African Cleaning Review JanFeb '14

January/February 2014 | R40.25 (incl. VAT)

Nilfisk-Advance completes Industroclean acquisition Hand dryers past and present Can SME cleaning companies stay afloat?

Auto window cleaning heralds new era

B

African Cleaning Review January/February 2014

African Cleaning Review January/February 2014

1

Webse Websearch

Africa’s hygiene, cleaning, maintenance, pest control and facility maintenance services publication is distributed to end users, building service contractors, multi-service providers and key institutional sectors including government, healthcare, education, retail centres, hospitality, food processing and general manufacturing.

Blendwell Chemicals is a Cleaning Chemical Manufacturer that continually strives to meet market needs through innovation and efficient service and offer own label cleaning products. We are able to formulate and manufacture specific products for you as well as manufacture cleaning chemicals using your formulations.

www.africancleaningreview.co.za

www.blendwell.co.za

CleantexPulire is Africa’s highly specialised international trade exhibition focusing on the latest in cleaning technology, industrial cleaning, hygiene- & laundry solutions, sanitation & professional cleaning, pest-, waste-, environmental- & washroom hygiene management.

Columbus Cleaning Solutions have been supplying chemicals to the cleaning industry for over 24 years.

Columbus has a total of 15 SABS marks across its various product ranges and is committed to quality in every aspect of its business operations.

www.cleantex.co.za

www.columbussa.com

Concept Clean Africa specialises in the total cleaning and sanitation of HVAC (Heating, Ventilation & AirConditioning) equipment, distributing EnviroCon™ and Oxine A.D.; an EPA-registered sanitiser and deodorizer for air handling systems including deep cleaning of kitchen extraction systems.

With 30 years of world class product innovation and service, Costa Lambrianos is the industry name you can rely on. Through strong international ties, a dedication to quality, innovation and service, we have established ourselves as industry leaders for the washroom and hygiene industry with a wide range of market leading products.

www.conceptcleanafrica.co.za

www.lambrianos-group.co.za

earch

Looking for an alternative way to create awareness of your website and simultaneously direct additional traffic to the site? Now you can showcase a picture of your homepage including a brief overview of the company in the Websearch section of African Cleaning Review. For more information or a quotation email: africancleaningreview@cleantex.co.za

Easy Chem supply a full range of your day to day household products which can be found at all supermarkets as well as the more specialised industrial products to clean workshops, the motor industry, hotels, shopping centres, casinos and newly developed complexes. A full range of hygiene equipment and services available.

The Golden Service Awards is regarded as South Africa’s Premier annual Cleaning Service Awards. Entries are open to all segments of the cleaning and support services industry, offering contract cleaning companies the opportunity to compete on quality of service.

www.easychem.co.za

www.goldenserviceawards.co.za

Kimberly-Clark Professional* is a leader of distinctive products and systems in the washroom, from shop towels to protective gloves and coveralls. Solutions customers can depend on to meet the demands of their fast paced world.

Neledzi Cleaning Services strives for the utmost quality and value added services and related products.

Our clients are able to focus on their core business practices while we oversee their cleaning service needs.

www.kcprofessional.com/co.za

www.neledzicleaning.co.za

Cleaning is an essential activity, 365 days a year. Numatic manufactures an extensive range of commercial and industrial cleaning equipment to the highest British standards that also complies with SABS specifications.

The hands-on approach and continual training process adopted by Red Alert ensures a consistently high standard of health and sanitation proven in the market place. The Cleaning Division services major blue chip clients countrywide by providing specialised cleaning services.

www.numatic.co.za

www.redalert.co.za

Webse Websearch

Infection Protection Products is a South African manufacturer with over 25 years experience in supplying the Washroom Rental Service Provider market with hygiene products, including dispensers and refills.

We pioneered the introduction of the trolley wipe, and the toilet seat wipe!

DuPont™Sontara® wiping products are engineered to be exceptional wiping tools. Used around the world in key industries like aviation, automotive refinish, food service, life sciences and printing – plus a variety of maintenance and manufacturing applications.

www.sanitouch.co.za

www.sontara.com

TOV Cleaning Services was established in 2009 when ACSA awarded its cleaning staff members 5-year contracts to clean the O.R. Tambo International Airport. The company comprises of highly trained and experienced individuals and currently employs 170+ people.

Ubunye Cleaning Services has made it their business to develop efficient and sustainable methods to offer cost-effective all-round Award-winning cleaning services, adding value to each and every cleaning opportunity in the commercial and industrial sectors.

www.tovcleaning.co.za

www.ubunye.co.za

UPP Professional is focussed on the wholesale and Away-From-Home industries. The brand caters for the business and branding needs of the wholesale, hotel and hospitality industries. The fully customisable product range is able to address any unique requirements that customers may have. The product offering consists of bulk serviettes, napkins, bathroom tissue, kitchen towel and hankies.

WolServe are suppliers of quality biodegradable cleaning materials, energy efficient equipment and systems as well as waterless maintenance cleaning to a variety of industries, namely Food and Beverage production and distribution; Mining and Industrial; Petrochemical and Engineering; Hospitality, Entertainment and Healthcare; Commercial and Retail as well as Automotive.

www.upap.co.za

www.wolserve.co.za

earch

African Cleaning Review January/February 2014

5

6

African Cleaning Review January/February 2014

contents January/February 2014 • Vol 15 No. 1

A touch of elegance The ‘CLEAN LOOK’ range of products that will make your customers feel like they are indulging in a classy lifestyle away from home – a Superior Washroom Dynasty.

Our promise is to consistently bring you innovative, quality products, that will not only satisfy customers’ needs, but also compliment and enhance your brand – Our elegant clean look range of products for 2014 will do just that!

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

9

Opinion

8

Industroclean GM Gavin Herold on the NilfiskAdvance acquisition

Industry News

10

GSA awards for Tsebo Cleaning Solutions Tablet app makes handwashing fun Kimberly-Clark partners with UNICEF Dedicated steam cleaning pavilion at show Panel of judges impressed by dry vac features Acquisition will enhance SA operations significantly

Features

14

Hand dryers – past and present Chemicals in cleaning – VOCs

18 24

Laundry Review

21

Workwear to be fit for purpose and laundry friendly Training specialist laundry engineers

20

Facilities Management Review

22

Does size matter when selecting a cleaning company?

Educational

26

Top ten reasons to use heat when cleaning carpets

Pest Review

27

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

Tel: +27 (0) 11 238 7848 or +27 (0) 72 611 1959 Fax: +27 (0) 86 672 4794 PO Box 1976, Halfway House, 1685, South Africa email: africancleaningreview@cleantex.co.za Website: www.africancleaningreview.co.za Editor/Publisher: Johann van Vuuren +27 11 238 7848 email: africancleaningreview@cleantex.co.za Features: Teresa Settas +27 11 238 7848 email: africancleaningreview@cleantex.co.za Advertising: +27 11 238 7848 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 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.

Upcoming Features 2014 March/April issue: • Carpet care • Contract cleaning May/June issue: • Hand hygiene • Hospitality cleaning Jul/Aug issue: • Washroom dispensers • Hard floor care Sept/Oct issue: • Outdoor cleaning • Food hygiene Nov/Dec issue: • High pressure systems • Transport cleaning

Preventing fly infestation

32

Advertorial Low energy, high speed, sustainable hand dryers – Costa Lambrianos (Pty) Ltd Interview with Jay Moodley – Meondo Trading 369

New Products Classic squeegee and accessories celebrate milestone Prevent virus transmission in food production environments Automated window cleaning heralds new era

20 28 30

Media Partner

African Cleaning Review January/February 2014

7

from the editor

opinion

Nilfisk-Advance acquisition of Industroclean lays the foundation to be the preferred choice in the South African market Gavin Herold, General Manager: Industroclean

New industry developments

Nilfisk-Advance acquired a substantial share in Industroclean in 2010, which greatly enhanced Nilfisk-Advance’s presence in the African subcontinent. Since this transaction the Industroclean management

Welcome back to another exciting year in the professional cleaning industry. I trust everybody enjoyed participating in leisurely activities over the December period.

