Construction sites are full of unique risks that must be addressed through employee education and proper training. Construction sites are also ever-evolving, with new hazards constantly appearing. One such risk is unsurprisingly COVID-19. Amid this pandemic, every precaution must be taken to prevent the spread of the disease amongst your workers and beyond. A central preventative measure your employees can adopt is tool cleaning guidelines.

Construction Tool Cleaning During the COVID-19 Pandemic

          The equipment and tools used on a construction site will be used and touched by many people. Properly cleaning tools and equipment after use is a necessary habit your employees must implement into their daily routines. Below are appropriate cleaning procedures.

Soap and Water

          The CDC (Center for Disease Control and Prevention) has reported that the virus that causes COVID-19 can live on plastic and other surfaces for up to 72 hours. Apply water and mild soap to a damp cloth and clean equipment and tools. After cleaning, gear should be left unused for at least three days.

Diluted Bleach Solution

           Sometime tools will need more intensive cleaning to get the job done. For these cases, be sure to use a diluted bleach solution. A diluted bleach solution can be made by mixing five tablespoons of bleach per gallon of water, or four teaspoons per quart.

          The following steps outline the correct steps when using a diluted bleach solution:

1. First, remove dirt and grease from the tool using a damp cloth, mild soap, and water (similar to before).
2. Grab a new, clean cloth and dip it into your diluted bleach solution.
3. Wring out this cloth so that it is not soaked and dripping.
4. Now, gently wipe the tool with the cloth. Be careful not to allow any liquid to leak or flow into the inner parts of the equipment.
5. Be sure to never use any other cleaning product alongside the diluted bleach solution.
6. Finally, leave the equipment to dry naturally. 

Some precautions your employees should consider while cleaning with a diluted bleach solution is to avoid touching their face and to wash their hands immediately upon completing the above process. 

General Recommendations for Staying Safe

            Advise your employees to wash their hands before and after any cleaning process, with the diluted bleach solution or otherwise. Make sure that they have received the proper training on using personal protective equipment (PPE). Likewise, workers should never use flammable or combustible substances near the equipment when cleaning. Should a tool or piece of equipment come into contact with blood, you must deploy more advanced cleaning methods. Taking the time to perform proper cleaning and decontamination procedures is a serious matter, especially now. Capital Insurance Group understands this reality fully well and is always available to assist your business with the health and safety of your employees. Please feel free to reach out to us at 248-333-2500 for any additional information or support.