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Industry status – NCCA Chairman Healthcare – cleaning for health Smart cleaning solutions – robotics

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African Cleaning Review July/August 2020

contents JULY/AUGUST 2020 VOL 21 NO. 4 Cover story Prime Cleaning Suppliers is a leading South African cleaning-solutions supplier, established in 1996. Prime Cleaning Suppliers has spent a number of years building strong brands, many of which have been tested by the SABS 1828 and 1853 standards and carry their mark of surety, which gives the customer confidence when using the products. All disinfectants are registered as per Act 29 and are compliant to the VC8054 compulsory specification for disinfectants.

Prime Cleaning Suppliers’ complete cleaning solutions cover paper products/dispensers, cleaning chemicals/ disinfectants, floorcare machines and cleaning sundries.

Prime Cleaning Suppliers has an ongoing commitment to ensure the best long-term solution to their customers and represents the following brands: Aquarius, Kleenex, Scott, Wetrok, Wypall, and Rubbermaid Commercial Products. See more on page 16.

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Q&A

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Industry News

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Chairman’s overview – Patrick Makhubela

2020 SAPCA Cleantex Summit re-scheduled Innovation award for Tork’s VR tool RED hotel meets highest cleanliness measures Facility accreditation programme gains ground Ultraviolet cleaning system for aeroplane cabins Client confidence earns Tsebo multiple awards Tork supports SA Chefs Association MAER appoints new Southern African distributor COVID-19 detection testing

Editorial

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Solutions for any cleaning need or challenge – GCE COVID-19 pandemic brought new challenges – Tork Amended chemical disinfectant specifications – Industroclean A new dimension in professional cleaning technology – Hako Two new Tork PeakServe solutions

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Opinion

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Establishing good hygiene behaviour – Brett Osrin, Ecowize

Features

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Healthcare cleaning for COVID-19 • Practical hygiene solutions to combat spread of the virus • Towards a more hygienic healthcare facility Smart cleaning – autonomous cleaning enjoys greater acceptance

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Educational

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Is disinfection by fogging adequate to safeguard business premises?

FM Review

Human distancing in the workplace – comply and adapt

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Laundry Review

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People and Events

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New Products

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Cleaning tool firm launch new lengths in ultra-hygienic range Sanitising indoor areas using dry-fog system Paint inhibits microbial growth in healthcare settings

@AfricanCleanMag

AfricanCleaningReview

african-cleaning-review 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 Operations 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 2020 Sept/Oct issue: Editorial deadline 21 August • Sustainable cleaning • Carpet care Nov/Dec issue: Editorial deadline 16 October • Hospitality cleaning solutions • Washroom products and cleaning Feature sections in every issue: • Laundry and Dry Cleaning Review • Facilities Management Review

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Oxford laundry service meet demand for sterile healthcare laundry Introduce ERP software and digital companions to stay ahead KZN entrepreneur created cleaning business with R800 New location and dates for ISSA Show in US

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.

Tel: +27 (0) 11 238 7848 or +27 (0) 72 611 1959 PO Box 1976, Halfway House, 1685, South Africa Email: africancleaningreview@cleantex.co.za Website: www.africancleaningreview.co.za

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COVID-19

Be safe. Wash your hands.

Practice social distancing.

Wear a mask.

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Official publication and media partner of:

African Cleaning Review July/August 2020

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from the editor

Q&A

Chairman’s overview With cleaning staff declared essential workers at the start of the hard lockdown period, African Cleaning Review approached Patrick Makhubela, Chairman of the National Contract Cleaners Association

Professional cleaning to guide and demonstrate leadership role This issue continues our objective to update and keep end users and industry professionals informed about relevant developments pertaining to the coronavirus pandemic. As the economy is slowly opening up following the hard lockdown period, it has become quite evident that facility owners are often confused with what is exactly required to ready workplaces and to then maintain stringent hygiene practices. Therefore, and now more than ever, the onus rests on the professional cleaning industry to take the lead in terms of results-driven cleaning/ disinfecting. During times when the World Health Organization (WHO) warns that the coronavirus pandemic is gaining momentum and that Africa should prepare for a surge in infections, client uncertainty and fears should be addressed by professionals.

What further intensifies the confusion about specific cleaning/disinfecting needs is the arrival of ‘overnight cleaning experts’ that are ready to capitalise on the fear aspect by marketing cleaning products or services that may not live up to expectations and could cause harm.

We trust that in response to many enquiries relating to cleaning applications, processes and procedures, this and the following issues of African Cleaning Review, with a special focus on the pandemic will provide a thorough perspective, overview and incentive to partner with organisations that offer elevated standards of cleaning and hygiene in order to effectively curb the spread of COVID-19. Pushing the significance of professional cleaning to the forefront will result in the business community gaining more confidence to return to a safe workplace environment.

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African Cleaning Review May/June 2020

(NCCA) for an overview of how the industry body and professional cleaning companies are meeting the extraordinary challenges of operating during the COVID-19 pandemic and under changing lockdown regulations.

Association perspective • How has the unprecedented increase in demand for cleaning and hygiene products affected the professional cleaning sector?

The demand was very subdued at the start of the lockdown, as everything was shut down except for essential services.

Most cleaning companies were only maintaining their essential operational contracts at that time.

Although most cleaning companies were able to apply for work permits, it was however very difficult to secure adequate stock from suppliers. Suddenly, there was an extraordinary demand for sanitisers and PPE throughout the country.

• What is the NCCA’s message to the public as to the benefits and advantages of dealing with members of a national association?

The NCCA prides itself on the quality of members it has on its books. NCCA members are professional, trustworthy and ethical in the way they conduct their business. The association is a selfregulating body and members abide by the rules and laws applicable to the contract-cleaning industry in South Africa.

• What is the NCCA’s message to the general public when considering products, services,

inflated prices and solutions to keep their facilities safe for use during the pandemic?

The NCCA has become a reliable and preferred industry body due to the self-regulatory processes including adherence to the annual compliance audit system to qualify for and retain membership. Any cleaning company found to be unethical may be reported to the association for investigation. All our members are expected to operate ethically, within the prescribed guidelines in terms of costing their contracts. It is important for the general public to choose wisely by verifying who they are dealing with to avoid unscrupulous operators.

Most importantly, ensure that the final decision is based on comparing apples with apples.

• What is the NCCA’s view on inappropriate fogging and misting services offered as a silver-bullet cleaning solution?

When most industries were given the go-ahead to re-open their business operations, some people saw an opportunity to jump on the bandwagon by providing facility fogging and misting services.

The result was the introduction of very impressive and expensive machines, which caught the cleaning industry by surprise as nobody was prepared for the COVID-19 pandemic. There is

Q&A nothing wrong with fogging or misting, however, it should be considered as one of the technical methods used as part of the overall decontamination process. Cleaning for health requires that you have three things: a trained operator, the chemistry, and the appropriate tools/equipment. Fogging or misting alone is not a silver-bullet solution to stop the spread of COVID-19.

Contract cleaner perspective • What are clients asking for right now, and how are you communicating with them to address their concerns about the coronavirus outbreak?

Clients are generally asking for pre-occupational sanitisation, decontamination and deep cleaning of their buildings. Most communication is conducted through electronic mediums, telephonic, Zoom meetings, etc.

• How have you had to adjust your operations and internal communications to deal with the COVID-19 crisis?

We had to redeploy and retrain our combat teams, especially with contracted facilities that are still closed due to lockdown. Communication is mostly via telephone, WhatsApp group chats and by arranging Microsoft Teams meetings, as we are mostly working remotely.

• Were there any supply chain issues that you had to address in order to adjust procurement?

Have you had to quickly switch to different products and conduct new training?

There have definitely been a lot of challenges, especially the unavailability of certain products, where we had to source new suppliers. Sanitisation products and PPEs became our new range of products.

• Do your clients question the effectiveness of green cleaning for coronavirus and how are you addressing these requests?

Our clients are confident about the quality of products we use; there have been some who question the effectiveness of green chemicals.

