African Cleaning Review SeptOct '17 issue

PROMOTING PROFESSIONAL HYGIENE AND CLEANING

September/October 2017 | R55.00 (incl. VAT)

Pressure washer solutions Cleaning healthcare facilities SA – a rough diamond in PTC Secrets of strong FM partnerships

Getting you higher than ever! Cleaning up the industry!

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South Africa’s Leading Access Rental Company

contents SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2017 VOL 18 NO. 5 Cover story There is a growing trend to use electric scissor lifts in warehousing, as opposed to forklifts and stock pickers. Goscor Access Rental has a range of electric scissor lifts.

Working heights range from 7.8m to 22.5m.

With widths as narrow as 0.76m, and a 90° turning capability, they are highly manoeuvrable in even the most confined spaces between aisles. Lifting capacities range from 227kg to 500kg. With a large platform area, and the ability to drive from the platform at full height, stocktaking teams can work quickly across multiple levels of an aisle. Read more on page 36 of this issue.

Opinion

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Industry News

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The ups of escalator cleaning

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Bidvest completes purchase of Irish firm Diversey President and CEO named Calling all KZN entrepreneurs to join incubation programme Global FM giant sets standard with new glove system Joburg’s Executive Mayor calls on community to clean up city Diversey Care upgrades robotic cleaning machine

Educational

Cleaning grout lines effectively

Features

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Pressure washer solutions for a changing market Healthcare cleaning • Raising standards in healthcare by starting with the floor area • Advances in healthcare cleaning and disinfectant chemicals

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Advertorial

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Editorial

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Laundry Review

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Scrubber dryer ideal for hard surface floor conditions – GCE SCA proud participant in new hospital hygiene risk research

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Successful laundry workshop in Johannesburg SANS 10146 approved by technical committee SA – a rough diamond in professional textile care

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People and Events

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New Products

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8 secrets of the strongest FM partnerships Servest growing relationship with NMCH Property services firm director wins business achiever award

Latest crawler boom lift from France Hand hygiene programme compliance monitoring system Latest compact, lightweight, self-retracting lanyard 2018 Buyer’s Guide company listing form

@AfricanCleanRev Publishing Editor: Johann van Vuuren +27 (0) 11 238 7848 or +27 (0) 72 611 1959 Email: africancleaningreview@cleantex.co.za Advertising: +27 (0) 11 238 7848 or +27 (0) 72 611 1959 Email: africancleaningreview@cleantex.co.za Administration and Accounts: Nandé Jacobs Email: africancleaningreview@cleantex.co.za All editorial contributions can be sent to the editor who reserves the right to publish editorial based on the strength of its content. No articles or photographs may be reproduced, in whole or in part, without written permission from the publishers.

Although every effort is made to ensure the accuracy and reliability of material published in African Cleaning Review, e-squared publications and its agents can accept no responsibility for the veracity of the claims made by contributors, manufacturers or advertisers. Copyright of all material published in African Cleaning Review remains with e-squared publications and its agents.

Planned features for 2017 Nov/Dec issue: • Hospitality housekeeping • Paper products

Feature in ACR

FM Review

The third annual Nilfisk SA Spring Day golf day Seen at the annual NCCA Gauteng branch golf day

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African Cleaning Review is aimed at end users, contractors and suppliers of products and services to Africa’s Cleaning, Hygiene, Maintenance, Laundry, Pest Control and Facility Management Services industries. It is published every other month by: e-squared publications.

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37 African Cleaning Review September/October 2017

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from the editor

opinion

The ups of escalator cleaning

by Bob Abrams

If you have been to the Wheaton Station of the Washington, D.C. Metro

Boosting the relevance of cleaning and hygiene

system, you have likely seen something not found anywhere else in the Western Hemisphere. The station has the two longest escalators on this side of the Atlantic Ocean.

The global professional cleaning industry received a huge boost in media attention when two of its major shows namely ISSA/Interclean North America and CMS in Germany took place within days of one another during September.

The added attraction at CMS this year was the fact that the World Federation of Building Service Contractors (WFBSC) hosted their annual congress alongside the show, thereby offering expanded seminar content, highlighting the service provider perspective and gathering over 500 senior executives from around the world in Berlin.

Germany is regarded as Europe’s largest cleaning industry market with a reported €17 billion turnover. German cleaning machine manufacturers export 73 percent of their products. Additional interesting industry statistics released by Germany’s National Guild Association of the Building Cleaning Trade (BIV), Bonn revealed that approximately 643 000 people are employed in this sector by over 21 500 companies. Also noteworthy is that no other sector in Germany has more employees than the building cleaning profession; nationwide about 1 percent of the active workforce is employed in the facility-cleaning sector. This is certainly some very interesting food for thought and clearly boosts the economic relevance of the professional cleaning industry.

Another global promotional vehicle for cleaning and hygiene is the upcoming Global Handwashing Day scheduled for October 15. It is a global advocacy day dedicated to increasing awareness and understanding about the importance of handwashing. Every year Global Handwashing Day is celebrated around the world with events, campaigns and handwashing programmes.

Therefore this October 15th spread the important message and encourage handwashing with soap beyond this auspicious day.

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he pair measures 70 metres in length with a vertical rise of 35 metres. At first sight, some people are petrified to get on them, taking the elevators instead. However, should you decide to take this ride, expect it to take approximately three minutes to ascend or descend without walking.

Escalators are located in all types of buildings, from subway stations and hotels to office buildings, libraries, and stores. We may not think about escalators much in the professional cleaning industry, but building occupants do. You have probably heard that in most cases, the first thing people see upon entering a facility is the floor. Typically this is because they are looking down for safety. And very often, they make a judgement about the entire facility based on the floor’s condition.

The same goes for escalators. When you are using an escalator, you also look down for safety, and many people

continue to look down during the entire ride. If the escalator is soiled, dirty, or dusty, it can give building occupants a negative impression about the facility as well. So if escalators are important to the overall impression building users have of a location, how do we keep them clean?

Escalator cleaning challenges First, we should realise that there are certain challenges associated with cleaning escalators, including: • Invariably, escalators must be cleaned late at night after a facility is closed and be clean and operational when the facility reopens in the morning.

• Escalators are not flat. Some cleaners have tried to clean escalators by dust- or dampmopping as if it were a flat floor.

While this may work to remove a spill or some soiling, it will not be effective to thoroughly clean the escalator.

opinion • The steps on an escalator have grooves to help promote safety.

Unfortunately, these also collect soil and dust. Similar to the grout surrounding tile, soil and moisture can get lodged in the grooves, and the longer they stay there, in many cases, the harder they will be to remove.

• The grooves can vary in length, meaning each individual escalator may have its own unique cleaning challenges.

While these issues might make effective escalator cleaning a problem, we must remember that a solution exists.

Fortunately, there are ways to clean escalators that are fast, cost-effective, and require very little effort, which presents a lucrative opportunity for cleaning organisations.

The machine itself In the past escalators were cleaned by removing the steps, taking them off-site for pressure washing, waiting for them to dry, and then reinstalling the steps.

This was effective but time consuming, and costly as a result. Cleaning each individual step cleans some escalators.

This is not as effective, and it is a slow, time-consuming process as well.

Today, many cleaning professionals use what is often referred to as an automatic escalator cleaning system.

These are considered ‘hands-off’ cleaning systems because all that is necessary is to properly install the unit. From there, users of these types

Today, many cleaning professionals use what is often referred to as an automatic escalator cleaning system. These are considered ‘hands-off’ cleaning systems because all that is necessary is to properly install the unit. of cleaning machines typically do the following: • Start with the escalator off and install the cleaning system at the base of the escalator.

• Place a safety-warning cone at the base of the escalator.

• Lower the cleaning head onto the escalator and activate the escalator.

The steps should be moving away from the machine. If this is not the case, stop the escalator and reverse its direction.

• The system’s built-in vacuum collects dirt and debris on the steps, which is the first phase in the cleaning process.

• Brushes and pads loosen and remove soils embedded in the treads, which are then vacuumed up.

• There is no set time period to let the machine run; cleaning time depends on how soiled the escalator is and its overall length.

• The final phase is to lower the polishing pads and allow the machine to further remove soiling and complete the process.

Essentially these systems serve as an automatic scrubber for escalators –

except that they do not need an operator or water. Once the process is complete, some machines have a nozzle that can be attached to a vacuum hose for more detailed cleaning.

Cleaning professionals should make sure they are fully aware of how escalator-cleaning equipment is placed, operated, and maintained before starting the cleaning process.

However, with this knowledge in hand, the process is relatively easy, safe to perform, and typically only requires one worker to install and operate the equipment. Some of these machines are relatively inexpensive, and another benefit is that once installed, that cleaner can continue with other cleaning tasks as the machine works best on its own. All of these facts make escalator cleaning a potentially lucrative add-on service for cleaning professionals to consider.

Bob Abrams is a carpet care expert and product manager for Nilfisk commercial business, manufacturers of U.S. Productsbrand professional carpet extractors. For more information visit his company’s website at www.usproducts.com

African Cleaning Review September/October 2017

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industry news Bidvest completes purchase of Irish contract cleaning firm

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idvest acquired Noonan Services, the Dublin-based facilities management and contract cleaning company in a €175 million deal that was finalised on 1 September.

The company was bought from UK private equity firm Alchemy and the Irish company’s top eight directors

and managers, who owned 20 percent of the company. “Noonan Services had a number of bolt-on acquisitions in the wings when Bidvest agreed to buy the business at the end of July”, commented Bidvest Chief Executive Officer Lindsay Ralphs who also indicated that they plan to continue their acquisition drive into continental Europe.

Noonan Services, which was set up in 1977 to provide contract cleaning services to both the public and private sectors in Ireland, had seen its revenue treble to more than €300 million since its takeover by Alchemy in 2008, as it

expanded in Ireland and Britain. The group, which is also involved in security, technical and environmental services, employs more than 13 000 people.

