Cleaning products are designed to break down dirt, grease and germs, and some of them are strong enough to irritate skin, eyes and lungs too. Whether you're cleaning at home or managing a cleaning team, safety should always come first.
The golden rules of chemical safety
- Read the label every time. It tells you how to use the product and what to do if something goes wrong.
- Never mix chemicals. Bleach + ammonia and bleach + acids (like some toilet cleaners) release toxic gases.
- Keep products in their original, labelled containers. Never decant chemicals into cold-drink bottles.
- Ventilate. Open windows or switch on extractor fans.
- Store safely: locked away, out of reach of children, and away from food.
The right PPE for the job
- 🧤 Gloves: household rubber gloves for everyday cleaning, chemical-resistant gloves for degreasers and strong products.
- 🥽 Eye protection: essential when spraying oven cleaners and degreasers, or decanting concentrates.
- 😷 Masks: when working with powders or in poorly ventilated areas.
- 👟 Non-slip shoes: wet floors are a major cause of workplace injuries.
- 🦺 Aprons and protective clothing: keep splashes off skin and uniforms.
For employers
Workplace health and safety rules generally require employers to provide suitable PPE and training for hazardous chemicals. Keep Safety Data Sheets (SDS) for every product on site and make sure staff know where they are.
First aid basics
For splashes to the eyes, rinse immediately with clean running water for several minutes and seek medical help. Keep the product label handy for medical staff.
Our sister company Max Products supplies PPE and safety products, including gloves, protective clothing and safety signage, so your team is protected on every job.
Products mentioned in this guide
Available now from our sister company Max Products at maxproducts.co.za, in trade sizes and delivered in Cape Town.
Visit maxproducts.co.za →
Salvatex Household Gloves
Hand Sanitiser 500ml Spray
Bleach 5L
