Your risk

Of course, you always run risk when it’s time to clean your work area. After all, chemical spills and other accidents could happen if you’re not careful during cleanup. Apply the following:

• Make certain all containers are labeled.
• See that other containers are tagged or marked accordingly.
• Check that containers are in good condition.
• Inspect storage areas for leaks, stains, or corrosion.
• Follow proper handling guidelines.
• Ensure proper spill cleanup materials are readily accessible.

Protect yourself

Wearing protective equipment should be a no-brainer by now. But in some cases, you may need to have the foresight to best protect yourself. Here are a few things to think through as you clean:

• Have you been trained to clean up a spill should it happen?
• Are containers stored properly, or do you notice a mess/dysfunctional storage system?
• Do material storage racks look sturdy, or do they appear to be folding under weight of the containers
• Is your work area well-lit?
• Can you identify escape routes should an emergency happen?
• Do you have a proper means to communicate an emergency?

If you seem uneasy about answering any of the questions above, then maybe you need to reach out to your supervisor. Remember, protecting yourself doesn’t only include wearing the proper equipment, it also means being well-prepared for the work.