In this issue, fitting with the start of the new year, we bring you breaking news of the Nilfisk-Advance acquisition of Industroclean, a refreshingly new and striking product look from Rubbermaid Commercial Products and Costa Lambrianos (Pty) Ltd, a new tablet handwashing app and a revolutionary new way to clean building windows.

Also, this will be the year when the world’s largest cleaning exhibition, ISSA/ Interclean 2014 opens the doors to its 25th edition and many South Africans are expected to attend this event in the Netherlands, which combines educational seminars with, amongst others, specialist pavilions for Washroom, High Pressure and Steam Cleaning products and equipment.

Another new aspect to the industry is that the NCCA executive decided that, with effect from this year, the National NCCA office will be based in the province where the National Chairman resides. This is reflected in the NCCA advertisement published in this issue.

Our brand new feature programme for 2014 appears in the contents section of this issue and we look forward to interacting with the industry to report on related developments.

Wishing you all a prosperous and rewarding new year!

Johann van Vuuren

8

African Cleaning Review January/February 2014

team have worked closely with Nilfisk-Advance, who has followed our progress with the Nilfisk range.

I

n 2013 the decision was made to acquire total ownership of Industroclean and the agreement was concluded on 2 January 2014.

The acquisition of Industroclean, by international cleaning equipment manufacturer and solutions giant Nilfisk-Advance, places Industroclean in a leading position to become the customers preferred choice in the South African market. Nilfisk-Advance has annual sales of R13 billion and is one of the fastest growing companies in our industry. It is part of the NKT Group, listed on the Copenhagen Stock Exchange.

With the acquisition of Industroclean, Nilfisk-Advance now owns two sales companies in southern Africa, the other being WAP South Africa (Pty) Ltd which was successfully integrated into the Group in 2007.

In a new strategic partnership, the combined market presence of the two Nilfisk-Advance owned sales companies will provide an industry leading, integrated suite of cleaning solutions to customers around southern Africa.

Major advantages will stem from being part of a global giant in the cleaning industry and Industroclean will be able to pass on Nilfisk-Advance

expertise, research and development, high quality products and continued improvements to the local industry.

Nilfisk-Advance has sales and service distributor representation in 100 other countries globally and operates production plants on four continents in eight different locations, with 250 design engineers producing up to 30 new products a year.

This provides Industroclean with access to a wealth of knowledge and experience. With the acquisition NilfiskAdvance will propel Industroclean to new heights in servicing the needs of existing and new customers in South Africa. Although it is now an integral part of an international group, Industroclean management is still very much focused on South Africa and the development and provision of solutions that meet local needs and challenges.

Over the last four years the founders of the business have not been involved on a day-to-day basis, transferring responsibility to the new generation of decision makers who have built up relationships with customers and are now tried and trusted partners.

Succession planning was put in place more than six years ago and during 2010, individuals were identified

opinion and groomed to take the business forward. We have added to this team and grown individuals in the process while attracting more and more capable people who will aid the achievement of this sustainability.

Industroclean provides national coverage through a network of branches and distributors. The footprint is steadily growing further afield within sub-Saharan Africa and there are distribution agreements in place for Botswana and Namibia.

What is exciting about the NilfiskAdvance acquisition is that not only will Industroclean benefit but so will our distributors and customers. Our choice to partner with Nilfisk-Advance was made because they are one of the world’s leading manufacturers and designers of professional cleaning equipment.

Our goal is to concentrate our efforts in the contract cleaning and institutional fields as well as the retail industry and both the private and public health sectors.

Industroclean has always focused its business on offering a complete solution and will continue to do so with valued partners such as Host®, Rubbermaid, 3M, Chicopee, Unger, Coba and Filmop.

Chemicals also remain a major part of the business, as does product and systems education and training. Our business has been based on providing the complete solution and strong customer relationships.

Going forward Nilfisk-Advance plans to be the leading supplier of cleaning systems in the country and certainly a force to be reckoned with.

On a sunny day in Scotland in 1904, P.A. Fisker – the founder of Nilfisk – was on his way home after years abroad. Standing on the Edinburgh quayside he watched a large cargo ship flying the Danish flag entering the dock. At that moment, he decided that once he was back in Denmark he would start a company that would spread the Danish flag across the world.

That dream was realised years ago! (Information provided from the 2012 Nilfisk-Advance Financial Review).

Gavin Herold

Our goal is to concentrate our efforts in the contract cleaning and institutional fields as well as the retail industry and both the private and public health sectors.

African Cleaning Review January/February 2014

9

industry news Golden Service Awards for Tsebo Cleaning Solutions

T

sebo Cleaning Services, a subsidiary of Tsebo Outsourcing Group, collected five Golden Service Awards at South Africa’s premier cleaning service awards, held during October 2013.

The Kimberly-Clark Professional* Golden Service Awards offers contract cleaning companies the opportunity to promote the admirable work and service undertaken by its cleaning teams that gives them recognition they deserve within the industry.

The awards, sponsored by Numatic International and endorsed by the National Contract Cleaners Association and the Black Economic Empowerment Cleaning Association, were awarded to Tsebo Cleaning Services in the following categories: 1. Medium commercial category for cleaning services provided at the

Department of Basic Education, Pretoria (DOBE); 2. Large healthcare category for cleaning services provided at Netcare Sunward Park, Boksburg; 3. Commercial cleaning small, for cleaning services at Gautrain bus depot, Mega Express, Midrand; 4. Team leader award in the category small; and 5. A regional skills development award.

Tsebo Cleaning Services MD, Joe Mahlare commented, “We are delighted and honoured to walk away with five awards this year. The recognition needs to go to my team members who are always committed to delivering great quality work for all our customers. Although we won in five categories, I am most proud of our Skills Develpment Award. We invest heavily in our staff by giving

Joe Mahlare

them access to recognised training programmes at all levels. By providing formal training processes and standards, along with investing in our people and technology, we are able to provide a higher quality of service to all our customers.”

Tablet app makes handwashing fun

H

aving a sick child can wreak havoc on parents’ work-life balance – unexpectedly missing a day of work, negotiating which parent stays home, etc. Eight out of 10 parents with young children (86%) experience some level of stress when a child is sick, new research reveals. According to the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) and Prevention, the simple act of handwashing is the single most important means of preventing the spread of viral and bacterial infections. Therefore on Global Handwashing Day, global hygiene company SCA launched a new tablet app that teaches pre-school children the importance of proper handwashing.

10

African Cleaning Review January/February 2014

The app, “Ella’s Hand Washing Adventure,” shows children how, when and why to wash their hands using a fun, storytelling approach. Parents and teachers can use the app to teach good hand hygiene practices at home and at school to reduce the spread of germs and infections. According to a new survey of American parents also released by SCA, 82 percent of parents with children aged 2–6 believe that better hand hygiene at their child’s pre-school, elementary school or day-care could reduce the occurrence of family sick days. “Simply washing your hands effectively prevents infections, particularly among young kids in busy pre-school and day-care environments where they are constantly using their hands to explore food and objects, interact with other children, and more,” said Amy Bellcourt, Vice President of SCA. “Building on SCA’s commitment to global hygiene, the app teaches children to embrace washing their hands, and helps parents and teachers impart good hygiene at an early age and reduce the impact of having a child stay home due to sickness.” SCA manufactures the Tork®

brand of hygiene products, including Tork Elevation hand towel dispensers which reduce waste and the risk of crosscontamination in environments such as school restrooms, cafeterias, office buildings and sports facilities.

