Cleaner Position at the Department of Health | Government vacancies - Job Description
Cleaner Position at the Department of Health
Table of Contents
Introduction
Overview of the Department of Health
Job Description of the Cleaner Role
Requirements and Qualifications
Key Duties and Responsibilities
Skills and Competencies
Work Environment and Challenges
Importance of Cleaning in Health Facilities
Health and Safety Standards
Career Growth and Opportunities
Benefits and Compensation
Application Process and Guidelines
Tips for a Successful Application
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Conclusion
1. Introduction
The role of a cleaner within healthcare settings, such as the Department of Health, is indispensable for maintaining the hygiene, safety, and overall health standards of medical facilities. This article provides an in-depth examination of the cleaner position at the WITS Oral Health Centre, covering all aspects of the job, including qualifications, duties, and the application process.
2. Overview of the Department of Health
The Department of Health is a key governmental body responsible for ensuring the health and well-being of the nation through effective policies, high-quality healthcare services, and maintaining strict hygiene standards. The department operates various health facilities and works towards creating a safe and sanitary environment for both patients and healthcare professionals. Maintaining cleanliness in these facilities is crucial to prevent infections, ensure patient safety, and support medical services.
3. Job Description of the Cleaner Role
The Cleaner role at the Department of Health is a vital support position focused on maintaining cleanliness and hygiene standards. The position is classified as a Salary Level 2 role, with an annual package of R125,373, inclusive of benefits. The cleaner will work under the Cleaning Department within the WITS Oral Health Centre and report to the designated supervisor, such as Matron T. Mquqo.
4. Requirements and Qualifications
Minimum Educational Requirement:
Grade 12 Certificate (equivalent to a high school diploma).
Experience:
At least 2 years of working experience as a cleaner, preferably in a healthcare environment or similar facility.
Skills and Attributes:
Communication Skills:
Proficient in both verbal and written communication.
Ability to interact professionally with colleagues and patients.
Interpersonal Skills:
Ability to work well within a team.
Good interpersonal skills to foster a positive working environment.
Productivity:
Ability to complete tasks efficiently and within designated timeframes.
Knowledge Requirements:
Understanding of the Occupational Health and Safety (OHS) regulations.
Familiarity with Infection Control and Waste Management procedures.
Physical Capability:
The ability to perform physically demanding tasks, such as lifting, mopping, and standing for long periods.
Other Competencies:
Ability to read and write basic instructions.
Ability to work under pressure and adapt to a fast-paced environment.
5. Key Duties and Responsibilities
As a cleaner in a healthcare facility, your duties will be varied and essential to the operation of the institution. Key responsibilities include:
Cleaning Designated Areas:
Regular cleaning of windows, walls, basins, sinks, lockers, kitchens, and bathrooms.
Floor Maintenance:
Sweeping, mopping, and polishing all types of floors.
Ensuring that floors are free of dirt, spills, and hazards.
Dusting Surfaces:
Damp and dry dusting of furniture, equipment, and other surfaces to minimize dust buildup.
Waste Management:
Emptying dustbins in all designated areas.
Removing and storing waste in appropriate waste disposal sites.
Hygiene Standards:
Regularly assessing toilet cleaning checklists and replenishing supplies such as toilet paper, hand soap, and towels.
Maintenance of Cleaning Equipment:
Ensuring cleaning equipment is properly cleaned and maintained.
Reporting any mechanical or electrical malfunctions of cleaning machines.
Compliance and Safety:
Opening windows daily to promote air circulation and maintain infection control standards.
Reporting any safety hazards or risks to the supervisor.
Routine Maintenance Services:
Assisting in basic maintenance tasks and ensuring that the facility remains in a clean and operable state.
6. Skills and Competencies
To excel in the cleaner role, you must possess a variety of skills and competencies, including:
Attention to Detail:
Ensuring that no spots or areas are missed during cleaning tasks.
Time Management:
Completing cleaning duties within assigned timeframes while maintaining quality standards.
Teamwork:
Collaborating effectively with other cleaning staff and healthcare professionals.
Adaptability:
Adjusting to different cleaning requirements and working under pressure.
Knowledge of Cleaning Products:
Understanding which cleaning products are appropriate for different surfaces and tasks.
7. Work Environment and Challenges
Work Environment:
Healthcare Setting:
Cleaners will work in various sections of the WITS Oral Health Centre, including patient rooms, offices, kitchens, and public spaces.
Shift Work:
The role may require working different shifts, including early mornings, evenings, weekends, and holidays.
Challenges:
Infection Control Risks:
Constant exposure to bacteria and viruses requires strict adherence to hygiene protocols.
Physical Demand:
Performing physically strenuous tasks for extended periods.
Pressure Situations:
Maintaining cleanliness during peak hours or emergencies can be challenging.
8. Importance of Cleaning in Health Facilities
Why Cleanliness Matters:
Infection Prevention:
Proper cleaning reduces the spread of hospital-acquired infections (HAIs).
Patient Safety:
A clean environment promotes healing and minimizes risks to patients.
Compliance with Regulations:
Healthcare facilities must meet strict hygiene standards set by health authorities.
Public Perception:
Clean facilities build trust and confidence among patients and visitors.
9. Health and Safety Standards
Occupational Health and Safety (OHS):
Ensuring that all cleaning tasks are performed safely and in line with OHS regulations.
Infection Control:
Following guidelines to minimize the risk of cross-contamination.
Waste Management:
Properly disposing of medical and general waste according to established protocols.
10. Career Growth and Opportunities
Potential Career Paths:
Senior Cleaner or Supervisor:
Promotion to supervisory roles based on experience and performance.
Specialized Cleaning Roles:
Opportunities to specialize in infection control or hazardous waste management.
Further Education:
Pursuing courses in environmental hygiene or facility management.
11. Benefits and Compensation
Salary Package:
R125,373 per annum (Level 2), plus additional benefits.
Additional Benefits:
Medical Aid and Pension Fund Contributions.
Paid Leave:
Including sick leave, annual leave, and family responsibility leave.
Job Security:
Stable employment within the public sector.
12. Application Process and Guidelines
Steps to Apply:
Online Application Portal:
Submit applications through http://professionaljobcenter.gpg.gov.za.
Required Documents:
Completed and signed Z83 Application Form.
Updated Curriculum Vitae (CV).
The cleaner role within the Department of Health is crucial to maintaining hygiene and ensuring a safe healthcare environment. By fulfilling these duties diligently, cleaners play an essential part in supporting public health services.
Table of Contents
Introduction
Overview of the Department of Health
Job Description of the Cleaner Role
Requirements and Qualifications
Key Duties and Responsibilities
Skills and Competencies
Work Environment and Challenges
Importance of Cleaning in Health Facilities
Health and Safety Standards
Career Growth and Opportunities
Benefits and Compensation
Application Process and Guidelines
Tips for a Successful Application
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Conclusion
1. Introduction
The role of a cleaner within healthcare settings, such as the Department of Health, is indispensable for maintaining the hygiene, safety, and overall health standards of medical facilities. This article provides an in-depth examination of the cleaner position at the WITS Oral Health Centre, covering all aspects of the job, including qualifications, duties, and the application process.
2. Overview of the Department of Health
The Department of Health is a key governmental body responsible for ensuring the health and well-being of the nation through effective policies, high-quality healthcare services, and maintaining strict hygiene standards. The department operates various health facilities and works towards creating a safe and sanitary environment for both patients and healthcare professionals. Maintaining cleanliness in these facilities is crucial to prevent infections, ensure patient safety, and support medical services.
3. Job Description of the Cleaner Role
The Cleaner role at the Department of Health is a vital support position focused on maintaining cleanliness and hygiene standards. The position is classified as a Salary Level 2 role, with an annual package of R125,373, inclusive of benefits. The cleaner will work under the Cleaning Department within the WITS Oral Health Centre and report to the designated supervisor, such as Matron T. Mquqo.
4. Requirements and Qualifications
Minimum Educational Requirement:
Grade 12 Certificate (equivalent to a high school diploma).
Experience:
At least 2 years of working experience as a cleaner, preferably in a healthcare environment or similar facility.
Skills and Attributes:
Communication Skills:
Proficient in both verbal and written communication.
Ability to interact professionally with colleagues and patients.
Interpersonal Skills:
Ability to work well within a team.
Good interpersonal skills to foster a positive working environment.
Productivity:
Ability to complete tasks efficiently and within designated timeframes.
Knowledge Requirements:
Understanding of the Occupational Health and Safety (OHS) regulations.
Familiarity with Infection Control and Waste Management procedures.
Physical Capability:
The ability to perform physically demanding tasks, such as lifting, mopping, and standing for long periods.
Other Competencies:
Ability to read and write basic instructions.
Ability to work under pressure and adapt to a fast-paced environment.
5. Key Duties and Responsibilities
As a cleaner in a healthcare facility, your duties will be varied and essential to the operation of the institution. Key responsibilities include:
Cleaning Designated Areas:
Regular cleaning of windows, walls, basins, sinks, lockers, kitchens, and bathrooms.
Floor Maintenance:
Sweeping, mopping, and polishing all types of floors.
Ensuring that floors are free of dirt, spills, and hazards.
Dusting Surfaces:
Damp and dry dusting of furniture, equipment, and other surfaces to minimize dust buildup.
Waste Management:
Emptying dustbins in all designated areas.
Removing and storing waste in appropriate waste disposal sites.
Hygiene Standards:
Regularly assessing toilet cleaning checklists and replenishing supplies such as toilet paper, hand soap, and towels.
Maintenance of Cleaning Equipment:
Ensuring cleaning equipment is properly cleaned and maintained.
Reporting any mechanical or electrical malfunctions of cleaning machines.
Compliance and Safety:
Opening windows daily to promote air circulation and maintain infection control standards.
Reporting any safety hazards or risks to the supervisor.
Routine Maintenance Services:
Assisting in basic maintenance tasks and ensuring that the facility remains in a clean and operable state.
6. Skills and Competencies
To excel in the cleaner role, you must possess a variety of skills and competencies, including:
Attention to Detail:
Ensuring that no spots or areas are missed during cleaning tasks.
Time Management:
Completing cleaning duties within assigned timeframes while maintaining quality standards.
Teamwork:
Collaborating effectively with other cleaning staff and healthcare professionals.
Adaptability:
Adjusting to different cleaning requirements and working under pressure.
Knowledge of Cleaning Products:
Understanding which cleaning products are appropriate for different surfaces and tasks.
7. Work Environment and Challenges
Work Environment:
Healthcare Setting:
Cleaners will work in various sections of the WITS Oral Health Centre, including patient rooms, offices, kitchens, and public spaces.
Shift Work:
The role may require working different shifts, including early mornings, evenings, weekends, and holidays.
Challenges:
Infection Control Risks:
Constant exposure to bacteria and viruses requires strict adherence to hygiene protocols.
Physical Demand:
Performing physically strenuous tasks for extended periods.
Pressure Situations:
Maintaining cleanliness during peak hours or emergencies can be challenging.
8. Importance of Cleaning in Health Facilities
Why Cleanliness Matters:
Infection Prevention:
Proper cleaning reduces the spread of hospital-acquired infections (HAIs).
Patient Safety:
A clean environment promotes healing and minimizes risks to patients.
Compliance with Regulations:
Healthcare facilities must meet strict hygiene standards set by health authorities.
Public Perception:
Clean facilities build trust and confidence among patients and visitors.
9. Health and Safety Standards
Occupational Health and Safety (OHS):
Ensuring that all cleaning tasks are performed safely and in line with OHS regulations.
Infection Control:
Following guidelines to minimize the risk of cross-contamination.
Waste Management:
Properly disposing of medical and general waste according to established protocols.
10. Career Growth and Opportunities
Potential Career Paths:
Senior Cleaner or Supervisor:
Promotion to supervisory roles based on experience and performance.
Specialized Cleaning Roles:
Opportunities to specialize in infection control or hazardous waste management.
Further Education:
Pursuing courses in environmental hygiene or facility management.
11. Benefits and Compensation
Salary Package:
R125,373 per annum (Level 2), plus additional benefits.
Additional Benefits:
Medical Aid and Pension Fund Contributions.
Paid Leave:
Including sick leave, annual leave, and family responsibility leave.
Job Security:
Stable employment within the public sector.
12. Application Process and Guidelines
Steps to Apply:
Online Application Portal:
Submit applications through http://professionaljobcenter.gpg.gov.za.
Required Documents:
Completed and signed Z83 Application Form.
Updated Curriculum Vitae (CV).
The cleaner role within the Department of Health is crucial to maintaining hygiene and ensuring a safe healthcare environment. By fulfilling these duties diligently, cleaners play an essential part in supporting public health services.
