One of the most common tasks a cleaning company does is to take out the trash.  It’s a task that’s usually given little or no thought. Think again!

Trash receptacles can contain broken glass and metal objects. Handling trash in a safe manner will help employees avoid getting cuts and punctures.

Here’s a few do's and don'ts of safe trash handling:      

Don't press down on trash with hands or feet. You don't know what objects are in the trash.

Do lift carefully! Get a good grip on the bag. Make sure your hands are dry before lifting.

Don't swing filled trash bags on your back! This can cause back injury, may puncture the bag, and may cause trash to spill onto the floor.

Do handle with care. After removing a bag inspect it for protrusions and holes.               

Avoid bumping your body against a filled trash bag during removal and disposal.

Don't block doorways, elevators, stairwells or access to safety and emergency equipment, such as fire alarms and fire extinguishers.

Do place a piece of cardboard down if you need to place trash bags inside a building before taking them to a dumpster. This will help to protect the floor from any leakage.