Chemicals are a vital component of the car washing process, playing a key role in the success of any facility. However, they contain hazardous compounds like detergents, waxes, polishes, and solvents which can pose significant risks to human health if not managed properly.
Understanding how to safely handle, store, and dispose of chemicals at your facility is essential to protect both employees and customers. Staff must be well-versed in the correct and safe procedures for clean-up, management and medical treatment, should issues arise.
Chemicals are an essential yet hazardous component
Chemicals are essential to the daily operations of a car wash. Detergents break down dirt and grease, waxes and polishes add shine, and solvents remove stubborn stains and grime build-up.
While these chemicals are incredibly effective at their jobs, exposure to them can be hazardous potentially causing skin irritation, respiratory issues, eye damage, or in severe cases, poisoning or long-term health complications.
Understanding the chemical manufacturer’s Data Sheets
Every chemical product you use should come with a Manufacturer’s Data Sheet (MDS), also referred to as the Safety Data Sheet (SDS).
This document is a critical resource and will contain essential information on the chemical’s makeup, recommended usage, safe handling, and safety precautions.
All employees should be familiar with the MDS / SDS to ensure they understand the potential risks and know how to mitigate them, including:
- Usage: Guidelines on safe and correct us.
- Storage : Correct temperature and storage location requirements.
- PPE: Essential personal protection equipment (gloves, goggles, respirators, etc).
- First aid : If exposure occurs, what to do and who to contact.
- Spills: Safe and efficient handling of spills.
- Disposal: Correct disposal for environmental and safety reasons.
Displaying of important safety information
As part of a commitment to safety, essential information should be easily accessible to both employees and customers. Clear instructions on chemical safety should be prominently displayed in areas where chemicals are stored and used, including emergency contact numbers, first aid procedures, and guidelines for proper PPE usage.
Chemical safety is not just a matter of compliance; it’s essential for the health and well-being of your team and customers. By understanding the risks involved and implementing proper safety protocols, you can create a safe working environment while maintaining high-quality service at your car wash.
Further reading
- The complex chemistry behind car wash chemicals >
- Slip and fall protection >
- Keeping your workers safe from electrical hazards >
Please note that this information has been curated as a guide only. They are by no means complete as every car wash facility differs. For guidelines specific to your facility, please contact us directly. You may also want to reach out to Safe Work Australia via https://www.safeworkaustralia.gov.au.