USM
BLEACH INSTRUCTIONS
DOCUMENT No. TMI-8303-SA-0047
1.0
PURPOSE
USM’s goal is to not use bleach. If bleach absolutely must be used per customer requirements, it
must be specifically authorized by the supervisor for that specific task, and that specific worker(s).
Bleach is only potentially to be used (per customer requirement) to bleach stained floor tiles due to
fixture moves. Bleach is not to be used for any other type work. Whenever possible, work
alternatives should be used.
2.0
SCOPE
N/A
3.0
DEFINITIONS
N/A
4.0
PROCEDURE
The practice of bleaching floor tiles is meant to be utilized for the removal of rust or similar staining
due to relocation of shelving units, end caps or other previously fixed furnishings. It is meant as a
procedure for use in small areas not to exceed 100-150 square feet of floor area at any one time. If
bleaching of the floor tiles absolutely must be done, the following procedure MUST be followed:
 Supervisor must plan, authorize, and supervise the bleaching work, and must ensure that the
assigned worker(s) have been trained and authorized to perform this type work.
 The wet work cleaning crew must wear all required Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) for
the bleaching of floor tiles. Rubber chemical resistant gloves and splash goggles must be
worn when using/handling chemicals. Slip resistant boots must be worn when performing “wet
work.” Do not walk through bleach on the floor – in addition to slip hazard, bleach tracked onto
carpet will stain/damage.
 The wet work cleaning crew shall be compliant with all laws and regulations regarding the
bleaching of floor tiles.
 The wet work cleaning crew shall work with the store manager to provide adequate ventilation
in the building to prevent the buildup of fumes and/or odors.
CONTROLLED COPY NO.:
Issue Date:
Issued By:
[Uncontrolled unless numbered and dated (in red)]
Approved by:
Name: Bruce Thornton
Position: Vice President HSE
Checked by:
Name/Position:
© USM 2010
This document is the property of USM (TIN 23 2522463). This document must not be copied or reproduced in any way whatsoever, and
must not be passed on to any third party without the written authority from USM.
Date: March, 2010
Revision: 0
Page 1 of 2
USM
BLEACH INSTRUCTIONS
DOCUMENT No. TMI-8303-SA-0047
 Set up barricades or warnings around wet work area to ensure that no one walks through this
area. If barricades or wet floor signs must be set close to aisle ways or doors ensure that they
give adequate warning.
To bleach the floor tiles the following steps should be utilized:
1. The area to be bleached should be stripped of existing finish. Care should be taken if the floor
has been determined to be asbestos-containing. The Store Manager should have this
information.
2. Stripping operation should be repeated a second time if needed to remove all old floor wax.
3. On the stained tiles lay down a layer of white cotton towels, (under no circumstances should
paper towels be used) then pour bleach over cotton towels until saturated. Let damp towels
sit for a minimum of one (1) hour and then pick up towels and repeat the process if needed.
Use a 5 gallon bucket or similar to transport soaked towels to sink area when done.
4. Be especially cautious of transporting bleach, bleach mixtures, or bleach soaked towels as
bleach will stain/damage carpets, clothes, etc.
5. Towels should be thoroughly rinsed and floor wet mopped with clean soapy water.
6. For extremely stained tiles it is recommended to repeat the process the next day.
7. When the process of bleaching the floor is complete the cleaning crew must clean the floor
with plain water to dilute and wash away any excess bleach.
8. If satisfactory results are achieved, recoat with appropriate floor finish.
Under NO CIRCUMSTANCES shall this process create waste material that will be stored at the
customer workplace or placed into the waste dumpster or compactor. NO PAPER TOWELS!
5.0
REFERENCE DOCUMENTATION
NA
Revision No: 0
© USM 2010
This document is the property of USM (TIN 23 2522463). This document must not be copied or
reproduced in any way whatsoever, and must not be passed on to any third party without the
written authority from USM.
Date: March, 2010
Page 2 of 2