138 Workplace Hygiene and Illness Prevention

Glossary

A

• Absorbent Materials. Substances or tools used to soak up spills, such as paper towels, sponges, or specialized absorbent pads.
• Accident Prevention. Strategies and measures implemented to identify and eliminate potential hazards, reducing the likelihood of workplace injuries or incidents.
• Administrative Controls. Policies, procedures, and training designed to minimize hazards and risks in the workplace, often complementing engineering controls.
• All-Purpose Cleaner. A versatile cleaning solution designed for a variety of surfaces, commonly used in both household and industrial settings.
• Alternative Work Methods. Strategies or techniques used to complete tasks in a safer or more efficient manner, often to reduce physical strain or minimize ergonomic risks.
• Antimicrobial Agents. Substances used to kill or inhibit the growth of microorganisms, including bacteria, viruses, and fungi, often found in disinfectants.
• Awkward Postures. Body positions that increase strain on muscles, joints, and tendons, often leading to discomfort or injury, especially during repetitive or prolonged tasks.

B

• Biohazardous Waste. Any material contaminated with potentially infectious substances, requiring specialized handling and disposal.
• Body Mechanics. The use of correct postures and movements to reduce physical strain and prevent injury during tasks such as lifting or reaching.
• Buffer. A machine used to polish and restore the shine of floors. Example: A floor buffer is used in hotels to maintain the sheen of lobby tiles.

C

• Carcinogenic Chemicals. Substances with properties that may cause cancer, requiring strict handling, labeling, and disposal procedures.
• Carpal or Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome. A condition caused by pressure on a nerve in the wrist (carpal) or ankle (tarsal), leading to pain and numbness. Example: Prolonged typing or repetitive cleaning motions can result in carpal tunnel syndrome.
• Chemical Exposure. Contact with a chemical substance through inhalation, skin absorption, ingestion, or eye contact, potentially leading to adverse health effects.
• Chemical Safety. Guidelines and practices for the safe handling, storage, and disposal of hazardous chemicals to prevent harm to workers and the environment.
• Chlorinated Disinfectants. Cleaning agents containing chlorine, used to kill bacteria and viruses. Example: Bleach-based disinfectants used in hospitals.
• Chlorinated Scouring Powders. Abrasive cleaning agents containing chlorine, used for scrubbing surfaces. Example: Comet cleaner is commonly used to clean sinks and bathtubs.
• Cleaning Cart. A portable unit equipped with cleaning supplies, tools, and storage to improve efficiency and organization during housekeeping tasks.
• Cleaning Chemicals. Substances used to remove dirt, stains, and other contaminants, often containing specific instructions for safe use and storage to minimize risks.
• Cleaning Frequency Schedule. A planned routine that specifies how often cleaning tasks should be performed to maintain cleanliness and safety.
• Cleaning Safe Practices. Procedures followed during cleaning activities to ensure safety, such as wearing appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) and using tools correctly.
• Cleaning Zoning. The practice of dividing a space into designated areas for specific cleaning tasks to ensure thoroughness and efficiency.
• Clostridium difficile. A bacterium that causes severe diarrhea and colitis, often associated with prolonged antibiotic use or healthcare settings.
• Cryptosporidium. A microscopic parasite that causes cryptosporidiosis, a diarrheal disease commonly spread through contaminated water.
• Combustible Dust. Fine particles that can ignite and cause explosions under certain conditions, requiring proper cleaning and ventilation.
• Connective Tissue Diseases and Disorders. Medical conditions affecting tendons, ligaments, and cartilage. Example: Rheumatoid arthritis is a connective tissue disorder that can impact mobility.
• Containers. Storage units for cleaning materials, chemicals, or waste. Example: A sealed container is used to store hazardous cleaning products safely.
• Contaminated Materials. Items that have been exposed to hazardous substances, requiring special handling, cleaning, or disposal to prevent health risks.
• Corrosive Chemicals. Substances that can cause damage to skin, eyes, or surfaces upon contact. Example: Hydrochloric acid, found in some drain cleaners, is highly corrosive.
• Cross-Contamination. The transfer of contaminants from one surface, substance, or object to another, often a concern in cleaning and sanitizing practices.

