Mopping and sweeping should be done safely by assembling all necessary equipment and personal protective equipment. Wet floor signs should cordon off the work area and mopping should be done when clinics are closed if possible. The mop area should be divided into small sections, leaving half the floor dry, and mopping techniques should be alternated to thoroughly clean. Proper lifting of buckets and cleaning of equipment is important.

1. DPH/OSH Recommendations
Safe Work Practices: Mopping & Sweeping
♦ Equipment: Assemble all necessary equipment, cleaning supplies, & Personal
Protective Equipment (PPE). Make sure that the mop or broom is adjusted for
your size.
♦ Understand how to properly mix and use cleaning supplies. Follow
manufacturer’s instructions for use and disposal.
♦ Don PPE (Nitrile Gloves, Face Shield / Goggles as appropriate).
♦ Select Area: Use Wet Floor signs, caution tape, barriers, or cones to cordon off
areas. Always place signs and barriers at every access point and the work area
perimeter.
♦ When possible choose a time before or after clinic hours to mop the area
selected.
♦ Check Area: Look for trip hazards and sharp objects prior to mopping. Remove
any objects with the appropriate tool (grabbers, pick up stick).
♦ Wring mop before using.
♦ Limit the size of the mop area. Divide hallways into smaller sections. Always
leave half of the floor surfaces dry. When finished with an area move to the next.
When mopping rooms start at the corner farthest from the entrance.
♦ Alternate mopping styles frequently. Use figure 8 and rocking from side to side.
♦ Ventilate Area: When possible, open windows and doors to increase circulation.
♦ Use proper body mechanics when lifting mop bucket. Life with your legs...not
with your back. If you need help lifting the bucket ask for it.
♦ Clean all equipment per manufacturers’ recommendations prior to storage.
Clean dedicated PPE. Dispose of single use PPE.
10/11/2011