We use the correct chemicals for cleaning, sanitisation, disinfection and sterilisation, depending on the desired results to be achieved.

• Can you provide an overview of your protocols for decontamination of a building where somebody tested positive with the coronavirus?

The first thing is to perform a site risk assessment to be able to prepare an appropriate requirement for the job. Pre-disinfection, biocontamination, load reduction, forensic cleaning, professional disinfection and finally post-site assessments are all required as a quality control measure.

• What measures have you implemented to protect your frontline cleaning staff?

Training on the risks for frontline staff, their safety and consideration of the safety of their families.

We have implemented company policies relating to COVID-19 guideline protocols, and the Occupational Health and Safety (OHS) Act. The correct PPE is a must for every job.

• How are you supporting and responding to any fears and concerns or sick leave requests by your staff?

There are no fears or concerns, any request for sick leave is adhered to as part of the statutory requirements.

To date we have only had a few members of staff who have been in contact with a COVID-19-positive person and they were quarantined for a period of 14 days.

Patrick Makhubela • With more facilities having implemented a work-from-home policy, how have you been able to shift work hours for affected cleaning staff?

We have managed to set up our managers on a very good system, that allows most of them to work from home as if they are at the office. Their productivity is also monitored, regular virtual meetings are held via the Microsoft Teams platform.

• What lessons have you learned during the COVID-19 pandemic and how were you able to address urgent requests?

I had to learn new ways of communication from a traditional meeting to virtual meeting as a new normal. I also had to do a lot of research on the novel coronavirus pandemic. Our ISSA membership allowed me to take part in very informative online courses including critical training on infectious disease prevention as presented by the Global Biorisk Advisory Council (GBAC), a division of the ISSA. Patrick Makhubela is the National Chairman of the NCCA and Group CEO of Neledzi Services.

Promote your company in The Source of Workplace Hygiene Solutions!

Reach your target market cost effectively by advertising in African Cleaning Review. The direct link to end users, building service contractors, FM service providers and key institutional sectors.

Contact us for more information regarding cost-effective advertising options: africancleaningreview@cleantex.co.za | www.africancleaningreview.co.za

African Cleaning Review July/August 2020

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industry news 2020 SAPCA Cleantex Summit re-scheduled

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s a result of the ongoing uncertainty facing the world in the light of the COVID-19 pandemic and the continued ban on gatherings of large numbers of people in South Africa, the organising committee of the SAPCA Cleantex™ 2020 Summit deemed the postponement of the event to be the best possible course of action.

The organisers acknowledge that the latest COVID-19 developments relating to, for instance, confinement periods, re-opening of borders, convention/hotel facilities restrictions, travel restrictions and social distancing practices are not conducive to a normalised situation.

As a result, and considering the safety of delegates and exhibitors that will meet, network and conduct new business together, it was necessary to make a timeous decision to postpone the Summit, originally scheduled for September this year, to 15–16 September 2021 in Cape Town.

“Now more than ever the world increasingly recognises the vital role played by the professional cleaning, hygiene and pest control industries in protecting humanity from infection and disease. The prevailing situation highlights the diversity of solutions and innovation presented

by these industries in order to meet this unprecedented challenge. It is therefore evident that cleaning, hygiene and pest control solutions will play a crucial role in going forward to effectively safeguard people against harmful diseases,” said organising committee member Johann van Vuuren.

The 2021 SAPCA Cleantex™ Summit is expected to be ideally positioned to offer intuitive perceptions of and insight into the pandemic at a time of economic recovery in South Africa. In the interim, the organisers strongly recommend social distancing, thorough hand hygiene, and the wearing of a mask in public to prevent the spread of the coronavirus.

For more information about the SAPCA Cleantex Summit 2021 contact: nande@cleantex.co.za

Tork VR tool wins Innovation Award

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he Tork VR Clean Hands training app has won the Interclean Innovation Award for being “user friendly, accessible and capable of stimulating behaviour change in a fun and engaging way”.

The judges described the interactive hand-hygiene training simulation as “the perfect solution for the need to educate people worldwide on hand hygiene”.

The winners of the Interclean Innovation Awards were announced on 12 May and the Tork VR Clean Hands Training App was the category winner for Related Products/Services.

The app uses virtual reality to provide healthcare staff with realistic scenarios where hand hygiene needs to be carried out. According to Essity, the company is leading the way in using Virtual Reality (VR) in a handhygiene training simulation.

“This innovative solution for handhygiene training would not have been possible without the close collaboration with both healthcare professionals and world-leading

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African Cleaning Review July/August 2020

experts in hand hygiene and behavioural science. Together we have created an unexpected but engaging way to assist healthcare professionals to improve hand hygiene and reduce the risk of hospital-acquired infections in the world,” said Jenny Logenius, Global Brand Innovation Manager, Skincare Healthcare for Tork at Essity.

A recent Tork study revealed that 80 percent of healthcare professionals claimed they would like to improve their hand-hygiene compliance – but they often found traditional forms of hand-hygiene training to be uninspiring. The Tork VR Clean Hands tool moves training into the virtual world, thereby making it more immediate and interactive.

“The accessibility of ensuring ongoing training on-site in order to improve standards is a true innovation. The virtual reality approach is essential to stimulate behavioural change in a fun and engaging way. It is the perfect solution for the well-organised need

to educate people on hand hygiene,” commented an Interclean Innovation Award judging panel spokesman.

Tork VR Clean Hands Training and Education is free to download via the App Store and Google Play.

Participants will need a compatible smartphone and VR headset with remote control or equivalent.

For more information visit: www.tork.co.uk/TorkVR

editorial GCE

Solutions for any cleaning need or challenge Since the COVID-19 outbreak, the spotlight on hygiene and safe work protocols has been brought to the fore. It comes as no surprise that the focus has been placed on the stringent requirements necessary for all processes and equipment used in the food and pharmaceutical industries.

There are significant challenges and potential risks involved when manufacturing and processing food products. During the manufacturing process, dust particles often become airborne, which may pose a threat to employee health and could even cause devastating combustible dust explosions. Without the essential equipment in place to prevent these kinds of dust explosions, the damages to personnel, machinery and plants can be significant and cause production to cease for a long period of time.

Safe and hygienic processing solutions

South Africa’s leading industrial and commercial cleaning equipment solutions provider, Goscor Cleaning Equipment (GCE), supplies a range of vacuum cleaners designed to satisfy the demanding needs of the food and pharmaceutical industries. Delfin’s range of industrial vacuum cleaners has the highest levels of filtration and performance, essential for total and secure suction of fine and toxic material. Delfin is a world leader in the manufacture of industrial vacuum cleaners and suction units and has developed a range of products suitable for solving specialist cleaning and recycling challenges in a wide range of applications.

“The pharmaceutical and food industries must avoid any form of contamination to guarantee the highest quality of finished product,” states GCE’s Sales Director Peter Esterhuizen. “Delfin’s industrial vacuum and conveying solutions help processing facilities meet cleanliness, hygiene and safety standards with one hundred percent certainty.”

High-efficiency filtration is essential to avoid contamination, preserve quality and safeguard respiratory health. Delfin vacuums offer multi-stage filtration to capture fine dust and guarantee sterility of the environment.

Atex certifications

Safety is an important aspect when dealing with very fine dust and potentially explosive environments. Delfin vacuum cleaners boast the widest range of Atex certifications on the market – obtained thanks to construction criteria that guarantee maximum prevention of the risk of explosion. The exclusive double 1/3D-2D certification inside and outside the aspirator allows it to guarantee total safety even with a full container.

Delfin has a reputation and track record as a leading manufacturer of industrial vacuum cleaners. The reliability and durability of the Delfin system, as well as its compliance with the specifications and performance requirements along with the trusted product support and expertise provided

by GCE, affords manufacturers peace of mind and the assurance that their product is manufactured under the highest hygiene standards.

“We are able to offer solutions in terms of equipment for any cleaning need or challenge. Ultimately, we strive to ensure that cleanliness standards are maintained throughout, and that all environments are rendered safe and hygienic to work in,” concludes Esterhuizen.

