Facility & Cleaning Safety · 2–5 min toolbox talk
Safe Use of Floor Buffers
A safety talk covering buffer control, cord management, and preventing spinout injuries when polishing floors.
Use this printed script for your tailgate or toolbox talk. Read through the hazards, script, and questions with your crew.
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“Safe Use of Floor Buffers”
Key Hazards
- Loss of control during startup
- Trips from tangled cords
- Slips on wet surfaces
2–3 Minute Talk Script
Safe use of floor buffers is important for janitorial staff, facility workers, and maintenance teams. Buffers are powerful machines that can pull operators off balance.
Workers should start buffers at low speed and maintain both hands on the handle.
Different pads and chemicals require different speeds and techniques.
Keeping extension cords clear prevents tangles and tripping hazards.
Safety Reminders
- Start at low speed.
- Use correct pads for the floor type.
- Keep cords organized.
- Avoid buffing on wet surfaces.
Ask the Crew
- Is the pad appropriate for today’s floor?
- Are cords causing potential trip hazards?