The new app is a part of our commitment to keep hygiene topof-mind, offering an engaging and entertaining tool to minimise infections and make life easier for both parents and teachers. The tablet app, “Ella’s Hand Washing Adventure,’’ is an interactive experience that combines play and learning to teach children between 2–6 years’ old why, when and how to wash their hands in four simple steps.

The child moves through the app story with the main character, Ella, and her friends. Features in the app are based on SCA’s knowledge and expertise in handwashing, and the app is fact-checked by the Department of Communicable Disease Control (SMI) in Västra Götaland, Sweden.

“Ella’s Hand Washing Adventure’’ is available on both the Apple App Store and Google Play.

African Cleaning Review January/February 2014

11

industry news Kimberly-Clark partners with UNICEF for hand hygiene awareness

K

imberly-Clark Corporation and UNICEF are joining forces to bring greater attention to life-saving hygiene practices, according to a press release. For the second consecutive year, The Healthy Workplace Project is launching a 30-day Global Handwashing Day challenge, according to a press release. This year’s challenge, with the Kleenex brand joining as a new supporter, will culminate in a US$50 000 donation

to support a UNICEF water, sanitation and hygiene initiative. From 1 November 2013, people can participate in The Global Handwashing Day Challenge by completing a short hygiene-and-sanitationthemed online crossword puzzle, or by signing up to “Take the Pledge” to be a Handwashing Champion. Following the conclusion of the challenge, the Kimberly-Clark Foundation will donate US$50 000 to support the programme

that receives the most votes. “Enhancing health and hygiene efforts around the world is crucial to help reduce the spread of illness and disease.

We are proud to support UNICEF and Global Handwashing Day to improve the health and wellbeing of children and families everywhere,” remarked Joel Schellhammer, Kimberly-Clark Professional* go-to-market leader for offices and education.

Dedicated steam cleaning pavilion at show

T

he organisers of the 25th ISSA/INTERCLEAN exhibition announced the launch of a dedicated Steam Cleaning Pavilion.

Steam cleaning companies will be conveniently clustered to service the visitor in the time they spend at the show and make it easier to get the most out of their visit. The pavilion is said to become a comprehensive showcase and information resource for the steam cleaning sector.

“The steam cleaning sector has rapidly developed in the past years, and shifted from mainly consumer appliances to better and broader solutions for the professional market, witnessed also by the expanding number of steam cleaning manufacturers exhibiting at ISSA/INTERCLEAN,” explains ISSA/ INTERCLEAN manager, Rob den Hertog.

“By creating a Steam pavilion, we want to highlight the developments and innovations that have taken place in recent years. In our evaluations the

12

African Cleaning Review January/February 2014

Washroom and High Pressure dedicated pavilions were widely recognised as helping the visitors with their time management by clustering the companies in the specific segments together.“ Thomas Stuecken, Chairman of OSPREYDEEPCLEAN and CCO of the new OSPREYFRANK Group explains, “As the leading group in developing and manufacturing mobile and stationary dry-steam cleaning technologies we are experiencing a significant market growth for highly efficient and detergentfree cleaning solutions in the field of industrial degreasing, for example before painting and coating, and also in the field of sanitation of conveyor belts in the food processing sector.”

The dedicated Steam Cleaning Area will be located in Hall 11, adjacent to the dedicated Washroom Area, and has direct access to an outside demonstration area for special and outdoor applications. The Steam

Cleaning Area, sharing with Washroom, will have a dedicated seminar theatre where a series of keynote and exhibitor presentations will be held. ISSA/ INTERCLEAN Amsterdam will take place from 6–9 May 2014 at Amsterdam RAI, the Netherlands.

African Cleaning Review January/February 2014

13

industry news Panel of judges impressed by dry vac features

S

ebo Stein & Co. GmbH was declared the winner in the Machinery category with their Sebo Professional D8 dry vacuum cleaner at the recent CMS 2013 Exhibition held in Germany. The features of the vacuum cleaner that impressed the panel of judges most were the rotating suction tube, the infinitely variable output control and the IEC connector for simplified operation.

The judges were also impressed by several other attributes, such as the patented foam bumper that absorbs impact and protects the furniture and walls, in the building being cleaned, from scratches and marks. It also features holes all around it under the textile material, through which the air is exhausted. This action cleverly helps reduce noise.

Offering S-Class filtration for use around those with allergies and asthma, and with a filter bag that has an impressive six-litre capacity with a large opening that is easy to fit, this machine also has a motor-protection filter that sits directly under the motor itself. This, too, plays a big part in reducing noise, allowing the machine to be used in quiet environments.

The vacuum cleaner has an energysaving, 1,200 W motor and is equipped with a practical stainless steel hosepipe system, the different components of which can be easily fitted into each other, allowing the hose to be extended by an additional 49.5 cm.

The low profile head itself simplifies cleaning under low units and unlike many other vacuum cleaners, the head

does not tilt upwards when the hose is aligned to the floor, allowing for lower access. Another useful feature is the ability for the 15.5 m lead to be replaced quickly and easily without tools, via the simple plug-in IEC connector – saving time and costly repair bills. The tools are all cleverly stowed away in the machine’s underbelly and parking is simple, either in the upright or horizontal position.

Acquisition will enhance SA operations significantly

G

lobal cleaning equipment giant Nilfisk-Advance announced during January its acquisition of 100 percent of South Africa’s leading cleaning solutions company Industroclean, effective from 2 January 2014. Nilfisk-Advance employs 5 200 people, boasts total net sales of €871m (2012), has sales entities in 44 countries and manufacturing facilities in 8 countries. The company employs more than 250 engineers committed to product development.

The first substantial share in Industroclean was acquired by NilfiskAdvance during 2010, and since then a strong partnership and strategic alliance was established with Industroclean by gaining access to the company’s outstanding levels of expertise and its well-established presence in the contract cleaning, institutional, and healthcare sectors. Founded in 1980 by Arthur Bath, Dave Manson and Terence Waterston, Industroclean rapidly grew into a formidable force within the professional cleaning sector to where it currently holds a market-leading position in South Africa. The company

14

African Cleaning Review January/February 2014

Pictured at Industroclean offices are from left: Reinhard Vollmer (Wap SA), Gavin Herold and Dave Manson (Industroclean).

has 11 outlets located in all major metropolitan centres and it has sold Nilfisk equipment, in close co-operation with the Nilfisk-Advance branches, since 2010.

“We continuously strive to expand our service offering to our customers and increase market reach,” says Anders Terkildsen, Executive Vice President and responsible for EMEA Sales and Service in Nilfisk-Advance.

“Industroclean is a specialist supplier to institutions and contract cleaners in South Africa and together we have built a marketleading position in those segments. With Industroclean’s dedicated training division, offering application and cleaning training for the cleaning staff and site managers, we offer comprehensive cleaning solutions combining both equipment, detergent, application knowledge and training in one package,” says Anders Terkildsen.

“Going forward Industroclean, headed by GM Gavin Herold and fellow

Nilfisk-Advance company Wap SA, will operate in tandem as two autonomous sales companies. Each will continue to concentrate on its respective markets but now offering a greatly enhanced infrastructure, product portfolio and with improved market penetration”, commented Reinhard Vollmer GM Wap SA. Former Industroclean Director Dave Manson will not be entirely lost to the industry or the company as he has acquired the George (Western Cape) distributorship and will therefore remain part of the Industroclean family, now as a distributor.