The group, whose clients range from AIB to hospitals and sports stadiums, now generates 40 percent of its revenue in the UK. The management team, led by Chief Executive Officer John O’Donoghue, has agreed to remain with the business. “With the backing of such a strong new owner, and with a long-term time horizon, it gives fantastic backing for Noonan to pursue its growth plans,” commented O’Donoghue.

Diversey President and CEO named

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r Ilham Kadri has been appointed to serve as President and Chief Executive Officer of Diversey. Dr Kadri will be responsible for establishing Diversey as a standalone business and leading it to realise its full potential as a global leader in the hygiene and cleaning industry.

Diversey is becoming a standalone business that will encompass several businesses that Bain Capital Private Equity, a leading global private investment firm, has agreed to purchase from Sealed Air Corporation. Dr Kadri’s appointment will be effective upon the closing of the sale to Bain Capital Private Equity.

Diversey will include the Diversey Care division of Sealed Air as well as the food hygiene solution business that is part of its Food Care division. Diversey will integrate chemicals, floor care machines, tools and equipment, with a wide range of technology-based, value-added services, food-safety services and water and energy management.

Dr Kadri joined Sealed Air in 2013 as the President of the Diversey Care business. Under her leadership, the Diversey Care division has achieved

a track record of consistent global growth through a deep customercentric commitment and cutting edge innovation.

“We are looking forward to partnering with Ilham, and welcoming her to the Bain Capital family,” said Ken Hanau, Managing Director at Bain Capital Private Equity. “She has established a track record of leading change and delivering results in a global environment, and we believe Diversey has a bright future with her at its helm.”

“I am excited by the opportunity that lies ahead to build Diversey into a customer-centric global leader in the hygiene and cleaning industry, and to fully engage our employees on this journey,” stated Dr Kadri.

“As a standalone company, we will have additional resources focused on innovative digital solutions and gamechanging approaches like the Internet of Clean™.”

Throughout her career, Dr Kadri has held a variety of global roles in business leadership, sales, marketing and research & development in public and private companies including Shell-LyondellBasell, Cytec, Huntsman, and Rohm Haas-Dow.

Dr Ilham Kadri Beyond her professional responsibilities, she is a committed advocate for diversity and inclusion. She is the founder and Chairwoman of The ISSA Hygieia Network™ and currently serves as an advisory board member of Catalyst. She has won multiple awards for her business achievements, her commitment to fighting female illiteracy and supporting women in business.

Dr Kadri is a chemical engineer, has a master’s degree in physics and chemistry, and holds a doctorate in polymer reactive extrusion.

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industry news Calling all KZN entrepreneurs!

Apply now to join award-winning Property Point incubation programme

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roperty Point, a Growthpoint Properties initiative, is transforming the South African economy and society by building sustainable small businesses working in the property industry. This year, for the first time, it has opened its application process to entrepreneurs in the KwaZulu-Natal province.

Property Point is an enterprise initiative founded by Growthpoint Properties, the leading international property company listed on the JSE. Property Point has been a catalyst for transformation within the South African property industry since it was founded in 2008. To date, it has created 1 669 jobs and R453 million in procurement

opportunities generated for the 124 SMEs that have participated in its two-year incubation programmes.

These small businesses have reported 61 percent growth in revenue, which is significantly above the national average.

Now, it is taking its positive impacts to KwaZulu-Natal and looking for gogetters with entrepreneurial drive and a hunger for business success that are a good fit for the programme.

As part of its latest intake, Property Point is seeking motivated individuals running SMEs working in the property industry, that specialise in areas such as electrical work, cleaning and hygiene services, plumbing, landscaping, pest control, air-conditioning, fire-protection services, security, waterproofing and damp proofing, waste management, renovations and painting.

Shawn Theunissen, head of Property Point and head of Corporate Social Responsibility for Growthpoint Properties, says: “We want to continue to transform South Africa by building sustainable small businesses. Property Point is passionate about helping entrepreneurs succeed.�

To be considered, entrepreneurs need to be based in or around Durban. Their businesses should be at least 51 percent black-owned, have operated for no less than two consecutive years and offer services in the property industry. They must have a track record of projects completed and be able to provide a minimum of five references.

Application forms are available from www.propertypoint.org.za or business details can be emailed to info@propertypoint.org.za

African Cleaning Review September/October 2017

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industry news Global FM giant sets standard with new glove system

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nternational facilities management services provider OCS Group, employing thousands of cleaning personnel around the world across a range of sectors including healthcare, education, sport and leisure, business, industry and government, has worked with hand-protection specialist, Globus to help develop the I-CON™ glove system.

Created by Globus, I-CON™ is a new nitrile chemical resistant ‘smart’ glove system, which protects cleaning professionals against chemical hazards whilst reflecting the highly recognised British Institute of Cleaning Science (BICSc) approved and adopted colourcoded system for infection control.

Having trialed the gloves across selected company test sites, OCS Group is enhancing worker safety by rolling out the new I-CON™ range to all of its personnel across the UK, with the previously used vinyl gloves now being fully replaced by the new Globus range, manufactured exclusively from a robust high-grade nitrile.

“Such has been the positive impact of the I-CON™ range, it is now part of our service delivery model for the whole company and is part of our standard operating procedure for staff,”

said Yvonne Taylor, Head of Cleaning for OCS Group.

“Importantly the new I-CON™ range provided a wealth of worker and management benefits, not just from a chemical resistant and comfort perspective, but also from the fact that the range reflected the colourcoding approach in line with the British Institute of Cleaning Science (BICSc) which we use, namely: • Red for sanitary appliances and washroom areas • Blue for general areas excluding washrooms and clinical areas • Green for general food and drink areas • Yellow for clinical, treatment and isolation areas “With I-CON™, staff know exactly which glove they are meant to be

using in each specific area and environment thanks to their colour coding. This approach dovetails with the wider colour-coding regime we adopt for all other cleaning equipment used. Red gloves with red mop and red cloths, for example. Everything works together so nobody is left in any doubt that we have a coordinated solution for each specified type of area – whether that is staff, management or customers alike. It’s a really effective management tool that also gives the staff great confidence”, said Yvonne.

The new I-CON™ range not only protects workers’ hands against the most common chemicals used, but also helps prevent contact contamination from bacteria, viruses, pathogens and vaccines.

Joburg’s Executive Mayor calls on Sandton community to clean up the city

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apping into the inherent potential of people to be agents of change, Executive Mayor of the City of Johannesburg, Councillor Herman Mashaba, is facilitating the launch of a monthly volunteer campaign, largely focused on cleaning the city, but also going beyond this. Mashaba has called on the community of Sandton to be a part of this movement for a better city.

“On a trip to Rwanda a few years ago, I was taken aback by this kind of campaign which runs every month.

Once a month, every resident of Rwanda, including the President, goes out and cleans the streets and Continues >>

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African Cleaning Review September/October 2017

industry news neighbourhoods. The result of which is one of the cleanest countries in the world, both because of the cleaning but also the consciousness and pride it creates,” says Mashaba.

He adds: “I have come to see how our city is held back, in part, because of the grime and litter which affects us all.

As a city, we have initiated increased services within Pikitup, the city entity that provides cleaning services, and this is starting to bear fruit. However, government cannot be the only solution.”

As Sandton Central Management District’s (SCMD) City Improvement District Manager for Cushman & Wakefield Excellerate, which manages the public urban spaces of South Africa’s cosmopolitan financial hub, Elaine Jack believes that when citizens work together, it can have big, positive impacts.

“Sandton Central Management District is an excellent example of what can be achieved by working together to shape a city and a community. It is

home to three business improvement districts funded by commercial property owners to ensure the creation of an exceptional experience of this key node of Johannesburg for employees, visitors, tourists, shoppers, property owners and residents of Sandton Central,” says Jack.

“We are serious about creating a safe, clean and well-managed environment,” Jack adds. “This makes a difference to people’s positive experience of Sandton Central and positions it as a leading city and investment destination.”

Sandton Central employs a team of 56 public safety ambassadors, five patrol cars and 27 cleaning staff, 24-hours a day, seven days a week. They focus solely on crime prevention, cleaning, maintenance and landscaping.

The impact is meaningful. Over the first six months of 2017, the Sandton Central cleaning team cleaned up over 10 000 dustbin bags, equalling over 65 000kg of waste just in the public

Elaine Jack space alone. The City of Johannesburg’s A Re Sebetseng monthly clean-up campaign was officially launched on Monday 14 August by Mashaba alongside leaders in business, civil society, religious institutions, political organisations, the entertainment industry and community organisations, and sports personalities.

African Cleaning Review September/October 2017

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industry news Diversey Care upgrades robotic cleaning machine

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uring August Diversey Care unveiled its new TASKI®SWINGOBOT 2000™, a hands-free robotic floor care machine with built-in sensors and innovative on-board technology. The new model ensures at least 25 percent more productivity over the previous SWINGOBOT 1650™ machine model, enabling facilities to effectively and consistently clean floors in less time.

“This new SWINGOBOT floor care machine brings together the trusted cleaning standards that customers have come to expect from our TASKI machines and the advanced intelligence of Intellibot robotics technology,” said Ryssen Laurent, Global Marketing Machines Leader, Diversey Care. “By continuing to evolve automated floor care, we’re making cleaning safer and more efficient, reliable and cost-effective.”

The TASKI SWINGOBOT 2000 machine operates autonomously

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African Cleaning Review September/October 2017

via sonar, 2D LIDAR, touch-shield sensors and floor-detector sensors that work in harmony with the robot’s computer software. The machine can avoid obstacles in its path and will intelligently stop as soon as any change in its environment is detected.

