Method Statement : Vacuuming Floors

Explanation

Vacuuming floors is a routine cleaning task that involves the use of an electric vacuum cleaner, either battery or mains operated, to remove dust, dirt, and debris from both carpeted and hard floor surfaces. The primary aim of this task is to maintain a clean and hygienic environment by effectively eliminating particulate matter that can accumulate over time, thereby enhancing the overall appearance and safety of the area. This procedure also includes basic maintenance of the vacuum cleaner to ensure its optimal performance and longevity, which involves regular checks and cleaning of filters, brushes, and other components.

Responsibilities

• Operator: Ensure the vacuum cleaner is in good working condition before use and report any faults.
• Operator: Use the vacuum cleaner in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions to prevent accidents.
• Operator: Keep the work area free from obstacles and trailing cables to minimise trip hazards.
• Operator: Wear appropriate personal protective equipment, such as dust masks, if necessary.
• Supervisor: Conduct regular inspections of vacuum cleaners to ensure they are maintained properly.
• Supervisor: Provide training to operators on safe vacuuming techniques and equipment handling.
• Maintenance Personnel: Perform routine maintenance and repairs on vacuum cleaners to ensure their safe operation.

Equipment

• Electric vacuum cleaner (battery or mains operated)
• Appropriate vacuum cleaner attachments
• Extension cord (if required)
• Dust mask or respirator
• Safety footwear
• Gloves

Operation

• Conduct a visual inspection of the vacuum cleaner for any signs of damage or wear, including the power cable and plug.
• Ensure the vacuum cleaner is suitable for the type of flooring to be cleaned.
• Check that the dust bag or canister is not full and is properly secured.
• Verify that all filters are clean and correctly installed.
• Inspect the area to be vacuumed for any obstacles, loose items, or hazards that could cause trips or falls.
• Ensure that the power source is appropriate for the vacuum cleaner, whether battery or mains operated.
• Confirm that all necessary personal protective equipment (PPE), such as dust masks or gloves, is available and in good condition.
• Review the manufacturer’s instructions and safety guidelines for operating the vacuum cleaner.
• Ensure adequate lighting in the area to be cleaned to identify potential hazards.
• Plan the route to avoid excessive bending, twisting, or stretching while vacuuming.
• Plug in the vacuum cleaner or ensure the battery is fully charged and switch on the device.
• Adjust the vacuum cleaner settings for the type of flooring—carpet or hard floor.
• Begin vacuuming at one end of the room, using slow, overlapping strokes to ensure thorough cleaning.
• Keep the power cable behind you to prevent tripping hazards and avoid running over it with the vacuum.
• Regularly check for any unusual noises or loss of suction, which may indicate a blockage or other issue requiring attention.
• Once vacuuming is complete, unplug the vacuum cleaner or switch off the battery-operated model.
• Empty the dust bag or canister in a designated waste receptacle, following any specific disposal procedures for dust and allergens.
• Clean or replace filters according to the manufacturer’s instructions to maintain optimal performance.
• Coil the power cable neatly and store the vacuum cleaner in its designated location to prevent damage or obstruction.

Risk Assessment : Vacuuming Floors

Who might be harmed: Employees operating the vacuum cleaner | Other staff members working in the vicinity | Visitors or clients present in the area

Type of harm: Back / Spinal Injury | Broken Bones | Cuts and Abrasions | Death | Head Injury | Multiple / Various Injury | Muscular Injury

Initial Risk: Severe (4) x Frequent (5) = High (20) Controls

• Ensure vacuum cables are kept as short as possible and positioned away from walkways to prevent tripping.
• Use cable management tools, such as cable clips or covers, to secure cables and prevent them from becoming a hazard.
• Regularly inspect the vacuum cleaner’s cables for damage and replace them if necessary to maintain safety.
• Remove any obstacles or clutter from the floor before beginning the vacuuming process to ensure a clear path.
• Utilise cordless or battery-operated vacuum cleaners where feasible to eliminate the risk of tripping over cables.

Residual Risk: Minor (1) x Improbable (1) = Low (1)

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Electrical Hazard : Low (1)

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Who might be harmed: Employees operating the vacuum cleaner | Cleaning staff | Maintenance personnel

Type of harm: Burns | Death | Electrocution

Initial Risk: Catastrophic (5) x Probable (4) = High (20) Controls

• Ensure the vacuum cleaner is regularly inspected and maintained to identify and repair any damaged cables or components.
• Use a vacuum cleaner with a built-in circuit breaker or safety switch to prevent electrical overload.
• Always unplug the vacuum cleaner by pulling the plug, not the cable, to avoid damaging the cord.
• Avoid using the vacuum cleaner in wet or damp conditions to prevent electrical shock.
• Ensure that all electrical connections are secure and that the plug fits properly into the socket.

