Cleaning Technician Injuries: Causes and Symptoms
Cleaning technician injuries are a common occurrence in our industry. It's important that we understand the causes and symptoms of injuries so we can make sure that as business owners, we're providing a safe and healthy work environment.
Injuries suffered by cleaning technicians often affect certain parts of the body and are caused by specific actions. The most common body parts affected by these injuries are: the back, shoulders, neck, arms, wrist, hands, fingers and knees.
What causes cleaning technician injuries?
- Using too much force to perform a task. For example, scrubbing too hard with a brush.
- Working on hands and knees without wearing knee pads.
- Working in extreme temperatures. For example, window washing outside in extreme summer heat or cold winter.
- Continuous gripping and squeezing of vacuum handles or mop handles can cause hand and wrist injuries such as carpal tunnel.
- Twisting or working in awkward positions can cause back injuries.
- Incorrect posture when lifting can also cause back injuries.
- Not using proper PPE (personal protective equipment) like gloves and eye protection. Many workers who don't wear eye protection accidentally spray cleaning chemical into the eyes. Others develop an allergic reaction to chemicals when not wearing protective gloves.
Symptoms of cleaning technician injuries may include:
- Tingling or numbness
- weakness or reduced grip strength
- Shooting pain
- Burning sensation
- Constant ache
- Decreased range of motion
- Swelling
- Rash
It is your job as an employer to ensure your employees are working in a safe environment. This includes working with tools and equipment that are designed with ergonomics in mind. Employees must also be trained on safe work methods and procedures. When employees work with their own safety in mind, not only will they avoid injury, but your worker compensation rates will stay in line too!
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Jean Hanson helps owners of Residential and Commercial cleaning companies build a more profitable and successful cleaning business through her online community at myhousecleaningbiz.com and TheJanitorialStore.com. Jean is also the host of the popular Web TV show CleaningBiz.tv and author of the newsletter Trash Talk and House Cleaning Profit Tips.- sign up today!
