ANNISTON ARMY DEPOT, Ala. -- Maybe you've heard the phrase: "Your mother isn't here, so clean up after yourself!"

Signs with that phrase are often posted in common areas to remind employees not to leave a mess for others to deal with.

Reminding employees to practice proper housekeeping isn't just about being considerate of others, it's also a safety issue.

Did you know good housekeeping promotes a safe workplace?

Housekeeping is more than just cleaning floors and surfaces; it's an essential part of our safety culture.

Proper housekeeping is key to preventing injuries and accidents.

Housekeeping can also improve morale and productivity, and can help us make a good first impression with our visitors.

The Occupational Safety and Health Administration regulates housekeeping requirements for general industry.

Here at ANAD, our local Safety and Occupational Health Regulation, ANADR 385-1, requires supervisors and employees to maintain clean and orderly workplaces.

These shared housekeeping responsibilities apply to both offices and industrial work areas.

Remember, housekeeping is everyone's responsibility.

Proper housekeeping is a powerful and essential part of our safety program.

This is your home five days of the week. Help keep it clean. Do your part -- pick up and clean up.

For additional information on safety topics in your work area, speak with your supervisor, lead person, safety monitor or contact the Safety Office at Ext. 7541.

Follow these 5 tips for effective workplace housekeeping

1. Prevent slips, trips and falls

• Keep cords or trip hazards out of aisles or walkways.

• Make sure entry ways are dry and free of ice, water and grease.

• Close drawers and cabinet doors promptly.

• Repair or report any hazards such as loose tile or carpeting, loose stairs and holes in the floor.

2. Eliminate fire hazards

• Never leave trash, garbage, or debris haphazardly around your work area.

• Keep combustible materials in the work area only in amounts needed for the job.

• Inspect flammable locker contents to evaluate if materials are no longer needed. Materials no longer needed can be either recycled or disposed.

• Keep materials at least 18 inches away from automatic sprinklers, fire extinguishers and sprinkler controls.

3. Prevent falling objects

• Place heavy objects on lower shelves, and keep equipment away from the edges of desks and tables.

• Keep storage areas clean and organized.

4. Clear clutter

• Dispose of any unusable parts or material that may accumulate in you work area.

• Do not keep tools and equipment around if you do not need them.

• Return unnecessary tools to the tool crib and materials to central storage areas.

5. Control Dust

• Surfaces must be cleaned in a manner that minimizes the generation of dust clouds.

• Vacuuming is the preferred method of cleaning.