He says, “In going forward I am pleased to continue my association with Industroclean as I firmly believe in its potential and I am confident that it is this salient aspect rather than the ability of its personalities that initially attracted Nilfisk-Advance’s interest as a vehicle to further develop their footprint in southern Africa”.

African Cleaning Review January/February 2014

15

16

African Cleaning Review January/February 2014

African Cleaning Review January/February 2014

17

feature hand dryers

Hand dryers past and present

By Dean Smith

Hand dryers are punted as the ultimate solution in the modern washroom because they benefit the environment by reducing paper use and associated waste. They also reduce costs and alleviate washroom maintenance.

In this article Dean Smith of Costa Lambrianos (Pty) Ltd, leading importer of hand dryers into southern Africa, sheds more light on hand dryer issues, past and present.

D

uring a visit to the U.S., Costa Lambrianos came across the introduction of hot air dryers into the international market. Realising the potential for an alternative way of drying hands, he concluded a distributor agreement and received the first shipment of hot air hand dryers in South Africa in 1985. At the time the market was dominated by continuous cotton towels, with paper towels a close second.

However, it was not all plain sailing as once the dryers arrived, it became clear that it would not be easy to convince the market of the benefits of the new system over that of the traditional hand drying methods.

Costa also realised that he was about to embark on a long market education process and, in doing so, would pioneer the use of the airdrying systems as we know it today.

Companies were renting the cotton towel service, and Costa knew he would have to offer the products on a rental basis in order to compete.

Once the service industry realised the benefits of the new system they too followed suit and Costa ceased to rent, and concentrated on servicing the rental market.

Hand dryer metamorphosis The early models were expensive, bulky, loud and cumbersome to operate, with unhygienic push button systems. Electric motors were inefficient and the housings were visually unattractive. Over the years

18

African Cleaning Review January/February 2014

the product offering has become smaller, with automatic sensors replacing the buttons; energy-hungry motors have been replaced by smaller more efficient motors, generating more power and consuming as little as 500 Kwh compared with 2,500 Kwh or more. A real weakness of hand dryers in the early days was the time it took to dry your hands compared with the traditional methods. The top selling hand dryers in the market today take as little as 10 to 15 seconds to dry hands, with no waste and at a fraction of the cost of traditional methods.

Applications Traditionally hand dryers had limited applications, and were restricted to high traffic areas only. However, new technology now allows dryers to also be used in high traffic areas such as shopping malls, train stations, airports, schools, office blocks and even in homes. HEPA filters are now being fitted to dryers, and the American Food and Drug authorities have approved these to be used in food and medical environments, previously considered unacceptable.

by a registered electrician and require minimal maintenance.

Outright purchase Initial purchasing costs are higher than traditional methods, however the return on investment far outweighs the initial costs. If the correct dryer is purchased with the correct international and SABS approvals, up to 95 percent can be saved on every hand dryer compared with traditional methods.

Dryers per washroom?

As with all systems offered, traffic in the washroom needs to be measured in order to decide the number of hand drying units to install. Fast drying systems lend themselves to high traffic areas, and the number of units will depend on the number of dries required per hour during peak times, i.e. when a plane arrives, intervals at shows, meal times at restaurants etc.

It is, however, generally considered that one dryer should service 2–3 basins in order to prevent bottlenecks from forming.

Compliance Installation Installing the correct hand dryer in the right environment will result in cost-saving, minimal environmental impact, reduce waste-generation and cleaner intervention. With proper consideration of walls and existing wiring, hand dryers are relatively easily to install at various designated heights

It is a legal requirement to submit hand dryer models to the South African Bureau of Standards (SABS) for approval prior to offering it for sale on the South African market. Hand dryer buyers should therefore take care not to purchase units that do not comply and should rather insist on a SABS compliance certificate prior to signing

feature hand dryers the purchase order. It is important to realise that, if there are any failures in the use of non-compliant hand dryers, it could cause damage to property or – even worse – electrocution. Both the seller as well as the buyer could therefore face serious consequences.

The future for hand dryers

Dean Smith

The early models were expensive, bulky, loud and cumbersome to operate with unhygienic push button systems. Electric motors were inefficient and the housings were visually unattractive.

Dryers will continue to improve, and we foresee smaller, more energy efficient units, fitted with noise suppression systems and safer products being introduced to the markets. New technology caters for drying all sides of your hands at once, the heating element is replaced by a higher cold airflow and air that is recirculated within the machine and then released through a HEPA – filtered exhaust. With greater environmental awareness and the need for cost effective and cleaner washrooms, more facility managers should consider hand dryers that consume less energy but offer more drying power.

African Cleaning Review January/February 2014

19

advertorial costa lambrianos

Over its long lifespan Xlerator hand dryers reduce the environmental impact of hand drying by between 50–70 percent.

According to an independent Life Cycle Assessment to ISO 14040, Xlerator hand dryers achieve this reduced impact compared to conventional electric hand dryers and paper towels (new and 100% recycled content).

Xlerator helps you qualify for LEED (Leadership in Energy & Environmental Design) Credits, with LEED accreditation for energy performance in two categories.

These are just a few reasons why Xlerator was selected for the renovated headquarters of the U.S. Green Building Council, the first project to achieve LEED Platinum accreditation under the newest version of its green building rating system.

Xlerator is the first hand dryer to achieve GreenSpecŠ listing and is certified under the Greener Products scheme.

Xlerator hand dryers are distributed in Southern Africa by Costa Lambrianos (Pty) Ltd.

For more information contact Dean Smith: dean@c-l.co.za

20

African Cleaning Review January/February 2014

laundry review

Workwear to be fit for purpose and laundry friendly

W

hen a company provides workwear to its employees, a number of considerations need to be balanced. Ensuring that the garment is suited to the work environment is obviously the main consideration, but other important elements include the employee’s comfort and its durability for the laundering process says Carl Gibbins, Divisional Director at First Garment Rental, a Bidvest Laundry Group company.

Gibbins adds that the first thing is to understand the working environment, as this will affect the type of fabric chosen.

While First Garment Rental has a wide range of standard poly-cottons and cottons in various colours, some environments such as pharmaceuticals, medical and automotive manufacturing require lint-free, anti-static or antibacterial fabric. These particular fabrics can be laundered through the company’s clean room facility.

Mr Gibbins says it is important that his team understands the requirements

of the industry in which the client operates to ensure that the garment design is practical. They will assess the environment, ensure wearability and comfort, while ensuring that the right product is selected from a design, weight and protectiveness perspective. For example: in the food-preparation industry, inside pockets are preferred because there is a risk of contamination if something falls out of the pocket.

First Garment Rental is also using Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) tags for an increasing number of its blue chip clients.

RFID tags are sewn into each garment and allow it to be tracked through the whole process, from issuing it to the employee, return for laundering and then through the laundering and ironing process to eventual re-issue. At each “milestone” in the process, a scanner picks up the tag via the impulse it emits, allowing each individual garment to be tracked with a clear audit trail.

Clients, in fact, are starting to use the system to complement their timeand-attendance systems because each garment is issued to a unique individual, often based on biometric information (for example, a thumbprint). The RFID tagging allows First Garment Rental to create accurate reports of how long each garment remains in use, what repairs have been done and generally manage stock more effectively. The performance of each type of fabric can also be monitored to refine the design choices.

