FCM Summer 2020

Page 28

DO YOU NEED A PPE AUDIT? The need for ongoing PPE program checkups is often overlooked

provided by Bunzl Canada

M

aintaining the health and safety of cleaning and environmental personnel while they do their jobs is always a top priority, but the importance is heightened when widespread contagious illnesses emerge. The global COVID-19 pandemic has been a serious wake-up call, and too often cleaning staff aren’t provided the personal protective equipment (PPE) they require. Many facilities have well-established programs that ensure their cleaning teams are

regularly provided gloves, masks, and other PPE. However, as environments and cleaning requirements evolve, it’s important to regularly assess these programs to determine whether they address changing needs and concerns. A PPE program check-up should include three elements: a review of the basic components of each employee’s PPE kit, ongoing employee training on using their PPE properly, and staying up to date on the latest industry news and technology to help

28 / FACILITY CLEANING & MAINTENANCE / SUMMER 2020

continuously improve the program. There’s a common misconception that setting up a PPE program for cleaning and environmental personnel is a one-time job. In fact, continuous updating of PPE products and practices is essential. THE BASICS

When evaluating your PPE program, start with the basics. Ensure that the main components are current and in working order. Next, look at work areas


Turn static files into dynamic content formats.

Create a flipbook
Issuu converts static files into: digital portfolios, online yearbooks, online catalogs, digital photo albums and more. Sign up and create your flipbook.
FCM Summer 2020 by MediaEdge - Issuu