Cal/OSHA §1513 Housekeeping Compliance Checklist for Colleges and Universities

In the bustling world of colleges and universities, where students dash between lectures and labs overflow with experiments, poor housekeeping isn't just messy—it's a Cal/OSHA §1513 violation waiting to happen. This standard demands that workplaces stay clean, orderly, and safe to prevent slips, trips, and those "oops" moments that send folks to the ER. I've walked countless campuses, spotting hazards from cluttered hallways to overflowing trash in dining halls, and trust me: nailing §1513 compliance boosts safety and slashes liability.

Why §1513 Matters on Campus

Cal/OSHA Title 8 §1513 requires housekeeping that ensures employee (and student) safety. For higher ed, this covers labs, classrooms, offices, maintenance shops, and even outdoor areas. Non-compliance? Fines up to $25,000 per violation, plus potential lawsuits if someone slips on spilled coffee in the quad. We prioritize practical steps here—no fluff, just actionable items drawn from real audits.

Your Step-by-Step §1513 Housekeeping Compliance Checklist

Use this checklist weekly. Assign custodians, faculty, and safety teams to verify. Document everything—photos, sign-offs—for your defense file.

1. Clear Aisles and Passageways (§1513(a)(2))
   • Sweep hallways, corridors, and emergency exits free of boxes, cords, and stray backpacks daily.
   • Mark minimum 28-inch wide aisles in high-traffic areas like libraries; enforce with signage.
   • In labs and shops, ensure 3-foot clearance around equipment—I've seen forklift paths blocked by lab stools, nearly causing collisions.
2. Proper Material Storage (§1513(a)(3))
   • Stack materials stable and secure; no higher than 4x base width without racks.
   • In storerooms and warehouses, segregate flammables from combustibles per §5144.
   • Audit dorm storage closets quarterly—overflowing with bikes and furniture invites topples.
3. Floor Maintenance (§1513(a)(4))
   • Keep floors clean, dry, and free of protrusions; mop spills immediately in cafeterias and restrooms.
   • Install non-slip mats in wet areas like shower rooms; test per ANSI A137.1.
   • Address uneven pavement on quads—trip hazards galore during rush hour.
4. Waste Disposal (§1513(a)(5))
   • Empty bins before overflow; separate recyclables, hazwaste per §5192.
   • In bio labs, use biohazard bins and dispose via certified haulers.
   • Fun fact: Campus events leave confetti chaos—train student groups on cleanup protocols.
5. Working Surfaces (§1513(a)(6))
   • Wipe benches, desks, and counters free of debris; use appropriate cleaners.
   • In art studios, ventilate paint fumes while sweeping—dual compliance win.
   • Inspect scaffolds and platforms monthly for clutter.
6. General Cleanliness (§1513(a)(1))
   • Daily inspections: light fixtures dust-free, vents clear, ceilings leak-free.
   • Pest control quarterly—rodents love unkempt pantries.
   • Train staff via Cal/OSHA-approved modules; track in your safety management system.
7. Outdoor Areas (§1513(b))
   • Clear walkways of snow/ice within 24 hours; salt per SDS.
   • Trim landscaping to prevent low branches snagging pedestrians.
   • Secure construction debris from campus renos immediately.

Implementation Pro Tips

Integrate this into your Job Hazard Analysis (JHA) process. We recommend digital checklists via apps for real-time audits—snap a pic, note fixes, done. Conduct mock inspections with your safety committee; reference Cal/OSHA's full §1513 text at dir.ca.gov. Results vary by campus size, but consistent use drops incidents 20-30% based on industry data from NSC reports. Stay vigilant—your students (and insurers) will thank you.

Questions on tailoring this? Dive into Cal/OSHA's consultation services for free on-site help.