Industrial Cleaning RAMS Guide for UK Contractors

Key Topics in an Industrial Cleaning RAMS

COSHH for industrial cleaning chemicals

Industrial cleaning uses significantly more hazardous chemicals than domestic or commercial cleaning: high-concentration caustic alkalis, strong acids, chlorinated solvents, biocides, and specialist degreasers. The RAMS must list every chemical used, reference the current Safety Data Sheet (SDS) for each, identify the exposure route (inhalation, skin contact, ingestion), and specify the control measures for each: ventilation requirements (forced ventilation or confined space extraction), RPE standard (half-face with correct filter cartridge, minimum FFP3 for particulate-generating activities), PPE (chemical-resistant gloves, apron, face shield), first aid for chemical contact, and emergency spill and containment procedure. The SDS hierarchy of controls must be followed before PPE is relied upon as the primary control.

Confined space entry for tanks and drainage

Industrial cleaning frequently requires entry into tanks, vessels, sumps, interceptors, and drainage chambers that qualify as confined spaces under the Confined Spaces Regulations 1997. Before entry, the RAMS must require: atmospheric testing with a calibrated multi-gas monitor (oxygen 19.5–23.5%, LEL below 10%, CO below 20 ppm, H2S below 5 ppm) before entry and at regular intervals during work; a confined space entry permit signed by the site manager; a trained standby person at the entry point; and a rescue plan that specifies the retrieval equipment (tripod and winch, lifeline), the rescue person's competence, and the emergency service contact. No lone working in confined spaces — a minimum of two people (one inside, one at the entry point) is required by law.

Wastewater and effluent management

Industrial cleaning generates large volumes of contaminated wastewater containing cleaning chemicals, suspended solids, oils, and in some cases heavy metals or other regulated substances. Discharge of this effluent to surface water drains, watercourses, or the public sewer without consent is an offence under the Water Resources Act 1991. The RAMS must describe the wastewater containment, collection, and disposal route: bunded work area or tanker collection, separation of clean rinse water from chemical-laden effluent, consent to discharge to sewer (if applicable), and the name of the licensed waste carrier who will remove and dispose of the collected waste. In the event of an accidental spill to a drain or watercourse, the RAMS must name the reporting contact (Environment Agency incident hotline: 0800 80 70 60).

Slip and fall risk management

Industrial cleaning creates wet, chemically slippery surfaces that present a severe slip risk to both cleaning operatives and to others in the facility who may approach the work area. The RAMS must specify: the non-slip footwear standard for cleaning operatives (minimum S3 safety boot with anti-slip sole rated for the chemicals in use), physical barriers or 'wet floor' signs at all approaches to the cleaning area, a defined drying and safe-to-use inspection procedure before the area is returned to general access, and the procedure if the client or client's employees attempt to enter the work area before it is safe. Wet surfaces must not be signed off as safe until independently checked by the client representative.