COSHH Risk Assessments for Cleaning Tasks

Our templates for a number of cleaning and related tasks are free to download and available to all.

Professional cleaning companies have a duty under COSHH regulations to carry out Risk Assessments for every type of service they perform, this comes with a unique set of challenges, from handling hazardous materials to working at height.

Ensuring safety for workers, clients, and the environment requires robust risk assessments tailored to specific cleaning tasks. In this article we’ll explore the essentials of cleaning task risk assessments and how professional cleaners can simplify this process using our pre-prepared templates.

             Above image is taken from a Jangro Task Card 

What is a Cleaning Task Risk Assessment?

A cleaning task risk assessment is a systematic evaluation of potential hazards associated with a specific cleaning activity. It identifies risks, assesses their likelihood and severity, and outlines control measures to mitigate them. This process is vital for complying with health and safety regulations, safeguarding workers, and reducing liability.

Simplify Your Safety Protocols with Pre-Prepared Templates

We understand that creating risk assessments from scratch can be time-consuming. That’s why we offer over 20 pre-prepared templates designed specifically for professional cleaning tasks. These templates are customisable, easy to use, and tailored to address risks in a wide variety of scenarios.

Who Can Conduct a Cleaning Risk Assessment?

Conducting a cleaning risk assessment is a critical task that should be undertaken by someone with the necessary knowledge, training, and experience in managing health and safety protocols. This individual should be familiar with the specific risks associated with cleaning tasks and have the expertise to identify hazards and implement effective controls.

While you can delegate the responsibility of conducting risk assessments, it’s essential to remember that the legal accountability remains with you as the employer or business owner. Ensuring that the assessments are carried out thoroughly and accurately is not just a legal obligation—it’s a cornerstone of maintaining a safe working environment.

The Checklist: What a Cleaning Risk Assessment Should Include

To ensure the effectiveness of your cleaning risk assessment, consider the following key elements:

1. Identify Hazards: Recognize potential risks associated with cleaning products, equipment, and methods.
2. Assess Who Might Be Harmed: Consider employees, customers, or other individuals who might be exposed to these risks.
3. Evaluate Risks: Determine the severity and likelihood of each hazard and decide on appropriate controls.
4. Implement Control Measures: Introduce measures such as PPE (Personal Protective Equipment), training, or safer equipment to mitigate risks.
5. Record Findings: Document all findings and actions taken to demonstrate compliance.
6. Regularly Review and Update: Risk assessments should evolve with new practices, products, or environments to remain effective.

By embedding these practices into your cleaning operations, you’ll create safer, more efficient environments while fostering trust with employees and clients alike. Remember, a well-executed risk assessment is more than a legal requirement—it’s a commitment to health and safety that sets the foundation for operational excellence.

Please click the links below to download Process Risk Assessment documents:

• Applying and Stripping Floor Polishes and Seals
• Cleaning of Stairs & Uneven Surfaces
• Dealing with Body Fluid Spillages and Contaminated Items
• Disposal of Waste
• Fitting Dispensers
• Mop Sweeping
• Safe Handling and Disposal of Hypodermic Syringes
• Single Solution Mopping
• Storage of Materials and Equipment
• Use of Hand Held Pressurised Containers
• Use of High Pressure Washing Machines
• Use of Rotary Cleaning Machines
• Use of Scrubber Dryer Machines
• Use of Tub Style Commercial Vacuum Cleaners
• Use of Upright Commercial Vacuum Cleaners
• Use of Water Extraction Machines
• Using Trigger Spray Bottles
• Washroom and Toilet Areas
• Working from Ladders
• Working from Mobile Scaffolding Towers
• Working from Platforms
• Working from Powered Access Equipment