Companies are increasingly including dust combustion as a potential risk factor in their workplace safety assessments, with regard to the products they make, and the amounts of dust created by the production. GCE vacuum specialists can assist manufacturers with identifying these risks and recommending the appropriate equipment and cleaning procedures.

For more information call: 086 123CLEAN or email: cleaning@goscor.co.za

African Cleaning Review July/August 2020

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industry news RED hotel meets highest cleanliness, disinfection and safety measures

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ape Town’s Radisson RED Hotel located in the V&A Waterfront announced the successful completion of the SGS Disinfection Monitored and Cleaning Checked mark

by SGS, the world’s leading inspection, verification, testing and certification company.

The official SGS Disinfection Monitored and Cleaning Checked mark confirms that RED has met the highest cleanliness, disinfection and safety measures and is based on the successful completion of independent, comprehensive testing by SGS including: a remote in-depth validation to

ensure that the hotel has implemented all 20-Step and +10-Step protocols for meetings and events (M&E) as outlined and recommended in the Radisson Hotels Safety Protocol, followed by an on-site audit and specialised inspection, which is completed using the latest testing technology.

Conducted by local SGS inspectors, the on-site two-fold testing includes in situ Adenosine Triphosphate (ATP) and RT-qPCR testing. Both testing methods are essential to confirm whether the hotel is conducting enhanced in-depth cleaning and disinfection measures in line with the Radisson Hotels Safety Protocol.

Leonie Andereya, GM of Radisson RED Hotel V&A Waterfront, said: “We remain committed to delivering a clean and safe environment with maximum hygiene standards to protect our guests, team members and partners. We are pleased SGS has validated that we are in full compliance with all the health, safety, and disinfection protocols as outlined in the Radisson Hotels Safety Protocol including a 20-step protocol and a 10-step protocol specifically defined for M&E.” The Radisson Hotels Safety Protocol outlines in-depth cleanliness and disinfection procedures, enhanced protocols, operational guidance and validation process to ensure the safety of team members and guests. The global Radisson Hotels Safety Protocol was developed in partnership with a team of experts following an extensive review of all existing health and safety processes to further strengthen the Radisson Hotel Group’s existing rigorous sanitation, cleanliness and disinfection guidelines at hotels globally. These comprehensive health and safety procedures, enhanced protocols and operational guidance have been adapted based on local requirements and recommendations to ensure guests’ safety and peace of mind from check-in to check-out.

Facility accreditation programme gains ground in 30 countries

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he Global Biorisk Advisory Council (GBAC), a Division of ISSA, announced during June that its GBAC STAR™ facility accreditation programme is being adopted by high-profile facilities and organisations in 30 countries around the world. GBAC STAR™ offers a formal approach to cleaning, disinfecting, and infection prevention in commercial and public facilities of all sizes, including convention centres, stadiums, restaurants, and hotels.

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African Cleaning Review July/August 2020

“With 30 countries now represented, the growing appeal of the GBAC STAR™ programme gives us confidence that organisations are ready for adapting to a new era of cleanliness,” said GBAC Executive Director Patricia Olinger. “By carefully considering the proper protocols and techniques necessary for minimising risk and fulfilling GBAC STAR’s framework, participants make environments safer for guests, residents, and employees.”

Composed of international leaders in the field of microbial-pathogenic threat analysis, mitigation, response, and recovery, GBAC provides training, guidance, accreditation, certification, crisis management

assistance, and leadership to government, commercial and private entities looking to mitigate, quickly address, and/or recover from biological threats and realtime crises. The organisation’s services include biorisk management programme assessment and training, Forensic Restoration® response and remediation, the GBAC STAR™ facility accreditation programme, training and certification of individuals, and consulting for building owners and facility managers.

For more information and facility applications, visit www.gbac.org or watch the GBAC STAR™ overview video at youtu.be/acrCdc-7pI0

industry news Fast, affordable ultraviolet cleaning system for aeroplane cabins

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oneywell, a Fortune 100 technology company, and Dimer LLC recently announced a partnership to bring an ultraviolet cleaning (UVC) system to airlines that, when properly applied, significantly reduces certain viruses and bacteria on aeroplane cabin surfaces. The Honeywell UV Cabin System can treat an aircraft cabin in less than 10 minutes for just a few dollars per flight for mid-size to large airline fleets.

“This offering is a big win for our airline customers, which are seeking affordable ways to clean their cabins effectively and quickly between flights,” said Mike Madsen, Honeywell Aerospace president and CEO. “Honeywell is working on a range of solutions to help make passengers more comfortable about flying.”

Honeywell is already accepting orders for the UV Cabin System now with the first shipments expected

in July. Pricing will vary based on quantity, but for mid-size to large airlines with hundreds or more aircraft, Honeywell’s system could be applied to their aircraft for less than $10 per use.

“Working with Honeywell puts this technology in the hands of a worldwide aerospace leader that can quickly deliver to airlines and other aircraft operators,” said Elliot M. Kreitenberg, co-founder and president of Dimer LLC. “As the travel industry begins to recover, we know hospitalgrade technology will ease passenger concerns, and that’s what we’re providing with this system.”

The Honeywell UV Cabin System is roughly the size of an aircraft beverage cart and has UVC-light arms that extend over the top of seats and sweep the cabin to treat aircraft surfaces. Properly applied, UVC lights deliver doses that medical studies find reduce

various viruses and bacteria, including SARS-CoV and MERS-CoV. Results vary based on UV dosage and application, and no testing has been done specifically on protection against COVID-19.

Dimer and Honeywell have entered into a worldwide, exclusive licence as part of a strategic partnership for Honeywell to produce, advertise and sell portable UV-technology devices for use within the aerospace industry. Honeywell is currently in discussions with multiple airlines and service providers for the UV Cabin System.

UVC has been used in hospitals, air and water filters, microbiology labs, and other applications. Most household lamps have between 500 and 700 nanometers (nm) of ultraviolet light. In comparison, UVC refers to ultraviolet light with wavelengths between 200 and 280 nm.

Client confidence earns Tsebo multiple awards

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sebo Solutions Group recently walked away with an overall total of eight awards at the 2020 PMR Africa Awards. This included Tsebo Cleaning and Hygiene Solutions bagging five Diamond Arrow awards, two Golden Arrow awards, and the highest industry rating for its sector, as voted for by clients. With Tsebo Facilities Solutions, another subsidiary of the Tsebo Group, taking home a Diamond Arrow and the highest industry rating among its competitors – 4.20 out of 5.

“It should come as no surprise in 2020 that the realms of hygiene and cleanliness are receiving plenty of attention,” said Monwabisi Kalawe, CEO of Tsebo Cleaning and Hygiene Solutions. “Trust and confidence are more important now than ever before when the health of the public is at stake, and we could not be prouder that the trust we have spent years building with our customers is as solid

as ever, even as we all continue to find our feet in the new normal.”

As the spread of COVID-19 makes us all think twice before going out in public, restoring consumer confidence in businesses’ ability to keep them safe from the coronavirus will be essential if our economy is to be successfully brought back to life. And amid the explosion of fly-by-night sanitation, hygiene and cleaning services that seem to have appeared overnight, a history of trusted service speaks volumes to an anxious public.

Tsebo Cleaning & Hygiene Solutions took home Diamond Arrows in five categories (Healthcare, Commercial, Retail, Entertainment and Industrial) as a testament to the trust their clients place in their ability to keep workplaces safe, as well as two Golden Arrows for their work in the Education and Hospitality Sectors, for a grand total of seven (7) awards.

“It is in our DNA at Tsebo Cleaning

Monwabisi Kalawe and Hygiene Solutions to always take extra care in our work, knowing that for many of our clients, employee safety and welfare are at stake,” said Kalawe.