Residual Risk: Minor (1) x Improbable (1) = Low (1)

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Dust and Allergen Exposure : Low (1)

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Who might be harmed: Cleaning Staff | Individuals with Respiratory Conditions

Type of harm: Respiratory damage / Asthma / COPD

Initial Risk: Severe (4) x Probable (4) = Medium (16) Controls

• Use a vacuum cleaner equipped with a HEPA filter to effectively capture dust and allergens.
• Ensure regular maintenance and cleaning of the vacuum cleaner’s filters and dust bags to prevent dust release.
• Wear a suitable dust mask or respirator if working in areas with high levels of dust or allergens.
• Vacuum slowly and methodically to minimise the disturbance of dust particles into the air.
• Ensure proper ventilation in the area being vacuumed to disperse airborne dust and allergens.

Residual Risk: Minor (1) x Improbable (1) = Low (1)

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Musculoskeletal Strain : Low (1)

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Who might be harmed: Cleaning Staff | Maintenance Personnel | Temporary or Contract Workers

Type of harm: Back / Spinal Injury | Muscular Injury

Initial Risk: Major (3) x Probable (4) = Medium (12) Controls

• Ensure that the vacuum cleaner is lightweight and ergonomically designed to reduce strain during use.
• Adjust the handle height of the vacuum cleaner to suit the user’s height, promoting a comfortable posture.
• Use proper lifting techniques, such as bending at the knees and keeping the back straight, when moving or carrying the vacuum cleaner.
• Take regular breaks to prevent fatigue and reduce the risk of strain from prolonged vacuuming.
• Train staff on correct vacuuming techniques, including how to manoeuvre the vacuum cleaner efficiently without overreaching or twisting.

Residual Risk: Minor (1) x Improbable (1) = Low (1)

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Fire Hazard : Low (1)

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Who might be harmed: Employees operating the vacuum cleaner | Cleaning staff working in the vicinity | Office workers or occupants in the area

Type of harm: Burns | Death | Smoke Inhalation

Initial Risk: Catastrophic (5) x Occasional (3) = Medium (15) Controls

• Ensure the vacuum cleaner is regularly maintained and serviced to prevent overheating.
• Avoid vacuuming flammable materials or liquids that could ignite within the machine.
• Do not leave the vacuum cleaner running unattended to prevent overheating.
• Regularly check and clean filters and hoses to prevent blockages that could cause overheating.
• Use vacuum cleaners that are equipped with automatic shut-off features in case of overheating.

Residual Risk: Minor (1) x Improbable (1) = Low (1)

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Noise Hazard : Low (1)

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Who might be harmed: Cleaning Staff

Type of harm: Permanent Hearing Damage

Initial Risk: Severe (4) x Frequent (5) = High (20) Controls

• Ensure that vacuum cleaners are regularly maintained to operate at optimal noise levels.
• Provide hearing protection, such as earplugs or earmuffs, for prolonged vacuuming tasks in noisy environments.
• Schedule vacuuming tasks during times when fewer people are present to minimise exposure to noise.
• Use vacuum cleaners with noise-reducing features or models specifically designed to operate quietly.
• Limit the duration of vacuuming tasks to reduce prolonged exposure to noise.

Residual Risk: Minor (1) x Improbable (1) = Low (1)

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Blockage Hazard : Low (1)

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Who might be harmed: Cleaning Staff | Maintenance Personnel

Type of harm: Burns

Initial Risk: Major (3) x Frequent (5) = Medium (15) Controls

• Regularly inspect and clean the vacuum cleaner’s hoses and filters to prevent blockages.
• Ensure that the vacuum cleaner is switched off and unplugged before attempting to clear any blockages.
• Train staff on recognising signs of blockages, such as reduced suction or unusual noises, and the correct procedure for addressing them.
• Use vacuum cleaners with blockage indicators to alert users when a blockage occurs.
• Avoid vacuuming large debris or materials that could easily cause blockages.

Residual Risk: Minor (1) x Improbable (1) = Low (1)

COSHH Assessment : Vacuuming Floors

Dust

Dust is intended to be removed from surfaces during vacuuming to maintain cleanliness and reduce exposure to allergens and respiratory irritants.