The machine is also equipped with a remote control and numerous intelligent TASKI functions as standard, including: • IntelliTrail®, a fleet management system that allows managers to remotely access machine location, activity and critical service information • Intelli-Trak, a solution for measuring site performance of the machine and for conducting software updates • IntelliDose™, a closed-pouch system that allows facilities to select the optimal amount of chemical for any task and floor type

• IntelliFlow™, solution-flow technology, which delivers the proper amount of cleaning solution and water onto the floor according to the speed of the machine to reduce waste and ensure floors are always dry after cleaning.

For more information, visit www.taski.com

African Cleaning Review September/October 2017

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educational

Cleaning grout lines effectively If there is one thing most building owners, managers, and cleaning professionals can agree on, it is that they just don’t like grout.

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ure, grout serves a purpose.

While there are different types of grout made with various products, including synthetic materials, when it comes right down to it, grout is typically a mixture of sand, water and cement. What it does is hold ceramic and other types of tiles in place.

It’s not expensive, and it’s relatively easy to work with; a key reason we find so much grout installed in commercial buildings. In fact, walk into almost any washroom and you are likely to see lots of grout securely holding tiles in place on floors, walls and in some cases, counter tops.

But here’s why no one is inviting grout to the dance. It gets dark and soiled, and sometimes very quickly.

According to Dr Jay Glasel, a US scientist, “grout presents a serious cleaning problem for two reasons.

Grouting is softer and more porous than tiles, and the surface of grouting – known as the grout line – is more often lower than the surface of the tiles.”

What this means is that over time, soil and moisture build up in the grout lines and when this happens the grout discolours. Further, because the grout area is slightly below the floor’s surface, it forms little channels or trenches that hold and protect soils and moisture. This allows bacteria to develop, so now not only are we dealing with discolouring grout, we have an unhealthy floor on our hands as well.

Complicating the situation for cleaning professionals, and once again because the grout is below the surface, is the fact that the soil and moisture are hard to remove. As we shall see in the study discussed below, the most standard floor cleaning procedure using mops just won’t cut it. And while it is not discussed in the study, we know that traditional rotary

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African Cleaning Review September/October 2017

buffers and rotary auto scrubbers have trouble here as well.

By the way, in many cases, it is the floor-mopping process itself that fills these channels with soiled water, which eventually turns into bacteria, if it isn’t already. This means that the tool we are using to clean the floor is working against us.

Additionally, these problems are all amplified because smaller tiles, such as one-inch square tiles, are popular.

While these small tiles, often called mosaic tiles, sometimes come on a sheet, making installation quicker and requiring less grout, very often they must be installed as very small sheets or individually. In such cases, significant amounts of grout are needed.

Ways to clean grout Because grout is installed in so many washrooms and other areas of facilities all over the world, we must find some way to make friends with grout and keep it clean and healthy. To suggest ways to do this, Dr Glasel tested different cleaning options.

A ceramic tiled floor was squared off into test areas with a premeasured quantity of bacteria in the grout lines in each test area.

In one area, a new, flat mop was used to clean the floor using fresh water. The test area was mopped by making one pass in one direction and then another pass in another direction over the floor. A slight downward pressure was applied to the mop to help provide greater agitation to help remove soils.

In another test area, the floor was cleaned using what Glasel referred to as a high-flow fluid extraction system. In the professional cleaning industry, this system is most often referred to as a no-touch cleaning system. Once again, fresh water was used. The machine

Marc Ferguson

operates like an indoor pressure washer.

The pressurised water was applied to the ceramic tiles and then extracted by the machine or allowed to drain down floor drains.

In these tests using pure water, Glasel reported the following: • The flat mop removed about 50 percent of the bacteria on the floor.

• The no-touch cleaning system removed about 90 percent of the bacteria by just using water.

This same test was repeated, but this time, a multipurpose cleaning solution was used. This test revealed the following: • The flat mop once again removed about 50 percent of the pre-measured bacteria in the grout lines.

• The no-touch cleaning system showed an improvement and removed 99 percent or greater.

Finally, the tests were repeated, but this time a disinfectant was used. The disinfectant was appropriately diluted and allowed to dwell on the floor as instructed by the product label. The results were as follows: • The flat mop removed about 60 percent of the bacteria from the grout lines.

• The no-touch cleaning system removed virtually all traces of bacteria.

While the flat mop did remove contaminants from the floor, Glasel concluded that the flat mops still left 12 to 13 times more contaminants on floors than the no-touch cleaning systems.

Overall, “this equates to a cleaning efficiency of 76 percent for mop cleaning and 98 percent for no-touch cleaning.”

Why the discrepancy in cleaning systems?

While his research was complete, Glasel decided not to call it a day. Instead, he wanted to find out why there was such a

educational By the way, in many cases, it is the floor-mopping process itself that fills these channels with soiled water, which eventually turns into bacteria. discrepancy between the effectiveness of the flat mop and the no-touch cleaning system. In his own words: “We believe the reasons for these results [are because] the flat mop fibres appeared to have difficulty in making contact with the grouted surfaces due to the concave shape of the grout line.

Secondly, the grout line is hard to clean due to [its] higher surface roughness compared to the smooth tile surface. This higher surface roughness [in the grout] results in surface irregularities where dirt soils get trapped and become difficult to remove.”

These problems were not evident when using the no-touch cleaning system. When used with cleaning solution, the machine first applies the solution to the grout and tile ceramic floors. If a disinfectant is used, adequate

dwell time is adhered to. It is then followed by the pressure rinse. This produces the additional and necessary agitation to loosen and remove soils that then drain down floor drains or are vacuumed up by the machine.

Deduction I would like African cleaning professionals to learn two plus important things from this study.

Firstly, there are ways to effectively clean tiles, remove soil and bacteria from grout lines and keep floors healthy. Secondly, Glasel’s study used science to validate cleaning effectiveness. This is important.

We must start evaluating cleaning effectiveness scientifically.

As to the ‘plus’, tests have proven that the no-touch cleaning system is as much as two-thirds faster than using

traditional cleaning tools such as flat mops. This plus is certainly something African cleaning professionals should be interested in knowing about.

Marc Ferguson is the International Business Development Manager for Kaivac, developers of the No-Touch Cleaning® system and the OmniFlex™ Crossover Cleaning system.

He can be reached via their website, www.kaivac-emea.com. Kaivac equipment is distributed in Southern Africa by Goscor Cleaning Equipment. Call 086 123 CLEAN.

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Cleaning Review September/October 2017

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feature high pressure washers

Pressure washer solutions for a changing market The most common use for a high pressure washer is for effective cleaning. The ability to use water under high pressure in cleaning operations makes it easy to wash away even the most stubborn dirt and grime thereby reducing cleaning time and costs and it conserves water.

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n the context of the professional cleaning industry, demands are becoming increasingly complex.

The market wants solutions that are tailored to their needs, but that also enhance energy efficiency, performance, serviceability and safety.

In the automotive sector in particular, an increased focus on energy efficiency means that cleaning equipment needs to be both fuel-efficient and conserve water. This is particularly relevant when choosing a suitable pressure washer.

The professional cleaning industry has acknowledged both the needs and challenges of the market, and has developed a new generation of specialised equipment to meet them. Gavin Herold, General Manager of Africa & the Middle East for Nilfisk, highlights some of the key considerations when purchasing a pressure washer:

Nilfisk MC 6P XT Auto

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African Cleaning Review September/October 2017

Fit-for-purpose solutions Pressure washers vary in size, specifications and manoeuvrability.

A thorough assessment should be conducted prior to selecting the correct machine. For buildings, workshops and storage facilities a stationary unit may be more suitable, whereas for machinery, large vehicles, outdoor spaces and courtyards a mobile unit may be better. Both hot and cold units are available for customers to choose from, depending on a number of factors including intensity of the task and available time.

Specialised units such as those in the locally made Nilfisk Electra range are also suitable for underground mining operations.

Nilfisk MH 7P

Efficiency It is possible to achieve significant reductions in the consumption of water, electricity and disposables by choosing one of the new generation pressure washers. For example, when choosing a hot water model, the efficiency of the boiler and coil system should be closely scrutinised.

Both should work together to reduce fuel consumption and ensure high outlet water temperature, without compromising performance. The MH hot water series of pressure washers from Nilfisk with EcoPower™ boiler cleans with up to 210 bars of pressure at 90°. Efficiency in cold water machines can be improved through design elements such as an external detergent injector system. This means that the real working pressure at the nozzle is increased and the cleaning time can be reduced significantly,

saving labour, water and electricity costs. The MC series from Nilfisk reduces cleaning time by up to 15 percent with this feature.

Serviceability and safety Cleaning equipment should be designed in a manner that enhances serviceability and makes maintenance more intuitive.

Pressure washers should ideally be equipped with flow-activated hydrauliccontrol technology. This will ensure that the pump head, hose and spray gun are all depressurised during standby mode and will make handling of the hose and gun easier and safer. The design of the machine should also allow for

feature high pressure washers In the automotive sector in particular, an increased focus on energy efficiency means that cleaning equipment needs to be both fuel-efficient and conserve water. This is particularly relevant when choosing a suitable pressure washer.

CEMSA PW-H100-4 IPC

easy access to the motor and pump. An onboard oil tank and fill/empty system will also make basic maintenance tasks, such as oil checking, simple for the user.

Enhanced ergonomics also mean less operator fatigue and savings on labour costs, whilst enhancing safety in the workplace. Equipment should be easy

to operate, transport and maintain.

For the automotive cleaning challenges in particular, there are a wide range of accessories for easy and efficient vehicle cleaning, including wash and rotary brushes, under carriage washers and curved lances.

New generation pressure washers are designed to be more robust, versatile and energy efficient. By doing the job faster, better and more reliably, investment in new technology produces a quick ROI in terms of reduced labour costs, resources and maintenance.

