TLIF207C Conduct

housekeeping
activities
Learner Guide
Contents
What this Learner’s Guide is about ........................................ 1  
Planning your learning ........................................................... 2  
How you will be assessed ...................................................... 5  

Section 1............................................................................................. 7  
What is housekeeping?.......................................................... 7  

Section 2........................................................................................... 17  
What OHS aspects are involved in housekeeping? ............. 17  

Section 3........................................................................................... 27  
What equipment is used in housekeeping? ......................... 27  

Section 4........................................................................................... 37  
What housekeeping tasks do you have to perform? ............ 37  

Additional resources ....................................................................... 43  

Feedback on activities .................................................................... 51  

 TLIF207C Conduct housekeeping activities

What this Learner’s Guide is about

This  Learner’s  Guide  is  about  the  skills  and  knowledge  required  to  
conduct  housekeeping  activities  in  the  workplace,  including  identifying  
required  housekeeping  requirements,  procedures  and  resources  for  
different  areas  of  the  workplace,  monitoring  and  maintaining  
cleanliness  and  tidiness  in  the  workplace,  and  completing  assigned  
housekeeping  tasks.  

The  Elements  of  Competency  from  the  unit  TLIF207C  Conduct  

housekeeping  activities  covered  in  this  Learner’s  Guide  are  listed  
below.  

Identify  the  housekeeping  requirements,  procedures  and  resources  of  

different  areas  of  the  workplace  

Monitor  and  maintain  cleanliness  and  tidiness  in  the  workplace  

Complete  assigned  housekeeping  duties  

This  unit  of  competency  is  from  the  Transport  and  Logistics  Training  
Package  (TLI07).  

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Planning your learning

It  is  important  to  plan  your  learning  before  you  start  because  you  may  
already  have  some  of  the  knowledge  and  skills  that  are  covered  in  this  
Learner’s  Guide.  This  might  be  because:  
• you  have  been  working  in  the  industry  for  some  time,  
and/or  
• you  have  already  completed  training  in  this  area.  

Together  with  your  supervisor  or  trainer  use  the  checklists  on  the  
following  pages  to  help  you  plan  your  study  program.  Your  answers  to  
the  questions  in  the  checklist  will  help  you  work  out  which  sections  of  
this  Learner’s  Guide  you  need  to  complete.  

This  Learner’s  Guide  is  written  with  the  idea  that  learning  is  made  more  
relevant  when  you,  the  learner,  are  actually  working  in  the  industry.  
This  means  that  you  will  have  people  within  the  enterprise  who  can  
show  you  things,  discuss  how  things  are  done  and  answer  any  
questions  you  have.  Also  you  can  practise  what  you  learn  and  see  how  
what  you  learn  is  applied  in  the  enterprise.  

If  you  are  working  through  this  Learner’s  Guide  and  have  not  yet  found  
a  job  in  the  industry,  you  will  need  to  talk  to  your  trainer  about  doing  
work  experience  or  working  and  learning  in  some  sort  of  simulated  
workplace.    

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Section 1: Housekeeping

Are  you  able  to:   Yes   No  

1. define  housekeeping  and  its  importance  
in  the  workplace  and  to  yourself  as  a  
worker?          
2. correctly  identify  housekeeping  tasks  and  
the  equipment  needed  for  those  tasks  in  
a  workplace  situation?          
3. describe  the  importance  of  OHS  as  it  
applies  to  housekeeping  in  the  
workplace?          

Section 2: OHS aspects involved in

housekeeping

Are  you  able  to:   Yes   No  

1. explain  those  parts  of  OHS  regulations  as  
they  apply  to  housekeeping  in  the  
workplace?          
2. use  personal  safety  equipment  necessary  
to  carry  out  housekeeping  in  the  
workplace?          
3. identify  safety  requirements  for  the  use  of  
cleaning  agents  required  for  housekeeping  
tasks?          
4. remove  and  replace  storage  racks  or  stand?          

Section 3: Equipment used in housekeeping

Are  you  able  to:   Yes   No  

1. locate,  correctly  identify  and  use  
housekeeping  items  of  equipment  in  your  
workplace,  including  mechanical  items  if  
used  in  your  workplace?          
2. maintain  and  correctly  store  housekeeping  
items  in  your  workplace  in  a  safe  and  
secure    
manner?          

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Section 4: Housekeeping tasks

Are  you  able  to:   Yes   No  

1. describe  how  you  monitor  and  maintain    
housekeeping  in  your  workplace?          
2. complete  a  housekeeping  inspection  and  
complete  the  correct  documentation?          
3. name  your  workplace  procedures  for  
housekeeping?          