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Inhalation : Low (1)

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Who might be harmed: Cleaning staff | Office workers | Individuals with respiratory conditions

Type of harm: Asbestosis / Lung Cancer / Mesothelioma | Respiratory damage / Asthma / COPD

Initial Risk: Severe (4) x Occasional (3) = Medium (12) Controls

• Use a vacuum cleaner equipped with a HEPA filter to capture fine dust particles.
• Ensure regular maintenance and cleaning of the vacuum cleaner to prevent dust release.
• Wear a suitable dust mask or respirator when vacuuming in dusty environments.
• Increase ventilation in the area by opening windows or using fans.
• Limit the duration of exposure by taking regular breaks during prolonged vacuuming tasks.

Residual Risk: Minor (1) x Improbable (1) = Low (1)

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Eye Contact : Low (1)

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Who might be harmed: Cleaning staff

Type of harm: Eye Damage

Initial Risk: Severe (4) x Occasional (3) = Medium (12) Controls

• Ensure vacuum cleaners are equipped with HEPA filters to minimise dust dispersion.
• Wear safety goggles if working in areas with high dust levels.
• Regularly maintain and clean vacuum equipment to prevent dust accumulation.
• Use vacuum cleaners with sealed systems to prevent dust leakage.

Residual Risk: Minor (1) x Improbable (1) = Low (1)

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Skin Contact : Low (1)

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Who might be harmed: Cleaning staff | Individuals with sensitive skin or allergies

Type of harm: Dermatitis

Initial Risk: Catastrophic (5) x Probable (4) = High (20) Controls

• Wear long-sleeved clothing to minimise direct skin exposure to dust.
• Use protective gloves when handling vacuum cleaner components that may be dusty.
• Apply moisturising lotion to prevent skin dryness after exposure to dust.
• Ensure regular cleaning and maintenance of vacuum equipment to reduce dust accumulation.

Residual Risk: Minor (1) x Improbable (1) = Low (1)

Allergens

Allergens are not intended for use; rather, they are naturally occurring substances that may be present in dust and can trigger allergic reactions in sensitive individuals during the vacuuming process.

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Inhalation : Low (1)

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Who might be harmed: Cleaning staff | Office workers | Individuals with respiratory conditions

Type of harm: Asbestosis / Lung Cancer / Mesothelioma | Respiratory damage / Asthma / COPD | Smoke Inhalation

Initial Risk: Major (3) x Probable (4) = Medium (12) Controls

• Use a vacuum cleaner equipped with a HEPA filter to capture fine particles and allergens.
• Ensure regular maintenance and cleaning of the vacuum cleaner to prevent dust accumulation.
• Wear a suitable dust mask or respirator to minimise inhalation of airborne allergens.
• Ventilate the area by opening windows or using fans to disperse airborne particles.
• Schedule vacuuming during times when fewer people are present to reduce exposure.

Residual Risk: Minor (1) x Improbable (1) = Low (1)

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Eye Contact : Low (1)

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Who might be harmed: Cleaning staff

Type of harm: Eye Damage

Initial Risk: Severe (4) x Probable (4) = Medium (16) Controls

• Wear safety goggles to prevent allergens from entering the eyes.
• Ensure proper ventilation to reduce airborne allergens in the work area.
• Use a vacuum cleaner with a HEPA filter to minimise allergen dispersion.
• Avoid touching the face or eyes during and after vacuuming tasks.
• Regularly clean and maintain vacuum equipment to prevent allergen build-up.

Residual Risk: Minor (1) x Improbable (1) = Low (1)

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Skin Contact : Low (1)

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Who might be harmed: Cleaning staff

Type of harm: Dermatitis

Initial Risk: Severe (4) x Frequent (5) = High (20) Controls

• Wear appropriate gloves to prevent direct contact with allergens.
• Use a vacuum cleaner with a HEPA filter to minimise allergen dispersal.
• Wash hands thoroughly with soap and water after vacuuming.
• Avoid touching the face or exposed skin during the task.
• Regularly clean and maintain vacuum equipment to reduce allergen build-up.

Residual Risk: Minor (1) x Improbable (1) = Low (1)

Mould spores

Mould spores are not intended for use; they are naturally occurring airborne particles that can pose health risks when inhaled during activities such as vacuuming, particularly in damp or poorly ventilated areas.

