Category: Safety & quality
Prepared by Eng. Ahmed Fathy, Projects Manager ·
Definition
Site housekeeping is the daily practice of clearing waste, stacking materials and tools, and keeping walkways and emergency exits clear, with set areas for storage and waste.
Why it matters on a project
Most trips, falls and cuts come from poor housekeeping. A tidy site works faster, is easier to inspect and gives the owner a good impression.
Measurement and pricing
Within indirect costs: cleaning labour, skips by trip, and waste removal.
Common mistake
Leaving cleaning to the end of the project, so waste piles up, hides defects and causes accidents.
Frequently asked questions
Who is responsible for site housekeeping?
The main contractor, sharing it with subcontractors under daily checks by the safety officer.
Is housekeeping in the price?
Yes, within indirect costs; leaving it out cuts the margin.
Related terms
- Toolbox talkA short pre-work briefing on the day's task hazards.
- Near missAn event that nearly caused injury or damage, reported and analysed to prevent recurrence.
- Risk assessmentIdentifying hazards in each activity, estimating likelihood and severity and setting controls before work starts.
- PreliminariesItems at the start of the BOQ covering general site requirements.
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