Spring cleaning - good planning is crucial!

Every year, around 40,000 people in Switzerland have a Accident, while they are cleaning or cooking. Some of these accidents happen during spring cleaning. Even in more hectic times, many remain true to the tradition of spring cleaning - and then want to get a lot done in a short time. This rush leads to the most common cleaning accidents, namely falls and poisoning or chemical burns from cleaning agents and chemicals. The bfu therefore advises good planning: spread your spring cleaning over several days and only do jobs for which you have the right materials in the house.

Video shows what mattersmt

In order to draw attention to the dangers involved in household cleaning work, the bfu has developed a Video created. This shows the most important precautionary measures with which the Spring cleaning an accident-free and successful undertaking. The video is now available on the various communication channels of the bfu.

Especially important during spring cleaning:

• Spread cleaning work over several days and take breaks in between.
• Provide the necessary material before starting work.
• Wear comfortable but not too loose clothes and non-slip, closed-toe shoes.
• Use ladders that are stable. Do not improvise with chairs, boxes or stacks of books.
• When cleaning windows, use a squeegee with an angled handle. Do not climb onto the window sill and lean out.
• Place cleaning equipment so that no one trips over it.
• Lift heavy objects from a squat position with a straight back.
• Advise roommates of wet floors: Danger of slipping.
• Always unplug electrical equipment before cleaning.
• Avoid contact of electricity with water at all costs - danger to life!
• When using cleaning agents: Wear protective gloves. In the case of strong acids and alkalis, protective goggles and, if necessary, a respiratory mask are also required.
• Cleaning agents produce vapors that are hazardous to health: ensure good ventilation.

Text: www.bfu.ch