Workplace Safety Tips for Foreign Domestic Helpers (Part 1)

A healthy body is the most valuable asset. In Hong Kong, the law requires employers to cover their foreign domestic helper’s medical expenses. Which means if your foreign domestic helper gets injured while working, it could also affect your financial situation. Basic employee compensation insurance often excludes Clinical/Medical Expenses, which are among the most common claims. Many employers opt for comprehensive insurance plans with broader coverage. However, insurance alone isn’t enough and providing a safe working environment is also important.

Tips to Improve Safety and Health for Helpers at Home

1. Understand the Workplace

Employers are responsible for ensuring their helper’s safety and should assist them in understanding the work environment. This includes such as fire escape routes, entry and exit paths, proper use of tools like ladders and electrical appliances etc. If your helper has questions, you should explain or demonstrate for them.

2. High-Risk Tasks

Window Cleaning

Window-cleaning accidents have always led to fatal falls. To address this, the government has issued safety guidelines:

a)      For cleaning the outer surface of windows above ground level, the window must have fixed window grilles locked in place.

b)      Helpers may only extend their arms outside; no other body parts should go beyond the window.

Helpers have the right to refuse tasks that do not meet these safety requirements.

Working at Heights

When climbing to perform tasks such as retrieving items, cleaning air-conditioners, or changing light bulbs, always check that ladders or stools are intact and stable before use, maintain three points of contact (e.g., two hands and one foot) on the ladder and avoid overreaching or should move the ladder instead.

Using Electrical Appliances

Helpers frequently use electrical appliances such as vacuum cleaners, microwaves, and irons as part of their daily tasks. To ensure safety, employer should advise the helper to stop using any appliance immediately if it appears faulty or damaged. It is essential to regularly inspect appliance cords for signs of wear, knots, or damage, and to use the nearest power socket to avoid stretching cords across walkways, which can pose a tripping hazard. When unplugging appliances, helpers must ensure their hands are dry and avoid pulling the cord directly, as this can cause damage or lead to electrical shocks. Additionally, any installation, repair, or maintenance of appliances should always be carried out by qualified technicians to ensure proper handling and safety compliance.

Handling Chemicals

Many cleaning products contain chemicals that can be hazardous if misuse. For instance, drain cleaners are typically highly acidic or alkaline and can cause severe burns or release toxic fumes when reacting with debris. To ensure safety, helpers should always use the recommended amount to avoid excessive chemical reactions. It is crucial to read product labels carefully for warnings and adhere strictly to the usage instructions provided by manufacturers. Mixing different cleaning products should be avoided, as this can lead to dangerous chemical reactions. Chemicals should be stored securely, with lids tightly sealed and kept away from heat sources to minimize risks. When using these substances, it is important to work in well-ventilated areas to prevent inhaling harmful fumes and to wear protective gear such as gloves, aprons, or goggles for added safety.

Insurance as a Safety Net

Despite precautions, accidents can still happen. A comprehensive domestic helper insurance plan ensures that helpers receive timely medical care and protects employers financially. In the next part, we’ll discuss how to create a safer workplace and adopt proper working postures. Stay tuned!

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The information provided in this article is for general reference only and should not be considered as any form of advice. Our company assumes no responsibility for its use