D

• Decontamination Procedures. Steps taken to remove or neutralize hazardous substances to make equipment, surfaces, or people safe.
• Drain Cleaners. Chemicals used to clear blockages in pipes, often containing caustic or corrosive ingredients. Example: A sodium hydroxide-based drain cleaner dissolves clogs caused by grease.

E

• E. coli. A diverse group of bacteria, some strains of which can cause foodborne illness, urinary tract infections, or other infections, while others are harmless and part of the normal gut flora.
• Emergency Response Plan. A set of procedures to follow in case of spills, chemical exposure, or other workplace emergencies to ensure worker safety.
• Employer Responsibilities Related to Housekeeping. Duties of employers to maintain a clean, safe, and organized workplace, including providing training, equipment, and proper procedures for housekeeping tasks.
• Engineering Controls. Physical modifications or devices used to reduce exposure to hazards, such as fume hoods or ventilation systems.
• Ergonomic Assessments. Evaluations of work environments and practices to identify and mitigate ergonomic risks such as repetitive movements or awkward postures.

F

• Fall Prevention Measures. Strategies to reduce the risk of slips, trips, and falls, such as using non-slip mats, proper footwear, and keeping walkways clear.
• Floor Scrubbers. Machines used to clean and polish hard floor surfaces. Example: Industrial scrubbers are used in supermarkets for efficient cleaning.

G

• Glass or Window Cleaners. Cleaning products formulated to remove smudges and dirt from glass surfaces. Example: Ammonia-based glass cleaners are commonly used on mirrors.
• Gloves. Protective hand coverings used to prevent contact with hazardous materials. Example: Nitrile gloves are worn when handling corrosive chemicals.
• Good Housekeeping Practices. Procedures to maintain a clean, orderly, and safe work environment, reducing hazards and improving efficiency.

H

• Hand Sanitizer. An alcohol-based gel or liquid used to kill germs on the hands when soap and water are unavailable.
• Hazard Assessment. The process of identifying potential risks in the workplace, including hazards related to housekeeping, to ensure appropriate controls are implemented.
• Hazard Communication Program (HazCom). A comprehensive plan required by OSHA to inform workers about chemical hazards and the safe use of chemicals through labels, Safety Data Sheets (SDS), and training.
• Hazardous Cleaning Products. Substances that pose health or safety risks when used improperly. Example: Oven cleaners with lye can cause chemical burns.
• Hazardous Materials Management. Procedures for safely handling, storing, and disposing of substances that pose a risk to health or the environment.
• Hepatitis B Vaccine. A vaccine that protects against hepatitis B virus, which causes liver infection and can lead to chronic liver disease or cancer.
• Herniated Disc. A spinal condition where a disc is pushed out of position, pressing on nerves and causing pain. Example: Improper lifting during cleaning can lead to a herniated disc.
• Housekeeping Audits. Inspections conducted to evaluate the cleanliness, organization, and safety of a workplace.
• Housekeeping Standards. Established guidelines and protocols for maintaining cleanliness, order, and safety in the workplace.
• Hydrogen Peroxide. A mild disinfectant and oxidizer used for cleaning and sanitizing. Example: Hydrogen peroxide is used to remove stains and disinfect countertops.

I

• Infectious Disease Control. Housekeeping measures aimed at reducing the risk of exposure to pathogens through proper cleaning, disinfecting, and handling of contaminated materials.
• Influenza. A contagious respiratory illness caused by influenza viruses, leading to symptoms such as fever, cough, and body aches.
• Influenza Vaccine. A vaccine designed to protect against the seasonal flu, available in injectable or nasal spray forms.

J

• Job Safety Analysis (JSA). A process that identifies potential hazards associated with specific tasks and determines safe procedures to mitigate risks.