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How you will be assessed

Assessment  of  this  Unit  of  Competency  will  include  observation  of  real  
or  simulated  work  processes  using  workplace  procedures  and  
questioning  on  underpinning  knowledge  and  skills.  It  must  be  
demonstrated  in  an  actual  or  simulated  work  situation  under  
supervision.  

You  will  be  required  to:  

• complete  a  housekeeping  assessment  checklist.  

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Section 1

What is housekeeping?

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Section outline

Areas  covered  in  this  section  

A  definition  of  effective  housekeeping  and  the  effect  that  
housekeeping  can  have  on:    
− safety  
− productivity  
− efficiency  

Common  housekeeping  tasks  and  those  particular  to  workplace  needs    

Identification  of  equipment  needed  for  housekeeping  tasks  

Defining  the  link  between  OHS  and  housekeeping    

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How is housekeeping defined?

Housekeeping  can  be  defined  as  the  way  organisations  maintain  safe,  
clean  and  healthy  working  areas  in  the  workplace.  Specific  issues  to  
consider  are  as  follows:  
• housekeeping  must  be  of  concern  to  everybody  in  the  
organisation  
• poor  standards  of  housekeeping  will  cause  hazards  and  
inefficiencies  
• poor  housekeeping  will  lead  to  a  drop  in  productivity  and  
will  lower  worker  health  and  morale  
• housekeeping  is  the  responsibility  of  management  and  all  
workers  
• housekeeping  is  directly  linked  to  occupational  health  and  
safety  (OHS).    These  regulations  must  be  obeyed  under  
federal  and  state/territory  laws.  

What are housekeeping tasks?

Housekeeping  tasks  can  be  grouped  into  a  number  of  areas,  including,  
but  not  limited  to:  
• OHS:  
− safety    
− cleanliness  (sanitation)  controls  
• damage  avoidance  
• fire  prevention  and  protection  
• safe,  secure  storage  systems  
• regular  inspections  
• stock  control  
• personal  hygiene  and  appearance  
• maintenance  and  storage  of  housekeeping  equipment.  

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Common  housekeeping  tasks  are:  

• vacuum  cleaning  
• painting  
• weeding  
• maintenance  
• waste  removal  and  recycling.  

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 TLIF207C Conduct housekeeping activities

Activity 1: List housekeeping tasks

You should now take a few minutes to think of other likely

housekeeping tasks that you could be expected to do.

Complete the ‘Housekeeping task worksheet’ (Form 1 in ‘Additional

resources’).

List the tasks you thought of in the space provided below:

____________________________________________________

____________________________________________________

____________________________________________________

____________________________________________________

____________________________________________________

____________________________________________________

____________________________________________________

____________________________________________________

____________________________________________________

____________________________________________________

____________________________________________________

____________________________________________________

____________________________________________________

____________________________________________________

____________________________________________________

____________________________________________________

____________________________________________________

There is feedback on this activity at the back of this Learner’s

Guide.

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Activity 2: Special to worksite housekeeping tasks

Are there any special housekeeping tasks that are specific to your
workplace?

Talk to your trainer or a group of other learners to identify any

special or additional tasks.

List any tasks that you have identified in the space provided below:

____________________________________________________

____________________________________________________

____________________________________________________

____________________________________________________

____________________________________________________

____________________________________________________

____________________________________________________

____________________________________________________

____________________________________________________

____________________________________________________

____________________________________________________

____________________________________________________

____________________________________________________

____________________________________________________

____________________________________________________

____________________________________________________

____________________________________________________

There is feedback on this activity at the back of this Learner’s

Guide.

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 TLIF207C Conduct housekeeping activities

What equipment is used in housekeeping?

A  wide  range  of  equipment  can  be  used  to  help  with  housekeeping.  
Some  examples  are:  
• brooms  and  brushes  
• safety  equipment  such  as  gloves,  goggles,  aprons  and  so  
on  
• cleaning  agents  and  associated  items  used  to  apply  these  
agents  
• ladders,  ramps  and  scaffolding  
• mechanical  items  such  as  vacuums,  sweepers  and  high  
pressure  cleaners.  

As  you  work  through  the  guide  you  will  identify  other  equipment  
available  for  use  in  housekeeping  tasks.

What is the link between housekeeping and

OHS?

As  you  now  know,  housekeeping  is  essential  to  ensure  a  safe,  clean  
and  healthy  workplace.    

OHS  regulations  and  codes  of  practice  provide  specific  instructions  on:  
• occupational  health  and  safety  
• First  Aid  
• hazardous  substances  
• labelling  of  workplace  substances  
• manual  handling.  

All  of  these  instructions  apply  to  housekeeping  duties.    

Remember,  the  application  of  OHS  Regulations  is  mainly  a  

management  responsibility  but  everyone  is  required  to  help  and  be  
involved.  