Reduced water usage and greater efficiency in cleaning Reduction of operating costs and the efficiency of operations is an extremely important factor for all South African businesses. “Replacing the so-called ‘bucket and hosepipe’ with a high

pressure washer can drastically reduce cleaning time and costs due to the efficiency of the high pressure spray and its ability to cover a much larger surface area in a shorter space of time” says Darren Carter, CEMSA marketing manager.

The dilemma of water shortages is ever present and the need to preserve this precious resource is imperative.

High pressure washers stop consuming water as soon as the trigger on the gun is released as opposed to leaving a hosepipe running on the ground or running to close the tap.

CEMSA pressure washers are commonly supplied with a 15 or 25 degree spray nozzle, which allows the operator to cover a much larger surface area than a sponge or hosepipe would.

This results in reduced cleaning time and less water usage.

New generation pressure washers are designed to be more robust, versatile and energy efficient. By doing the job faster, better and more reliably, investment in new technology produces a quick ROI in terms of reduced labour costs, resources and maintenance.

African Cleaning Review September/October 2017

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feature high pressure washers The professional cleaning industry has acknowledged both the needs and challenges of the market, and has developed a new generation of specialised equipment to meet them.

When considering the purchase of a high pressure washer it is imperative to establish the specifications of the cleaning application. CEMSA high pressure washers are available in a large variety of configurations, often customised to the customer’s unique needs. The availability of power and the volume and quality of water supply is an important factor as the configuration of the motor, pump and filters must be matched to ensure optimal efficiency of the high pressure washer in the environment where it will be used.

The buyer should also consider the hours of operation that will be expected from the high pressure washer as this will determine the servicing intervals needed to keep the equipment running efficiently.

One of the advantages of using a CEMSA high pressure washer is the addition of chemical injection and foaming attachments to enhance the cleaning process. The addition of a chemical injector ensures the correct dilution of chemical is added to the cleaning process, avoiding waste and further protecting the environment. The use of foaming attachments further improves the efficiency of the chemical application as the consumption of chemicals is reduced and chemical contact time is increased on the surface being cleaned.

In car and truck washing applications, one does not have to look far to notice the trends in the industry changing.

Costly, automated car wash systems are being replaced with the high pressure washer alternative saving on installation and maintenance costs.

“CEMSA has been at the forefront of high pressure cleaning technology for over 15 years and new innovations such as intelligent control and in-line heating for hot water applications. CEMSA prides itself on its ability to provide unique solutions to customers’ individual needs’, concludes Carter.

The rope-access company has expanded its total service package by offering UHP washing for maintenance work on tall structures such as smokestacks, silos, and storage tanks.

Zinn points to a major South African petrochemical company contracting Skyriders to remove old paint from a 21m diameter, 14m high tank, using the UHP washing process at around 2 800 bar. “The sand used for gritblasting can pose a safety risk when working on a petrochemical plant, as the tanks often remain operational during maintenance,” he notes.

UHP washing is environmentfriendly due to the fact that water is deployed as an alternative to abrasives, chemicals, and solvents. When it evaporates, the only residue is the paint debris from the removal process itself, without the added headache of

Ultra high pressure (UHP) washing is a much safer and more cost-effective solution for cleaning structures in a petrochemical environment than traditional grit blasting.

UHP washing is a cost-effective alternative to grit blasting

CEMSA UPH

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African Cleaning Review September/October 2017

Ultra high pressure (UHP) washing is a much safer and more cost-effective solution for cleaning structures in a petrochemical environment than traditional grit blasting.

UHP blasting uses high pressure water streams to remove paint, resin, rust, debris, and contamination, without the use of detergent or grit, Skyriders Access Specialists marketing manager, Mike Zinn explains.

having to dispose of the grit.

The recent petrochemical project encompassed UHP washing of a storage tank, in addition to the application of a four-coat protective coating system.

Using rope-access methods rather than the more traditional means of access also resulted in additional cost-savings. Rope-access technicians with intensive training and experience complete such critical maintenance tasks both quickly and efficiently.

Amsterdam – where cleaning professionals meet in 2018

Join Steve Braham on a tour to bustling Amsterdam and the world’s largest professional cleaning and hygiene exhibition ISSA/INTERCLEAN 2018

Tour dates: 12-17 May 2018 Tour package highlights: • KLM/Air France flights from and to O.R. Tambo International • Five night accommodation in 3 star Apollo Museum Hotel situated in Amsterdam’s museum district • Transfers to and from hotel • Welcome drinks and snacks at the Apollo Museum Hotel • Day trip sight-seeing tour of Holland in luxury coach • Evening canal cruise through city of Amsterdam – drinks and snacks included • Entrance to cocktail party hosted by the ISSA • Farewell three-course dinner including drinks at an Amsterdam restaurant

For more information contact Steve at: Tel: +27 11 646 9322 Email: steve@swbagencies.co.za | Website: www.swbsports.co.za @swbsports |

SWB Sports

Tour package rates* • Single booking: ZAR 29 995.00 • Twin/sharing: ZAR 23 500.00 per person

Land only arrangements* • Single booking: ZAR 21 000.00 • Twin/sharing: ZAR 15 000.00 per person * T our package rates subject to exchange rate fluctuations

advertorial GCE

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The T300 provides the correct solution for your specific application, with unmatched versatility, GCE National Sales Manager Peter Esterhuizen comments. The standard T300 is available with a range of optional features to boost its cost-effectiveness and flexibility. This includes innovative ec-H2O NanoClean™ technology, with an optional Severe Environment™ switch to eliminate secondary cleaning operations, where the risk of slips and falls is aggravated.

The technology utilises an onboard e-cell to generate electrically converted water, producing millions of microscopic bubbles known as nanobubbles to boost cleaning efficiency. The Insta-Click™ magnetic head allows pads and brushes to be positioned ergonomically for faster installation.

Additional features of the T300 include easily accessible Hygenic® tanks to reduce mould, bacteria, and other contaminants that grow in enclosed tanks.

The vacuum motor allows the machine to achieve a low noise level of 65 dBA and to increase water recovery. Quiet-Mode™ reduces noise levels for uninterrupted daytime cleaning.

An easy-fill port makes cleaning the machine that much simpler and faster, as well as reducing the possibility of any spills. An onboard charger with fan and integrated venting allows the batteries to be charged safely with the lid closed.

The optional flow-control valve reduces the drain flow rate, and the risk of contact with dirty recovery water. Another option is the Pro-Panel™ integrated LCD screen with easy-to-understand graphics, multilingual menus, operator ID and video tutorials.

Part of the Goscor Group, Goscor Cleaning Equipment is South Africa’s top-quality cleaning equipment provider, priding itself on providing the ultimate cleaning solutions from a range of world-class brands to suit almost every cleaning application.

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African Cleaning Review September/October 2017

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African Cleaning Review September/October 2017

feature healthcare cleaning

Raising hygiene in healthcare by starting with the floor area In hospitals, clinics and care homes, the stakes and pressure are high for cleaning teams. Gordon McVean, International Sales and Marketing Director of Truvox International, offers advice on how to achieve both Gordon McVean

hygiene and high efficiency in floor cleaning.

N

o one questions the critical importance of effective cleaning in a healthcare setting, but what about effective and efficient floor cleaning?

Visible cleanliness is important to reassure patients and visitors. But a healthcare-cleaning regime can’t be judged just on appearances. The invisible microbes and toxins that can harm the health of vulnerable patients and care home residents must also be eliminated.

Hygiene control procedures will focus on handwashing and common touch points. But floors accumulate and spread toxins too. Routine cleaning must deliver consistently reliable standards of cleanliness day in, day out, to prevent soils underfoot being tracked through the building with the risk of eventual crosscontamination of hands, equipment and other surfaces.

Sustaining that kind of performance requires operatives who are well-trained and equipped with the most efficient and effective cleaning technology. In the healthcare sector that usually involves a mix of rotary polishers and scrubber dryers.

Faced with large areas of hard flooring, healthcare teams often rely on rotary machines. Operating at speeds of around 1 500rpm, high-speed rotaries will burnish large areas rapidly to a high sheen. But when traffic can lead to heavy soiling and impacted dirt, low-speed rotary machines come into their own.

Continue on page 20 >>

African Cleaning Review September/October 2017

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feature healthcare cleaning

Routine cleaning must deliver consistently reliable standards of cleanliness day in, day out, to prevent soils underfoot being tracked through the building with the risk of eventual crosscontamination of hands, equipment and other surfaces.

Hourly outputs up to 475m2 can be achieved at speeds of 200-400rpm, with single-disc machines that combine exceptional handling with low vibration levels, so operators maintain high productivity even on long shifts. A high pad/brush pressure and optional solution tank for wet scrubbing ensures effective cleaning in all situations – as well as intensive maintenance duties.

Scrubber dryers are the other, if not main, workhorses in many healthcare facilities. From corridors to maternity suites, and waiting rooms to wards, the scrubber dryer is often the most productive weapon in the healthcare cleaning team’s armoury.

This is mainly down to the versatility of a multi-purpose floor-cleaning machine that washes, mops, scrubs and dries floors in a single pass. The right machine can perform to the same high standard across a wide range of types of flooring – including safety flooring, which is increasingly specified in hospitals and clinics.

Yet it’s still surprisingly common to see hand mops in use, not just

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African Cleaning Review September/October 2017

in toilets and wet rooms, but other areas as well. Microfibre mop-heads are an advance, but standards of cleanliness are still compromised, as soiled solutions in buckets are re-applied to a floor. Mopping will not dislodge embedded dirt – which can provide a fertile breeding ground for microorganisms in crevices and the grout lines of tiled floors. This method is also labour intensive and a false economy in terms of both efficiency and cleaning standards.

Even in cramped spaces and cubicles, compact scrubber dryers offer a more efficient and effective alternative.

Many healthcare facilities have policies that preclude powerful disinfectants that may be allergenic.