“The RFID tagging is also playing a key role for clients who need to provide auditable evidence that certain hygiene standards are being met when it comes to food preparation in particular,” says Gibbins. “We can provide an audit trail to show that frequency with which garments are laundered is in accordance with the guidelines for hygiene safety.

Training specialist laundry engineers

G

auteng’s Department of Infrastructure Development has embarked on a major development programme to train their engineers as “specialist” laundry engineers.

During August last year 18 Engineers and Artisans from the Administration attended the Laundry and Textiles Consultancy (LTC) ‘Introduction to Laundry Technology – Part 1 – Washing Technology’ three-day workshop.

Due to the outstanding success of this workshop, ‘Part 2 of the Laundry Technology programme – Finishing technology’ four-day course was taken during December 2013 at the Holiday Inn Garden Court – OR Tambo Airport Hotel.

The 18 delegates (16 from the Gauteng Department of Infrastructure) as well as one delegate from Triple M Andrew, and a new technician – Julia Scafidas – now working with LTC – took this course with 16 of the 18 delegates passing the 90 minute

written examination – with one delegate achieving a staggering 99.6 percent.

LTC have put together a programme of training courses for 2014 to be held

around the country in Johannesburg, Cape Town and Durban.

For more information contact: ian@laundryandtextiles.com

Gordon Makgomare, Jaulane Amos Mokhema, Kudzaishe Chimobe, Jannie Vermeulen, Heidi Shalati Simango, Andries Makinta, Chabalala Themba, Martha Koenane, Aaron Matamela, Lwandile Ntuli, Gumani Metshituni, Hlayisani Rikhotso, Jemina Radebe, Allan Mac Nicol and Julia Scafidas.

African Cleaning Review January/February 2014

21

facilities management review

Does size matter when selecting a cleaning company?

Will the globalisation of Facilities Management (FM) and the rise in integrated contracts threaten to push small and medium-sized enterprises (SMMEs) out of the market? Carl Robinson, marketing manager at UK cleaning and FM company Nviro, draws some very interesting and thought-provoking parallels whilst deliberating the pros and cons of integrated FM, and he also explains how SMME cleaning companies can stay afloat in the current climate.

O

ver the years the FM industry has seen a huge rise in mergers, with companies not just looking to take over large areas of the market place nationally, but on a widespread global scale. For both hard and soft services, this globalisation of acquisitions and the expansion of the services offered by single companies is slowly squeezing SMMEs out of the procurement process.

Those at the lower end and middlemarket players within the cleaning industry now have to fight a harder battle when it comes to tendering for new contracts.

When you consider the motives behind procurement and purchasing decisions, a large company will have the economies of scale and may possess both cost and price leadership.

This quickly renders competitor bids uncompetitive where low price is the driving factor, and leaves SMMEs with little chance of even entering into the procurement process for many contracts.

In this scenario it isn’t just the contractors who are taking the blame for lowering costs during tendering. Clients are looking to save on their own budgets, and they can’t be accountable for seeking global players who they believe can offer a range of services at the right price.

However, when you consider the argument between procuring SMMEs or larger FM companies offering integrated services, there is a strange paradox relating to company size when it comes to success at winning business.

22

African Cleaning Review January/February 2014

On one hand, a customer might wonder whether a large company is too big, and that the custom given by the contractor would be insignificant in the grand scheme of operations for a company with a high market share. On the other hand, a large company would in most cases be more financially resilient than your typical cleaning contractor, so a client may seek this security within the contract.

A big threat to SMMEs is the increase in the demand for integrated services. An important question arising from this is whether or not this attraction to integrated FM automatically disqualifies a single service cleaning provider. Typically speaking, those companies that can offer an integrated service are bigger, with many strings to their bow. But in this instance, the customer is not necessarily simply choosing an integrated FM company because it is big and successful, but because it offers the package that is being sought.

Distinct disciplines SMMEs tend not to be able to offer integrated service solutions as it requires very distinct disciplines that are generally the preserve of more cash-rich entities. This means that those seeking integrated FM have no choice but to approach the bigger companies, potentially leaving the smaller players out of the running altogether as they simply don’t have the means to provide the service.

Integrated FM customer demand in some cases can be borne out of a belief that by having one company service multiple FM needs, you can save money. However, this is not a given and is quite often a fallacy. In the current economic climate budgets are certainly stretched, yet clients and suppliers should have value for money at the top of their agendas, not price. It’s imperative to bear in mind that prices can be lowered without affecting services and it’s about finding the companies that successfully work towards this correct approach.

There’s nothing worse than discovering problems within the delivery of a contract further down the line. This can be very costly and can lead to the premature end of some contracts, so companies need to be aware of how costs are being cut and how this influences the contract.

A shift in focus needs to be taken away from being attracted by a lower price. This culture of ‘cheap is better’ is drummed not just into business, but our everyday lives. It’s important to remember that quality and function must always outweigh the influence of low prices. It’s often better to pay a little bit more so you aren’t re-tendering every six months.

One argument that often crops up in regard to large companies offering integrated FM contracts is the quality of service that is being delivered across all disciplines. If a plumber came to fix the boiler, would you let him rewire a light,

facilities management review Integrated FM customer demand in some cases can be born out of a belief that by having one company service multiple FM needs, you can save money. However, this is not a given and quite often a fallacy. or build a garden wall? In most cases a plumber might be able to build a garden wall, but it won’t be standing for long.

In the same way, is an FM company that delivers security, catering and front-of-house, among a raft of other services, going to be able to offer a top class cleaning service?

There has been a constant diversification of service delivery towards integrated services and FM throughout Europe. This will continue as companies grow and attempt to satisfy the demands of new and existing markets that are increasingly seeking integrated packages. However, as companies expand, it is harder to consistently supply best service, and this is where smaller companies can play up to their strengths.

Instead of trying to expand and dilute services, cleaning companies are using single service delivery as a selling point. Contract cleaners can now prove their worth against integrated and total facilities management contracts by demonstrating a delivery of not just basic, but specialist cleaning services.

Instead of attempting to provide new specialities all together, companies who perform office cleaning might add washroom cleaning, food hygiene, window cleaning or many other disciplines to their roster. This offers them the chance to expand their client base, while keeping a firm focus on delivering what they know best.

Contract stability Stability is very attractive when it comes to procurement, and this is a factor that can see clients prioritise perceived contract solidity over performance levels. Company maturity and high turnover are undoubtedly surface signs of steadiness, knowledge and success for big businesses. The danger here is that problems tend to emerge after a contract has been awarded.

Clients tend to favour contractors with a large portfolio of big contracts, however, this may be the very reason that they feel undervalued, as their custom appears as a mere drop in the proverbial FM ocean. The larger the business, the larger the complexity of operations and (arguably) subsequent susceptibility to risk. This is where smaller cleaning providers have the upper hand. These companies, with a substantially smaller portion of the market share, will have an eager-toplease attitude and will work hard to retain contracts as they try to gain market share.

Having fewer contracts and the ability to offer a more proactive approach may be an advantage for SMMEs, but in an increasingly global industry, another challenge for them is qualification. The barriers of entry for smaller companies are now higher during the tendering process. Companies must demonstrate successes in past contracts to satisfy very high criteria levels. If you can’t show that you have achieved results in a similar sized contract then you can be out of the running before you’ve even heard the starting pistol.

Because of this, smaller companies attempting to make their way into new and bigger contracts will struggle to get past new hurdles eg, ensuring they have all relevant accreditations, good references, solid supply chain and in some cases even affiliations with other FM companies.

