How can you prevent and mitigate common challenges for environmental services workers?

1 Follow infection control protocols

One of the main risks for environmental services workers is contracting or spreading infections from contaminated surfaces, equipment, or waste. To prevent this, you need to follow the infection control protocols of your facility, such as wearing appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE), using approved disinfectants, and disposing of waste properly. You also need to be aware of the different levels of cleaning and disinfection required for different areas and situations, such as isolation rooms, terminal cleaning, or outbreak response.

2 Handle chemicals safely

Another challenge for environmental services workers is handling chemicals that can be harmful to your health or the environment. To handle chemicals safely, you need to read and follow the safety data sheets (SDS) and labels of each product, use the correct dilution and application methods, and wear the required PPE. You also need to store, transport, and dispose of chemicals according to the regulations and policies of your facility and the local authorities.

3 Manage your workload effectively

Environmental services workers often have to deal with high demands, tight deadlines, and multiple tasks. To manage your workload effectively, you need to prioritize your duties, communicate with your supervisor and colleagues, and ask for help when needed. You also need to plan your time, avoid distractions, and take breaks to recharge your energy and avoid burnout.

4 Maintain your physical and mental health

Environmental services workers can experience physical and mental stress from their work, such as fatigue, muscle strain, injuries, or anxiety. To maintain your physical and mental health, you need to practice good ergonomics, use proper lifting and moving techniques, and report any accidents or injuries. You also need to take care of your emotional well-being, seek support from your peers or professionals, and cope with stress in healthy ways.

5 Keep up with training and education

Environmental services workers need to keep up with the latest standards, guidelines, and technologies in their field. To keep up with training and education, you need to attend mandatory and optional courses, workshops, or webinars offered by your facility or external organizations. You also need to seek feedback, learn from your mistakes, and share your knowledge and experience with others.

6 Advocate for your profession

Environmental services workers are often underappreciated or overlooked for their contributions to health care quality and safety. To advocate for your profession, you need to demonstrate your professionalism, competence, and pride in your work. You also need to educate others about the importance and value of environmental services, participate in recognition programs or events, and join professional associations or networks.

7 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?