Make your cleaning instruction specific
- Product identity, concentration and current SDS revision
- Activity: dispensing, transferring, spraying or wiping
- Work area, ventilation and organisational measures
- Check glove material and eye protection for the activity and SDS
- Storage, incompatible products and workplace disposal arrangements
- Emergency procedures, first-aid resources and responsible people
Example: a sanitary cleaner in a cleaning business
A general cleaning-product template will not automatically fit the product in use. Dispensing a concentrate, using a dilution and applying a spray are different activities. First record who performs which activity, where, and at what concentration.
Compare classification in section 2, handling in section 7 and exposure controls in section 8 of the current SDS. Recommendations for gloves or respiratory protection must fit both product and activity. Resolve missing information rather than filling gaps with generic statements.
Record the workplace rules for dosing, incompatible products and spills in clear language. Internal emergency contacts and available resources cannot be copied from a manufacturer SDS.
Check that employees understand the instruction and whether changes require renewed training. The Word file helps with preparation; it does not replace risk assessment or workplace approval.
Frequently asked questions
Do I need a separate operating instruction for every cleaning agent?
Yes, if it's classified as hazardous (marked with a GHS pictogram on the SDS). Pure all-purpose cleaners without hazard labeling are exempt.
What must an operating instruction contain?
Section 14 GefStoffV specifies substance and hazard information, protective measures, and responses to incidents and emergencies. TRGS 555 explains the structure, including work area and activity, first aid and disposal. The workplace risk assessment determines the specific content.
Is one operating instruction per substance group enough?
Group instructions may be suitable where hazards and protective measures are comparable. Check the risk assessment and TRGS 555 to determine whether a shared instruction covers the actual activities.