Day in and day out, cleaning staff ensure that buildings are clean, safe, and hygienic. However, they are also exposed to various risks that can negatively impact their health in the long term. From chemical hazards to physical strain – a conscious approach to these risks is crucial. In this article, you will learn about the typical health risks for cleaning staff – and how to prevent them.

1. Chemical Hazards: Cleaning Agents, Aerosols & Vapors

Respiratory Strain and Chronic Diseases

Cleaning staff often use sprays and chemical cleaning agents that contain volatile organic compounds (VOCs), irritants, or disinfectants. Studies show that regular contact with these chemicals increases the risk of respiratory diseases, asthma, or chronic bronchitis.

For example, a study among professional cleaning staff found that those who use cleaning sprays more than five times a day significantly more often report symptoms such as breathing difficulties or coughing.

Skin and Eye Damage

Direct skin contact with aggressive cleaning agents can lead to irritation, contact dermatitis, or eczema. Cleaning staff are particularly at risk if they regularly work with chemicals and are not protected by appropriate personal protective equipment.

Eyes can also be damaged by splashes or aerosol-like sprays – which is why wearing safety glasses or face shields is particularly important.

Long-term Risks & Toxic Substances

Some cleaning products contain sensitizing or potentially carcinogenic substances. Quaternary ammonium compounds ("Quats"), ethanolamines, or aggressive solvents can have long-term health consequences with chronic exposure.

Furthermore, epidemiological studies show that cleaning staff may have increased risks for certain types of cancer, which is partly due to long-term exposure to harmful chemicals.

2. Ergonomic Strains and Musculoskeletal Disorders

Posture & Repetitive Motion

Cleaning tasks often require unergonomic and repetitive movements: bending, stretching, lifting, or handling machines and carts. This leads to musculoskeletal complaints, particularly in the back, shoulders, and arms.

According to OSHA, such strains arise from poorly adapted tools, unfavorable postures, and insufficient breaks.

Vibration Exposure

When using cleaning machines such as polishers or floor buffers, vibrations can occur, increasing the risk of Hand-Arm Vibration Syndrome (HAVS).

Poor maintenance or unsuitable equipment further increases this risk.

3. Physical Accident Risks

Cleaning staff face an increased risk of accidents in their daily work:

• Risk of slips and falls: Wet floors, loose cables, carelessly placed equipment – all of these can lead to trips or slips.
• Work at height: Working on ladders or cleaning elevated surfaces poses additional risks, especially if there is no training or safe equipment available.
• Electrical hazards: Cleaning machines or equipment can cause electric shocks if poorly maintained or handled incorrectly.

4. Biological Risks & Infections

Cleaning staff, especially in medical facilities, public restrooms, or high-traffic areas, can come into contact with pathogens:

• Bacteria, viruses, fungi: Contaminated surfaces, waste, or inadequate hygiene when handling contaminated materials pose a risk of infection.
• Sharp objects: Waste can contain sharp or contaminated objects like needles, leading to cuts or puncture wounds with a risk of infection.
• Inadequate hygiene: If cleaning and disinfection tasks are not properly separated or are performed incorrectly, the risk of germ transmission to other surfaces increases.

5. Psychological Stress

Not all risks are purely physical – there are also significant challenges to the mental health of cleaning staff:

• Time pressure & Work intensity: Strict deadlines, tight operational windows, and high performance pressure can lead to stress, overload, and burnout.
• Isolation & Invisibility: Cleaning staff often work alone or at unusual hours (e.g., at night), which can lead to isolation, lack of recognition, or the feeling of being "invisible" within the company.
• Lack of appreciation: The contribution of cleaning staff is often underestimated in many companies, which can further increase psychological stress.

6. Protective Measures & Prevention: How to Prevent Health Risks

Based on the risks mentioned, the following measures are recommended:

1. Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)
   • Safety glasses or face shields when working with chemicals.
   • Respirators (e.g., half or full masks) in case of significant exposure to fumes, dust, or mold.
   • Non-slip shoes and, if necessary, gloves to ensure skin protection.
2. Ergonomic work tools
   • Height-adjustable handles, ergonomically shaped grips, and lightweight equipment.
   • Regular maintenance of machines to reduce vibrations.
3. Organization & Training
   • Design work schedules to include breaks and task rotation.
   • Training on safe handling of chemicals (including safety data sheets/safety sheets).
   • Encourage stretching and relaxation exercises during breaks to reduce muscle tension.
4. Safe handling of hazardous substances
   • Carefully select cleaning agents: preferably less hazardous formulations to minimize long-term exposure.
   • Never mix cleaning agents, especially those that can cause dangerous gas formation.
   • Proper storage and transparent hazardous substance labeling (provide safety data sheets).
5. Recognition & Psychosocial Support
   • Appreciation of Work: Managers should highlight the contributions of cleaning staff.
   • Foster team communication, covering both risks and improvement ideas.
   • Measures against isolation: e.g., team meetings, feedback sessions, psychosocial support.