Safe Use of Squeegees

A safety talk focused on squeegee hazards, including wet floors, slip prevention, chemical exposure, body mechanics, pedestrian control, and directing liquid safely.

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 Squeegees”

Key Hazards

Slips and falls on wet or partially cleaned floors
Pedestrians entering wet work areas
Chemical or biological exposure from liquids being moved
Strains from repetitive pushing or poor posture
Trip hazards from hoses, buckets, cords, or debris
Water pushed toward electrical equipment, stairs, or walkways

2–3 Minute Talk Script

Squeegees help remove water and liquids from walking surfaces, but the floor may remain slippery until the liquid is fully controlled.

Workers should identify what liquid is being moved. Clean water, wastewater, soap, oil, chemicals, food residue, or process liquids may require different PPE and disposal methods.

Wet floors should be marked or blocked off to protect pedestrians. A floor can look safe while still being slick from water, soap, oil, or cleaning solution.

Workers should use controlled pushing motions and avoid awkward twisting. Long periods of repetitive squeegee work can strain shoulders, backs, wrists, and elbows.

The path to the drain or collection area should be planned. Pushing liquid toward electrical equipment, stairs, walkways, traffic areas, or sensitive materials can create new hazards.

Hoses, buckets, cords, mats, tools, and debris should be kept out of the working path so the cleanup task does not create trip hazards.

PPE should match the liquid being handled. Gloves, boots, eye protection, or chemical-resistant protection may be needed when liquids are contaminated or irritating.

Safe squeegee use depends on controlling the liquid, warning others, maintaining good body position, and finishing the cleanup so the floor is safe to walk on.

Safety Reminders

Identify the liquid before cleanup.
Mark or block off wet floor areas.
Use PPE for contaminated or chemical liquids.
Plan where the liquid will be pushed or collected.
Keep hoses, buckets, cords, and debris out of the path.
Use good posture and avoid excessive twisting.
Leave the floor clean, dry, and safe for walking.

Ask the Crew

What liquid is being moved with the squeegee?
Is the wet area marked or protected from pedestrians?
Could the liquid create chemical, biological, or slip hazards?
Where will the liquid be directed or collected?
Are hoses, cords, or buckets creating trip hazards?

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