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Activity 3: The importance of housekeeping

There are three questions below that you now need to work
through. Your answers can be discussed with your trainer or in a
group discussion with other learners.

Complete the following statement:

1. ‘Housekeeping can be defined as the way

__________________________________________________

maintain ___________________________________________

and _______________________________________________

__________________________________________________

__________________________________________________

working areas in the __________________________________‘

2. List five housekeeping tasks and the equipment and/or products

you need to complete those tasks?

1 _________________________________________________

2 _________________________________________________

3 _________________________________________________

4 _________________________________________________

5 _________________________________________________

3. Name the Regulation and Codes that apply to housekeeping in

the workplace?

__________________________________________________

__________________________________________________

There is feedback on this activity at the back of this Learner’s

Guide.

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 TLIF207C Conduct housekeeping activities

Remove and replace storage racks or stands

From  time  to  time  it  will  be  necessary  for  you  to  remove,  replace  or  
alter  storage  facilities.  It  may  be  necessary  for  you  to  seek  the  help  of  
a  workmate  or  to  use  mechanical  handling  equipment,  (remember  
your  workplace  occupational  health  and  safety  requirements).  These  
changes  may  only  include  the  movement  of  shelving  in  order  to  
expand  storage  areas  or  they  may  necessitate  removal  or  shifting  of  
racks  or  pallet  areas.  

If  you  have  any  doubts  about  the  proposed  changes  speak  to  your  
trainer.  

After  these  changes  it  may  be  necessary  for  you  to  install  new  safety  
walkways  or  signs  to  meet  occupational  health  and  safety  
requirements.  

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Section 2

What OHS aspects are involved in

housekeeping?

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Section outline

Areas  covered  in  this  section  

OHS  policy  as  it  applies  to  housekeeping  procedures  

The  use  of  protective  clothing  and  equipment  

The  use,  maintenance  and  storage  of  safety  equipment  in  a  safe  and  
secure  way  

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How is OHS applied to housekeeping?

As  mentioned  in  Section  one,  OHS  regulations  must  be  applied  to  
housekeeping  duties.  Although  the  main  responsibility  for  safety  in  the  
workplace  belongs  with  the  employer,  you  also  have  responsibilities.  
You  need  to  know  and  be  able  to  apply  these.  You  must:  
• follow  instructions  in  relation  to  the  regulations  and  the  
workplace  
• use  protective  clothing  and  equipment  provided  to  comply  
with  the  regulations  
• not  use  drugs  or  alcohol  that  will  endanger  yourself  or  
others  in  the  workplace  
• undertake  induction  (training)  prior  to  starting  new  or  
unfamiliar  work.  The  amount  of  training  depends  on  the  
hazards  involved  
• obey  the  approved  codes  of  practice,  unless  there  is  an  
alternative  which  provides  equal  or  better  protection.  

The  regulations  are  very  detailed  so  all  of  the  contents  cannot  be  
covered  here.  There  are  many  other  matters  that  you  will  need  to  learn  
as  you  progress  in  your  career.  It  is  important  that  you  take  the  time  to  
educate  yourself  further  on  this  subject.  

The  main  codes  of  practice  that  you  need  to  know  about  are:  
• Occupational  Health  and  First  Aid  
• Control  of  Workplace  Hazardous  Substances,  i.e.  use  of  
cleaning  agents  and  cleaning  up  spillages  
• Labelling  of  Workplace  Substances  
• Manual  Handling.  This  covers:  
− identification    of  risk  factors  likely  to  cause  manual  handling  
injuries  
− detailed  assessment  of  particular  risk  factors  
− an  introduction  to  measures  to  remove  or  control  risks.  

In  these  codes  of  practice  there  are  details  you  need  to  know  about.  
Speak  to  your  trainer  to  obtain  the  codes  and  read  them  as  soon  as  
possible.  

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What protective clothing and equipment is

used?

A  wide  variety  of  protective  clothing  and  equipment  is  available  for  use  
in  your  housekeeping  duties.    

As  you  will  have  noticed  in  the  codes  of  practice,  use  of  protective  
clothing  and  equipment  is  required  when  handling  chemicals  and  using  
some  equipment.    

A  list  of  items  you  might  use  is  given  below.  This  list  is  not  complete  as  
there  are  many  other  examples  in  the  industry:  
• dust  coat  
• rubber  apron  
• goggles  or  glasses  
• helmet  
• noise  protection  
• gloves  
• breathing  filter  or  self-­‐contained  breathing  apparatus.  

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Activity 4: List protective gear used in housekeeping

Can you think of any other protective clothing or equipment?

