Modern floor cleaning machines are able to accommodate even the largest of environments. Some units are even capable of handling spaces of more than 12,000 square metres. This is due in no small part to the sheer durability of these vehicles as well as their cleaning power.
However, you will often need to utilise chemicals in order to sufficiently remove dirt and debris from a surface. Many of these chemicals are actually quite dangerous and they need to be handled with a dedicated level of caution.
Let us look at some of the hazards attributed to these chemicals in order to appreciate why safety is no laughing matter.
The Risk of Burns
Many floor cleaning solutions are known for their high levels of alkalinity. Although this is an excellent attribute when tackling tough stains or ground-in dirt, such a formulation is quite dangerous to humans. Highly alkaline fluids can easily cause burns to the skin if handled improperly. This is why only qualified individuals should deal with cleaning solutions; particularly when filling a floor cleaning machine or removing its contents.
Dangers to the Eyes, Nose and Throat
The eyes, nose and throat are also at risk. If the solution happens to splash and make contact with one of these areas, burns and even blindness can occur as a result. This is why users should make it a point to wear the proper personal protective equipment (PPE). Examples include:
- Industrial-strength rubber gloves
- Goggles
- A mask that is fastened over the nose and mouth
The Issue of Proper Ventilation
Floor cleaning solutions are also known for their proclivity to emit noxious fumes. These fumes will easily irritate the respiratory system and those with underlying conditions (such as asthma) are at a higher risk of developing complications. Always use floor cleaning solutions within a well-ventilated environment in order to reduce the chances of an accident or an unintentional injury.
Safely handling scrubber dryers and their associated chemicals requires a good deal of experience and common sense. This is why the proper training should be made available to all relevant personnel.