Infection control rules often favour the use of natural detergents and taurinebased products. To be effective, these cleaning agents must be applied with consistent pressure and brush agitation, especially on safety floors.

Fitting the appropriate brushes for normal, maintenance cleaning or intensive scrubbing – and the type of surface – ensures effective cleaning

without causing wear. Scrubber dryers should also have side brushes to clean safety flooring that curves up the wall.

Brushes should be easy to exchange and sterilise – polypropylene does not encourage bacterial growth as natural fibres can – while colourcoded brushes help prevent crosscontamination.

The rotating cylindrical brushes of a scrubber dryer are particularly effective also when it comes to cleaning deep into grout lines where bacteria can easily multiply. Ergonomically designed, the machine should be easy and comfortable to operate, even on long shifts. A bonus is that the modern scrubber dryer can economise on the use of water and solutions, aiding efficiency further.

A well-equipped scrubber dryer offers additional capabilities, even cleaning entrance matting and low-pile carpets, which may be preferred in communal areas in care homes or family rooms.

It is the scrubber dryer’s versatility that is so often crucial to costeffective hygienic cleaning in a busy environment where there is a constant battle against infections, and floors must be cleaned quickly and left safely dry for staff, visitors and patients alike.

Noise and disruption must also be minimised in healthcare settings and care homes, where daytime cleaning is prevalent. Cordless, batterypowered models carry out this work even more quietly and flexibly, with outputs up to 350m2/hour, while avoiding trip risks.

This is also possible now when vacuuming, with the arrival of a battery upright vacuum. Not only less intrusive, the cordless Valet Battery Upright can maintain suction in a near-horizontal position as it vacuums under beds. A single charge powers more than 60 minutes of continuous cleaning.

It is also important to specify vacuums with high standards of filtration to prevent dust and microorganisms being re-circulated and to safeguard indoor air quality.

With the right equipment to hand, cleaning teams can promote hygiene as well as consistently high standards of efficiency when cleaning floors.

African Cleaning Review September/October 2017

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feature healthcare cleaning

Highlighting the latest advances in healthcare cleaning and disinfectant chemicals The latest cleaning chemicals for hospitals are formulated to not only clean and disinfect, but to counteract healthcare-associated-infection (HAI)-causing pathogens and other emerging threats. They also are formulated to balance efficiency and surface compatibility. Ease of use is another important quality. It’s all about effectiveness, speed, safety and processes that reduce the risk of infection, according to HFM Magazine.

E

nvironmental services professionals are focused on providing a safe environment of care. To accomplish this in a cost-effective manner, they need to find disinfectants that are broadspectrum, fast-acting, stay wet for the required dwell time, and are safe and easy to use.

One of the big challenges related to disinfectant chemical products in hospitals is achieving an appropriate balance between efficacy and surface compatibility. Effectiveness is critical to reducing the risk of infection, but appropriate care must be taken to protect surfaces and equipment from damage.

“There are two key considerations when it comes to surface compatibility: aesthetic issues, such as residue and corrosion. All disinfectants can cause surface compatibility issues if used inappropriately. The key is to understand potential challenges and to select products that minimise them,” says Laurie Rabens, senior product manager at Clorox Healthcare.

More chemical disinfection products are available now than ever before.

However, the range of formulations that have been tested and approved for specific devices is limited, due to the effort and cost associated with validation testing, adds Elise Tordella, vice president of marketing, PDI Healthcare.

Another challenge for hospitals involves choosing the right disinfectant for the job and training staff to use it properly with special consideration given to dwell time. For a disinfectant to be effective, it needs to sit wet on a surface for a certain period of time. This ensures

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African Cleaning Review September/October 2017

that the disinfectant is in contact with the microorganism long enough to kill it.

“We often see cleaning staff apply a disinfectant and then immediately wipe it down without letting it stay wet for the required dwell time,” says Benjamin J. Oberle, healthcare channel marketer at 3M. “This misstep is often attributed to the pressures of cleaning and the need to quickly turn over a room for the next patient. However, there are products on the market that increase cleaning efficiency while offering a decreased dwell time.”

Indeed, training and retention of skills is key to the everyday use of cleaning chemicals. “Studies show that training is the No. 1 issue in helping to prevent HAIs. Those studies also show that the positive effects of training in healthcare facilities start to diminish after 90 days, and people go back to their old habits,” says Jason Welch, microbiologist at Spartan Chemical.

To address this issue, Spartan Chemical has added a healthcare module to its CleanCheck programme that addresses the short- and longterm training needs of hospitals while providing exam-supported certification.

“In addition, we recommend that initial staff training is reinforced through verification and validation of cleaning procedures on a routine basis. These validation checks are not done punitively, but rather to identify areas where they can improve; creating a safer environment for both the patient and the cleaning staff,” Welch says.

Because of the Ebola scare and other more recent biological threats, hospitals are taking a closer look at

their disinfectant products and cleaning processes. Healthcare facilities need to implement infection control strategies that can address a wide range of threats, including the risk posed by antibioticresistant organisms such as Candida auris, an emerging multidrug-resistant, yeast-causing invasive HAI with high mortality.

“Recently, the Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) revised its recommendation for C. auris infectioncontrol measures to include thorough daily and after-discharge cleaning of C. auris patient rooms using Environmental Protection Agency (EPA)-registered hospital disinfectants that are effective against Clostridium difficile. The previous recommendation was to use a hospital disinfectant effective against fungi,” Rabens says.

Considering these challenges, many healthcare facilities are opting to expand the use of sporicidal disinfectants that offer broad-spectrum efficacy for a more comprehensive approach to environmental infection control.

Cleaning innovations Among a host of cleaning chemicals introduced to the healthcare market, Sealed Air’s Diversey Care division, recently launched Oxivir 1 ready-to-use disinfectant cleaner and wipes. Powered by accelerated hydrogen peroxide, it is effective against a broad range of bacteria, enveloped and non-enveloped viruses, tuberculosis and fungi in one minute or less.

“The Oxivir one-step solution requires no personal protective equipment (PPE) and is compatible with common

feature healthcare cleaning

Diversey’s MoonBeam 3 UVC technology

The growth of ultraviolet (UV) disinfecting technologies has had a minimal effect on manufacturers of cleaning chemicals.

In fact, the two product categories are complementary. healthcare surfaces and equipment. It also has a Category IV safety rating, which means it is non-irritating to the skin, eyes and respiratory tracts,” says Carolyn Cooke, vice president of the North America healthcare sector.

Clorox Healthcare recently enhanced two of its healthcare disinfectants. One, Clorox Healthcare hydrogen peroxide cleaner disinfectant wipes and sprays, offers fast non-bleach disinfecting times for more than 40 microorganisms and is non-corrosive to hard and soft surfaces commonly found in healthcare facilities.

The spray and wipes also are formulated to improve patient and staff comfort, and have no harsh chemical fumes or odours.

The other is Clorox Healthcare Bleach Germicidal Wipes, which kill 58 microorganisms (including C. difficile spores) in three minutes or less. It has been optimised for extended use in healthcare facilities, offering improved surface compatibility and less residue compared with conventional bleach disinfectant wipes.

Ecolab has unveiled the OxyCide Daily Disinfectant Cleaner, which kills 33 organisms in five minutes or less, including C. difficile spores in three minutes. It also meets CDC guidelines for cleaning and disinfecting against emerging pathogens such as C. auris.

“OxyCide is formulated for daily use by environmental services teams,

which gives patients daily preventive protection against C. difficile and other organisms of concern. Compatible with most healthcare surfaces, OxyCide dries without leaving residue,” says Hank Carbone, senior marketing manager, Ecolab’s healthcare division.

PDI Healthcare has introduced SaniCloth Prime Germicidal Disposable Wipes and Sani-Prime Germicidal Spray, an EPA-approved, intermediate-level disinfectant that achieves a one-minute overall contact time for a broad spectrum of microorganisms that are prevalent in hospitals. “Sani-Cloth Prime wipes and Sani-Prime spray products are effective against 54 microorganisms, including 17 multidrug-resistant bacteria such as methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus, vancomycinresistant Enterococcus and carbapenemresistant Enterobacteriaceae. They also are compatible across a wide variety of surfaces and equipment,” Tordella says.

Spartan Chemical offers Diffense, an EPA-registered, broad-spectrum cleanerdisinfectant that has been proven to kill C. difficile spores. Effective against a wide range of bacteria and viruses and offering less than one-minute disinfection, Diffense is formulated for areas where the prevention of HAIs is critical.

3M C. diff Solution Tablets provide an effective alternative to bleach and

peracetic acid disinfectants. It is EPAregistered to kill C. difficile spores in four minutes and is effective against Norovirus. It features a National Fire Protection Association rating of 0,0,0 with no PPE required at use dilution.

The product can be applied with a cloth, wipe, mop or coarse trigger sprayer, and will not bind to common wiping media.

The growth of ultraviolet (UV) disinfecting technologies has had a minimal effect on manufacturers of cleaning chemicals. In fact, the two product categories are complementary.

Experts agree that UV devices are excellent resources for healthcare facilities. It’s important to remember, though, that they are designed to supplement, not replace, manual surface cleaning and disinfection with EPAregistered disinfectants.

For example, Sealed Air’s Diversey Care division now offers UV disinfection technology along with its cleaning chemicals. “We see this as a complementary, additive technology to manual cleaning and disinfection to further reduce the risk of HAIs. The key to unlocking this added assurance is the ability to integrate these UV devices into the standard cleaning and disinfection processes conducted by environmental services teams,” Cooke says.

Green and clean Green cleaning is another area of interest to manufacturers that supply hospitals. Experts see a trend toward environmental services managers’ wanting to use more sustainable cleaning products.

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African Cleaning Review September/October 2017

23

feature healthcare cleaning While not willing to give up performance, they will purchase products that are more environmentally responsible.