List any you can think of here:

________________________ ___________________________

________________________ ___________________________

________________________ ___________________________

________________________ ___________________________

________________________ ___________________________

________________________ ___________________________

________________________ ___________________________

________________________ ___________________________

________________________ ___________________________

________________________ ___________________________

________________________ ___________________________

________________________ ___________________________

________________________ ___________________________

________________________ ___________________________

________________________ ___________________________

________________________ ___________________________

________________________ ___________________________

There is feedback on this activity at the back of this Learner’s

Guide.

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Activity 5: Find and identify housekeeping safety equipment

At this stage you need to confirm the types of safety equipment

your organisation has and any you will be required to use. Check
this with your trainer. While you are doing this, other things to think
about are:
• the use of information you have read in the codes of practice
• the need to practise using the equipment
• ensuring a good fit of equipment to gain maximum protection
• the additional training needed to use such items as breathing
equipment.

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How do you use, maintain and store safety

equipment in a safe and secure way?

To  ensure  the  safe  use,  maintenance  and  storage  of  safety  equipment,  
you  will  need  to:  
• choose  the  correct  equipment  for  the  task  
• read  warning  labels  and  instructions  and  follow  this  
information  
• fit  the  equipment  correctly  
• follow  the  instructions  when  using  equipment  
• maintain  the  equipment  correctly  
• store  the  equipment  correctly.  

If    the  standard  of  safety  equipment  is  suspect  DO  NOT  USE  IT.    

Apply  the  three  R’s:  

• report  it,  
• repair  it  
• or  replace  it!  

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Activity 6: Reporting faulty equipment

Speak to your trainer about what you should do with faulty safety
equipment. Check with the stores section/department about their
procedures and any forms that might have to be filled out.

Get a copy of forms used and practise filling them out.

What are the possible effects of using faulty safety equipment?

List your ideas here:

____________________________________________________

____________________________________________________

____________________________________________________

____________________________________________________

____________________________________________________

____________________________________________________

____________________________________________________

____________________________________________________

____________________________________________________

____________________________________________________

____________________________________________________

____________________________________________________

____________________________________________________

____________________________________________________

____________________________________________________

____________________________________________________

There is feedback on this activity at the back of this Learner’s

Guide.

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Activity 7: Use personal safety equipment

With the assistance of your trainer carry out a practical exercise in

the identification, choice and wearing of the correct safety
equipment for housekeeping tasks in your workplace.

In completing this task you will have to identify certain actions that
need to be taken when using personal safety equipment. In the
space below:
• list personal safety equipment that should be used for
housekeeping tasks in your workplace
• for each item listed, explain what you must do to make sure you
will be protected when using the equipment.

An example is given on the first line.

Items Protection gained by:

gloves correct type for task, they fit

and they are not torn or worn
out

________________________ ___________________________

________________________ ___________________________

________________________ ___________________________

________________________ ___________________________

________________________ ___________________________

________________________ ___________________________

________________________ ___________________________

________________________ ___________________________

________________________ ___________________________

________________________ ___________________________

________________________ ___________________________

________________________ ___________________________

There is feedback on this activity at the back of this Learner’s

Guide.

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Section 3

What equipment is used in

housekeeping?

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Section outline

Areas  covered  in  this  section  

Locating  and  using  equipment  

Storing  equipment  

Maintaining  equipment  
 

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How do you locate and use housekeeping

equipment?

To  get  the  best  use  out  of  housekeeping  equipment,  the  following  
rules  should  be  applied:  
• housekeeping  equipment  should  be  located  in  a  clearly  
signposted  area  to  allow  easy  identification  and  access  
• mechanical  cleaning  equipment  and  hazardous  cleaning  
agents  should  be  stored  and  used  in  accordance  with  
product  instructions  and  OHS  regulations  
• you  need  access  to  the  necessary  operator  manuals  and  
control  documentation  i.e.  Material  Safety  Data  Sheets  
(MSDS),  equipment  log  books  and  servicing  schedules  
• it  is  critical  that  you  receive  the  necessary  training  before  
operating  mechanical  housekeeping  equipment  or  
handling  hazardous  substances.  

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Activity 8: List housekeeping equipment

In the table below, list the types of housekeeping equipment that

you are likely to use.

For example:
• industrial vacuums (you might need training on this type of
equipment)
• brooms
• machine maintenance tools of a non-technical type
• bins.

