gloves, goggles, respirators, and protective clothing must be worn as indicated. Supervisors should enforce PPE policies to protect workers from unnecessary exposure.
• Spill Response Protocols: Cleaning staff must know how to quickly respond to spills, contain hazards, and clean them safely. This includes setting up barriers, ventilating the area, and disposing of waste properly.

By ensuring that cleaning crews are well-informed and consistently practicing chemical safety, facilities can drastically reduce the chances of accidents.

Paying Attention To All Moving Equipment

Manufacturing facilities often operate around heavy machinery, forklifts, conveyor belts, and other moving equipment. These are not only hazardous to plant employees but also to cleaning staff especially if they are working nearby during active production.

To protect cleaning crews:

• High-Visibility Clothing: Bright vests and jackets ensure that machine operators can spot cleaning staff quickly.
• Pre-Shift Planning: Cleaning crews should review daily tasks with facility managers to coordinate safe access to active areas.
• Lockout/Tagout (LOTO): When deep cleaning machinery, LOTO procedures must always be enforced to prevent accidental startup during maintenance.
• Clear Communication: Both plant workers and cleaning staff benefit from strong communication systems, such as two-way radios, signage, or shift logs, to alert everyone of where cleaning is happening.

By building cleaning into the facility’s workflow, rather than treating it as an afterthought, companies minimize risks while keeping production efficient.

Avoid Slipping, Tripping, and Falling

One of the most common and preventable injuries in an industrial environment comes from slips, trips, and falls. Cleaning crews often deal with wet surfaces, greasy residues, or uneven flooring, making this a constant risk.

Best practices for preventing falls include:

• Non-Slip Footwear: Proper shoes with slip-resistant soles improve traction on wet or oily surfaces.
• Immediate Hazard Response: Spills should be addressed right away. The longer a hazard remains, the more likely it is to cause an accident.
• Marking Hazard Zones: Use cones, signage, or caution tape to alert staff of slippery areas.
• Routine Inspections: Cleaning staff should keep an eye out for uneven flooring, debris, or obstructed pathways and report hazards immediately.

Not only do these measures protect cleaning personnel, but they also protect facility employees, clients, and visitors who might enter the work area.

Additional Safety Tips for Industrial Cleaning Crews

Beyond the basics, here are a few more ways facilities can keep cleaning staff safe:

• Ergonomic Practices: Training staff to lift properly, use carts, and avoid repetitive strain reduces long-term injuries.
• Adequate Lighting: Poorly lit areas make hazards harder to see. Ensuring proper lighting in rafters, storage rooms, and workstations improves both safety and efficiency.
• Regular Safety Training: Safety is not a one-time activity it requires ongoing reinforcement. Monthly or quarterly refresher training sessions keep safety top of mind.
• Emergency Preparedness: Cleaning crews should know where eyewash stations, first-aid kits, fire extinguishers, and emergency exits are located. They should also participate in facility-wide emergency drills.

Conclusion: Industrial Cleaning Safety Matters

Keeping a facility clean is about more than appearances it’s about ensuring the health and safety of everyone inside. From proper chemical handling to preventing slips and coordinating around moving equipment, every step matters in creating a safe working environment.

Industrial cleaning Michigan is a demanding job, but with the right training, tools, and protocols, risks can be minimized. Plant managers who prioritize safety not only protect their employees but also ensure smoother operations, less downtime, and higher overall productivity.

For facilities in Michigan, partnering with an experienced industrial cleaning company can make all the difference. With a strong commitment to safety and efficiency, you can keep your plant running smoothly without compromising the well-being of your team.