Some cleaning SMMEs have attempted to create these affiliations/ partnerships, working collaboratively to produce tenders or proposals for business. For example, a cleaning company teams up with a security firm in order to reach tender stage. This can be seen as more of a patchwork of services rather than a solid integrated delivery by one company, yet may yield better results overall as the individual company retains its specialism.

There is further hope for SMMEs in their battle to keep up with big businesses in the new European Commission initiative to tackle regulation on SMMEs. The commission will be looking at REACH chemical legislation, value added tax, public procurement and labour market-related legislation, among many others this year with a view to assist SMMEs in growing their business and untangling the web of regulation. This comes in line with the recent public procurement reform, which aims to improve SMMEs’ access to national tenders, reduce red tape and boost cross-border activity.

Not the norm Although there is a fear within SMMEs that big FM companies will continue to push them further outside of the market, it’s important to remember that not all clients seek integrated services.

The Shard building in London is a great example of this. Instead of seeking an integrated package, London Bridge Quarter Estate Management, the team running the project, sought the expertise of a range of single service specialists: it favoured service partners with clear specialisms over a total FM contract.

This example offers great hope for smaller cleaning companies, and could in fact spell the beginning of a huge change when it comes to contracting of cleaning services. If we look back over the years it’s key to mention the cyclical nature of this interest in integrated FM. With the query of price at the top of the agenda for most businesses it’s not surprising that interest has again peaked, yet we could be seeing an end to this current phase within the next few years.

With the eyes of the world on the building of The Shard, the process of procuring specialist services fell under the spotlight and could very easily have the power to influence others. Integrated services may offer cheaper prices and be easier for clients to manage, but there will always be customers that seek the specialist skills of single service contract cleaners, who will no doubt continue to hold their own and stay afloat on this changing tide.

For more information visit: www.nviro.co.uk

African Cleaning Review January/February 2014

23

feature chemicals in cleaning

Myths and realities about VOCs

By Jennifer Meek

As an employee of a green cleaning product manufacturer – many of which contain significantly reduced amounts of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) – it might come as a surprise that I admit the following: not all VOCs are harmful. Assuming that all VOCs are harmful is one of several misconceptions about them. While some of these negative perceptions are indeed warranted, some are not.

T

he U.S. Environmental Protection Agency – or EPA – defines VOCs as “gases emitted from certain solids or liquids. These include a variety of chemicals, some of which may have short- and long-term adverse health effects. Examples of products that may emit VOCs include paints, paint strippers, conventional cleaning chemicals, pesticides, building materials and furnishings, office equipment such as copiers and printers, glues and adhesives, permanent markers, and photographic solutions.”

The following is designed to correct or clarify some of the common misconceptions about VOCs.

how harmful a VOC may be is the level of exposure, the length of exposure, and whether the exposure is in the outdoor environment or indoors. VOCs can build up indoors, and as they do, they have greater potential of affecting health.

Misconception No. 2 “All VOCs are man-made.” While many of the more problematic VOCs are found in paints, building materials, and conventional cleaning products, large amounts of VOCs are also emitted from natural sources such as plants and trees. In some cases, the odours or fragrances released by plants are actually volatiles – a form of VOCs.

Other factors that can have an impact on how harmful a VOC may be is the level of exposure, the length of exposure, and whether the exposure is in the outdoor environment or indoors.

Misconception No. 1 “All VOCs are harmful.” For the most part, all VOCs are harmful. Individually, some VOCs are more harmful than others. However, just about all VOCs react with oxides of nitrogen and create ground-level ozone. VOCs have different toxicities, some of which can negatively affect health while others have little or no known effect. Other factors that can have an impact on

24

African Cleaning Review January/February 2014

These emissions typically come from the leaves of some plants, and levels can vary depending on temperature, sunlight, growth of the plant, and a variety of other factors. Because these VOCs are released in the outdoor environment, they may have less impact on human health. However, the bottom line is that while many manmade products do release VOCs, nature does a pretty good job of it as well.

Misconception No. 3 “If a product claims zero VOCs, then it has zero VOCs?” This is partially true. There really is no such thing as a completely zero-VOC or VOCfree product. However, if a product has only what is referred to as trace amounts of VOCs, it may be able to claim it has none. However, manufacturers – including cleaning manufacturers – must be very careful using this zero-VOC claim. In 2012, two leading paint companies that claimed some of their paints had zero VOCs faced charges of misleading customers from the U.S. Federal Trade Commission (FTC). According to the FTC, the paints did release more than a trace amount of VOCs when used in certain situations and, as a result, could not make the VOC-free claims.

Precautions nonetheless While we now know that some VOCs may have little or no effect on human health, the reality is that many can and do negatively affect health. This impact can be worse on young children and the elderly than on others. With this in mind, cleaning professionals should always take the following steps to help minimise VOC exposure for themselves and all building occupants: • Always ensure there is adequate ventilation when using certain products such as paints, building materials, and even some conventional cleaning products.

feature chemicals in cleaning

A new Web-based product

However, manufacturers – including cleaning manufacturers – must be very careful using this zero-VOC claim.

registry Transpare®, from ISSA and their partners at Ecoform, now offers a tool that provides specific

• T ry not to store large containers of chemicals or other products in the workplace.

• Even when stored in containers, it can release potentially harmful VOCs. • If selecting a product for a school or a facility used by elderly people, read the product’s label, read the product’s material safety data sheet, and ask your distributor about the product’s VOC levels. Typically, a green-certified product will have fewer VOCs than a conventional product.

• Always follow the instructions on how to dilute the product as well as how to use it.

Finally, many cleaning professionals are now directly involved in the operations of the facilities they clean and maintain. Be sure to advise building owners and managers that VOCs are found in a wide variety of products – from glues to carpets to cleaning products – and before selecting any building material for the facility, consider that product’s VOCs content.

Jennifer Meek is the Director of Marketing

information about the key environmental, health, and safety attributes of cleaning products. For more information, visit www.transpare.com.

Separate yourself from the competition and meet your customers’ needs by

for Charlotte Products, manufacturers of

cleaning with the proper

professional cleaning and green cleaning

products.

products. For more information visit: www.charlotteproducts.com

African Cleaning Review January/February 2014

25

educational

Top ten reasons to use heat when cleaning carpets

Leading manufacturer of portable hot-water carpet extractors, U.S. Product recently released a “top ten list” of reasons why heat is so essential to carpet cleaning.

A

ccording to Mark Cuddy, a professional cleaning industry veteran and national sales manager for U.S. Products, there has been a bit of a “back and forth” through the years when it comes to the use of heat in carpet cleaning.

“But the science of cleaning and the facts speak for themselves,” says Cuddy. “Invariably, the use of heat and hot-water carpet extractors improves [carpet] cleaning performance.”

Cuddy provides the following top ten reasons why carpets should be cleaned using heat: 1. Studies dating back to the 1800s indicate the effectiveness of cleaning chemicals is usually increased as water temperature increases. This principle holds true for most carpet cleaning solutions – hotter water increases the molecular activity (and cleaning capability).

26

African Cleaning Review January/February 2014

2. Tests conducted on behalf of the United States Environmental Protection Agency report that the hot water extraction cleaning process reduces the level of biological contamination in carpeting.

3. The use of hotter water can reduce the use of cleaning chemicals.

4. By increasing the heat of the water, the greater the cleaning power. Heat weakens the physical bond between the dirt/stains to the various surfaces to which the dirt is sticking.

5. Heat reduces the surface tension of water, enabling faster, more efficient cleaning than with cold water.

6. Hotter cleaning solution also contributes to faster evaporation of residual moisture resulting in faster drying of the carpets and reducing “downtime.” Heat enhances lowmoisture carpet cleaning, reducing water usage and allowing carpets to dry more quickly.