List any others that you can think of here:

____________________________ __________________________

____________________________ __________________________

____________________________ __________________________

____________________________ __________________________

____________________________ __________________________

____________________________ __________________________

____________________________ __________________________

____________________________ __________________________

____________________________ __________________________

____________________________ __________________________

____________________________ __________________________

____________________________ __________________________

____________________________ __________________________

____________________________ __________________________

____________________________ __________________________

____________________________ __________________________

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For  the  safe  use  of  housekeeping  equipment  and  products  these  
simple  rules  must  be  followed:  
• read  warning  labels  and  instructions  before  using  cleaning  
agents,  taking  particular  note  of  action  to  be  taken  in  case  
of  an  accident  
• read  instructions  on  use  (user’s  manual  plus  any  fitted  
instructions)  and  receive  training  before  using  
powered/mechanised  housekeeping  equipment  
• check  all  equipment  for  serviceability,  ensuring  that  guards  
are  fitted  and  switches  and  cords  are  properly  insulated  
and  in  working  order  
• obey  all  safety  signs.  

When  in  doubt  about  what  you  should  do,  don’t  guess.  Ask  your  
trainer!  

How do you store equipment in a safe and

secure manner?

To  assist  in  effective  housekeeping,  housekeeping  equipment  needs  to  

be  stored  safely  and  securely  in  correct  locations.  This  is  necessary    
because:  
• everyone  knows  where  these  items  can  be  found  when  
needed  
• they  do  not  cause  a  hazard  in  their  own  right  by  cluttering  
up  aisles  and  rooms  
• cleaning  agents  (chemicals)  and  sharp  instruments  must  
be  stored  safely  until  required  
• items  need  to  be  secured  properly  so  that  workers  are  not  
put  at  risk  when  getting  them  out.  An  example  of  this  
would  be  equipment  falling  out  of  a  cupboard  when  the  
doors  are  opened.    

Safe  storage  areas  can  be  provided  by  using:  

• tool  racks  
• bins  
• boxes  
• cabinets  
• sheds  

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• suitable  indoor  and  outdoor  locations  for  quick  and  easy  

access.  

How is housekeeping equipment maintained?

The  standard  of  housekeeping  equipment  maintenance  has  a  direct  

impact  on  effective  housekeeping.    

Poorly  maintained  equipment  will  not  produce  as  good  a  job  as  those  
items  that  are  well  maintained.  For  example:  
• a  mechanical  sweeper  with  worn  brushes  will  require  more  
passes  to  clean  an  area  properly  (or  a  lower  standard  of  
cleanliness  will  result)    
• something  as  simple  as  brooms  or  brushes  with  splintered  
handles  will  cause  minor  injuries  and  lost  time.  These  
things  tend  to  upset  the  people  involved.  

All  of  this  has  the  effect  of  lowering  morale  and  productivity.    

Maintaining  equipment  needs  to  be  scheduled  into  the  housekeeping  

program  and  must  cover:  
• cleaning  of  equipment  
• replacement  of  damaged  or  worn  parts  
• regular  servicing  
• inspections  
• maintenance  of  storage  areas.  

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Activity 9: Storage of housekeeping equipment

With the assistance of your trainer carry out a practical exercise in

the identification of housekeeping equipment and product storage
facilities in workplace.

As you work through this exercise, fill in the form ‘Housekeeping

maintenance tables cleaning products’. (Form 3 in ‘Additional
resources). Confirm your results with your trainer.

In completing this task you will have to identify certain requirements

that need to be thought about when storing equipment.

When you have completed your inspection and form, use the
following list of housekeeping equipment to identify the type of
storage suitable for each item. The first entry is an example for you
to follow:

Item Storage

broom cleaners closet/cupboard or hang

from rack

pressure cleaner _____________________________

_____________________________

_____________________________

industrial sweeper _____________________________

_____________________________

_____________________________

extension ladder _____________________________

_____________________________

_____________________________

There is feedback on this activity at the back of this Learner’s

Guide.

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Activity 10: Types and uses of equipment

A list of housekeeping equipment is shown below. Describe the use

of each item. The first entry is an example for you to follow:

Item Storage

broom cleaners closet/cupboard or hang

from rack

pressure cleaner _____________________________

_____________________________

_____________________________

industrial sweeper _____________________________

_____________________________

_____________________________

extension ladder _____________________________

_____________________________

_____________________________

Any others used in your workplace:

Item Use

____________________________ __________________________

____________________________ __________________________

____________________________ __________________________

____________________________ __________________________

____________________________ __________________________

____________________________ __________________________

____________________________ __________________________

There is feedback on this activity at the back of this Learner’s

Guide.

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Activity 11: Equipment maintenance and repair

Listed below are questions about equipment maintenance and

repair. Please complete these now and discuss them with your
trainer.

1. Why is maintenance of housekeeping equipment necessary?

____________________________________________________

____________________________________________________

____________________________________________________

2. What bad effects can occur as the result of poor or inadequate

maintenance of housekeeping equipment?

____________________________________________________

____________________________________________________

____________________________________________________

3. How can an organisation ensure that equipment is properly

maintained at the correct service intervals?

