Spring cleaning: Don't rush!

Every year, around 40,000 people in Switzerland have accidents while cleaning and cooking. Some of these accidents are caused by spring cleaning, because many people take on too much work for a single day and then have an accident in the rush. That's why it's important to "slow down" when spring cleaning.

Caution with cleaning agents
Every year, more than 12,000 people in Switzerland have to seek treatment for poisoning and chemical burns. Many of these happen when cleaning agents are used. It is therefore important to read the warning labels and follow the instructions for use when using cleaning agents and chemicals. Furthermore, protective gloves and, in the case of strong acids and alkalis, protective goggles must also be worn. In the case of vapors, good ventilation must be provided. In addition, excess chemicals should be returned to the point of sale on a regular basis. It is best to avoid particularly hazardous cleaning agents altogether.

Avoid accidents
To avoid an accident while cleaning as much as possible, the bfu recommends following these tips:

• Spread spring cleaning over several days and take breaks in between.
• Prepare plastering work; provide the necessary material before starting work.
• Wear comfortable but not too loose clothes and non-slip, closed-toe shoes.
• Use only stable ladders and do not improvise with chairs, boxes or stacks of books.
• When cleaning windows, do not get on the window sill and lean out, but use a squeegee with an angled handle.
• Place cleaning equipment so that no one trips over it.
• Lift heavy objects from a squat position with a straight back.
• Because of the risk of slipping, advise roommates of wet floors.
• Always unplug electrical equipment before cleaning.
• Avoid contact of electricity with water - danger to life

Text: BFU/SP