This has always been an interesting area of discussion, according to Carbone. “In the U.S., the only ecolabel certification that a disinfectant can achieve is Safer Choice through the EPA’s Antimicrobial Pesticide Pilot Program. All disinfectant products currently on this list are ready-to-use solutions that may not fit a hospital’s environmental services work practices. This is an evolving area and one to watch going forward as manufacturers continue to work with the EPA,” he says.

The concept of green cleaning actually can complicate the disinfection aspect of infection control, according to Welch.

“Disinfection is the destruction of a microorganism; therefore, disinfection by nature is not a green process.

Disinfectants are EPA-registered [antimicrobial] pesticides and have strict data requirements. Currently, the EPA does not allow any third-party green logos on registered disinfectants,” he

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African Cleaning Review September/October 2017

says. “If a customer wants to be green, he or she has to focus on cleaning things first and then do a risk assessment for areas that may be a source of environmental contamination for a transferable infection.”

PDI Healthcare is looking for innovative ways to deliver products made from renewable sources to help institutions reduce their waste streams. For example, the company recently introduced singleuse towels made from 100 percent viscose fibres for use in hospital food service facilities. The towels are 100 percent compostable and certified by the Biodegradable Products Institute.

The growth of smaller, off-site healthcare facilities has not affected new product offerings or the use of cleaning chemicals to a great extent, beyond volume and packaging. Many off-site facilities have needs similar to those of larger locations, but may need them packaged in smaller-quantity offerings or in more portable formats.

“This has generated interest in portable solutions that are ready to use, and in

products that don’t require dispensing or specialised training,” Cooke says.

Looking ahead “In recent years, we’ve seen new cleaning chemicals with short contact times against a broad spectrum of organisms, including spores. We expect this trend to continue, with contact times getting shorter and the breadth of efficiency increasing,” says Carbone.

He expects material compatibility to be a focus, with more emphasis on simplifying use, thereby making it easier for hospitals to train their staff and integrate new products.

Oberle says hospitals must look at a total cleaning strategy that addresses other factors, including dust control and cross-contamination. “Healthcare facilities are paying more attention to the process of cleaning, while also focusing on product selection,” he says. “Nevertheless, disinfectant manufacturers will continue to look for solutions that offer a broader kill spectrum and decreased dwell time.”

African Cleaning Review September/October 2017

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editorial SCA SCA proud participant in new research study highlighting possible hygiene risks on surfaces in hospitals In recognition of World Hand Hygiene Day held on 5 May, a leading global hygiene and health company raises awareness of WHO’s critical “My 5 Moments for Hand Hygiene,” sanitising after touching patient surroundings.

I

n order to help raise awareness about the importance of hand hygiene in healthcare settings, leading global hygiene and health company SCA, together with RISE (Research Institutes of Sweden), is proud to share new research looking at the prevalence of bacteria found within patient surroundings. The two-year study was a multi-partner study involving companies, healthcare institutions and research institutes. The study was sponsored

by Vinnova, the Swedish government agency responsible for promoting sustainable growth through innovation, and looked at the importance of textile materials and surfaces in the patient surroundings as possible sources of healthcare-associated infections (HAIs).

According to SCA, the study’s findings support why proper hand hygiene is important to help control the spread of infection.

Sanitising hands after touching patient surroundings needs to be emphasised Using DNA sampling, researchers examined the bacterial community found on surfaces in the patient’s immediate surroundings which include: textiles, such as privacy curtains or bedding in neonatal incubators; patient bed guardrails; and floors in patient wards, toilets and showers. The examined surfaces harboured a wide variety of bacteria, some of which are potential pathogens and can lead to infections.

The findings emphasise the need for proper hand hygiene after touching patient surroundings, aligned with the World Health Organization’s (WHO) “My 5 Moments for Hand Hygiene”.

Unfortunately, according to the American Journal of Infection Control, hand hygiene compliance in healthcare settings tends to be the lowest for the fifth moment.1 Only 60 percent of

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African Cleaning Review September/October 2017

healthcare workers clearly recognise and follow this step.

“Our study shows that patientnear surfaces can harbour potentially pathogenic bacteria; proper hand hygiene after contact with surfaces can help prevent cross-contamination and potentially help reduce HAIs,” said Birgitta Bergström, MSc, microbiology and hygiene at RISE Agrifood and Bioscience.

Promoting World Hand Hygiene Day for healthcare workers According to the WHO, HAIs remain a major problem. Good hand hygiene is widely considered the single-most important method of reducing these infections.2 Therefore each year the WHO with the help of Private Organisations for Patient Safety (POPS) participants highlights the importance of hand hygiene on World Hand Hygiene Day. SCA is a proud participant of this programme.

To boost hand hygiene practices, the WHO developed “My 5 Moments for Hand Hygiene”, which highlights key times when healthcare workers should sanitise their hands. These moments include hand sanitising 1) before touching a patient, 2) before clean/aseptic procedures, 3) after body fluid exposure/ risk, 4) after touching a patient and 5) after touching patient surroundings.

Visit the WHO global campaign site for more useful tools and information at http://www.who.int/gpsc/5may.

“Healthcare workers are busy people trying hard to protect their patients’ health. They need and deserve our support to be able to perform hand hygiene quickly and easily when needed,” said Carolyn Berland, Senior Scientist with R&D, SCA. “World Hand Hygiene Day can give these professionals an added boost in the difficult task of maintaining high compliance.”

Education, cleaning procedures, and dispenser placement are key In an earlier three-year study with 16 hospitals supported by Tork®3, SCA’s global Away-from-Home (AfH) professional hygiene brand, 60 percent of healthcare workers considered the right placement of hand sanitiser dispensers as a main contributor to better hand hygiene compliance for long-term results.

“Our research has shown that it is important to look at hand hygiene moments from the healthcare worker perspective and tasks, making it as easy as possible to comply with the five moments, and also including easy access and logical placement of dispensers, a small change that can have a big impact,” said Berland.

To encourage compliance and help prevent infection spread, SCA recommends the following actions: • Have clear, detailed routines for cleaning patient areas • Clean patient textiles frequently and consider when disposable textiles can be helpful • Improve compliance by hand sanitiser dispenser placement throughout healthcare facilities.

For recommendations based on Tork® research, visit: http://www. tork.co.za/about/hygiene/dispenserplacement-healthcare/ • Visit the WHO’s World Hand Hygiene Day global campaign site for more useful tools and information: http://www.who.int/ gpsc/5may For more information about SCA’s work on supporting hygiene for everyday life, visit HygieneMatters.com For more information on SCA, please contact Kirsty Collard +27 11 359 1048 or kirsty.collard@essity.com

editorial SCA ... it is important to look at hand hygiene moments from the healthcare worker perspective and tasks, making it as easy as possible to comply with the five moments...

About SCA SCA is a leading global hygiene and forest products company that sustainably develops, produces and sells personal care, tissue and forest products. Through the recently acquired company BSN medical, the Group offers

About the Vinnova I-Tex Study

and food production, for the development of

products within wound care, compression

To learn how to decrease healthcare-associated

requested safe, healthy and sustainable food.

therapy and orthopaedics. Sales are conducted

infections (HAIs), SCA was one of the main

RISE consists of former institutes Innventia,

in approximately 150 countries under many

contributors to Vinnova’s two-year study

SP, and Swedish ICT with a total of 2 200

strong brands, including the leading global

involving thirteen partners including hospitals,

employees and is owned by the Swedish state.

brands TENA and Tork®, and other brands,

research institutes and private companies. SCA

More information at www.ri.se

such as Leukoplast, Libero, Libresse, Lotus, Nosotras, Saba, Tempo, Vinda and Zewa. As

invested more than 2 000 hours in helping to About World Hand Hygiene Day

Europe’s largest private forest owner, SCA

World Hand Hygiene Day is a campaign by the

places considerable emphasis on sustainable

About RISE Agrifood and Bioscience

World Health Organization (WHO) to promote

forest management. In 2016, the Group had

The Agrifood and Bioscience unit is part of RISE

hand hygiene in healthcare settings annually on

approximately 46 000 employees and sales

(Research Institute of Sweden). The unit has

5 May. The goal of these efforts is to improve

amounted to approximately SEK 117bn (EUR

about 130 employees and conducts research

healthcare provider compliance with Centers

12.4bn). SCA was founded in 1929, has its

and innovation throughout the food chain, from

for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) as

headquarters in Stockholm, Sweden, and is

primary agricultural production through the

well as WHO hand hygiene recommendations.

listed on Nasdaq Stockholm. SCA is dedicated

processing industry and retail, all the way to

Activities surrounding World Hand Hygiene Day

to improving well-being through leading hygiene

the consumer level. We develop and implement

also address and clarify misperceptions about

and health solutions. More information at

next-generation technologies for primary

hand hygiene.

www.sca.com.

make the project a success.

References: 1 American Journal of Infection Control. “Toward improving the World Health Organization fifth moment for hand hygiene in the prevention of cross-infection.”

2 “Hand hygiene: Back to the basics of infection control.” https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3249958/#ref1 *http://www.who.int/gpsc/pops/en/ 3 Boog, Matthijs C., Vicki Erasmus, Jitske M De Graaf, Elise (A) He Van Beeck, Marijke Melles, and Ed F Van Beeck. “Assessing the Optimal Location for Alcohol-based Hand Rub Dispensers in a Patient Room in an Intensive Care Unit” BMC Infect Dis BMC Infectious Diseases 13.1 (2013): 510.

African Cleaning Review September/October 2017

27

laundry review

Successful laundry workshop held in Johannesburg During August the Introduction to Laundry Technology: Part 1 – Washing technology 4-day workshop was presented to a group of eight launderers and suppliers to the laundry industry.