____________________________________________________

____________________________________________________

____________________________________________________

4. List four ways that equipment can be correctly maintained:

_________________________ ________________________

_________________________ ________________________

_________________________ ________________________

_________________________ ________________________

There is feedback on this activity at the back of this Learner’s

Guide.

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Section 4

What housekeeping tasks do you

have to perform?

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Section outline

Areas  covered  in  this  section  

Performing  housekeeping  tasks  

Waste  removal  

Documentation  and  equipment  check  sheets  

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How do you do housekeeping tasks?

The  need  for  housekeeping  should  now  be  obvious  to  you.  The  actual  
tasks  that  you  need  to  practise  or  be  involved  in  are  listed  here:  
• cleaning  your  areas  of  responsibility  
• clearing  up  as  you  work  
• cyclical  clearing/cleaning  tasks,  that  is,  tasks  that  need  to  
be  done  on  a  regular  and  routine  timetable  i.e.  weeding  
yards  and  pest  control  procedures  
• waste  removal  (covered  in  the  next  part  of  this  section)  
• scheduling  -­‐  this  is  allowing  sufficient  time  for  the  tasks,  
preferably  at  set  times,  so  that  workers  become  used  to  
the  routine  and  it  becomes  part  of  the  normal  process  (this  
is  normally  a  trainer’s  or  manager’s  responsibility)  
• equipment  maintenance  
• returning  and  storage  of  equipment  and  cleaning  products  
• continuous  monitoring  to  maintain  workplace  standards  
• regular  inspections  -­‐  a  sample  copy  of  an  inspection  form  is  
included  at  the  end  of  this  Learner’s  Guide  in  ‘Additional  
resources’.  

How do you carry out waste removal?

When  doing  waste  removal,  the  most  important  parts  you  need  to  
think  about  are:  
• the  risk  from  chemical  spills  (refer  to  Section  One  and  to  
Follow  Occupational  Health  and  Safety  Procedures  in  
Warehousing)  
• contamination  (waterways  and  soil)  
• slips,  trips,  sprains  and  falls  
• removal  of  materials  used  to  absorb  spillage.  These  must  
be  treated  under  the  same  rules  as  the  original  product.  
An  example  would  be  using  sawdust  or  sand  to  absorb  an  
oil  spill.  In  this  case  the  sawdust  or  sand  would  have  to  be  
disposed  of  in  the  same  way  as  the  oil;  i.e.  in  a  
contaminated  waste  site.  

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If  you  are  involved  in  waste  removal  plans  and  tasks  you  need  to  think  
about:  
• reduction  -­‐  this  means  having  no  more  waste  than  possible  
or  reducing  the  amount  of  waste  being  produced  
• re-­‐use  -­‐  wherever  possible,  use  waste  material  in  the  
operations  
• recover  -­‐  this  means  to  reproduce  a  useable  product  from  
the  waste  
• segregation  -­‐  separate  waste  in  clearly  defined  areas  and  
containers  
• specialised  removal  -­‐  specialists  may  need  to  be  called  in  
to  handling  dangerous  waste  product  
• applying  hazardous  waste  removal  regulations  and  codes  
of  practice.  

What documentation is used in housekeeping?

It  is  necessary  to  maintain  records  of  housekeeping  to  ensure:  

• that  standards  are  met  
• that  all  tasks  are  achieved  and  recorded  as  completed  
when  required.  Examples  of  these  records  are:  
− housekeeping  task  work  sheets  
− housekeeping  checklists  
• maintenance  tables  are  kept  up  to  date  to  keep  track  of  
cyclical  housekeeping  tasks  carried  out  on  a  time  or  
distance  basis  
• equipment  record  (or  log)  books  are  filled  in  to  ensure  that  
maintenance  of  housekeeping  equipment  is  carried  out  at  
the  correct  intervals  
• any  health  and  safety  hazard  report  forms  are  completed  
as  needed  under  the  regulations.  

Examples  of  some  of  these  records  are  included  in  ‘Additional  
resources’  at  the  end  of  this  Learner’s  Guide.  

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 TLIF207C Conduct housekeeping activities

Activity 12: Carry out housekeeping tasks

Case Study

This activity requires you to describe your answers to a possible

(but likely) housekeeping scenario that will cover:
• task performance
• waste removal
• documentation, including an inspection report.

Scenario

You are a storeperson employed with ABC Warehousing and

Distribution Service and have been called to your trainer’s office.
On arrival you are told by your trainer that he/she is having
problems with housekeeping and has decided to give you the task
of conducting an inspection of the workplace. Your trainer then
hands you a list of problems that have already been identified.

These are:
• products stacked in aisles
• loose banding tape on the floor
• a trail of oil in the workplace
• an empty tin of cleaning solvent lying in a corner.