For more information on Tsebo’s response to COVID-19, business contingency plans, preventative educational campaigns and more, visit: https://www.tsebo.com/about-us/ overview/#covid19

African Cleaning Review July/August 2020

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industry news Tork supports SA Chefs Association’s feeding scheme

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he South African Chefs Association (SACA) play a vital role in filling the enormous need within communities where unemployment is soaring to unimagined levels and where shelters and feeding schemes are inundated with desperate and destitute South Africans.

SACA have set up an initiative that will serve two critical purposes: 1. To assist those who have no resources as a result of COVID-19, to ensure their families are fed during this pandemic.

2. To provide chefs, who are unaccustomed to not being active and in control, with a sense of purpose and thereby assist in taking care of their mental health and emotional wellbeing.

Tork, recognising this great initiative, assisted with a generous donation of R20 000 worth of wiping paper and cleaning cloths to SACA. The Tork brand offers professional hygiene products and services to customers ranging from restaurants and healthcare facilities to offices, schools and industries. Products include dispensers, paper towels,

toilet tissue, soap, napkins, and industrial and kitchen wipes.

Through expertise in hygiene, functional design and sustainability, Tork has become a market leader.

Tork is a global brand of SCA, and a committed partner to customers in over 80 countries.

MAER appoints new Southern African distributor

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ntelligent Cleaning Equipment (ICE) South Africa announced during July that it will be taking over the MAER

high-pressure cleaning equipment distributorship for the Southern African region. Italian-based MAER is an established manufacturer of high quality, reliable and cost-effective high-pressure washers with partners in 70 countries around the world. The company’s range include hot- and cold-water machines that are either mobile or static installations and electrically-heated options form part of the offering. “MAER is a productorientated company with a focus on innovation, quality and service. Our quest for innovation, product quality, a high standard of service and efficiency represents a constant reference point

and is a fundamental aspect of our corporate culture”, says MAER Export Manager Mark Winter.

MAER professional high-pressure cleaners are suitable for many applications including food processing, general manufacturing and car wash operations. ICE, based in Edenvale, South Africa is a distributor of commercial and industrial cleaning equipment including the ICE range of scrubber/dryers.

For more information about the MAER range of hot- and cold-water high-pressure washers, email: info@ice4sa.co.za or visit: www.ice4sa.co.za

COVID-19 detection testing

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usinesses are seeking peace of mind in terms of compliance, occupational health and safety, and their social responsibility towards employees and customers to create a clean and safe environment.

NOSA testing laboratories announced that it is able to carry out surface and environmental sampling

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African Cleaning Review July/August 2020

for the detection of Coronavirus S gene specific to COVID-19, in accordance with the World Health Organization (WHO) protocol for health care and public health.

Testing can detect the presence of COVID-19 by means of the RNA virus determination real-time PCR method.

Analysis is performed by HPCSA registered professionals. The

laboratories meet the current biosafety and biosecurity standards according to the OIE Standards for biological risks, and all testing takes place in a BSL2 testing environment, the minimal WHO requirement.

For more information contact: venisha.bachulal@nosa.co.za

editorial Tork

The COVID-19 pandemic has brought new challenges

Public spaces are more scrutinised on hygiene levels than ever before, people are scared of coming into contact with other people’s germs, and businesses who are not perceived to take hygiene seriously will suffer.

Meet Tork EasyCube, the global leader in data-driven cleaning Our intelligent system uses a combination of digital cleaning software and sensors that

monitor visitor traffic and consumption levels for soap, sanitiser, hand towels and toilet paper. Real-time data enables your teams to work smarter by knowing exactly where and when there are urgent needs.

Let Tork EasyCube® help you create a safer, more hygienic environment as you return to work and adapt to a ‘new normal’.

Tork EasyCube helps you improve safety and hygiene with real-time data. Clean where and when it’s needed most.

• Use people counters to understand traffic flows and occupancy, enabling you to target high-risk, high-touch areas • Set visitor thresholds to customise cleaning in each area • Optimise cleaning routines to save time and re-allocate staff to tasks like touchpoint cleaning

• Easily train staff on new hygiene protocols and monitor cleaning in real-time • Quickly adapt to urgent needs • Report on cleaning tasks for proof of service

Ensure customers and staff feel safe • Visitors and staff will always have access to proper handwashing and hand-drying products • Change the way of working to support social distancing

Take hand hygiene to the next level • Tork EasyCube® connected products promote hygiene with the widest sensorenabled assortment in the market Every moment is now critical – contact us to discuss how EasyCube can help.

Ensure hygiene compliance • Use your staff’s time more efficiently to meet heightened cleaning standards

For additional information please contact: kirsty.collard@essity.com

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editorial Industroclean

Amended chemical disinfectant specifications provide increased consumer protection

As visible in the top right hand corner on this product label, all registered products will have a registration number on their labels, which could be the following: • Act29GNR529/XXXXXX/XXX/XXXX • Act5GNR529/XXXXXX/XXX/XXXX • NRCS/8054/XXXXXX/XXX

The COVID-19 pandemic has brought with it a dramatic increase in the demand for disinfectants to combat the spread of the deadly and highly contagious novel coronavirus. Now, more than ever, the need for safe disinfecting products that do not pose unnecessary risks to consumers is critical.

In 2017, the Department of Trade and Industry published an Amendment of the Compulsory Specification

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for Chemical Disinfectants (VC 8054), which comes into effect in October 2020. This legislation includes compulsory testing and labelling of chemical disinfectants and means that consumers can now be assured that chemical disinfectants for sale in South Africa must comply with the minimum safety requirements and must be registered by the National Regulator for Compulsory Specifications (NRCS).

Lee O’Reilly, quality systems internal auditor at industrial cleaning product manufacturer Industroclean, explains that these regulations apply to chemical disinfectants that are used on hard surfaces in the food, industrial, domestic and healthcare industries to kill microorganisms. They do not apply to products for use on people or animals. O’Reilly adds that the new amendments include specifications for several types of microorganisms.

“Whereas the previous regulations focused mostly on those chemical disinfectants that kill bacteria, the new regulations bring South Africa in line with European standards and include specifications for other microorganisms, like viruses, spores and fungi,” she says.

These amendments, which were first contemplated as far back as 2015, require that all chemical disinfectants must comply with the specified minimum safety requirements and must be registered by the NRCS. This includes strict rules for the labelling of products. O’Reilly explains that the

label or package insert must contain all relevant information, including clearly stating the microorganisms that the product is effective against and clear instructions on how the product should be used.

She adds that all labels must also include warnings; handling and storage information; compatibility with other substances; and the first aid measures to be taken for different levels of contact, e.g. skin irritation, in eyes, or if swallowed.

“All products must be tested for effectiveness against the various categories of microorganisms.

Testing requirements for chemical disinfectants used in the food, industrial, domestic and institutional areas will be different to the tests for use in the healthcare sector,” she explains.

For consumers, these new regulations mean that they can rest assured that the chemical disinfectant that they purchase has been tested, is within its expiry date and is safe to use – if used as indicated on the label.

O’Reilly cautions, however, that there are many non-compliant products on the market, which range from coloured water to hazardous substances that can pose a serious threat to both the environment and human lives.

“The new amendments have been put in place to safeguard the environment and to protect consumers. Purchasing cheap, unregistered disinfectants may be tempting for consumers, but these products can cause serious health conditions, including lung conditions, skin peeling and allergic reactions,” concludes O’Reilly.

opinion

Establishing good hygiene behaviour COVID-19 case numbers are set to climb well into September 2020, but, as lockdown eases up, there is a danger we will see more people defying the rules. This could mean that the consistency of retaining stringent safety protocols gets lost as people ‘relax’ and start to take risks. Now, more than ever, the onus is on individuals, schools, and businesses to Brett Osrin

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here has already been a myriad of debates regarding best-practice protocols for staying safe.

Schools, especially, have been an area of concern, sparking a great debate over the need to decontaminate.

Recently, several schools were closed, with 98 teachers testing positive for COVID-19 in the Western Cape alone. With this in mind, it is imperative to stress the importance of decontamination with specialised chemicals, including all surfaces, production lines, workstations, floors and ceilings.

