As the Chinese New Year is approaching, the Labour Department (LD) has reminded employers and cleaning workers to stay alert and pay attention to safety when cleaning windows to prevent accidents.
"It is customary for families to conduct a thorough clean-up of their homes to get ready for the Chinese New Year. Many will either perform the chores themselves or engage cleaning workers to help. Both employers and cleaning workers should take heed of safety precautions when undertaking household chores. In particular, special attention should be paid to window cleaning, which involves potential risks of falling from height," an LD spokesman said today (January 16).
The LD reminds employers and cleaning workers to observe the following rules when cleaning windows:
– Install secured window grilles as far as practicable and keep them closed while cleaning windows;
– Always stand on the floor when cleaning windows without grilles;
– Never stretch the body out of windows;
– Never lean against windows or window grilles; and
– Use proper tools with long handles where necessary.
In addition, cleaning agents should be used in the proper concentration and manner in accordance with the instructions on the labels of the packaging. Different types of cleaning agents should not be mixed for use. Plastic gloves should be worn to protect the skin from harm caused by chemical agents.
For enquiries about occupational safety and health matters, please contact the LD's Occupational Safety Officers at 2559 2297.
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