Safety procedures for handling cleaning chemicals in train station retail areas
Expert-defined terms from the Professional Certificate in Train Station Retail Area Sanitation course at London School of International Business. Free to read, free to share, paired with a globally recognised certification pathway.
Acid #
A substance that has a pH of less than 7 and can react with metals to form hydrogen gas, can cause burns, respiratory issues, and other health hazards when not handled properly. Acids are commonly used in cleaning chemicals to break down organic matter and mineral deposits.
Alkali #
A substance that has a pH greater than 7 and can cause burns, respiratory issues, and other health hazards when not handled properly. Alkalis are commonly used in cleaning chemicals to break down fats, oils, and greases.
Biohazard #
A biological substance that poses a threat to the health of living organisms, including humans. Biohazards can be found in bodily fluids, tissues, and other biological materials. Proper handling and disposal of biohazards are essential to prevent the spread of infectious diseases.
Bleach #
A strong chemical disinfectant that is used to kill bacteria, viruses, and fungi. Bleach is commonly used in cleaning solutions to sanitize surfaces and remove stains. It is important to follow safety guidelines when using bleach, as it can be corrosive and harmful if not handled properly.
Chemical Hazard #
Any chemical that has the potential to cause harm to humans, animals, or the environment. Chemical hazards can be found in cleaning products, pesticides, industrial chemicals, and other substances. Proper handling, storage, and disposal of chemical hazards are essential to prevent accidents and injuries.
Corrosive #
A substance that can cause damage or destruction to living tissue, metal, or other materials upon contact. Corrosive substances are commonly found in cleaning chemicals, batteries, and industrial products. It is important to use caution when handling corrosive substances to prevent burns, skin irritation, and other health hazards.
Disinfectant #
A chemical agent that is used to kill or inactivate bacteria, viruses, and other pathogens on surfaces. Disinfectants are commonly used in cleaning products to reduce the spread of infectious diseases. It is important to follow the manufacturer's instructions when using disinfectants to ensure effective and safe disinfection.
Emergency Response Plan #
A set of procedures and protocols that outlines how to respond to emergencies, such as chemical spills, fires, and medical emergencies. An emergency response plan should include evacuation routes, emergency contacts, and instructions for using safety equipment. It is important for train station retail staff to be familiar with the emergency response plan and to participate in regular drills to ensure preparedness.
Flammable #
A substance that can easily ignite and burn when exposed to a heat source or flame. Flammable substances are commonly found in cleaning chemicals, fuels, and solvents. It is important to store flammable substances in a safe and ventilated area and to use caution when handling them to prevent fires and explosions.
Hazard Communication #
A system that provides information about the hazards of chemicals in the workplace, including labels, safety data sheets, and training. Hazard communication is essential to ensure that train station retail staff are aware of the risks associated with handling cleaning chemicals and other hazardous substances. It is important to read and understand hazard communication materials to prevent accidents and injuries.
Hazardous Waste #
Any waste material that poses a threat to human health or the environment due to its chemical, biological, or physical properties. Hazardous waste can be found in cleaning chemicals, batteries, electronic devices, and other products. It is important to properly label, store, and dispose of hazardous waste to prevent contamination and pollution.
Infection Control #
Practices and procedures that are used to prevent the spread of infectious diseases in the workplace. Infection control measures include hand hygiene, personal protective equipment, and cleaning and disinfection protocols. It is important for train station retail staff to follow infection control guidelines to protect themselves and customers from illness.
Mandatory Training #
Training that is required by law or company policy to ensure that employees have the knowledge and skills to perform their job safely. Mandatory training for train station retail staff may include hazard communication, infection control, emergency response, and other topics related to handling cleaning chemicals and maintaining a safe work environment.
Material Safety Data Sheet (MSDS) #
A document that provides detailed information about the hazards of a chemical, including its physical and chemical properties, health effects, and safe handling procedures. MSDSs are required by law for all hazardous chemicals used in the workplace. Train station retail staff should review MSDSs before using cleaning chemicals to understand the risks and precautions associated with each product.
Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) #
Clothing and gear that is worn to protect the body from chemical, biological, and physical hazards. PPE for handling cleaning chemicals may include gloves, goggles, aprons, and respirators. It is important for train station retail staff to wear the appropriate PPE when working with hazardous substances to prevent exposure and injury.
Respiratory Protection #
Equipment that is worn to protect the lungs from inhaling hazardous substances, such as chemicals, dust, and fumes. Respiratory protection for handling cleaning chemicals may include disposable masks, half-face respirators, or full-face respirators. It is important for train station retail staff to receive proper training on how to use respiratory protection and to undergo fit testing to ensure a secure and safe fit.
Spill Response #
Procedures that are used to contain and clean up chemical spills in the workplace. Spill response may involve using absorbent materials, neutralizing agents, and personal protective equipment to safely manage and dispose of spilled chemicals. It is important for train station retail staff to be trained in spill response to prevent accidents and injuries.
Toxic #
A substance that can cause harm to living organisms when ingested, inhaled, or absorbed through the skin. Toxic substances are commonly found in cleaning chemicals, pesticides, and industrial products. It is important to handle toxic substances with caution and to follow safety procedures to prevent poisoning and other health hazards.
Universal Precautions #
A set of guidelines that are used to prevent the spread of infectious diseases by treating all bodily fluids and materials as if they are infectious. Universal precautions include hand hygiene, wearing gloves, and using personal protective equipment when handling cleaning chemicals and other hazardous substances. It is important for train station retail staff to follow universal precautions to protect themselves and others from infection.