7. With the chemicals working more effectively, the technician’s job is usually easier.

8. Heat provides more satisfactory cleaning results, which in turn creates greater customer satisfaction and loyalty.

9. Heat enhances worker productivity, which translates into more money.

10. “And the tenth tip deals with the chemicals used in carpet cleaning,” adds Cuddy. “Because more chemicals are typically used in carpet cleaning than other forms of cleaning, if less chemicals are needed, using hot water can be a cost saving as well.”

U.S. Products is a leading manufacturer of carpet, upholstery, drapery, stone, concrete, and tile cleaning and restoration equipment, tools, and chemicals for the floor care professional. For more information visit: www.usproducts.com

pest review

Preventing fly investation

I

t’s summer and they’re around. If flies would just live up to their name and keep flying it wouldn’t be so bad; it’s all the settling that causes irritation to humans, their pets and other animals.

Apart from being annoying, flies are known to spread disease. Their sticky foot pads, used to anchor them to surfaces, are carriers of leftover particles of excrement or garbage, which in turn can be transferred quickly onto your food, because flies defecate every four to five minutes. The source of these particles can be as far away as 2.6 kilometres, which is well within the average house fly’s feeding range.

Flies are known to spread diseases like malaria, typhoid fever, cholera, conjunctivitis, tuberculosis and diarrhoea.

They also cause parasitic tape worms in poultry and horses.

People who neglect to empty and disinfect their garbage bins on a regular

basis should be reminded that a single un-emptied bin can be the breeding ground for 30 000 flies. Females lay up to 600 eggs and can reproduce a new generation every two weeks. Each fly egg hatches into a small, grub-like, creature (larva), which looks more like an inchworm than a fly. Those little maggots you see in decaying food or dead animals are baby flies. By eating nutrients from soil, ponds or even in the sea, they will grow to adult fly size within a few days.

Hot weather – such as the kind South Africans generally experience during the summer increases the probability of large scale infestations.

Here are some tips to prevent a fly infestation this summer: • Limit flies’ ability to breed and feed by removing their food sources, such as leftover food and soft fruits, as well as any sources of stagnant water, which is prone to be their breeding ground.

• I n summer, put a household fan near the most vulnerable areas in your home, like your fruit bowl, and keep it blowing across the fruit. Flies cannot land in a cross wind.

• Empty garbage cans at least twice a week, keep them as far away from doors as possible.

• Seal any entry points around windows and doors using sealant as caulking to plug the holes.

The next time you see a fly make sure to remember the facts before allowing them to become a permanent feature in your home.

For more information visit: www.rentokil.co.za/ commercial-customers/pest-problems/flycontrol/index.html

African Cleaning Review January/February 2014

27

advertorial meondo trading

Interview with Meondo Trading’s Jay Moodley

M

eondo Trading 369 cc founded in 2006 by Jay and Nevi Moodley (who collectively boast 40 years experience in the cleaning industry), is a progressive entity.

Meondo‘s successful trading has enabled the company to increase its annual turnover by 70.58 percent and it now provides professional cleaning services to clients in Kwa-Zulu Natal, Gauteng, Eastern Cape, Western Cape and also across the border, in Zambia.

Although the company started off as a cleaning service provider it has since diversified into other areas including garden services, auto valet and wash bay services, trolley management, high level cleaning, deep cleaning and carpet cleaning to multiple industry sectors. Jay Moodley talks openly about their dreams for the future.

What sets your company apart in the cleaning industry?

At Meondo Trading we are very passionate about the cleaning industry.

The staff understands the responsibilities of providing such an essential service to all sectors of the South African community. We enhance the image of our clients’ organisations through our professional and reliable service, our knowledgeable employees and our positive can-do-attitude.

What is Meondo’s Vision?

Our mission is to embrace the constitution of our country and ensure that we are committed to legislation that addresses transformation. We value the skills of our people and are working together towards excellence in satisfying the needs of our clients. Meondo Trading is not only a pioneer in the corporate cleaning sector, but also trendsetters that, through the incorporation of excellence and quality services, set the benchmark for other service providers.

opportunities throughout the country.

We will continue to provide the same level of excellence that our customers have come to expect from the Meondo brand while pursuing new opportunities to produce service quality with even more exceptional results. We do not give up nor do we back down from any challenges and are excited to push our own limits in our pursuit of excellence.

What do you regard as your biggest challenges?

We find that one of the biggest challenges facing the industry today stems from the cutthroat attitude of some clients, demanding more for less mainly due to the current economic climate. However we try to work together with our clients to find common ground, come up with ways to meet their needs at a reasonable price and retain work by minimising cost and risk factors – thus creating a win-win situation for all.

The cleaning industry is labour driven and retaining good workers is an ongoing challenge. However we invest our time and resources in keeping abreast with modern cleaning technology and constantly training staff in order to lift their skills levels, thereby elevating cleaning well above the so-called mop and bucket operation.

Are you optimistic about the future of this industry?

There is always a need for a clean environment, whether it’s a clean house, office, window, car or buildings.

Companies and individuals are always looking for someone to take over that part of their day-to-day aspect of life.

The opportunities in this industry are limitless as people are constantly moving forward by upgrading and renovating buildings as business grows.

What makes this industry unique?

Your goals for 2014 Meondo Trading is expanding rapidly due to the increasing rate of business

28

African Cleaning Review January/February 2014

With all industries there are good and, unfortunately, bad aspects. Unlike production, this industry is not that

Jay Moodley predictable. Every day is different from the next. There is always a new mopping system, new chemicals to test, new floor types to maintain and preserve. You have to keep up to date with all the latest machines and cleaning innovations as that separates your enterprise from other cleaning service providers.

Unfortunately this industry is also labour driven and that poses its own set of challenges every day. It’s not just machines you can set and operate the way you want to; policies and procedures need to be put in place to control and maintain work, which protects employees and our clients.

How do you maintain good relationships with your customers?

Our success is dependent on our highly skilled staff lead by very dedicated, trustworthy and reliable management and executives who ensure that all tasks are executed efficiently by utilising SABS approved chemicals and equipment. Daily inspections by management ensure that we maintain the benchmark of excellence that we strive for. Our primary responsibilities are to maintain health and safety, preserve surfaces, finishes and fittings and to maintain appearance levels in order to enhance the image of our client’s organisation through our work.

Who are your strategic business suppliers and customers?

Our leading supplier is Numatic International. Strategically we have

advertorial meondo trading Why do you prefer Numatic International products?

policies and procedures to ensure the excellent service we render to our clients. Internal policies include training rosters, inspections, QA (Quality Analysis) reports, etc.

Pick n Pay is currently our foremost customer; Meondo Trading conducts daily, weekly and monthly inspections on site. To ensure consistent work flow, Meondo Trading has a management staff base that deals directly with our customers on site comprising Team Leaders, Site Supervisors, Site Managers, Area Managers, Area Supervisors, Regional Managers and National Operations. This ensures constant communication and immediate response time to our clients.

Numatic International has proven to be our leading supplier as the service delivery and the quality of their products are exceptional. Numatic International also provides induction training programmes and on-site training programmes for all Meondo Staff with regards to their equipment.

Their excellent maintenance schedules and programmes ensure that all equipment and machinery are in good working condition all the time.

Numatic’s response time has proven to be invaluable especially in this fast-paced and demanding industry which makes them our Number One supplier.

What would you highlight about your company?

We are proud to say that Meondo Trading is certified with the following: • BBBEE Level 1 Accreditation • Proudly South African Certified • Bargaining Council (BCCCI)

• N ational Contract Cleaners Association (NCCA) • Services SETA • Workmen’s Compensation Fund (WCA) • Black Economic Empowerment Cleaning Association (BEECA).

