9 Commercial Cleaning Best Practices to Increase Worker Safety

Unger Enterprises Marketing | June 12, 2025

June is National Safety Month, a great time to stop and think about how we can make our workplaces safer, especially for the professionals who clean and maintain our buildings every day. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, more than 61,000 cleaning workers were hurt on the job that year. And in one study of over 600 janitors, more than half said they had back pain, and many also dealt with sore shoulders, wrists, and even breathing or skin problems caused by cleaning products.

These numbers represent real people whose health matters. That’s why all of us, from cleaning crews to facility managers to commercial cleaning equipment manufacturers need to do our part to increase worker safety. By using safer tools, improving daily habits, and creating a work environment that prioritizes safety, we can help prevent injuries and protect the people who keep our facilities going and those who share the spaces they maintain.

How to Make Your Commercial Cleaning Practices Safer

Follow Chemical Handling and Dilution Protocols

One of the easiest ways to prevent injuries on the job is by handling cleaning chemicals safely. That means always reading the Safety Data Sheets (SDS) that accompany each product and following the manufacturer’s instructions, especially when mixing or diluting concentrated solutions. It may seem faster to “eyeball it,” but incorrect dilution can lead to burns, breathing problems, or damaged surfaces. To keep everyone safe, store cleaning products in clearly labeled containers and keep them in a secure, well-ventilated space.

Use Color-Coded Cleaning Tools

A simple but powerful way to boost safety while preventing cross contamination is by using color-coded cleaning tools, such as microfiber cleaning cloths and floor mopping systems. By having a visual color-coding system designed to designate specific cleaning tools for different areas, you can organize equipment and prevent cross-contamination when cleaning between work zones (example: using restroom mops in restroom areas only, not in public/food prep areas). The results are improved performance, better sanitation, and cleaner facilities.

Display Wet Floor & Caution Signs when Floor Cleaning

When it comes to preventing injuries, slip and fall accidents are at the top of the list. According to the Liberty Mutual Workplace Safety Index falls on the same level are the second leading cause of all workplace injuries.

One of the easiest ways to reduce that risk is to put up wet floor or caution signs before you start cleaning. Placing signs early gives people a clear warning to avoid the area. Signage is important in public areas where customers, staff, employees, etc., might not pay attention. And just as important, leave the signs in position until the floor is completely dry and safe to walk on.

Inspect Equipment Before Use

Before you get to work, take a minute to inspect your cleaning tools and equipment. Taking the extra time could save someone from getting hurt or prevent accidental damage. For example, you can examine:

– Cleaning cart wheels for stability;
– Power cords for fraying;
– Ladders for signs of wear (bent rails, loose or missing parts, broken locks, etc.); and
– Pure water cleaning kit hoses for cracks and leaks.

Using broken equipment or tools showing signs of wear and tear isn’t just a safety issue, it can slow down your cleaning operations. If you spot something that needs addressing, make sure to report it, and in the meantime, use a safer alternative.

Train Staff on Safe Lifting and Ergonomics

Back injuries account for one in five workplace injuries, and 75% of workplace-related back injuries occur during a lifting task. Not only do these injuries impact worker health, but the consequences are also expensive in terms of workers’ compensation, days away from work, and lost productivity. That’s why it’s essential to train staff on proper lifting.

While OSHA doesn’t have a specific standard for ergonomic lifting, it does require employers to protect workers from recognized hazards under its General Duty Clause. That means if lifting tasks put workers at risk for injury, it’s your responsibility to act using any “feasible and useful” methods, which include providing proper training and equipment. A safe lifting training program should cover key topics like the health risks of improper lifting, the basics of ergonomics, safe lifting techniques, and how to spot tasks that could cause pain or long-term injury.

In addition to using proper lifting techniques, investing in ergonomic tools like lightweight mops and rolling janitor carts can also make a big difference in reducing physical strain.

Ensure Adequate Ventilation During Cleaning

Whenever you’re using cleaning chemicals, it’s important to make sure there’s plenty of fresh air in the space. Working too long in areas with poor airflow can lead to headaches, dizziness, or respiratory irritation.

OSHA requires employers to operate ventilation systems as needed during cleaning tasks to allow sufficient air flow and prevent buildup of hazardous vapors. That might mean opening windows, turning on exhaust fans, or using portable ventilation units to keep air moving.

Alternatively, facilities can also reduce the need for chemical ventilation by choosing tools and methods that support more sustainable cleaning practices. For instance, when it comes to indoor window cleaning, it’s especially important to consider the impact of cleaning on indoor air quality, as traditional window cleaning techniques can release airborne chemicals into the environment. Innovative tools such as the Unger Stingray are designed with this in mind—using up to 39% less chemical solution while still delivering effective window cleaning results.

Practice Ladder Safety and Promote High-Access Alternatives

Working at heights comes with serious risks, so it’s best to avoid using ladders unless necessary. For many tasks, such as cleaning windows, dusting vents and pipes, or changing light bulbs, there are safer options available for high-access cleaning. Tools like telescopic poles paired with the right attachments allow workers to stay on the ground while reaching elevated areas, reducing the chance of a fall or unnecessary physical strain.

If a ladder is required:

• Inspect for loose parts;
• Look for bent steps;
• Make sure it’s set up on stable, level ground;
• Position it at the proper angle; and
• Avoid overreaching or standing on the top step.

Promote Ongoing Safety Communication

Safety isn’t a one-time training; it’s an ongoing conversation that should be part of your cleaning team’s routine. Whenever you meet, it is important to continue reinforcing key safety topics, such as proper lifting techniques, chemical handling, or equipment use. These quick check-ins are a great way to keep safety top of mind and provide space for open dialogue with the team.

Encourage team members to report near-misses or unsafe conditions without fear of blame as these reports are opportunities to mitigate problems before someone gets hurt. And don’t forget to recognize and celebrate employees who consistently follow safe practices or speak up to protect others. Positive reinforcement helps build a culture where everyone feels responsible for creating a safer workplace.

Make Worker Safety a Daily Priority

Creating a safer work environment is more than just checking the boxes. It’s about protecting the health and well-being of the people who keep our facilities running and those that interact with the facility.

Key Takeaways

• Prioritize safety protocols to prevent injuries and improve efficiency.
• Invest in ergonomic tools and sustainable cleaning solutions to protect workers and air quality.
• Encourage regular training, clear communication, and proactive hazard reporting to build a culture of safety.

By putting these practices into action, facility managers and cleaning professionals can work together to create cleaner, healthier, and safer environments for everyone.