You might be surprised to learn that janitorial workers endure some of the highest injury rates of any other private industry out there. Did you know that almost half of all cleaning-related injuries involve the neck, spine, and back? Save yourself (and your employees) a trip to the chiropractor—cleaning is a slippery task that is best left to the experts. Risking your health and the health of others to save a quick penny can result in some costly repercussions for both you and your business. Before embarking on your next office cleaning adventure, be sure to make an informed decision! Here are five of the most common risks to consider before deciding to clean your own business.

1. Liability Insurance Requirements

Let’s say an employee or customer has a slip-and-fall accident while on the premises of your business (knock on wood). If it’s one of your employees, you’ll have to pay Workers’ Comp as they recover. If it’s a customer or client, you might have a lawsuit on your hands. Unlike non-professionals, trained commercial cleaners are required to know and follow all standard safety procedures. In the event of a workplace accident, your professional cleaning company’s liability insurance will provide coverage to the injured party, saving you the hassle of a messy lawsuit. Cleaning professionals are also driven to do their best work because, as we all know, a job well done is one of the best ways to promote and secure client loyalty. In the end, you really are investing in not only a clean space but added peace of mind as well.

2. Overhead Costs

Adding an on-site custodian to your team might seem like the most sensible option, but when you take into consideration the combined cost of benefits, compensation, and in-house cleaning supplies, it all quickly adds up. Not only would you be responsible for all of these expenses but finding space within your business to store bulky cleaning equipment could also be a hindrance. Chances are, you don’t have the time to worry about these things while running a business, and the good news is—you don’t have to! Hire a commercial cleaning company instead—they’ll be happy to take care of the hassle for you.

3. Decreased Worker Productivity

Miscellaneous tasks like cleaning can often mess up the flow of your company’s daily routine. If it’s not already a part of their day, your employees will likely feel stressed and unable to complete their normal projects in a timely manner. When you decide to take up the job yourself, you lose out on time better spent guiding your team, connecting with your clients, and doing your best work. Either way, your business will experience an overall decrease in productivity and morale. It’s up to you to call the shots and partnering with a team of trained cleaning professionals is a great way to take the stress out of cleaning your business.

4. OSHA Compliance

The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) requires your business to provide a workplace free of known health and safety hazards. By law, your employees have the right to request an OSHA inspection for their workplace at any time. Don’t put your business at risk because you don’t know every health and safety regulation out there—hire a cleaning company that does. Once you do, passing your OSHA inspections with flying colors will be a breeze.

5. Cleaning Product Safety

Cleaning can be a humbling experience. In addition to imposing heavy wear and tear on the body, it also poses the threat of disease for those who forego the use of proper equipment. Certain products when mixed together will result in dangerous chemical reactions. Depending on the severity of the situation, the damage can range from irreversible furniture stains to a more serious trip to the hospital. Commercial cleaners are experts on these risky substances and will always come prepared with the right cleaning products and protective gear. Don’t be afraid to trust the experts—after all, it’s their job to do things right the first time.

Sources:

1. Main Article: http://www.jacksmaintenance.com/blog/risks-and-liability-concerns-of-cleaning-your-own-business
2. Cleaning Safety: https://www.ehstoday.com/safety/safety-supply-checklist-cleaning-professionals
3. OSHA: https://www.osha.gov/workers/file_complaint.html