Why It’s Smart to Wear a Face Mask for Cleaning

When engaging in cleaning activities, especially commercially, wearing the right Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) provides coverage from potential hazards inherent to cleaning. Face masks are one of the important PPE components that should be worn during a cleaning job, especially when working with harsh chemicals.

Here are some of the top reasons cleaning business owners should consider wearing a face mask when cleaning.

Cleaning masks prevent inhalation of harmful chemicals

There are many cleaning solutions that may cause temporary or permanent damage to the body when exposed regularly. This is one of the main reasons a proper respirator matters when cleaning with hazardous compounds (and no, a disposable face mask like those everyone wore during COVID isn’t going to cut it).

According to the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH)’s respirator selection guidance, respirators fitted with cartridges rated for the specific chemical hazard present are recommended when working with toxic fumes, since different cartridge types are designed to filter different classes of vapors and fumes. Checking the manufacturer’s description confirms what a particular mask can and can’t filter.

Cleaning masks help protect from splashback

Gloves protect a cleaner’s hands and lower arms from getting chemical burns or irritation. But if they accidentally spill some and it splashes back onto their face (or it splashes during an intentional pour), they’ll need something durable and non-porous to prevent painful burns.

A face shield or goggles alongside a face mask can add protection in some cases. Splashback may fall on areas that are not covered by a standard gas mask, like the eyes, forehead, and most of the upper part of the head. Cleaners will need to use their best judgment (and double-check safety regulations) when deciding whether or not to use a face shield along with their face mask.

Masks are vital for reducing exposure to airborne viruses

People working in a cleaning service are exposed to viruses and other pathogens in the areas they’re servicing. These invisible perpetrators may cause serious health problems and could even infect a cleaner’s co-workers and family. Proper PPE reduces exposure when working on sites that may potentially harbor illnesses.

Masks deter allergens and other airborne particulates

Some particulates are not necessarily harmful, but in high amounts, even benign particles could cause respiratory distress. When cleaning, it’s common to encounter a high concentration of dust, pollen, and other debris in that area. So the next time a cleaner tackles their basement, attic, or storage room, they can help protect themselves by making sure they have the right face mask on. In some circumstances, that means a simple dust mask, but certain jobs might demand more robust masks.

Checking for NIOSH approval is the most reliable way to confirm a mask’s protection level against particulates. These devices are the gold standard for self-protection, such as N95 masks. They’re especially important for commercial cleaners.

Masks (especially reusable respirators) may support legal compliance

In some cases, cleaning business owners might be required to have their employees wear masks or reusable respirators when using harsh chemicals. The exact rules are defined by the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA for short): “A respirator shall be provided to each employee when such equipment is necessary to protect the health of such employee.”

When respirator use is required, the standard also calls for a written respiratory protection program, including employee fit testing and medical evaluations — not just providing the respirator itself. Every employee (and the cleaning business owner themselves) needs to use a respirator with a tight seal and a proper fit whenever they’re using hazardous cleaning products.

Masks promote public health by giving other people a visual warning

Posted signs are helpful, but people don’t always see or notice them. But most people notice it when they see a person decked out in full PPE. The equipment sends a signal that the cleaner is using chemicals and materials that can be dangerous to an exposed individual. They will tend to steer away from the area or wear PPE themselves if they need to access the area.

If someone’s cleaning their own house, they probably won’t use PPE. But if someone starts a cleaning business, they’ll be cleaning frequently; no one wants to expose their nose and mouth to harmful chemicals every day. Plus, when cleaning other people’s spaces, there can be additional risks like mold and other contaminants that might require protection. A simple dust mask or a respirator with a good seal (depending on the job) can go a long way towards keeping the business owner safe.

Disclaimer: The content on this page is for information purposes only and does not constitute legal, tax, or accounting advice. For specific questions about any of these topics, seek the counsel of a licensed professional.