Commercial cleaning products can present a risk to janitorial staff and building inhabitants, so it’s important to know what’s in the products you’re using, the potentially harmful ingredients, and substitutions you can make for a safer environment. While greener choices can sometimes be made, when harsh chemicals are being used, cleaning staff and managers need to be aware of the dangers and the factors involved to be able to make choices that lessen those risks, without compromising results.

Using harsh chemicals as part of the cleaning process can have adverse effects on the occupants of the building, as well as those handling and utilizing the products. Some of the most common health risks include:

• Skin irritation and burns can be caused by direct contact.
• Respiratory issues like coughing, wheezing, or worsening existing conditions like asthma can be caused by toxic fumes.
• Splashes or vapours can result in eye irritation or, in severe cases, permanent damage.
• Accidental ingestion of cleaning chemicals can lead to poisoning.

Beyond these health risks, certain cleaning chemicals can also cause environmental damage if they enter water systems.

Some of the most toxic cleaning products often used in commercial cleaning include bleach, ammonia, drain cleaners, oven cleaners, and air fresheners. According to the Canadian Centre for Occupational Health and Safety (CCOHS), there are several factors that can affect the level of risk associated with a cleaning product, including:

• The individual ingredients of the product
• How the product is used or stored
• The ventilation in the area where and when it is being used
• If the product can be splashed or spilled
• If the product comes into contact with the skin or eyes
• If mists, vapours, or gases can be released

When working with strong chemicals, cleaners need to take steps to minimize risk factors and use products safely and effectively by:

• Knowing the hazards of that product before use and paying attention to warning labels that distinguish between caution, danger, and extreme danger, highlighting risks like explosive, corrosive, flammable, or poison.
• Reading the label or safety data sheet, and following the instructions or training for dilution, usage, and storage.
• Asking for help if the label is unreadable.
• Working in a well-ventilated space wherever possible and taking fresh air breaks as needed.
• Wearing PPE for protection, such as gloves and goggles.
• Knowing what to do if there is a spill or emergency, including putting emergency practices into place and training all staff.
• Knowing how to call a poison centre or health care provider if someone has been harmed. Be sure to have the container or label available to tell the health care provider what products were used.
• Checking containers for leaks or damage and disposing of them safely.
• Storing products in their original containers and following the manufacturer’s instructions.
• Storing products away from the heat in rooms with enhanced ventilation.
• Using cleaning scrubbers or mops that do not require hands to come into contact with the cleaning solution.
• Washing hands with water after working with a cleaner, and always wash before eating, drinking, or smoking.
• Disposing of unused products as per municipal guidelines for chemicals and hazardous waste. Ensure that staff do not reuse empty containers that could cause dangerous chemical combinations.
• Opting for less toxic, safer options wherever possible by choosing products with low amounts of VOCs, fragrances, irritants, and flammable ingredients.

While some companies are switching out harsh chemical products for more sustainable options that contain natural, organic ingredients, many potentially dangerous chemical cleaners are still found in custodial closets. Managers and janitorial staff need to follow safe practices, read labels, and work towards minimizing exposure to these harmful products.