OSHA Requirements For Janitorial Services
OSHA Requirements for Janitorial Services: Key Essentials
Janitorial services must comply with OSHA's 29 CFR 1910 standards to protect workers from chemical exposure, slips/falls, bloodborne pathogens, and ergonomic hazards. The most common violations involve hazard communication, fall protection, and respiratory protection.
5 Critical OSHA Standards
1. Hazard Communication (29 CFR 1910.1200)
2. Personal Protective Equipment (29 CFR 1910.132)
Provide free PPE including:
Chemical-resistant nitrile gloves
Safety goggles/face shields
Disposable gloves, gowns, face masks for blood cleanup
Respirators when needed for chemical exposure
3. Bloodborne Pathogens (29 CFR 1910.1030)
Required when workers face exposure to blood/bodily fluids:
Written exposure control plan
Annual bloodborne pathogens training ([not one-time only])
Free Hepatitis B vaccinations
PPE for spill cleanup
4. Walking-Working Surfaces (29 CFR 1910.22)
Slips/falls cause 84% of nonfatal janitorial accidents:
Use wet floor caution signs
Install non-slip mats in high-risk areas
Keep floors clean and dry
Remove spills, loose boards, sharp objects
5. Sanitation (29 CFR 1910.141)
Provide potable drinking water
Supply adequate toilet/washing facilities (separate by sex)
Ensure soap and hand towels available
Remove waste regularly; control vermin
Training Requirements
Recordkeeping: Employers with 10+ employees must log injuries (Forms 300, 300A, 301); report fatalities within 8 hours, severe injuries within 24 hours.
Penalties (2026):
Serious violations: $16,550 per violation
Willful/repeated: $165,514 per violation
Quick Compliance Checklist
✓ SDS available for all chemicals
✓ PPE provided free (gloves, goggles)
✓ Bloodborne pathogens training documented
✓ Wet floor signs used
✓ Safety training completed
Protecting workers is the goal—not just avoiding fines.