Industrial cleaning guarantees the cleanliness and safety of working environments. In Quebec, commercial cleaning operations are governed by strict safety standards to protect both workers and infrastructures. Trexo Solutions, a reputed industrial cleaning company, complies rigorously with these regulations to provide high-quality services that protect the safety of employees and customers.
Applicable regulations and standards
Industrial cleaning safety standards in Quebec are governed primarily by the Commission des normes, de l’équité, de la santé et de la sécurité du travail (CNESST). The CNESST is responsible for establishing specific directives aimed at minimizing the risks associated with the use of chemical products, exposure to hazardous environments and the use of specialized equipment.
One of the main regulations concerns the use of chemicals. Industrial cleaning companies are obliged to refer to Safety Data Sheets (SDS) for each product they use. These sheets provide important information on hazards, protective measures and emergency procedures. It is imperative that all cleaning staff are trained to read and understand SDSs to protect their own and others’ safety.
Personal protective equipment (PPE)
Personal protective equipment (PPE) is a common requirement throughout the industrial cleaning sector. PPE includes gloves, goggles, respirators, coveralls and safety boots. Each type of work and each environment requires specific types of PPE adapted to the specific risks involved.
Gloves, for example, protect workers’ hands from corrosive chemicals. Goggles prevent dangerous substances from splashing into the eyes, while respirators protect the respiratory system in environments where toxic fumes or fine particles are present. Correct use of PPE considerably reduces the risk of accidents and exposure to hazardous materials.
Employee training and awareness
Ongoing training is a cornerstone of safety in industrial cleaning. At Trexo Solutions, we make sure that all our employees receive comprehensive training in safety standards, equipment use and emergency procedures. This includes both theoretical and practical learning sessions, and regular updates about new regulations and technological innovations.
Increased safety awareness helps employees to identify potential risks and take preventive action. For example, workers learn to handle chemicals in accordance with SDS instructions, to use PPE correctly and to respond effectively to emergency situations like hazardous product spills.
Chemicals and waste management
Safe management of chemicals and waste is imperative when doing industrial cleaning. Companies must store chemicals in accordance with CNESST guidelines, using appropriate containers and clearly identified labels. In addition, storage areas must be well ventilated and accessible only to authorized personnel.
The treatment of waste generated by industrial cleaning activities must also follow strict protocols. Hazardous waste must be separated from ordinary waste and disposed of in accordance with current environmental regulations. This includes the use of specialized services for the transport and disposal of toxic waste.
Equipment monitoring and maintenance
All equipment used in industrial cleaning, including pressure washers, industrial vacuum cleaners and ventilation systems, needs to be regularly inspected and maintained to verify that it is operating correctly and prevent accidents. Preventive maintenance makes it possible to identify potential flaws before they cause incidents.
During regular inspections, operators check for wear and tear, replace faulty parts and make sure that safety devices are operational. Maintenance records must be regularly updated and readily available for compliance inspections.
Preventing accidents involving slips and falls
Accidents involving slips and falls pose a significant risk during industrial cleaning. It’s important to keep work surfaces clean and dry, use correct signage to warn of wet floors, and provide workers with non-slip footwear.
Workers must be trained to use ladders and platforms correctly in accordance with safety instructions. Regular plant inspections help to identify and rectify unsafe conditions before they lead to accidents.
Compliance with industrial cleaning standards in Quebec is not only a legal obligation, but also a moral imperative to protect workers and infrastructures. Trexo Solutions is committed to maintaining the highest safety standards by complying with CNESST regulations, providing ongoing employee training and effectively managing chemicals and equipment. We do everything necessary to provide safe and clean working environments, while protecting the health and safety of all those involved in the industrial cleaning process.