Not only did Meondo Trading receive a finalist position at the INAUGURAL SA PREMIER BUSINESS AWARDS 2012/2013 but also achieved the runner up award in the MOST EMPOWERED CATEGORY.

Conclusion We want to thank Numatic International for providing Meondo Trading 369 cc with this platform to showcase our company to a broad audience. We are of the opinion that the exposure through this article will definitely update readers with regard to various aspects within the cleaning industry and Meondo Trading’s goals to revolutionise the cleaning sector as a larger role-player.

Visit: www.meondo369.co.za for more information

African Cleaning Review January/February 2014

29

new products Classic squeegee and accessories celebrate milestone This year Unger celebrates 50 years of supplying quality equipment to cleaning professionals, and it is marking it in style by launching some limited editions of the products that have made Unger a trusted name in the cleaning industry.

When it was first introduced, the ErgoTec® Squeegee was a welcome breakthrough in ergonomic design, offering increased comfort, balance, and greater control to window cleaners. Its moulded handle ensures a secure grip when wet and is warm to the touch in winter. The special edition ‘50 years’ squeegee features: • ErgoTecTM Soft Rubber Green – Sharp edges enable thorough wiping for superior finish • Ergonomic two-component handle in exclusive grey colour with silver metallic effect • Laser engraved 50th Anniversary logo

A 50 year washer with Ninja sleeve is also available, featuring an ergonomic two-component handle with water wells, in exclusive grey colour with silver metallic effect. The washer sleeve is highly absorbent with two abrasive side pads featuring built-in rows of scrubbing fibres, complete with a 50th Anniversary logo on the Velcro fastening.

Both products are available individually, but also feature in a 50 years anniversary set, together with Unger’s ‘bucket on a belt’. This convenient hold-all for important tools has a clip lock for quick fastening, and is ideal for use when working on ladders, indoors, or in narrow, confined spaces.

The set, which features the special 50th anniversary logo on each product, includes a Certificate of Authenticity and is packed in a unique box set. All products will be available throughout the anniversary year, while stocks last.

Unger products are distributed in SA by Industroclean. For more information contact: wendym@industroclean.co.za

Prevent virus transmission in food production environments Bio-security on animal farms and in food and beverage manufacturing facilities is an essential step in the prevention of transmittable viruses or diseases from animals to humans and vice versa. Showering, wearing

protective clothing and washing hands and footwear prior to entering an animal rearing area or production plant are all recognised as vitally important and are usually strictly enforced.

Branson Chemicals’ specialised boot cleaner and sanitiser for use in all foot and boot washing stations, Boot Guard, contains a built-in colour indicator that shows when the solution in the foot bath needs to be changed.

The company developed a compact 10 litre capacity foot bath which can be placed at the doorway entrances to the facility or at critical points. For ease of application, Boot Guard is available in sachets of 50 ml which is the exact amount required to add to the 10 litre foot bath.

For large production facilities an automatic foaming system is available which foams the Boot Guard solution onto the entrance floor each time a door is opened or when an employee enters the room. This ensures that the Boot Guard solution remains clean and effective.

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

30

African Cleaning Review January/February 2014

Evo

60

the new generation cleaning cloth

Key Benefits Outstanding cleaning power Dry Evo60 cloths capture and absorb the finest dust particles.

Slightly wet, they easily remove grease and tough dirt.

400% liquid absorption With their terrific absorption capacity, up to 400% of their own weight in water, the Evo60 cloths make surfaces dry and shiny with just one wipe.

Smooth and soft Ideally suitable for the most fragile surfaces, Evo60 cloths clean without scratching.

Perfectly lint free Unlike staple fibres, Evo60 microfibre are endless, resulting in absolutely lint-free cleaning. They are the perfect solution to wipe and dry glasses, windows and clean room applications.

HACCP COLOUR CODING

Technical Data Technology

Evo60

Composition

Microfibre

Available weights

60g/sqm

Customised colors

Available in HACCP colours

Made in Europe

Tel: 011 314 0714 • Email: orders@hyg.co.za • Website: www.hyg.co.za

African Cleaning Review January/February 2014

31

new products Automated window cleaning heralds new era

Specialist cleaning company, CCM, recently piloted new automated window cleaning technology, said to be the first of its kind in South Africa. Imported from the U.S., the Sky Pro “Skydro Washer” provides an alternative means to traditional high-rise window cleaning methods. According to the company it easily meets stringent Occupational Health and Safety criteria and provides consistent cleaning results.

Maintaining the exterior of a building is often regarded as a dangerous and complex operation. Traditional methods of window cleaning, such as boatswain’s chairs and scaffolds, require workers to ‘hang’ dangerously off the edge of multi-story buildings, leaving them vulnerable to falls and other injuries.

“There is an increased need for facility managers to provide a solution that not only provides greater safety for workers, but also negates the need for companies to invest in costly equipment,” comments CCM Operations Director Marc Du Chenne.

Therefore automated window cleaning systems provide a solution that meets these demands.

Traditionally, window washers cleaning high-rise buildings have relied on ropes and abseiling methods to control their rate of descent. Whether they work alone using a boatswain’s chair, or in teams on scaffolding, these methods present similar employee safety concerns. In a situation where a minor mistake can prove fatal, extreme caution and attention to detail is crucial and workers must by necessity be highly skilled thus increasing labour costs.

“Automated window solutions meet market demand for safer, more effective cleaning solutions and have

been designed to replace dangerous traditional methods,” says Du Chenne.

“The use of automated units allows workers to safely control window washing activities from ground level or the rooftop,” he continues. The system has been designed to clean not only windows and glass, but also to scrub the exterior of the building for a comprehensive clean. It has been created to effectively clean flat buildings without window offsets. It can also overcome challenges associated with deep or irregular window offsets, curves, overhangs, recesses and inset glass.

“Operators use a wireless remote control to perform and monitor all window cleaning operations. The system can be successfully integrated with existing rigging systems and environmental issues were taken into account as the system is designed to utilise filtered, ultra pure water, negating the use of harsh chemicals,” concludes Du Chenne.

Reach your target market cost-effectively!

Advertise in African Cleaning Review – your direct link to end-users, building service contractors, key institutional sectors including government, healthcare, education and retail centres, hospitality, food processing and general manufacturing.

The source of workplace hygiene solutions Email: africancleaningreview@cleantex.co.za Website: www.africancleaningreview.co.za

32

African Cleaning Review January/February 2014

Multi-purpose Wipe

Premium 1 Ply Toilet Tissue

Industrial 1 Ply Toilet Tissue

Centre Feed Towelling

NOW AVAIL ABLE Reflex Control Towelling

Giant Toilet Rolls

Unidri Regular Folded Hand Towels

Luxury 2 Ply Toilet Tissue

Pillowy Soft, the quality brand you love to use at home, can now be used away from home.

We are proud to launch our Pillowy Soft away-from-home range, giving you a competitive edge and adding value to your organisation. We are driven by our mission statement, “To add value to companies and to distribute more affordable quality products to all the people of Africa.”

The Leading Independent Tissue Paper Manufacturer in Africa

34

Universal Tissue Pty Ltd. A Division of the Crystal Paper Group Tel: 016 341 6396/6805, Fax: 016 341 6386 Mobile: Shaun Singh – 083 656 1791, Rafik Dosani – 083 449 1188 Email: shaun@dosanigroup.co.za, rafikd@netactive.co.za, Website: www.tissuepaper.co.za African Cleaning Review January/February 2014