Through clear routines, knowledge, and proper storage, the risk of accidents and ill health is minimized – while the working environment becomes safer.

What is considered a chemical?

In a nursing home, a range of products are classified as chemical substances. These can, for example, be:  
- Cleaning and disinfectant agents  
- Laundry detergents, fabric softeners, and stain removers  
- Hand sanitizers, soap, and other hygiene products  
- Solvents and surface treatment products  
- Medical devices with chemical effects (e.g. certain wound care products)  

Batteries, ink, glue, and aerosol products can also be subject to the same rules.

Risks with chemical use

Incorrect handling of chemicals can cause damage to the skin and mucous membranes, burns, respiratory problems, or allergies. Residents with sensitive skin or respiratory problems can react to strong odors or residues of cleaning agents.  

Risks can also occur during storage – for example, if products are mixed incorrectly, or stored so that children or confused people can access them.

Legal requirements and responsibilities

According to the Work Environment Act, the employer is responsible for all chemicals being handled safely. According to rules from the Work Environment Authority (including AFS 2011:19), each workplace should:
- Keep a record of all chemical products used  
- Obtain and have available safety data sheets  
- Perform a risk assessment for each product  
- Inform and train the staff  
- Provide access to suitable protective equipment  

How the nursing home works with safe chemical handling

Listing and safety data sheets  
All chemicals in the operation must be listed in a chemical inventory. For each product, an updated safety data sheet must be easily accessible, preferably both in paper form and digitally.

Risk assessment  
Each product should be risk assessed based on how it is used. This can involve how it is mixed, how it comes into contact with the skin, or how it affects indoor air. The result determines whether the product may be used, and if special protective measures are required.

Proper storage  
Chemicals should be stored in their original packaging with clear labeling. Lockable chemical storage is often a requirement. Products must not be mixed or decanted into other bottles without correct labeling.

Protective equipment  
Gloves, protective apron, and in some cases safety glasses should be available where chemicals are used. If strong agents are used, good ventilation or respiratory protection should be ensured.

Training  
All staff who handle chemicals should know what the products contain, what risks exist, and how they should be protected. This should be included in the introduction and updated regularly.

Examples of situations to pay extra attention to

- Risk of slipping – If chemicals are spilled on the floor, it can become slippery and cause fall injuries.  
- Incorrect mixing – Certain cleaning agents must absolutely not be mixed, e.g. bleach and acid. This can release toxic gas.  
- Remaining agents – If surfaces are not rinsed properly, residues can cause skin problems or poisoning.  
- Confused individuals – Residents with dementia can accidentally drink or smear themselves with cleaning agents if they can access them.  
- Incorrect handling of empty containers – Empty containers should not be used for other liquids and should be discarded according to existing routines.  

Protective equipment for risk of infection spread

When chemicals are used in connection with, for example, disinfection or cleaning of infectious surfaces, special attention is required. Appropriate protective equipment should always be used:  

- Disposable gloves  
- Protective apron or disposable gown  
- Safety glasses if there is a risk of splashing  
- Face mask if strong agents are used in poorly ventilated areas  

After work is completed, hands should be disinfected thoroughly and all protective equipment should be handled according to routine.

Reflection questions - chemicals  
Care staff:  
- Do you know which chemicals you use and how they should be handled safely?  
- Do you have access to protective equipment and safety data sheets?  

Manager, nurse, occupational therapist, and physiotherapist:  
- Do you have updated lists and risk assessments for all chemicals?  
- Is chemical handling included in the introduction of new staff?  

Residents and relatives:  
- Have you noticed if there are chemicals in common areas or in residents' rooms?  
- Do you know what you should do if you suspect that a resident has come into contact with cleaning agents?

Erland Olsson
Specialist nurse
Sofrosyne - Better care every day