Product safety in a commercial cleaning program depends on more than simply selecting a chemical. Employees also need to understand how products should be handled, diluted, stored, and applied.
When facility managers evaluate a Safe all purpose cleaner, they should consider the complete procedure surrounding the product. Clear instructions and employee training can help teams use cleaning chemistry as intended.
Begin With the Product Instructions
Employees should understand the manufacturer’s directions before using a new product.
Instructions can provide important information about applications, dilution, precautions, and compatible surfaces.
A Safe all purpose cleaner should always be used according to its specific directions rather than assumptions based on another cleaner employees have used previously.
Facilities should also make sure product labels remain readable and products are stored in appropriately identified containers.
Make Product Information Accessible
Employees need access to relevant product documentation.
Midlab maintains an online SDS resource library where safety documentation can be located for its products.
Introducing a Safe all purpose cleaner into a facility should include reviewing applicable documentation and ensuring employees know where to find the information they may need.
Pay Attention to Dilution
More chemical does not automatically mean more cleaning power.
When a concentrated product requires dilution, employees should understand the specified ratio and dispensing process.
A Safe all purpose cleaner that requires dilution should be prepared according to its instructions rather than by estimating the amount of concentrate needed.
Standardized dispensing procedures can also help reduce differences between employees and shifts.
Create an Organized Storage System
Cleaning products should have designated storage locations.
An organized chemical area makes inventory easier to manage and helps employees quickly locate the appropriate product.
Managers should establish procedures for receiving, storing, labeling, and accessing a Safe all purpose cleaner along with the other products used throughout the facility.
Make Training an Ongoing Process
Chemical training shouldn’t occur only during an employee’s first week.
Procedures can change, new products can be introduced, and employees may move between areas with different cleaning requirements.
Periodic training gives managers an opportunity to reinforce correct use of a Safe all purpose cleaner and answer questions before incorrect habits become routine.
Facilities researching versatile cleaners can also review Midlab’s All Purpose Neutral Cleaner glossary.
Additional professional cleaning education is available through ISSA.
Product Selection Is Only Part of Safety
There isn’t one universal cleaning product appropriate for every facility, surface, or application.
Managers should evaluate the actual product documentation and intended use rather than assuming the word “all-purpose” means a cleaner is appropriate everywhere.
Midlab’s Maxim product line includes cleaning solutions for numerous commercial applications, allowing organizations to select products according to the needs of their facilities.
Frequently Asked Questions
What should employees review before using a cleaner?
They should review the product label, relevant safety information, and their facility’s procedures.
Does all-purpose mean a cleaner can be used everywhere?
No. Product directions and surface compatibility still need to be considered.
Why is dilution training important?
Correct dilution helps ensure concentrated products are being prepared and used as directed.
Where can Midlab product safety information be found?
Midlab provides an online SDS library for its products.
