Cleaners Bromley Health and Safety Policy

This Health and Safety policy sets out the commitments, responsibilities and procedures adopted by Cleaners Bromley to protect employees, clients, visitors and members of the public during the delivery of our cleaning services. Our objective is to provide a safe and healthy working environment and to prevent accidents, injuries and work-related ill health in all premises where we operate.

Our Health and Safety Commitment

Cleaners Bromley is committed to meeting all applicable health and safety legislation and recognised industry best practice. We aim to eliminate or minimise hazards associated with cleaning activities in offices, homes and commercial premises. Continuous improvement is central to this commitment; we regularly review and update our arrangements, training and procedures as our services and regulatory requirements evolve.

Health and safety considerations are integrated into our planning, supervision and day-to-day operations, from selecting cleaning products and equipment to scheduling work and communicating with clients.

Management Responsibilities

Management at Cleaners Bromley is responsible for implementing this policy and ensuring that adequate resources are available to maintain safe working practices. This includes providing suitable training, appropriate equipment, safe systems of work, and clear information and instruction to all staff.

Managers will assess risks at each site where our cleaners operate, taking into account the layout, type of surfaces, frequency of cleaning and any special requirements. Where necessary, site-specific guidance is issued to cleaners so that tasks are carried out safely and efficiently with minimal disruption to clients.

Employee Responsibilities

Every employee has a duty of care to take reasonable steps to protect their own health and safety and that of others who may be affected by their work. Cleaners are required to:

Use machinery, tools, chemicals and personal protective equipment only as instructed and in line with training; follow all safe working procedures and site rules; promptly report accidents, near misses, hazards and any suspected defects in equipment or materials; and maintain good standards of housekeeping to prevent slips, trips and falls.

Failure to follow health and safety rules may result in disciplinary action, as safe conduct is essential for the protection of all parties.

Risk Assessment and Safe Working Procedures

Before work starts at a client premises, hazards associated with cleaning tasks are identified and assessed. Typical risks include wet floors, manual handling, use of cleaning chemicals, use of electrical equipment and access to high or confined areas. Control measures are then put in place to reduce risks to an acceptable level.

Safe systems of work are developed for routine activities such as floor mopping, vacuuming, window cleaning and washroom servicing. Where unusual tasks arise, a specific risk assessment is carried out, and cleaners receive additional guidance before starting the work.

Use of Cleaning Chemicals and Products

Cleaning products are selected with health, safety and environmental considerations in mind. All substances are handled in accordance with manufacturer instructions and relevant safety data. Cleaners receive training on safe dilution, application, storage and disposal of chemicals used during cleaning services.

Products are stored securely when not in use, clearly labelled, and never left unattended in a way that could pose a risk to children, pets or vulnerable individuals. Appropriate personal protective equipment, such as gloves and eye protection, is used when necessary to minimise exposure.

Equipment Safety and Maintenance

Cleaners Bromley provides equipment that is suitable for the task and kept in good working order. Items such as vacuum cleaners, floor machines, extension poles and portable electrical equipment are inspected regularly and maintained or replaced when signs of wear or damage are identified.

Cleaners are instructed not to use defective equipment and to report any issues immediately so that repairs or replacements can be arranged. Electrical leads are routed safely to reduce trip risks, and equipment is switched off and stored securely when not in use.

Manual Handling and Ergonomics

Many cleaning tasks involve manual handling, such as moving vacuum cleaners, buckets, waste bags and small items of furniture. To reduce the risk of strain and injury, cleaners receive training in correct lifting and carrying techniques, use of trolleys, and organising work to avoid unnecessary bending or overreaching.

Where possible, lighter equipment and tools with ergonomic design are used. Work is planned to minimise repeated heavy lifting and awkward postures, particularly when accessing high surfaces or stairs.

Control of Slips, Trips and Falls

Slips and trips are a common risk in cleaning operations. To minimise these hazards, wet floor signs and other warning measures are used whenever floors are being mopped or treated. High-traffic areas are cleaned at times that cause the least disruption and risk to occupants.

Cables, tools and cleaning supplies are kept tidy and out of walkways. Spills are dealt with promptly, and poor lighting or damaged flooring that could lead to accidents are reported to the client or responsible person.

Personal Protective Equipment

Cleaners Bromley supplies appropriate personal protective equipment where required by risk assessment. This may include protective gloves, masks, eye protection, non-slip footwear and suitable clothing.

Employees must use the equipment as instructed, keep it in good condition, and report any loss or damage so replacements can be provided. Personal protective equipment is considered a last line of defence, used alongside other control measures such as safe working methods and careful product selection.

Training, Information and Supervision

All new cleaners receive induction training covering general health and safety responsibilities, safe use of chemicals and equipment, emergency procedures and reporting of incidents. Additional site-specific instructions are provided as needed for different premises and client requirements.

Refresher training is given periodically and whenever there are changes in work methods, products or legislation. Supervisors monitor work standards on site to ensure procedures are followed and to identify any further training needs.

Incident Reporting and Emergency Procedures

All accidents, injuries, near misses and dangerous occurrences must be reported as soon as possible. Incidents are recorded, investigated and reviewed so that root causes can be identified and preventative measures implemented.

Cleaners are informed of emergency arrangements at each location, including fire safety procedures, evacuation routes and assembly points. They must cooperate fully with any emergency instructions given by the building management or responsible persons.

Consultation and Policy Review

Cleaners Bromley encourages open communication about health and safety concerns. Employees are invited to raise suggestions or report hazards so that these can be considered and addressed promptly. Feedback from clients and staff is used to refine our procedures and improve standards.

This Health and Safety policy is reviewed regularly and whenever there are significant changes to our services, equipment or relevant legislation. Updated versions are communicated to employees and made available to clients upon request.

By working together and following this policy, Cleaners Bromley aims to maintain a safe environment for our staff, clients and everyone affected by our cleaning operations.