Hazardous Chemicals
Possible Solutions
- Read the product label and follow instructions and recommendations listed on the label.
- Use the least toxic cleaning products possible.
- Use any personal protective equipment provided by your employer such as gloves, eye goggles, and special aprons.
Click the image to search cleaning products that meet the EPA's Safer Choice standard.
- Be sure you are properly trained in the need for and use of personal protective equipment.
- Use appropriate gloves to protect your hands from chemicals and sharp objects.
- After removing gloves, wash your hands with mild soap and water, and dry thoroughly.
- Avoid latex gloves if you have been diagnosed with latex allergy.
- Ask your employer about possible toxic effects of the chemicals you are required to use. You have the right to read Safety Data Sheets (SDS). SDS provide employers and employees with information to protect themselves from hazardous chemical exposures and to work safely with chemical products.
- Do not mix chlorine bleach and ammonia products together. This combination will create a toxic gas.
Safe Work Practices
Your employer should consider some of the following safe work practices to protect you against hazardous chemicals:
- Use cleaning chemicals that are not considered hazardous.
- Consider automating the dispensing of cleaning chemicals whenever possible to avoid employee contact.
- Limit employee contact with dishwashing detergents by providing machines with automated detergent dispensers.
- Make sure the chemicals that are not compatible with each other are not stored together.
- Always label cleaning bottles and containers. Never remove products from the original bottle without properly labeling the new container.
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2-6. What personal protective equipment should employers provide when employees are using chemical cleaning solutions?
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