You leave your trainer’s office with clear instructions on what you
have to do, which is to:
• obtain a copy of the housekeeping inspection form (from
‘Additional resources’) and enter the problems identified
• obtain and complete a health and safety hazard form (from
‘Additional resources’)
• explain how you would fix the problems identified and advise of
the steps taken by entering your actions on the forms
• advise of any preventative measures that can be used to avoid
these problems happening again.

There is feedback on this activity at the back of this Learner’s

Guide.

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Additional
resources

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Paper  based:  
• Ackerman  K.B.  Practical  handbook  of  warehousing,  Van  
Nostrand  Reinhold,  New  York  
• Occupational  health,  safety  and  welfare  regulations  
(federal  and  state/territory)  
• Approved  code  of  practice  (federal  and  state/territory),  
for:  
− Labelling  of  workplace  substances  
− Control  of  workplace  hazardous  substances  
− Occupational  health  and  First  Aid  in  the  workplace  
− Manual  handling  

Videos:  
• Head  over  heels    -­‐    Safety  Image  Pty  Ltd.  (Part  of  the  safety  
awareness  video  programmes)  
• Slips  trips  and  falls    -­‐    Safety  care  services  
• Hand  tool  safety    -­‐  Vo-­‐Tech  training  services  
• Safety  matter  OHS,  A  joint  approach    -­‐    Workcover  
corporation.  

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Forms

Samples of forms that can be used in housekeeping are shown

below:

Housekeeping task worksheet

Task Equipment Location

Clean floors Brooms and industrial Dispatch Area

sweeper

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Housekeeping maintenance tables

Maintaining equipment

Types of equipment Maintenance task

Industrial sweeper Pre start check

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Housekeeping maintenance tables

Cleaning products

Cleaning products Location Safety precautions

(if relevant)

Example Paint (non Paint locker Do not store with flammable

slip) products. Ensure lids are
sealed.

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A housekeeping checklist
(Use parts in this form as necessary)

Workplace Building/Area No.

No. Question Yes No Corrective action Date
1 Is there a
workplace layout
drawing?
2 Is storage per
drawing?

3 Does workplace
drawing agree with
Master drawing?
4 Are aisle borders
marked?

5 Are aisles clean?

6 Are there any

spillages or leaks?

7 Are aisles and

staging areas
clean?

8 Are storage areas

identified?

9 Is storage neat and

proper?

10 Are racks in good

condition?

11 Is damaged stock
in specified area?

12 Is damage
identified?

13 Are truck and rail

areas clean?

14 Are all pallets in

good condition?

15 Are empty pallets

stored neatly?

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 TLIF207C Conduct housekeeping activities

Workplace housekeeping checklist (continued)

16 Is building secure from rain?

17 Are fire exits clear of stock

and rubbish?
18 Are stairs and mezzanine
floor clear?
19 Are loading and unloading
docks clear and pallet
boards stacked?
20 Are loose pallets in pallet
boat?

21 Are staff amenities clean

and tidy?
22 Are authorised building
repairs complete?
23 Are door locks adequate?

24 Are windows clean?

25 Do light bulbs work?

26 Are yards clean and neat?

27 Are offices clean and neat?

* For any ‘no’ answers, indicate corrective action to be taken. Use space below when needed
for explanations. Refer to Question No. as given above.

_______________________________ ____________________

(Inspected by) (Date)

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Health and safety hazard form

Type of Hazard Location Remedial action/solutions

Cleaning solvent spill Aisle B Cleaned up, correct storage advised to
all team members
due to incorrect storage

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Feedback on
activities
The responses provided in this section are suggested responses.
Because every workplace is different, your responses may vary
according to your specific workplace procedures, the equipment
available and the nature of the business.

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Activity 1: List household tasks

You should now compare your tasks with the following list. It is
likely that you may have thought of other tasks that are not covered
here:
• pest (rodent) control
• keep stock out of aisles
• safely use chemicals for sanitation
• removal of spillage
• scrub or sweep floors
• wash windows, lights, etc.

Activity 2: Special to worksite housekeeping tasks

Because of the special nature of any tasks you might have

identified, it is not possible to list all the likely jobs here. The
following list of tasks is provided as a guide:
• the high standards of cleanliness needed for the food handling
industry
• a large quantity of by-product or waste removal, especially of a
dusty or fibrous type
• storage of large, bulky or unusual shaped items
• use of outdoor storage areas
• frequent checking of products that attract pest infestation, i.e.
grain or flour.

Activity 3: The importance of housekeeping

’Housekeeping can be defined as the way organisations maintain

safe, clean and healthy working areas in the workplace’.

The details to this question are shown below. You can also discuss
this with your trainer.

