What safety rules apply to scrubbers?
Scrubbers are subject to several important safety rules that protect workers from accidents and injuries. The most important safety regulations include wearing personal protective equipment, following proper operating procedures, regular machine maintenance and compliance with legal occupational safety requirements. These regulations are mandatory under the Occupational Health and Safety Act and industry-specific guidelines for floor cleaning.
Why are scrubber safety rules so important?
Scrubber safety rules prevent serious accidents and protect workers from injury during floor cleaning. A professional scrubber for floor cleaning works with rotating brushes, water, chemicals and electrical components that pose various risks.
The main risks when using scrubbers are:
- Slipping through wet floors and soapy water
- Entrapment of hands or fingers in moving parts
- Electric shock due to contact with water and electricity
- Chemical burns from cleaning agents
- Back injury due to improper work posture
- Collision accidents involving moving scrubbers
Unsafe use can lead to work stoppages and liability claims. In the industrial cleaning industry, companies are required by law to provide adequate safety measures for their employees.
What are the most important safety regulations for scrubbers?
The safety regulations for scrubbers are stipulated in the Occupational Health and Safety Act, CE directives and industry-specific standards. Employers must comply with these regulations and instruct employees on them.
Legal requirements under the Occupational Health and Safety Act:
- Conduct risk inventory and evaluation (RI&E)
- Train workers in safe scrubber use
- Provide personal protective equipment
- Conduct regular safety inspections
- Recording and reporting accidents
Industry standards for floor cleaning:
- Machinery must comply with CE marking
- User manuals available in Dutch
- Emergency stop devices on all machines
- Warning signals when reversing
- Safety switches when hoods are opened
What personal protective equipment is mandatory with scrubbers?
When working with scrubbers, several personal protective equipment required to protect workers from specific hazards during floor cleaning.
| Protective agent | Function | Requirements |
|---|---|---|
| Safety Shoes | Protection against slips and falling objects | Non-slip sole, S2 or S3 rating |
| Gloves | Protection against chemicals and cuts | Chemical resistant, good grip |
| Protective clothing | Protection against splashes and chemicals | Water-repellent material |
| Hearing protection | Noise protection | At noise levels above 80 dB |
| Safety glasses | Splash protection | When using aggressive agents |
Employers are required to provide this protective equipment. Workers must properly use and maintain the equipment. Check regularly that protective equipment is still in good condition and replace it in a timely manner.
How to prevent scrubber accidents?
Accident prevention at scrubber safety requires a combination of proper work procedures, regular maintenance and awareness of the work environment.
Practical prevention tips for working safely:
- Check the machine for defects before use
- Put up warning signs near wet floors
- Keep work areas free of obstacles
- Use the right cleaning products for the floor type
- Drive slow and controlled with moving machinery
- Switch off the machine during maintenance or malfunction
Proper work posture and ergonomics:
- Keep your back straight when operating walk-behind scrubbers
- Change your posture frequently
- Take breaks during prolonged work
- Adjust the machine to your height
Maintenance and technical safety play an important role in accident prevention. Check batteries, brushes and water tanks weekly. Schedule monthly thorough inspections of all safety devices and moving parts.
What should you do in a scrubber accident?
In the event of a scrubber accident, you must act quickly and in a structured manner to prevent further damage and provide adequate assistance.
Immediate actions in the event of an accident:
- Immediately turn off the scrubber
- Make the work area safe for others
- Assess the situation and injury
- Provide first aid if necessary
- Call 911 if seriously injured
- Inform the supervisor
First aid procedures:
- In case of electric shock: do not touch victim until power is turned off
- In case of chemical splashes: rinse immediately with plenty of clean water
- For cuts: stop bleeding with pressure and sterile dressing
- If unconscious: place in stable side position
Reporting and record keeping are required by law. Every accident must be reported to the Labor Inspectorate within 24 hours if serious injury is involved. Document the accident extensively for the RI&E and take measures to prevent recurrence.
Key safety tips for scrubbers summarized
The key points for working safely with scrubbers come down to good preparation, proper equipment and regular maintenance of both machine and knowledge.
Safe use checklist:
- Always wear the prescribed personal protective equipment
- Check the machine before each use
- Follow operating instructions and safety procedures
- Keep the work area clear and safe
- Schedule regular maintenance and inspection
- Report defects and accidents immediately
Regular training and education remain important for occupational safety in the cleaning industry. New employees should always receive thorough safety instruction before they are allowed to work independently with scrubbers.
At Metech, we understand the importance of safe floor cleaning. We not only offer high-quality scrubbers from top brands such as Tennant, Nilfisk and Hako, but also comprehensive instructions for safe use. Our service team is ready to advise you on the right machine for your situation and related safety measures. For more information contact us.