Safe Work Method Statement s1

Safe Work Method Statement Organisation: Task: Sweeping Task objective: Safely sweep floor of residence Risks: Muscle strain – repetitive or forceful movement Manual handling Muscle strain – poor posture Tools and PPE: Broom Enclosed footwear with non-slip sole Dustpan Training and instruction: Induction training Manual handling / back care training Steps Prior to procedure:  Clear floor area to be cleaned  Check broom is in good working order and obtain dustpan  Carry items to floor area to be cleaned During procedure:  Commence sweeping moving from corner to doorway  Stand erect and depending on type of broom use short steady strokes with a forward lunge if a straight broom or side to side stroke with a sideways lunge if a straw broom and move with the dirt.  If cleaning under furniture, squat or kneel to reach and move around furniture rather than over-reaching Post procedure:  Once dust is collected into a pile, obtain dustpan and squat or kneel to hold in place whilst sweeping dirt into pan – use a short-handled brush if available to reduce repetitive movements with broom. Alternatively use a long-handled dust pan if available.  Empty dustpan into rubbish container  Replace broom and dustpan in storage location  Wash and dry hands Precautions:  DO NOT USE BROOM IF HANDLE IS TOO SHORT OR BROOM HEAD UNSERVICABLE  Avoid lifting furniture or equipment – slide or drag only if on castors or assistance available  Use both hands if moving furniture etc  Lift equipment with both hands  Squat or kneel to sweep up dirt into dustpan rather than bending back.  Follow correct manual handling techniques Read by: Signed: Date:

SWMS – Mopping 19 June 2012 Review date: