What is a Sweeping Compound?

A sweeping compound is a sticky substance that comes in a powder form and allows cleaners to sweep up fine dust particles that are on the ground. As a cleaner sweeps with a broom, many dust particles are picked up during the process. However, there are also many particles that are left behind, allowing the particles to be freely released into the air. Sweeping compounds are able to latch onto these fine dust particles and be swept up.

Types of Sweeping Compounds

There are two main types of sweeping compounds, each with its own set of preferable usages.

Water-soluble sweeping compounds– are great for floors that have fine finishes, such as vinyl and marble.
Oil-based sweeping compounds – which are available with sanded and un-sanded variants, are great for floors that are not susceptible to staining, such as metal or concrete.

How to Use Sweeping Compounds

Using a sweeping compound is simple. When it is time to clean an area, the compound simply needs to be scattered over the area. Designed in green and red shades, a cleaner will be able to easily differentiate the compound from the floor, allowing them to see areas that have been and have not been swept. Once the sweeping compound has collected a considerable amount of dust and dirt, it will begin to become darker in its color. The compound can be continually applied onto the floor until the area is clean and free of dirt and debris. 

Range of Uses

Sweeping compounds can be used anywhere that dust is produced. The construction, manufacturing, and agricultural industries will see the best usage of sweeping compounds, as these environments typically carry a lot of dust. Any industry that is subject to the OSHA dust collector regulations will also benefit greatly from incorporating sweeping compounds into their cleaning practices. 