• What does a caregiver/housekeeper do?
• What are some health and safety issues for caregivers and housekeepers?
• What are some preventive measures for a caregiver or housekeeper?
• What are some good general safe work practices?
• Where can I get more information?

What does a caregiver/housekeeper do?

Caregivers, housekeepers, domestic workers and babysitters have similar functions in the workplace. Their general tasks may include the following:

• Kitchen work, including shopping for food, cooking and meal preparation.
• House cleaning, housekeeping, and washing dishes.
• Laundry.
• Childcare, which may involve diaper changing, bathing and supervision.
• Elder care, which may involve bathing, companionship, and assistance with doctor visits.

What are some health and safety issues for caregivers and housekeepers?

There are several potential health and safety hazards associated with caregiving and housekeeping duties, including:

• Risk of illness or infection from changing diapers, performing first aid, etc.
• Exposure to chemicals in household cleaning products.
• Working in awkward postures or performing repetitive tasks.
• Risk of pain or injury from lifting or carrying heavy loads.
• Slips, trips and falls.
• Working with sharp knives or other potentially hazardous tools.
• Risk of burns from ovens, deep fryers, and steam from pots.
• Stress.
• Fatigue and other health problems from long hours of work.
• Working alone.

What are some preventive measures for a caregiver or housekeeper?

• Learn safe lifting techniques.
• Wash your hands frequently -- an important step in preventing infection.
• Always wear appropriate personal protective equipment for the task.
• Wear shoes with non-skid soles.

What are some good general safe work practices?

• Practice safe lifting techniques.
• Follow or establish safety procedures for working alone, or for avoiding working alone wherever possible.
• Get current training on chemical hazards, WHMIS and MSDSs.
• Know basic and emergency first aid.
• Follow company safety rules.
• Know how to report hazards.
• Practice good housekeeping procedures.

Where can I get more information?

General information is available in OSH Answers or through the CCOHS person-to-person Inquiries Service.

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Document last updated on May 25, 2004

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