The workshop was held at the offices of Laundry and Textiles (Pty) Ltd where delegates had the opportunity to gain access to testing equipment and examples of the issues discussed during the workshop. This offered delegates real ‘hands-on’ exposure, which assisted in bringing the workshop to life – whilst also allowing for an increased level of trainer-trainee interaction.

Delegates present during the course: Delegate

Company

Commercial Activity

Asogran Govender

East Rand Cleaners

Commercial launderer and cleaner

Mabaso Akani Godfrey

Life Healthcare

Healthcare launderer

Peter Rasana Lebakeng

Life Healthcare

Healthcare launderer

Stephen Makgobola Thelele

Stevovla’s Cleaning & Gardening

Entrepreneur entering the laundry

Dirk J De Beer

Tuschemy

Chemicals and detergent supplier

Loraine Hopley

The Real Don

Dry cleaner and launderer

Kaylin Botha

Tuschemy

Chemicals and detergent supplier

Michael Otto

Insumbi Technical

Technical consultant

Back row (left to right): Dirk De Beer, Stephen Thelele, Peter Lebakeng, Mike Otto, Asogran Govender.

Front row (left to right): Kaylin Botha, Mabaso Godfrey, Loraine Hopley.

The next Washing and Finishing technology workshops are currently scheduled for February 2018.

SANS 10146 approved by technical committee

T

he ‘SANS 10146 Laundry Processes & Management: Part 1 – Laundry Processes’ that has been under review for the past nine months has now been approved by SANS Technical Committee TC1042.

This document is currently presented for public comment as required by the SABS rules for a period of 2 months before being published as a full standard – with a target date of publication by 1 January 2018.

Thereafter the standard goes on to the NRCS enabling the process to commence to bring this standard into regulation – thus making it mandatory for all facilities that fall within the definition of a laundry to legally comply with it.

The definition of a laundry: Any premises or facility where textiles undergo any cleansing and/or finishing (ironing, pressing or tumble drying) process where such cleansing/finishing process is either: (a) for financial gain and/or where such machinery used to provide the textile

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African Cleaning Review September/October 2017

cleansing and/or finishing service is an integral part of another service that is provided for financial gain; or (b) for processing textiles that have been used or intended for use in the ‘healthcare’ sector or any medical, health or government facility.

Examples: (1) An on-premise laundry (OPL) located in a hotel or hospital may, in itself, not generate income. However, the provision of a laundry service by the OPL to the hotel or hospital is an integral part of the main service provided by the hotel or hospital from which they derive financial gain.

(2) A food manufacturer or abattoir OPL provides an integral service to the core activity of the food manufacturer/abattoir, which allows them to meet health and safety requirements and therefore process food sold for financial gain.

Laundry and Textiles will present a 1-day workshop early in 2018 to assist and guide launderers through this process

and to advise regarding the impact of SANS 10146.

The key basis for these changes and the introduction of regulations is not aimed at closing laundries or to prevent entrepreneurship, but rather to improve the level for higher standards to the benefit of everyone that interacts with commercial laundry services.

However, while it is inevitable that there will ultimately be some casualties arising from this process, the purpose of the exercise is to provide operators with the information needed to meet the standard and to highlight what they need to achieve to become a professional launderer.

During October/November 2017 Laundry and Textiles will present several workshops in Namibia following the highly successful format of the ‘Q&A’ workshops previously presented in both Cape Town and Durban.

For more information contact ian@laundryandtextiles.com or telephone 010 035 2148.

laundry review

South Africa – a rough diamond in professional textile care • South Africa is the most developed professional textile care market on the African continent, but there is room for growth and professionalisation.

• Just like elsewhere in the world, African professional textile care companies are creating growth strategies, either focusing on economies of scale (large plants, more automation, low cost per kg), or specialised strategies, focused on niche segments where prices are not under so much pressure.

SATSA members with Peter Wennekes.

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resident and CEO of CINET Peter Wennekes visited South Africa during July to interact with local laundry and dry cleaning professionals. The aim of his visit to South Africa was to attend several meetings with industry representatives and to facilitate presentations focused on ways in which the region’s market potential can be unleashed.

CINET (Comité International De L’Entretien du Textile) is the international umbrella association for professional textile care (PTC).

CINET has over 90 members (national associations, international suppliers, research institutes and individual companies) and an international network of 2 500+ industry experts.

Through CINET’s network the organisation aims to represent the interests of some 400 000 companies that are currently active in the global PTC industry.

African Cleaning Review attended the meeting facilitated by the South African Textile Services Association (SATSA), which took place at the premises of Spot On Cleaners & Launderers in Johannesburg. During the meeting,

Wennekes presented an overview of the evolution of the laundry market, latest trends and developments in professional textile care and highlighted benchmark study results. He also touched on aspects relating to The World of PTC and the new Global Best Practices Awards programme for 2018.

In analysing the local textile services market Wennekes highlighted the following observations: • South Africa focuses on costeffective solutions with efficient laundry processing and pursues a higher quality of the end product.

This is organised through: improved laundry layouts, a more optimised flow and step-by-step updating of machinery.

• Continuous attention for education and training to build up knowledge and expertise for operators and plant managers is needed, as key factors for increased efficiency and the quality of the services.

• The suppliers are important facilitators when it comes to technological development and optimising the products and services.

Looking to the future with optimism The market is developing; the industrial laundries are actively looking for new market segments as well as to develop their service concepts for retail (convenience) and for industriallaundry-specific demands. South Africa is a large country, with a unique set of advantages, stemming from its strategic position and vast resources.

At the conclusion of the meeting Peter Wennekes (left) presented SATSA’s Ian Harris with book 5 of The World of PTC on behalf of CINET.

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African Cleaning Review September/October 2017

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facilities management review

8 secrets of the strongest facility management partnerships Our facility management partnerships can either make or break our business goals and careers. How do you make these partnerships successful? Here are the key factors you should be on the lookout for if you want to make your facility management partnership a success.

D

uring recent years, outsourcing has become a more widespread management strategy. To achieve a sustainable competitive advantage through outsourcing, a close, long-term and well-functioning relationship is required. This may seem very simple, yet many organisations lack the skills and expertise to make these relationships succeed. Today, outsourcing still counts a high failure rate of one in four according to ISS, a leading global provider of facility services.

So, what are the determining factors that can lead to successful outsourcing outcomes? Here are the 8 key factors considered by ISS, which offers services on an international scale, to be the most important: 1. Commitment from top management Successful facility management partnerships are built on clear commitment from top management.

Support from top management provides both encouragement and resources.

Without this support, the facility services supplier would be unsure of its future and importance to the client. This uncertainty and lack of transparency can also easily transfer to the outsourced employees and result in a counterproductive anxiety or lack of purpose.

2. Clear goals and objectives The most successful outsourcing partnerships are built on clear objectives, goals and share a joint purpose. The facility services provider knows what is expected and understands the service delivery requirements. The client organisation, on the other hand, must understand what it takes for the facility services provider to successfully

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African Cleaning Review September/October 2017

complete the service at hand and provide support to fulfill the objectives and goals to the extent it is needed.

3. Confidence in each other The best facility management partnerships are realised when the client has confidence in the facility services provider’s expertise, knowledge and capabilities. Here, the client organisation knows that the service could not have been managed better anywhere else.

Building confidence to this level allows both parties to value each other as partners rather than clients and suppliers.

4. Teamwork and inclusion The best facility management partnerships have a team atmosphere where no one differentiates between the contractors and employees. In these partnerships there are no artificial barriers and everyone is treated equally, regardless of who their employer is.

This can only happen if both companies believe in each other’s values and are committed to each other’s successes.

5. Staff with the right capabilities The success of any facility management partnership is limited to the people dedicated to fulfill service delivery and manage the contracts. The most successful facility management partnerships have the right people in the right positions to fulfill the task at hand.

In these relationships, both parties know the importance of training and are highly involved in continuously developing the competencies of the employees.

6. Excellent communication The most successful facility management partnerships are built on transparent and continuous communication. This involves being able to communicate with the right person

at the right level and at the right time.

There must be sufficient transparency, confidence and trust present between the parties to talk openly about both agreements and disagreements, without questioning the value of the contract.

7. Strong contract A clear and strong contract is the foundation of every successful facility management partnership. Both parties must fully understand the content, demands and commit themselves to it. Some of the greatest facility management partnerships come to light when both parties are strategically committed to the success of each other’s business. These partnerships and contracts often rely on outcomes rather than inputs and outputs. Another characteristic is that outcome-based contracts are flexible, giving both parties room for growth and adaptation to new business demands.

8. Cultural fit The most successful facility management partnerships are not only aligned contractually, but also culturally. Even though it can take a considerable amount of time and effort to gain a comprehensive understanding of a potential partner’s culture, it will ultimately decrease the large amount of risk involved in entering new facility management contracts.

Grow the success of your Facility Management partnership! Download the ISS 2020 Vision White Book: The future of Outsourcing.

For more information go to: www.betterworkplaces.issworld.com/howto-make-facility-management-and-serviceoutsourcing-a-success?

facilities management review

Servest growing relationship with NMCH

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ervest Multi Service Group recently donated R10 500 to the Nelson Mandela Children’s Hospital (NMCH) in support of the phenomenal work being done by the hospital. Servest staff and management selected the Nelson Mandela Children’s Hospital as the beneficiary of the donation and on 27 July visited the hospital for a tour and to hand over the donation.

“As a proudly South African company with a strong commitment to the communities we operate in we are delighted to grow our relationship with the Nelson Mandela Children’s Hospital and will continue to support the great work being done by the team”, commented Xolani Zuma, MD Servest Integrated Solutions.

During July this year Servest released the 2017 South African Facilities Management Research Report that looks at trends, forecasts and predictions in the facilities management (FM) sector.

Servest made the research available free of charge to all role players in the industry and as part of the Servest Group’s Mandela Day fundraising initiative the company pledged R50 for every person who registered and downloaded the research.

