Today's concerns about health and safety extends into the world of cleaning. If we want to keep ourselves and our employees safe and healthy, there are things we can do to improve our cleaning methods.

• We as cleaners, can affect the indoor air quality of the buildings or homes that we clean. For example, using feather dusters for dusting simply makes dust airborne and many cleaning personnel end up breathing in the particles as they're working. There are better ways to dust, and using microfiber cloths are a great alternative. The cloths capture the dust, rather than allowing it to spread and become airborne.
  
  

• Another way we can keep dust and soil from becoming airborne is to vacuum hard floors instead of sweeping. Most vacuums come with floor attachments, so not only is it faster, but it's healthier too.
  
  

• Cleaning chemicals can be hazardous to cleaning personnel. They can be inhaled, they can be accidentally sprayed into the eyes, and they can be absorbed into the skin. Use protective eyewear and disposable gloves to protect eyes and hands from exposure. To minimize exposure from inhaling fumes, use spray bottles and spritz the chemical into your cleaning cloth rather than spraying it all over the surface you're cleaning. When working in a situation where there is a lot of airborne particles or VOC's (volatile organic compounds), face masks or respirators should be worn.
  
  

• Use microfibers cloths and mops to help reduce the amount of toxic chemicals being used by cleaning personnel. Since microfiber cloths and mops capture soil, few if any chemicals are needed.
  
  

• Use ergonomic equipment to protect the body from injuries. Manufacturers are creating ergonomic vacuums, mops and equipment, so watch for these features when buying new equipment and train your employees on their proper use.

Keep yourself and your workers safe by following these simple tips.

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Steve Hanson helps owners of small cleaning companies build a more profitable and successful cleaning business through his online community at TheJanitorialStore.com. Read inspirational cleaning success stories at http://www.cleaning-success.com, and sign up for weekly cleaning tips at http://www.TheJanitorialStore.com.