Safety is built into the (OS1) system
According to the Department of Labor, Janitors are the third most, non-fatally injured workers in the United States. While many cleaning organizations struggle to meet basic safety regulations, (OS1) is designed to take organizations beyond the bare minimum of compliance. There is written documentation of employee training and a hazard communication plan is also included.
The process starts with color-coding. Every chemical is coded so that employees can see at a glance whether or not they have the right chemical for the job. This is especially helpful for employees who struggle with literacy or who do not speak English. Every bottle is labeled and every label is correct. Matching the color-coded chemicals is a Material Safety Data Sheet. There is a MSDS for every chemical used in the process.
The (OS1) process dramatically reduces the amounts of chemicals most organizations use. Pre-measured chemical packets are stored in highly visible wall mount stations. The compact nature of these cabinets, combined with the exact measure of portion controlled packages, limits the amount of hazardous chemicals in use. Hazardous materials inventory becomes almost automatic. The only chemicals on site are those specified by (OS1).
Employees receive training on how to identify hazardous materials, proper protective equipment and procedures, the Rule of One, how to read MSDS sheets, safe materials handling and the proper response to non-routine situations. Cleaning workers also learn how to protect themselves from blood borne pathogens.
Training logs document which employees have been trained on which subjects. Employees sign to verify they have received the proper training.
(OS1) Safety Data by various (OS1) Users and Contributors:
- (OS1) improved custodial services safety at The University of Texas at Austin (2008-2009) – by Sally Moore, The University of Texas at Austin
Download
- (OS1) reduced lost work days at University of New Mexico (1999) – by Mary Vosevich, University of New Mexico
Download
- Brigham Young University safety study on (OS1), (2004) – by Dr. Jeffery Campbell, Brigham Young University (reprint from the Journal of Facilities Management)
Download
- “How (OS1) Compliments the Labs Safety Initiative” – a 2010 (OS1) Users Symposium power point presentation – by Chris Romero, Sandia National Labs
Download