The 24-page report homes in on the latest FM outsourcing trends, the challenges and expectations between buyers and service providers, progressive local and global innovations for facilities

service delivery and the major game changers and outlook for FM services in South Africa over the next five years.

Servest was appointed as integrated facilities management services contractor in 2016 to manage all facilities management services on site at NMCH until the opening of the hospital on 21 June this year. Since going live, Servest has been appointed to manage all technical services at the hospital.

“There are a number of ways that you can remember Mr Mandela; he was a statesman but at his core, he loved children and we are proud to be associated with Mandela’s legacy”, commented Steve Wallbanks, Servest CEO.

African Cleaning Review September/October 2017

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facilities management review

Property services firm director wins business achiever award

C

ushman & Wakefield Excellerate’s Regional Director – Western & Eastern Cape: JHI, Liezel Conradie, was announced the winner of the Business Women’s Association (BWA) Regional Business Achievers Awards – Corporate Category.

Conradie received the prestigious award at a formal gala dinner during July at Kelvin Grove in Newlands, Cape Town. A skilled property professional, Conradie is responsible for JHI’s regional team of some 60 staff members in the Western and Eastern Cape. She has gained excellent industry insight over 19 years in commercial, retail and industrial property management, and has been with Cushman & Wakefield Excellerate for the past five years.

Conradie administers high-profile

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African Cleaning Review September/October 2017

properties and blue-chip accounts for Cushman & Wakefield Excellerate, ranging from some of the biggest names in South African real estate to smaller private clients. The total area currently under her supervision is approximately 800 000m2. Within her diverse experience, the skills that Conradie considers among her key areas of expertise include asset management, portfolio management, administration and facility management.

Each year, the Regional Business Achievers Awards (RBAA) celebrates the success of women in each BWA branch. The awards identify, acknowledge and cultivate entrepreneurs, corporate and professional women leaders.

Cushman & Wakefield Excellerate delivers best-practice property services

Liezel Conradie and solutions across Africa. It leverages the innovations, thought leaders and research that it generates as part of a global business, with a local and regional perspective. It has experience working across at least 12 different countries on the African continent.

people and events Nilfisk Golf Day The third annual Nilfisk Spring Day golf day took place at the Randpark golf course on 1 September. This characteristic Spring Day event presented many Nilfisk clients with an opportunity to interact, meet the various brand export managers and compete on the golf course for a number of prizes sponsored by host Nilfisk. Well-known television and Carte Blanche presenter Derek Watts joined golfers for a round of golf and also acted as MC at the Nilfisk prize-giving function.

Nilfisk’s Gavin Herold, Emma Corder and Wendy McDermott pictured with MC Derek Watts.

NCCA Golf Day The annual National Contract Cleaners Association (NCCA Gauteng branch) golf day took place on 12 September at Randpark Golf Club in Johannesburg. As customary, a charity organisation was nominated by the NCCA to benefit from the proceeds of the golf day and this year it was the Cancer Association of South Africa (CANSA). In attendance during the prize-giving ceremony was CANSA’s Munnik Marais, who presented a brief overview of the association’s activities. During the evening MC and NCCA Gauteng executive committee member Arthur Bath raised the bar by persuading a number of companies to support the charity organisation with pledges that finally totalled an amount of R50 000.

Team StaffWear, pictured with NCCA National Chairman Patrick Makhubela (far right), consisting of Dave Ricardo, Rakesh Seetal, David Bram and Dennis Naidoo each won a first prize of one night’s accommodation for 2 people at The Fairway Hotel, Spa & Golf Resort plus a round of golf for a four ball at Randpark Golf Club.

It should also be noted that National Chairman Patrick Makhubela narrowly missed out on the R100 000 hole-in-one prize sponsored by Safic. However, as a consolation prize, Safic MD Eric Platt pledged a brand new Swiss manufactured Cleanfix vacuum cleaner to Patrick.

Arthur Bath thanked all 2017 golf day sponsors for their support on behalf of the Gauteng branch of the NCCA. This year’s sponsors were: Afriboom, Africa Floorcare, Bidvest Steiner, Bill Harrop’s Balloon Safaris, Blendwell Chemicals, CleanJack, Columbus SA, Goscor Cleaning Equipment, Hako, NBC Holdings, Neledzi Cleaning Services, Nilfisk, Numatic International, PRP Solutions, Randpark Golf Club, Safic, Siyaya Skills Institute, StaffWear and The Fairway Hotel, Spa & Golf Resort.

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African Cleaning Review September/October 2017

new products Hand hygiene programme compliance monitoring system

E

colab introduced a new electronic solution for hand hygiene monitoring. The Compliance Monitoring System, a part of the complete EnCompass™ Hand Hygiene Program, assists hospitals to accurately monitor hand hygiene to encourage positive change. As handwashing compliance increases, the risk of healthcare-associated infections (HAIs) decreases and patient outcomes improve.

Healthcare facilities will now have the ability to transform the way they create, monitor and report hand hygiene compliance. It will change the way healthcare staff think about hand hygiene to improve safe interactions with patients.

The ‘patient zone’ is an electronically monitored zone set up around the patient’s bed to detect every hand hygiene opportunity. A beacon on the bed provides continuous monitoring even when the patient’s bed is moved.

The different components in the system gather and transmit information, which can be accessed on the hospital’s dashboard.

With hospital costs on the rise, hand hygiene is the easiest way to bring down the overall cost of care

The patient zone

User-friendly badge: The healthcare worker’s badge monitors individual hand hygiene events. Green, yellow and red lights deliver immediate feedback based on compliance. An audible beep serves as a reminder to wash or sanitise.

while improving patient outcomes. It’s the reason hand hygiene compliance tops the list of priorities at the safest hospitals. Here’s why the Compliance Monitoring System is so unique: The patient zone: The bed kit creates a zone around the patient to indicate if the healthcare worker washes their hands or sanitises before and after patient contact.

Immediate feedback: The badge, worn by all healthcare workers, measures and records every hand

hygiene event by individual. Visual and audible feedback is immediate.

Robust reporting: Data is compiled to track performance by individual, department, hospital or system.

Compliance trends are reported as well as equipment status, sanitiser and soap levels and battery life.

Little to no IT involvement: The system is not tied to the hospital’s network. It does not utilise private or public Wi-Fi, and does not require hardwiring.

Latest compact, lightweight, self-retracting lanyard

M

SA Africa has launched its most compact and lightweight self-retracting lanyard to date.

The MSA Latchways 3m Personal Fall Limiter (PFL) has been designed specifically for environments where close anchorage is available.

The secret behind the lanyard lies in the use of multiple spring radial energy-absorbing technology, believed to be a world first. “The new design eliminates the need for an external energy absorber outside of the housing, resulting in this being the most compact PFL available on the market today,” comments Nicolas Abry, Business Development Manager, Fall Protection, MEAIR, MSA Middle East FZE. Suitable for a range of applications, the MSA Latchways PFL not only

requires zero recalibration or adjustment, but a fully rotating attachment point allows for total flexibility, including 180° and 360°.

Precision engineering has resulted in a structurally reinforced pawl mechanism.

The self-retracting lifeline (SRL) is housed in a highly durable polycarbonate casing, which is transparent to allow for easy visual inspection of critical internal components. All components have been manufactured from high-grade stainless steel and engineered plastics.

The MSA Latchways PFL is supplied with a choice of steel or aluminium top carabiner, with a range of connectors to select from. These include a forged steel snaphook, an aluminium or steel scaffold hook, or a forged steel swivel snaphook.

It can withstand a temperature range from -40°C to +54°C. The highperforming, high-strength webbing has been manufactured to the most rigorous international standards.

African Cleaning Review September/October 2017

35

new products Latest crawler boom lift from France introduced locally

I

n terms of versatile and adaptable access, nothing beats the crawler boom lift, which can cater for various ground conditions and workplace restrictions. Goscor Access Rental has just acquired its first Mygale 23 crawler boom lift from ATN Platforms of France, one of the most advanced of its kind available on the market today.

The Mygale 23 adds to Goscor Access Rental’s existing fleet of Teupen crawler booms, which have seen great success locally, reports Sales Manager Marcus Gartside. Tracked crawler booms are also known as ‘spider lifts’, which is why ATN Platforms named its first crawler after the Mygale, a large and powerful spider related to the North American tarantula or South American bird spider.

This unit has a 23-metre working height through a double articulated boom set-up, both of which are telescopic for compact stowage, without sacrificing maximum reach. For up and over capability, 11m horizontal outreach is achievable at a height of 11.25m, with no impact on its 230kg lift capacity.

Equipped with a powerful 12.5kW Kubota engine, the Mygale 23 tackles slopes of up to 32 percent with ease.

It can lift to full height in under a minute,

and offers a full 360° rotation of booms and 180° of the basket for pinpoint positioning – all of this in a compact package weighing under 3.5 tons.

Safety features include load-and-tilt sensors, and automatic levelling via outriggers. In addition, the Mygale 23 offers a remote mobile control station, whereby the operator can drive the unit from outside the basket, restrictive ‘slewing’ (rotation) when in narrow outrigger mode, auxiliary emergency lowering from the platform and ground controls, and dual-speed controls.

Additional equipment from ATN Platforms available from Goscor Access Rental includes Piaf electric mast

lifts, and a smaller Zebra 12 boom lift. The new Zebra 16 has just been added to the range as well, in both standard (without outriggers) and STAB platforms.

The Zebra 16 STAB is a 16m articulated boom lift with a working height of 16.8m, a 9.3m horizontal outreach, 45 percent gradeability, a Kubota drive, and 40cm ground clearance. A full-colour LCD diagnostic system, also incorporated on the Mygale 23, makes maintenance and fault-finding that much easier and faster.

For more information visit: www.goscoraccessrental.co.za

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African Cleaning Review September/October 2017

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