Brett Osrin, CEO of Ecowize – leading providers of sanitation and cleaning services – believes there are two schools of thought: preventative and reactive.

“If there has been no foot traffic, and a school has been closed for a while, it is not necessary to decontaminate. If there has been random people movement in and out of an area, then it might be a good idea. If a person tests positive for COVID-19 within the school, then a decontamination protocol is essential to ensure that the space is safe again.”

Osrin adds that by employing the services of professionals to assist with decontamination and deep-cleaning needs can save a lot of hassle, worry and expense. He stresses again that the need to decontaminate should be assessed on a case-by-case basis but is essential if someone tests positive in a school environment.

keep the correct protocols in place to protect South Africans and stop the spread of the novel coronavirus.

With restaurants having now opened for sit-down meals, they’ll need to take extra precautions to go above and beyond safety standards.

“Obviously, this is best practice, but it will also benefit the business. An entirely new hygiene culture has been embedded in our society. We are pedantic about ensuring we feel safe in our surroundings – as we should be. Businesses that go the extra mile to ensure that they regularly deep clean and have stringent protocols in place will be where we feel most secure.”

Osrin says that it’s important that all public areas and places of work are regularly deep cleaned and sanitised.

“Effective cleaning and sanitation need to become the new norm. To swab for the coronavirus costs about R1 000 a swab. In order to test a restaurant, you will need about 30 to 40 swabs to detect the virus. That becomes unaffordable. So, one of the ways to test for cleanliness is to test for E.coli or staphylococcus aureus – a quantitative estimate of the concentration of microorganisms in a sample – with the assumption that if an environment is clean and well sanitised, the cleaning regime will have eliminated the virus.”

Good cleanliness is the foundation of good hygiene. A decontamination protocol is an emergency reaction to a situation. The new normal needs to

be the effective cleaning of high-touch points with a sanitiser product on a regular basis to protect the consumer.

Stores and restaurants will need to be especially cognisant of high-touch points – most touched surfaces, stock items, etc. – to ensure that these are deep cleaned often. “Again, it’s also about retaining the rigour with safety protocols like social distancing, masks, PPE, and ongoing access to hand sanitiser and handwashing zones. I also strongly urge the daily screening of staff, in terms of temperature testing and asking pertinent questions regarding health.

I have even heard of instances where staff were asked to smell something to check if they are experiencing the loss of this sense – one of the prominent symptoms of COVID-19.”

Osrin adds that it’s vital to find ways to entrench good hygiene behaviours as we move through the various stages of lockdown. “That means the ongoing training of staff and visual cues and reminders, like posters, tape designating safe distances, and more. It is also critical that people who can work from home continue to do so.”

Ecowize is one of South Africa’s leading hygiene and sanitation service providers to the food, pharmaceutical and healthcare industries.

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

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feature healthcare – cleaning for health

Healthcare cleaning for COVID-19 As COVID-19 infection rates soar in South Africa and more and more patients are admitted to healthcare facilities, the question pertaining to effective cleaning regimes in these extraordinary circumstances looms more adversely than ever.

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ith this in mind and to gain an international perspective, we wish to share an abridged article previously published

by Building Better Healthcare (BBH).

It explores the challenge of ensuring healthcare settings are cleaned thoroughly to prevent the spread of COVID-19 with environmental decontamination and hand hygiene as key factors. Environmental decontamination is viewed as a critical tool in healthcare settings, especially during this coronavirus pandemic.

of spread, and a higher potential for dissatisfaction.

In addition, patient isolation rooms must be thoroughly cleaned following discharge or transfer, or when vacated by staff following an aerosol-generating procedure (AGP); decontamination schedules should be carried out more frequently in areas where there may be higher environmental contamination rates, such as toilet facilities as well as where there are high-touch surfaces such as medical equipment, door handles and call bells.

The amount of misinformation or misuse of industry terminology is leading to greater confusion, higher risk of spread, and a higher potential for dissatisfaction.

As part of its introduction BBH makes reference to a COVID-19 guidance document recently published by the UK Government, for infection prevention and control in health settings. The document states that patient isolation rooms, group areas, and clinical rooms must be decontaminated at least once daily, and all clinical rooms should be decontaminated after clinical sessions involving patients with suspected, or known, coronavirus.

The amount of misinformation or misuse of industry terminology is leading to greater confusion, higher risk

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Out of touch In this case, the guidance states that these surfaces should be cleaned at least twice daily or when known to be contaminated with secretions, excretions or bodily fluids. A spokesman for the Infection Prevention Society said: “Studies tell us that COVID-19 behaves similar to SARS-CoV and is associated with significant contamination of the environment.

“The solution to this problem is regular cleaning of the environment, especially high-touch surfaces, with detergent and chlorine-based solutions.”

But, speaking to BBH, a spokesman for hygiene and cleaning solutions company, Diversey, said formulations containing Accelerated Hydrogen Peroxide (AHP) offered numerous advantages over traditional chlorine in the current climate, though, to date, no specific products have been thoroughly tested on coronavirus itself.

“One tactic for improving environmental hygiene, the cleanliness of surfaces, in healthcare settings is to use the correct disinfectants. However, not all disinfectants are created equally,” he adds.

“Cleaning professionals have traditionally chosen disinfectants with chlorine as the active ingredient, usually as bleaches, for cleaning hard surfaces in care settings. However, there are some drawbacks that can limit their usefulness.

“Alternative formulations with AHP as the active ingredient offer numerous advantages with few limitations.”

The key requirement from any disinfectant in healthcare settings is efficacy.

Dr Stefan Wagener, a scientific advisor and trainer at the Global Biorisk Advisory Council (GBAC) and executive director of Biorisk International, told BBH that the virus can stay on certain surfaces for up to a week or longer and touching these surfaces, and then your mouth, nose, or eyes is considered a potential route of transmission. Coughing and sneezing are major problem areas, while faecal matter is also assumed to be a source.

feature healthcare – cleaning for health Wagener said: “As the coronavirus has been identified as an enveloped virus, similar to influenza, we have proven cleaning methodologies and protocols that we can bring to bear as we try to combat its spread.

“For COVID-19 we need to disinfect surfaces and objects that are potentially contaminated with the virus AND are frequently touched and/or used.”

For surfaces that are soiled, a twostage process is required.

“First, surfaces must be cleaned to remove soil. Secondly, they should be disinfected with appropriate chemicals and processes. It’s about selecting what is most suitable and approved.”

care and recovery areas as well as areas housing immune-compromised patients.

It provides a cost-effective and scalable solution for most areas from 5 m2 to 200 m2, delivering a highly purified hydrogen peroxide vapour capable of eliminating 99.9999% of known pathogens and leaving no residue.

Spreading rapidly

No special preparation is necessary and the vapour is non-corrosive and safe to use on sensitive electronics, including ultra-clean ventilation canopies, operating lights, and medical monitoring equipment.

An Interfurn spokesman said: “Additionally, using a high-level disinfectant to maintain the levels of cleanliness is recommended.

“There are a number of medicalgrade disinfectants that are known to eliminate other similar coronaviruses and areas can be ‘misted’ or ‘fogged’ with these to ensure even coverage of all areas, including the inside of cupboards, drawers, etc. if they are left open during the process.

“The regular disinfection of ‘hightraffic’ areas such as door handles, keyboards, phones, desks, light switches, etc. – any area that comes into contact with people throughout the day, will reduce the spread.”

Bioquell, an Ecolab solution, is another firm offering a solution through its Hydrogen Peroxide Vapour Rapid Biodecontamination Service (RBDS).

A study published in the April 2014 issue of The Journal of Hospital Infection evaluated the in vitro efficacy of Bioquell Hydrogen Peroxide Vapour for the inactivation of a number of structurally distinct viruses that could impact the healthcare, veterinary and public sectors.

Findings showed that after exposure to Bioquell’s Hydrogen Peroxide Vapour, no viable viruses were identified.

