Commercial Laundry Safety Inspection Guide

Do you know what is involved in a comprehensive commercial laundry inspection? In this guide, we will cover all aspects of a typical commercial laundry safety inspection, ensuring your commercial laundry is safe and compliant with regulations. 

A typical laundry safety inspection involves checking machinery, electrical systems, vents, water supplies, and the work environment for hazards, ensuring that proper safety procedures and training are followed, and verifying that PPE and first-aid provisions are adequate. 

Regular inspections, typically conducted monthly for visual checks and quarterly for thorough ones, are crucial to prevent accidents such as electrical shocks, fires, water damage, and injuries from machinery or improper lifting. 

Why Safety Inspections Matter

Commercial laundry equipment works under high pressure, heat and continuous use. 

Without regular inspections, minor issues can turn into significant hazards, leading to:

•    Equipment breakdowns and costly repairs.
•    Workplace accidents and staff injuries.
•    Reduced efficiency and higher energy costs.
•    Non-compliance with UK health and safety regulations.

Equipment & Machinery

General Inspection: Look for any worn parts or damage to the exterior of the machinery.

Dryer Lint: Check and clean lint traps regularly to prevent fire hazards and ensure proper ventilation. You can read our guide on Cleaning A Commercial Tumble Dryer’s Duct here.

Hoses: Inspect washing machine hoses for cracks or leaks and replace them with stainless steel braided hoses if necessary.

Vents: Ensure dryer ducts are hard-piped or made out of appropriate aluminium, and that they are not blocked or depositing lint near high-risk areas.

Pipes: Secure the commercial washing machine’s discharge pipe to prevent leaks.

Electrical Safety

GFCI Protection: Verify that all electrical outlets, especially those near water sources, are Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter (GFCI) protected.

Wiring: Ensure no extension cords are used, and that all wiring is kept off the ground to prevent shocks and fires from water ingress. 

Certification: Ensure the electrical wiring is certified by a qualified electrician.

Workspace & Environment

Work Area: Keep access and walkways clear of obstructions.

Layout: Ensure the workstation layout minimises the risks of collisions, overcrowding, and excessive movements, such as stretching or twisting.

Cleaning: Regularly clean surfaces to remove dust buildup.

Fire Safety: Verify that the fire detection and protection devices are clean and functioning correctly. 

For more information on commercial laundry workspaces and environments, read our guide on What’s Important When Designing A Commercial Laundry Room here. 

Water & Plumbing

Water Supply: Check both hot and cold-water flow.

Leak Checks: Run the water to check for any leaks.

Overflow Pans: If the laundry room is not on the first floor, check for an overflow pan that is piped to a floor drain to prevent water damage from leaks.

Safety Procedures & Personnel

Training: Ensure all staff are adequately trained on the safe operation of all equipment.

Faulty Equipment: Establish a straightforward procedure for reporting faulty equipment and removing it from service until it is repaired or replaced.

Chemical Safety: Ensure no chemicals are mixed or mishandled, as this can cause chemical burns or produce hazardous gases. 

Emergency Procedures: Have clear, visible instructions and emergency contact information readily available. 

How Often Should Inspections Be Carried Out?

•    Daily: Visual checks of lint traps, hoses, and machine controls.
•    Weekly: Deeper cleaning, ventilation checks, and fire safety inspections.
•    Quarterly or Annually: Full professional service from a qualified laundry equipment engineer.

Working with an experienced UK commercial laundry equipment supplier, such as GA Commercial, ensures that your machines are maintained to the highest safety standards. We provide inspections, servicing, and advice tailored to your business needs, helping you stay compliant and efficient.