stay healthy when cleaning

Welcome to the summary of the course organized in Switzerland by EPER (Chèque Emploi) and other organizations. Here are a few elements that we discussed together, as well as a short flyer with practical advice. 

​To bend down, we discussed two main techniques, which are illustrated below. ​
The first technique is called "lift a foot". It is used for light loads on a non-slippery floor, or to reach far forward.
The second technique ("bring a foot backwards") is used for medium weight loads, which are taken at least 20 cm above ground level. The technique starts by bending the neck, so that the torso is not vertical but rather inclined forward. 
There is a third technique ("bend your knees, but not beyond 90°") to carry heavy loads above knee level. In your job, it is much less useful than the two other ones. 

To mop the floor or use the vacuum cleaner, we emphasized that you should move your feet to relieve the back, neck and shoulders. After having mopped around the room, you should mop along corridors that are not wider than your body width (around 80cm). Use the "pendulum technique" shown here. The mop should remain as close as possible in front of you, so that you don't round your back.
Many times during the day (ideally, once per hour at least), you should relax your upper body. The video below reminds you how to.
Finally, we discussed safety issues. The necessary cleaning equipment includes closed shoes, an apron, safety glasses, gloves and a mask. To mop the floor, you of course don't need to wear the mask but you may need it for other tasks requiring chemical products. Remember the following rules: 
  • NEVER mix two chemical products. Therefore, rinse well before using another product;
  • NEVER put your hands or feet in a dust bag or bin;
  • wash your hands BEFORE removing your gloves..

Last tip: in case of emergency, dial 144 in Switzerland. In case of doubt, call this number: paramedics prefer to observe that there is no hazard rather than find you once it is too late.