The technology was also evaluated by the UK Government’s Biosafety Group at

A Diversey spokesman adds: “The SARS-CoV-2 coronavirus, which causes the disease COVID-19, has spread rapidly. New information about the illness is being discovered every day. For example, we know that it is a respiratory virus, like influenza and SARS. It is also an enveloped virus and, therefore, easy to kill, and disinfectants with virucidal claims such as EN14476 – either fully virucidal or limited virucidal – will be effective against it. Keeping surfaces clean to remove pathogens of concern is a critical step in breaking any potential chain of infection.”

In many settings, solutions such as Diversey’s Oxivir range of products are being widely specified. Each product contains patented AHP and this dramatically increases the potency and cleaning performance against a wide range of pathogens, including coronavirus.

The simplest and quickest way to introduce this innovative infectionprevention performance is with products such as Oxivir Excel, which come in a ready-to-use form. The cleaner disinfectant can be used for regular and daily cleaning on a wide range of surfaces, working in just 30 seconds.

Following an increase in requests for its bio-decontamination services, Interfurn is making its BIOAct-365 decontamination solution available as part of a planned cleaning and maintenance programme, or as a rapid emergency response by hospitals to the current pandemic pressures.

As well as general areas, the service is suitable for operating theatres, critical

the Centre for Emergency Preparedness and Response at Porton Down, using the non-enveloped virus surrogate MS2 phage, with full inactivation achieved.

A Bioquell spokesman said: “Respiratory viruses can contaminate and survive for long periods on environmental surfaces. Therefore, effective disinfection is essential

“No pathogen can withstand exposure to Ultraviolet ‘C’ or develop ‘resistance’ to it. Correctly deployed, UVC will kill airborne coronavirus dead.” for stopping transmission from the environment. ”However, this is not always achieved by conventional cleaning and disinfection techniques. Bioquell’s Hydrogen Peroxide Vapour is a vapour-phase disinfection method that is virucidal on structurally distinct viruses dried on surfaces. It achieves a level of efficacy unmatched by standard cleaning practices and other disinfection technologies. And it is uniform across the entire target area and not limited to line-of-sight or easy-to-reach spaces. Bioquell’s RBDS can be quickly called upon to eradicate coronavirus from a single area, several locations within a facility, or an entire building.”

Another rapid COVID-19 service has been set up by Mrs Buckét, which has been successfully rolled out over the last few weeks to GP surgeries, mail-room depots and manufacturing sites to help halt the spread of the virus.

As part of the service, a team of specialists operates over several hours, often through the night, methodically working their way through a building.

All surfaces and touchpoints throughout are sanitised and cleaned, and a professional fogging machine is used alongside specialist chemicals to ensure all fabric, surfaces and carpets are fully cleansed.

Mrs Buckét founder, Rachael Flanagan, said: “Maintaining high standards of hygiene has never been more important than it is now, particularly for areas with high footfall that are likely to be contaminated, such as doctors’ surgeries.

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feature healthcare – cleaning for health “We have developed strict procedures for decontaminating buildings and have spent some time training our team to ensure they are able to deliver the highest-quality service, while ensuring they remain safe at work.”

HVAC systems Hospitals also need to pay close attention to HVAC systems, which can provide another way for viruses to spread.

Hillary Spicer, managing director of E-CO, a provider of high-intensity UVC solutions for HVAC systems, said: “A particular problem for hospitals is that they commonly recirculate air. This, in turn, recirculates aerosolised viruses such as COVID-19. There is no technology installed that intercepts and kills these viruses.

“No pathogen can withstand exposure to Ultraviolet ‘C’ or develop ‘resistance’ to it. Correctly deployed, UVC will kill airborne coronavirus dead.”

Spicer advises the use of active and passive UVC through the deployment of hand-held devices, which disinfect surfaces; in-ceiling products which can be used in operating theatres and isolation rooms; in-room purification systems such as its SterilZone; and portable UVC, which can be wheeled between rooms.

Also helping to reduce viral burden on surfaces is Biomaster, whose proven antimicrobial technology has been found to be effective at reducing the viability of viruses on porous surfaces, including treated fabrics and papers.

The company’s regulatory affairs officer, Lesley Taylor, said: “COVID-19 relies on a protective lipid coating. Unlike many gastrointestinal viruses, such as norovirus, which have a tough protein shell called a capsid; viruses with this lipid coating are relatively vulnerable and easier to destroy. Alcohol-based products, for example, disintegrate the protective lipids. And quaternary ammonium disinfectants, commonly used in healthcare, attack protein and lipid structures, thwarting the pathogen’s typical mode of infection.”

Bleach and other potent oxidisers will also break down the essential components of a virus.

“These methods are highly effective at removing dangerous pathogens from surfaces, but they only remain effective for up to two hours maximum, and any

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new microbes landing on the surface after that will continue to thrive.”

In independent lab tests, analysis identified that Biomaster fabric spray was effective at reducing the viability of norovirus applied to textiles, such as protective facemasks and cubicle curtains.

Taylor said: “Biomaster has yet to be tested against COVID-19 on this type of application and currently there is no method available by which it could be tested.

“However, although we do not yet have any data, the microbiology suggests that if Biomaster is effective against norovirus on porous surfaces, then the active agent is also likely to have an effect on the lipid coating and the essential components required for COVID-19 to function and invade a host.

processes can be improved, compliance rates increased, and infection rates reduced.”

The UK Government’s COVID-19 guidance document states that all staff, patients and visitors should decontaminate their hands with alcoholbased hand rub when entering and leaving areas where care for suspected and confirmed COVID-19 patients is being delivered.

Hand hygiene must be performed immediately before every episode of direct patient care and after any activity or contact that potentially results in hands becoming contaminated, including the removal of personal protective equipment (PPE), equipment decontamination, and waste handling.

It provides further guidance on how to properly wash hands and for how long.

Many infectious diseases are spread by personal contact or touching a contaminated surface. This means keeping hands clean will remove any pathogens and break one of the key links in the chain of infection.

“Unlike alcohol-based gels, disinfectants and oxidisers, Biomaster technology is effective 24/7 for the lifetime of the treated article. It could, therefore, complement current hygiene guidance offering additional product protection.”

The most important thing at this time is to follow the official advice and keep safe.

Hand hygiene Moving forward, hand hygiene will also provide a key infection-prevention tool for healthcare operators.

The majority of infections – around 80 percent, according to studies – are passed on by hand-to-hand contact or by touching a contaminated surface.

The Diversey spokesman explains: “One would imagine that hand hygiene would be the easiest of everyday activities to get right. But studies have shown that relatively large numbers of people forget – or refuse – to do this.

Even in settings such as hospitals, where poor hand hygiene can have serious consequences, studies suggest that

Many infectious diseases are spread by personal contact or touching a contaminated surface. This means keeping hands clean will remove any pathogens and break one of the key links in the chain of infection.

It also states that staff should wear disposable gloves at all times when providing direct patient care, changing them before and after every task.

The spokesman for Diversey said that hospitals should be using alcohol rubs with at least 70 percent alcohol content and handwashing for at least 20 seconds with soap and water.

“The link between hand hygiene and the spread of infections is established and understood,” he added.

“Many infectious diseases are spread by personal contact or touching a contaminated surface. This means keeping hands clean will remove any pathogens and break one of the key links in the chain of infection. Choosing suitable hand cleaners and disinfectants – and efficient dispensers – can help to further reduce infection rates.”

feature healthcare – cleaning for health

Practical hygiene solutions to combat spread of the virus During the pandemic, healthcare facilities are classified as frontline environments battling the COVID-19 pandemic. The everyday heroics of medical staff in these extraordinary times have been highlighted globally. We are all in their debt.

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hile different governments have reacted differently, cautionary advice has been consistent: to protect people and places against COVID-19, ensure regular handhygiene activities, enhance cleaning and waste procedures and maintain social distancing measures. These measures are simple but present challenges for many sectors. Within a healthcare facility they form a critical barrier to the spread of infection, according to Rubbermaid Commercial Products (RCP), a leading global provider of hygiene, cleaning, waste and safety equipment to multiple industries.

