Cleaning for Health
In these times of heightened awareness about environmental toxins and the effects of indoor air quality on the health of workers, many business owners are becoming more concerned about healthier working environments for their employees. The cleaning chemicals and methods used to clean effect air quality significantly, and so does the time spent cleaning. Unfortunately, because of the time limits involved in contracted cleaning, many cleaning personnel are expected to maintain a speed of cleaning that leaves them little choice but to omit tasks that are necessary to achieve a higher quality of cleaning and a more sanitary environment. They may be leaving a clean appearance, but just because a place looks clean doesn’t mean it is”clean”. Businesses who contract out their cleaning may want to take a closer look at the specific cleaning practices of these companies. Are they sacrificing quality and health for speed? Following are some of the areas a manager may want to look at:
1. Are the chemicals being used for cleaning and sanitizing environmentally safe and nontoxic to the user? Some people are sensitive to the fumes from chemical residues left on working surfaces. Overuse of cleaning products is common.
2. Are disinfectants being applied properly, in the right dilution, and allowed to sit long enough to kill germs on surfaces that need to be sanitized? If you are not a medical facility are disinfectants a wise choice considering how toxic they can be? There are other precautions workers can take to reduce the spread of germs and flu viruses.
3. What condition are the cleaning equipment and tools in? Do they do the job well? Are they clean?
4. Should clean paper towels or antibacterial wipes be used on some items and surfaces instead of rags to reduce the spread of germs and cross contamination?
5. Is the vacuum cleaner doing a good job? Is it clean? Does it adequately pick up dirt and debris. Is the filter system efficient? Does it have a HEPA filter? How often is the bag changed?
6. Are there areas and objects in the building that emit odors? Waste baskets, bathrooms, drains and kitchens are typical areas where the removal and sanitation of human waste and food particles need extra attention to prevent the spread of odor causing germs and bacteria. These should be priority areas to be cleaned and sanitized frequently.
7. Carpets need to be cleaned and dried thoroughly to prevent the growth of mold and allergy causing bacterial microbes. Allergic reactions to carpet cleaning solutions and protective coatings are not uncommon. You may want to look into more environmentally friendly products if your carpet cleaner is using more toxic chemicals.
8. What does the janitor/cleaning closet look like? Is it in good condition and the cart and equipment clean? Are the toilet cleaning tools stored in such a way that they do not come in contact with other tools?
9. Are the cleaning products well labeled? Is there an organized folder of MSDS forms on site for all the cleaning products used on the premises? Are the cleaning personnel familiar with the MSDS forms and first aid procedures?
10. Are the mops and buckets clean? Wet and dry mop heads should be replaced and/or disinfected regularly. Stainless steel mop buckets may be the more sanitary choice for medical facilities and surgical environments.
These are a few things to consider when determining whether the contracted cleaning crew are cleaning for health, or just going through the motions. If time limits are preventing the cleaners from doing a better job, perhaps it’s time for the client to take another look at the contract. Perhaps there are a few changes that can be made in the cleaning routine to eliminate less important tasks while including greater sanitation measures. If your present cleaning service is unwilling or unable to meet your expectations and accommodate you, it could be time to take a look at what it really costs to get a higher quality service.