K

• Key Control in Housekeeping. A system used to manage and track the distribution, usage, and storage of keys in facilities, ensuring security and access control.
• Knee Pads. Protective gear worn to cushion and support the knees during tasks requiring kneeling. Example: Housekeeping staff use knee pads while scrubbing floors.

L

• Laundry. The cleaning of fabrics, such as clothing or linens, often involving sorting and the use of detergents. Example: Hospital laundry processes include sterilizing bed sheets.
• Lifting Safety. Techniques and tools designed to reduce the risk of back injuries and strains during manual lifting tasks, often addressed in housekeeping roles.

M

• Material Safety Data Sheets (MSDS). Predecessors to Safety Data Sheets (SDS), containing essential safety information about chemicals used in the workplace.
• Masks. Protective face coverings used to prevent inhalation of dust, fumes, or chemicals. Example: Workers wear masks while using aerosol-based cleaning products.
• Meniscus Tear. An injury to the cartilage in the knee, often caused by repetitive squatting or kneeling. Example: Housekeepers frequently kneeling to clean baseboards may develop meniscus tears.
• Microtasks. Small, repetitive tasks that can lead to strain over time. Example: Folding hundreds of towels in a laundry room.
• MMR Vaccine. A vaccine that provides protection against measles, mumps, and rubella, typically given during childhood.
• Musculoskeletal System. The body system that includes muscles, bones, and connective tissues, often affected by overexertion. Example: Prolonged vacuuming can strain the musculoskeletal system.
• Mustard Gas. A toxic chemical weapon that is not a typical cleaning product but is corrosive and dangerous in exposure scenarios. Example: Mustard gas is an example of a severe respiratory and skin hazard.
• Norovirus. A highly contagious virus that causes gastroenteritis, leading to symptoms like vomiting, diarrhea, and stomach cramps.

N

• NIOSH Ergonomic Guidelines. Recommendations by the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health to reduce physical strain, improve work practices, and prevent musculoskeletal disorders in housekeeping tasks.

O

• Organizational Housekeeping. The practice of maintaining order and structure in the workplace by organizing tools, equipment, and materials to improve efficiency and reduce hazards.
• Other Potentially Infectious Material (OPIM). Biological substances like blood or body fluids that may contain pathogens. Example: Cleaning contaminated surfaces in a healthcare setting requires special handling of OPIM.
• Overexertion. Physical strain resulting from excessive effort during tasks such as lifting or pushing. Example: Moving heavy furniture while cleaning can cause overexertion injuries.

P

• Personal Protective Equipment (PPE). Safety gear such as gloves, goggles, masks, and aprons used to protect workers during cleaning and chemical-handling tasks.
• Pertussis Vaccine. A vaccine that protects against pertussis, also known as whooping cough, a highly contagious respiratory disease.
• Pinched Nerve. A nerve compressed by surrounding tissues, causing pain or numbness. Example: Repetitive vacuuming with poor posture can result in a pinched nerve.
• Preventive Maintenance. Regular checks and servicing of equipment to ensure functionality and avoid breakdowns, often included in housekeeping programs.

Q

• Qualified Person. An individual who has received the training, education, and experience necessary to perform specific tasks safely and effectively, particularly in identifying and mitigating workplace hazards related to housekeeping.

R

• Raynaud's Syndrome. A condition where blood flow to extremities is restricted, often triggered by repetitive motion or exposure to cold. Example: Prolonged use of vibrating cleaning tools can exacerbate Raynaud’s syndrome.
• Repetitive Motion. Performing the same movement repeatedly, leading to strain or injury. Example: Repeatedly polishing a surface with a circular motion can strain the wrist.
• Respirators. Face masks designed to filter out harmful particles or gases during tasks involving chemical exposure. Example: N95 respirators are used when cleaning with strong solvents.
• Respiratory Protection Program. Workplace initiatives to provide and train workers on the use of respirators, especially when handling hazardous cleaning chemicals or working in dusty environments.