It is in your hands Healthcare facilities were considered the most forthright proponents of hand hygiene prior to 2020 and have still seen a dramatic increase in the need for handhygiene provisions. Existing standards such as the WHO’s “5 moments” guidance for interacting with patients continues to define hand-hygiene requirements in places where healthcare professionals and patients interact, such as wards and treatment areas.

RCP’s contribution to the various settings of healthcare hand hygiene has been through free-standing hand hygiene stations and wall-mounted dispensing solutions. These stations delivering alcohol or alcohol-free hand rubs are no-touch operated, eliminating cross-contamination risks, while manual

units mitigate contamination risk with antimicrobial touchpoints.

Hygiene stations and wall-mounted dispensers contain sealed soap refills rather than bulk soap systems. Sealed refills are preferred for all facilities as they eliminate the contamination risks inherent in bulk refill systems. The contamination potential of bulk soap systems was undesirable before the pandemic and is now unacceptable when we consider the transmission pathways for viruses, germs and bacteria.

Whether in washrooms, or elsewhere in a facility, efficient hand hygiene is achieved through quick and easy access to products that keep hands clean and safe without contamination risks.

Enhanced cleaning While hand hygiene can help prevent the spread of germs and bacteria, surfaces are also a primary point for cross-contamination and should be attended to regularly. Nurses stations, receptions, visiting areas and more have communal surfaces where indirect contact can be a transmission risk.

In a healthcare facility, cleaning products need to perform well, wherever they are used, under whatever conditions. It is no use stocking a cleaning cart with ten different products for ten different jobs because that limits the amount of each product in stock and your ability to clean thoroughly.

Hygiene stations and wallmounted dispensers contain sealed soap refills rather than bulk soap systems.

Sealed refills are preferred for all facilities as they eliminate the contamination risks inherent in bulk refill systems. The contamination potential of bulk soap systems was undesirable before the pandemic and is now unacceptable when we consider the transmission pathways for viruses, germs and bacteria.

continues on page 18 >>

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feature healthcare – cleaning for health

WHO advice is to isolate waste in closed-lid containers or sealed waste bags to prevent germs spreading through interaction with the air.

Microfibre products such as cloths, mops and mitts are embedded with zig-zag technology that removes 99.9 percent of microbes under any conditions, with or without bleach.

Both re-usable and disposable microfibre cloths are available in multiple colours to prevent cross-contamination. Reusable cloths can endure up to 500 wash cycles before they need to be replaced.

By replacing multiple cleaning products with adaptable and durable or disposable microfibre products, healthcare facilities improve their ability to clean alongside demonstrating visible cleaning to the patients and visitors.

Waste management The result of any cleaning process is not just cleaner, healthier surfaces, but the accumulation of waste. Throughout healthcare facilities, there are multiple points where waste is created and stored prior to transportation. In both cases, WHO advice1 is to isolate waste in closed-lid containers or sealed waste bags to prevent germs spreading through interaction with the air. Bags should only be filled three quarters of the way to prevent spillages.

RCP waste management products provide safety through closed-lid units that isolate waste. Contamination risk is further reduced through foot operation rather than manual handling and smooth resin construction make them easy to clean between uses, eliminating lingering threats.

Find out more about Rubbermaid Commercial Products by visiting: www.rubbermaid.eu or emailing: SalesSA@newellco.com Source: [1] WHO Safe Management of wastes from health-care activities – https://apps.who.int/iris/bitstream/handle/10665/85349/9789241548564_ eng.pdf?sequence=1

Towards a more hygienic healthcare facility Since the start of the COVID-19 pandemic, healthcare workers have been referred to as the “frontline defence” in the fight against the virus, with governments worldwide highlighting the importance of stringent hygiene practices, especially in healthcare facilities.

Maintaining safe and clean healthcare facilities for patients and medical staff should always be a priority, but this isn’t always the case. According to South African health experts, at least one in every five patients is infected with a disease they did not have when admitted to hospital due to inadequate infection control measures. A Gauteng

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Health Department report found that 20 out of 1 500 patients that were infected between 2012 and 2015 by a hospitalrelated infection died.

To ensure we achieve the highest levels of hygiene in healthcare settings requires understanding the science behind surface wiping and cleaning, says Kristel Dreyer, Associate Marketing Manager, Kimberly-Clark Professional™.

“Objects that are touched by several people throughout the day should be cleaned and disinfected frequently to break the chain of germ transmission.

But many of our customers need to think in a different way about what, how and how often they need to clean

to keep people safe. Understanding the difference between cleaning and disinfecting enables facilities to manage hygiene more effectively and prioritise frequently touched surfaces,” she adds.

Cleaning Cleaning removes germs, dirt and impurities from surfaces or objects.

Cleaning works by using soap (or detergent) and water to physically remove germs from surfaces. This process does not necessarily kill germs, but by removing them, it lowers their numbers and the risk of spreading infection. The WypAll® Reach™ Centrefeed System, which

editorial KCP was launched in June 2020, is specifically designed to help prevent the transmission of bacteria.

Disinfecting According to the Department of Health, disinfection refers to the destruction or removal of microorganisms at a level that is not harmful and renders the item safe to handle by health workers.

Disinfecting works by using chemicals to kill germs on surfaces or objects.

This process does not necessarily clean dirty surfaces or remove germs, but by killing germs on a surface after cleaning can further lower the risk of spreading infection.

Surface disinfectants should not be sprayed directly onto surfaces as this causes aerosolization but should be applied using a clean cloth and the surface wiped systematically and carefully.

The KimTech™ Wettask™ is a versatile refillable cleaning system. It is also an enclosed system, which was designed to reduce cross-contamination and inhalation risks associated with surface cleaning and preparation.

Surfaces considered hot spots for germs include computer keyboards, phones and light switches and need daily hygiene protocols in addition to hand hygiene standards in facilities.

Hospital cleaning best practices to keep patients and staff safe 1. Use appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) for various tasks and change PPE between patients to prevent cross-contamination.

2. Consistently sanitise and/or disinfect frequently touched surfaces to avoid cross-contamination. A study compiled by Kimberly-Clark Professional™ suggests that adults touch 7 200 surfaces and their faces 552 times over a time span of 24 hours.

3. Hospital cleaning must progress from the cleaner areas to the dirtier ones to reduce cross-contamination. A frequent practice in modern commercial cleaning is to start in the dirtiest places (like washrooms) and move on to cleaner parts of the facility. This increases the chances of spreading disease-causing particles from the former to the latter.

4. Use no-touch cleaning systems where possible as it offers a comprehensive solution to avoid cross-contamination and ensures no virus/bacteria spread.

5. Dispose of contaminated materials safely.

Hand sanitising Hand sanitisers were developed for use after washing hands or when soap and water aren’t readily available. Alcoholbased hand sanitisers kills the germs present on the skin. The alcohol works immediately and effectively in order to kill bacteria and most viruses.

Knowing how to dispose of contaminated materials such as soiled linens, dirty cleaning fluids or contaminated biological materials is as important as the process of cleaning itself.

Ensure there is no risk of contamination

during removal. While placing hand sanitiser and signage in offices and common areas is a step in the right direction, studies show it simply is not enough to make a real impact. However, in the midst of change it is important to provide greater peace of mind in healthcare facilities by supplying trusted cleaning and disinfecting solutions to help break the chain of germ transmission.

For more information on hygiene solutions for your facility email: kcp.promotions@kcc.com or visit: www.kcprofessional.co.za

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educational

Is disinfection by fogging adequate to safeguard business premises against COVID-19?

Judy Sunasky

While disinfection is a great idea, be aware that spraying disinfectants, also known as fogging, to eliminate the novel coronavirus that causes COVID-19 should not be seen as a single answer to a business’s deep-cleaning requirements.

F

ogging is an appealing option, especially because of its effective use in the food industry as a disinfection method for some time.