Sample responses may include:

• safe removal of waste products - this requires such things as:
− gloves
− goggles
− containers

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− chemical resistant coveralls

• maintenance of housekeeping equipment. This requires:
− maintenance log book and users’ instructions where
necessary
− cleaning rags
− gloves
− oils and greases for lubrication
− replacement parts
• pest control, including:
− maintaining levels of baits
− general cleanliness
− ensuring possible access areas are blocked off
− ensuring that pest exterminators carry out examinations.

The answer includes:

• OHS regulations
• codes of practice for:
− Occupational health and First Aid
− Hazardous substances
− Labelling of workplace substances
• Manual handling.

Activity 4: List protective gear used in housekeeping

You should compare your list with the following items. It is likely
that you may have identified other items that are not covered
below.
• shields
• hairnets/bands
• kneepads
• safety harness
• clothing and footwear
• body support harness
• safety showers
• firefighting equipment.

Activity 6: Reporting faulty equipment

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Some effects of using faulty safety equipment are:

• a risk to life
• the possibility of injury or disease, such as:
− burns
− cuts and abrasions
− fall injuries
− internal effects from inhaling chemical fumes.

Activity 7: Use personal safety equipment

See below for example responses. It is likely that you have come
up with other ideas as well.
Items Requirements
gloves correct type, fit and not torn/worn
helmet adjust harness, check for damage
goggles fit firmly, clean, design for task
boots right size, designed for task, soles not
worn, casing not damaged
noise protector proper fit, no visible damage
coveralls snug fit, no tears, designed for task

Activity 8: List housekeeping equipment

Compare your list with the checklist below:

degreasers mops and buckets
dust pans industrial hoses
shovels rags, cloths and paper towels
scrub down equipment basic solvents
spray bottles detergents
scrapers brushes

Note: This list does not include all possible items.

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Activity 9: Storage of housekeeping equipment

See below for sample answers. It is likely that you have thought of
other ideas as well.

Item Storage

broom cleaners closet/cupboard or hanging

from rack

pressure cleaner dedicated storage bay

cleaning solvent storage cabinet in accordance with

MSDS

industrial sweeper dedicated area with access to power

extension ladder equipment rack

cleaning rags rag bin (used rags to be disposed of

correctly)

Activity 10: Types and uses of equipment

See below for example responses. It is likely that you have thought
of other answers as well.

Item Uses

broom sweeping, scrubbing, cobweb removal

pressure cleaner degreasing floors and equipment

cleaning solvent general cleaning tasks, i.e. bench tops

industrial sweeper sweeping and scrubbing large areas

extension ladder general purpose high reach, i.e. lighting

cleaning rags general purpose

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Activity 11: Equipment maintenance and repair

1. To ensure that the best possible results are achieved from the
equipment and that it is available for use when needed.

2. a. Injuries and lost time

b. Poor morale
c. Lower productivity

3. By maintaining an equipment maintenance schedule

4. a. Clean equipment

b. Replace damaged or worn parts immediately

c. Regular servicing schedule

d. Carry out inspections.

Activity 12: Carry out housekeeping tasks

Discuss your results with your trainer. They will have a sample
result in their workplace trainer’s guide to confirm your entries.

On the ‘Housekeeping checklist’ you have probably made notes

against the following sections:
• No. 5 - Are aisles clean? (trash removal)
• No. 6 - Are there any spillages and leaks? (oil leaks)
• No. 8 - Is storage neat and proper? (product in aisles)
• No. 10 - Is damage in specified area? (damaged stock)
• No. 11 - Is damage identified? (damaged stock)

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On the ‘Health and safety hazard form’ you have probably made
entries such as:

Health and safety hazard form

Type of hazard Location Remedial action/solutions

Product in aisles (An accurate Restack or reallocate to new

description of each areas
location)

Rubbish on floor Clean up areas of responsibility

Oil trail on floor Use oil absorbing material or

detergent to clean up oil

Trace cause of leak an fix.

Discarded chemical Remove and dispose of in

container appropriate manner.
(Contaminated waste disposal)

Suggested corrective action to solve immediate problems and

address the matter in the future should include:
• identify correct storage areas and remove stock from aisles
• clean up work areas, including waste removal
• apply oil absorbent and place warning sign near oil spill, trace
cause (leaking equipment or damaged stock) and fix problem
• conduct housekeeping awareness training for all personnel
• implement a regular, scheduled housekeeping program and
conduct frequent inspections.
Documentation to be completed should be in accordance with
samples provided in the ‘Additional resources’ part of this guide or
you can use ‘in house’ documentation from your workplace.

© Australian National Training Authority 2003 Page 57

Customised and developed by Armstrong’s Driver Education Pty Ltd March 2009 ADELG1063