S

• Safety Data Sheets (SDS). Documents that provide essential information about the properties, hazards, and safe handling of chemicals used in the workplace, as required by OSHA's Hazard Communication Standard.
• Salmonella. A type of bacteria that causes salmonellosis, a common foodborne illness marked by diarrhea, fever, and abdominal cramps.
• Sanitization Procedures. Guidelines for cleaning and disinfecting surfaces to reduce the spread of germs and maintain hygiene standards.
• Sharps. Objects like needles or broken glass that can puncture the skin. Example: A housekeeper cleaning up after an accident must handle sharps carefully.
• Sharps Containers. Durable, puncture-proof containers designed for the safe disposal of sharps. Example: Hospitals use sharps containers to dispose of needles.
• Slip-Resistant Flooring. Floor surfaces treated or designed to reduce the risk of slipping, commonly found in kitchens, bathrooms, and industrial settings.
• Slips, Trips, and Falls. Common workplace accidents caused by wet floors, loose rugs, or cluttered pathways. Example: A housekeeper slips on a recently mopped floor.
• Spill Kits. Pre-assembled sets of tools and materials designed for cleaning up chemical or hazardous spills safely and efficiently.
• Sprains, Strains, and Tears. Injuries to muscles, ligaments, or tendons caused by overstretching or overuse. Example: A sudden twist while vacuuming can result in a sprain.
• Static Grip. Maintaining a fixed hand position on a tool or object for an extended period, leading to fatigue or injury. Example: Holding a vacuum cleaner handle tightly for long cleaning sessions.
• Stretching Exercises. Movements performed to improve flexibility and prevent injuries during physical tasks. Example: Stretching arms and wrists before cleaning reduces the risk of strain.
• Strep Throat. A bacterial infection caused by Streptococcus pyogenes, resulting in sore throat, fever, and swollen lymph nodes.

T

• Training for Housekeeping Staff. Educational programs designed to teach workers safe cleaning practices, proper use of equipment, and compliance with OSHA and NIOSH guidelines.
• Trigger Finger. A condition where a finger becomes stuck in a bent position due to inflammation of tendons. Example: Repeatedly pressing spray bottle triggers during cleaning may lead to trigger finger.

U

• Universal Precautions. Safety guidelines assuming all blood and bodily fluids are potentially infectious, requiring appropriate PPE and cleaning protocols.
• Utility Closet. A storage area designated for cleaning supplies, tools, and equipment, often organized to ensure quick and safe access.

V

• Vacuum Cleaners. Devices used to remove dust and debris from floors or other surfaces. Example: Commercial-grade vacuum cleaners are used in large offices.
• Varicella Vaccine. A vaccine that protects against chickenpox, a contagious disease caused by the varicella-zoster virus.
• Ventilation Systems. Mechanical or natural methods of ensuring proper airflow to remove airborne contaminants and improve indoor air quality in the workplace.
• Vacuuming Techniques. Methods for effective and safe vacuuming to remove dirt, dust, and allergens while minimizing physical strain.
• Vinegar. A natural cleaning agent used to remove stains, odors, and buildup. Example: Vinegar is commonly used to clean glass and remove limescale.

W

• Waste Management. The process of collecting, segregating, and disposing of waste materials safely and efficiently, often a critical aspect of housekeeping.
• Wet Floor Signage. Warning signs placed on wet surfaces to alert individuals of slip hazards and ensure safety.
• Working Surfaces. Tables, counters, or floors where tasks are performed and which require regular cleaning. Example: Cleaning working surfaces in a kitchen to prevent contamination.
• Workplace Hygiene Standards. Procedures and practices designed to maintain cleanliness and minimize exposure to hazards, supporting a safe and healthy environment.

X

• X-Ray Safety Cleaning. Procedures for cleaning and maintaining x-ray equipment and facilities to ensure hygiene and prevent contamination.

Y

• Yellow Zone Cleaning. Cleaning protocols for medium-risk areas in facilities, such as hallways or shared spaces, requiring intermediate sanitation.

Z

• Zero Waste Practices. Housekeeping strategies aimed at minimizing waste generation through recycling, reusing, and sustainable cleaning methods.