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Inhalation : Low (1)

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Who might be harmed: Cleaning staff | Office workers | Individuals with respiratory conditions

Type of harm: Asbestosis / Lung Cancer / Mesothelioma | Respiratory damage / Asthma / COPD | Illness

Initial Risk: Severe (4) x Occasional (3) = Medium (12) Controls

• Use a vacuum cleaner equipped with a HEPA filter to capture mould spores effectively.
• Ensure proper ventilation in the area being vacuumed to disperse airborne spores.
• Wear a suitable respiratory mask, such as an N95 respirator, to prevent inhalation of spores.
• Regularly clean and maintain the vacuum cleaner to prevent spore build-up and release.
• Limit access to the area being vacuumed to reduce exposure to airborne spores.

Residual Risk: Minor (1) x Improbable (1) = Low (1)

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Eye Contact : Low (1)

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Who might be harmed: Cleaning staff

Type of harm: Eye Damage

Initial Risk: Catastrophic (5) x Probable (4) = High (20) Controls

• Wear safety goggles to prevent mould spores from entering the eyes.
• Ensure proper ventilation in the area to reduce airborne mould concentration.
• Use a vacuum cleaner with a HEPA filter to minimise spore dispersal.
• Avoid touching the face or eyes during and after vacuuming until hands are washed.

Residual Risk: Minor (1) x Improbable (1) = Low (1)

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Skin Contact : Low (1)

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Who might be harmed: Cleaning staff | Individuals with sensitive skin | People with pre-existing skin conditions

Type of harm: Dermatitis

Initial Risk: Severe (4) x Occasional (3) = Medium (12) Controls

• Wear long-sleeved clothing and gloves to minimise direct skin exposure.
• Use a vacuum cleaner with a HEPA filter to reduce mould spore dispersal.
• Wash hands and any exposed skin thoroughly after vacuuming.
• Avoid touching the face or other exposed skin areas during the task.

Residual Risk: Minor (1) x Improbable (1) = Low (1)

Toolbox Talk : Vacuuming Floors

Introduction

Vacuuming floors is a routine cleaning task that involves the use of an electric vacuum cleaner, either battery or mains operated, to remove dust, dirt, and debris from both carpeted and hard floor surfaces. The primary aim of this task is to maintain a clean and hygienic environment by effectively eliminating particulate matter that can accumulate over time, thereby enhancing the overall appearance and safety of the area. This procedure also includes basic maintenance of the vacuum cleaner to ensure its optimal performance and longevity, which involves regular checks and cleaning of filters, brushes, and other components.

Hazards

The primary hazards associated with vacuuming floors include the risk of trips and falls due to trailing cables or obstacles, which can lead to injury. There is also the potential for exposure to dust and allergens, which may cause respiratory issues or allergic reactions. Electric shock is a danger if the vacuum cleaner is not properly maintained or used, particularly if there are faults in the electrical system. Musculoskeletal injuries can occur from improper lifting or carrying of heavy vacuum cleaners, leading to strains or sprains. Additionally, there is a fire hazard if the vacuum cleaner overheats or if flammable materials are inadvertently vacuumed, posing a risk to both personnel and property.

Vacuuming Floors : Rules

• Do inspect the vacuum cleaner for any visible damage or defects before use.
• Do ensure that the power cable is fully extended and not twisted or knotted.
• Do use the correct attachments for the type of flooring being cleaned.
• Do wear appropriate personal protective equipment, such as dust masks, if necessary.
• Do maintain a tidy work area, removing any obstacles or debris from the floor before vacuuming.
• Do follow the manufacturer’s instructions for operating and maintaining the vacuum cleaner.
• Do switch off and unplug the vacuum cleaner before performing any maintenance or cleaning tasks.
• Do report any faults or issues with the vacuum cleaner to a supervisor immediately.
• Do use proper lifting techniques when moving or carrying the vacuum cleaner to prevent injury.
• Do ensure adequate ventilation in the area being cleaned to minimise exposure to dust and allergens.

Vacuuming Floors : Warnings

• Do not operate the vacuum cleaner with wet hands or in wet conditions to avoid electric shock.
• Do not use a damaged or frayed power cable; ensure it is in good condition before use.
• Do not leave the vacuum cleaner unattended while it is plugged in or switched on.
• Do not vacuum flammable or combustible materials, such as petrol or lighter fluid.
• Do not attempt to repair the vacuum cleaner unless qualified to do so.
• Do not pull the vacuum cleaner by the power cable; use the handle provided.
• Do not block the air vents or allow the vacuum cleaner to overheat.
• Do not use the vacuum cleaner without the appropriate filters in place.
• Do not vacuum sharp objects that could damage the machine or cause injury.
• Do not overload electrical sockets by plugging in multiple devices simultaneously.

Induction Record

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Subject:	Risk Assessment and Method Statement : Vacuuming Floors	Tutor:
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