Custodians are the unsung heroes of the American workforce. They work mainly in the background, ensuring cleanliness everywhere they go.
If one is absent for more than one day, it quickly becomes noticeable. Unfortunately, custodial workers are at high risk for workplace injuries and illnesses. You can find custodial workers in almost every industry, including:
- Schools
- Hospitals
- Office buildings
- Hotels
- Manufacturing facilities
- Public spaces
Wherever they are, they play a pivotal role in maintaining cleanliness, safety and overall functionality in the workplace. Their job demands a high level of physical exertion, attention to detail and the handling of potentially hazardous materials. Due to the nature of their job, their injury rate is one of the highest among workers across all industries. The three most common workplace injuries are:
1. Slips, trips and falls
Custodians encounter hazards daily in the form of wet floors, cluttered pathways and uneven surfaces. These types of incidents can lead to severe injuries such as fractures, sprains and concussions.
2. Repetitive motions
Tasks such as mopping, sweeping and lifting involve repetitive motions. Over time, these actions can cause strain and injury to muscles, tendons and nerves. Conditions like tendinitis, carpal tunnel syndrome and lower back pain are common among custodial workers.
3. Chemical exposure
Cleaning chemicals are an integral part of custodial work. Prolonged exposure to these substances can lead to respiratory illnesses, skin irritation and even chemical burns.
It’s the responsibility of the employer to provide a safe workplace, which involves:
- Proper training
- Providing and mandating the use of personal protective equipment (PPE)
- Proper labeling, handling and storage of chemicals according to OSHA’s Hazard Communication Standard (HCS)
Custodial workers contribute significantly to the cleanliness and safety of our workplace. When they are injured on the job, it’s imperative that they receive compensation to cover any medical expenses and lost wages while they recover.