Adopting methods of cleaning and disinfecting from the food industry is an excellent strategy in fighting the virus, but it is important to remember that fogging is never viewed in the industry as an all-in-one solution.

Food facilities use fogging as a final stage, following thorough cleaning and disinfection. These facilities and the health inspectors that audit them know that fogging alone will not successfully disinfect a space. It is just a layer of protection. Think of it as the hand sanitiser you apply. It can be extremely effective, but if you shake hands with sick people, or touch any surfaces they have touched and then rub your nose, it will be rendered useless.

Cleaning first is a critical step in your sanitation programme. A good cleaning protocol can remove as much as 80 percent of the viral load. You will want to complete your cleaning process before moving on to fogging.

Most importantly, before you even begin to fog, or clean for that matter, you must be sure that your staff are wearing the correct personal protective equipment (PPE). For cleaning and for fogging, wear closed shoes, ideally safety shoes, and overalls, gloves and protective eyewear. Additionally, before fogging, you must add a respirator – a mask is not adequate, nor is a face shield. The eyes must be fully protected from any of the fogging

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chemicals, which may also affect the operator’s lungs and breathing.

The area to be fogged must be prepared in other ways, such as removing all people (apart from the person executing the fogging) and pets. Cupboards should be opened and electrical appliances, air conditioners, fans and lights must be switched off.

All windows and doors must be closed during fogging applications and while the fogging chemicals settle.

A fogging machine is a better option when a larger area needs to be covered. When using a machine, it is important that a suitable disinfectant is used. We do not recommend the use of bleach (sodium hypochlorite) as it is corrosive and not safe on all surfaces.

Also, alcohol-based disinfectants should not be used because the microparticles of alcohol may evaporate before landing on the surfaces that need to be disinfected, defeating the

Fogging, especially with a machine, is a specialised service and should be done by those who have experience in this technique, so choose a company with a proven track record.

There are two fogging methods: using an aerosol can or a fogging machine.

Fogging, especially with a machine, is a specialised service and should be done by those who have experience in this technique, so choose a company with a proven track record.

When you use an aerosol fogger, the chemicals inside the can are prepared and ready for use. It is vitally important that you follow the instructions on the can as the instructions for each brand will differ.

Pay special attention to the amount of space the single aerosol can cover.

If used correctly, this is a convenient, often cheaper, way to disinfect a small area when fogging.

purpose. However, aerosol foggers often use ethyl alcohol as a propellant, which has the bonus of creating an additional disinfecting layer.

Product selection is going to be vital for the success of your fogging exercise. You need to consider the chemicals to be used carefully as not all disinfectants are created equal.

Firstly, please choose a registered product. It’s just safer, and may be the difference between an effective disinfection process and one that does not actually work. Nobody wants to spend money on a fogging exercise that doesn’t actually do the job because the chemicals were not up to scratch. With a registered product you have peace of mind.

educational It is a legal requirement in South Africa for all products that are classified as disinfectants to be registered with the National Regulator for Compulsory Specifications (NRCS). The NRCS is an independent organisation established in 2008 to promote public health and safety, environmental protection and fair trade through developing and administering technical regulations for products.

Products cannot be registered with the NRCS unless independent tests have been performed.

If you decide to operate the fogging machine yourself, you will need to find out how to use the product before you hit the pump trigger. Should it be diluted or used as is? This information should be on the product label. If it isn’t, contact the manufacturer for guidelines.

Each fogging machine is different, as is the method the person using the machine follows. The best way to ensure efficacy is to test after the fogging is complete.

This is best done by completing a swab test. An adenosine triphosphate (ATP) swab test will look for organic microorganisms, meaning if the test result is good your premises will be clear of a lot more than a coronavirus. Rest assured, if there are no surviving microorganisms, then a coronavirus has not survived either.

Fogging can be a useful tool in your arsenal for cleaning and disinfecting, but should never be used in isolation.

Judy Sunasky is owner and MD at Blendwell Chemicals. Blendwell offers a wide variety of cleaning products with a speciality in environmental and food-specific cleaning products. For more information visit: www.blendwell.co.za

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facilities management review

Human distancing in the workplace – how to comply and adapt Landlords and business owners are facing new uncertainties every day due to the coronavirus pandemic.

Chief among these anxieties is how they are required to adapt interiors and buildings to comply with new international regulations.

Shared public spaces:

Raghmah Solomon

D

r Maria Neira of the World Health Organization put it eloquently when she said, “The wealth of business depends on the health of workers.” Bearing that in mind, an ethos of responsibility needs to be cultivated and landlords must proactively assist tenants to mitigate situations that could place them in harm’s way.

A system to report possible risk factors and seek assistance should also be put in place. The Occupational Health and Safety system is there to maintain safe and healthy work environments and minimise risk to employees. The legislation has been adapted to add additional layers of protection for the unique circumstances of COVID-19.

According to Raghmah Solomon, CEO at Vortex Design Solutions, an interior design company specialising in compliance of building fire, HVAC and electrical systems, business owners and landlords can expect change in the following areas:

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• As some businesses require visitors to queue, landlords could assist by working together with tenants by allocating queuing space in common areas.

• Shared public areas should be as health-friendly as possible and include wash or sanitising stations, as well as signage to educate individuals about health and safety protocols.

• Ensure sanitising wipes are available at regular touch points such as doors, entrances, keypads and elevator buttons for cleaning.

• All lobbies should provide hand sanitiser and have a system to ensure that people entering the building are wearing masks. Lobbies must also be used to keep track of the number of people in the building at any one time.

• Waiting areas should be redesigned to comply with the minimum 1.5 m distancing, and the fabrics of all public furniture should be bleach-friendly and able to withstand repetitive cleaning.

• The necessary social distancing signage, such as informational posters, floor decals and limits for the number of people allowed in a lift at one time, should be visible and repeated throughout the space.

• If possible, doors could be left open during peak lockdown stages to prevent excessive touching.

• Stairwells should have hand sanitiser at the top and bottom of each flight and if possible, should be on a sensor or dispersed by an individual that can remind visitors to sanitise when they enter.

• All taps in the washrooms must be working so that people can wash their hands. To ensure that the water bills stay in check, refit the tap spouts with water-saving nozzles.

• Consider putting sensor-operated soap dispensers in the washrooms and check regularly that they are full.

Offices: • Kitchens should have restricted access. Implementing alternating lunch and tea shifts will aid in ensuring that the capacity of the kitchen area is always monitored.

• Providing employees with a set of cutlery or lunchwear with their name on it mitigates the risk of spread from people using shared cutlery.

• A wipe-down protocol for the fridge, coffee machines, urns, kettles, toasters, printer stations, water coolers, microwave, filing cabinet, TV remotes and all surfaces should be implemented. All crockery, cutlery and glassware need to be packed away behind closed doors.

• Deliveries should be handled by dedicated staff who can monitor parcel collection and distribution inside the office area, and personal deliveries should be prohibited from being opened inside the office.

• General social distancing including wearing of masks, washing, and sanitising hands regularly and good health and hygiene practices are essential on an individual level.

• Staggering employees work hours to allow for spot cleaning before and after shifts is recommended, as well as a deep clean once a month at a minimum.

facilities management review • A general handwash station inside premises with warm water, limiting the washroom to two people and food breaks are advised.

• Clean and sanitise aircon filters regularly and ensure they are in perfect working condition.

• For industries that cannot function without office-bound staff, move desks to the perimeter of the office into screened cubicle layouts.

Moving desks closer to windows for better ventilation, also lowers the risk of continuously contaminating the space with airborne particles.

• Dividing the office up into individual offices or converting, even partially, to a work-from-home system might be a better long-term solution.

How to comply in retail: • Start with instituting a new policy and procedure that includes an express dry-cleaning service between people fitting on and employees re-hanging on the rail or when people return clothing to a store.

• Jewellers and optometrists must have sanitising stations where they can sanitise the product after it is fitted on a customer’s face before it goes back on the shelf.

• Consider investing in online or e-commerce branches of your store to eliminate the risk posed by human interaction.

Applying social distancing in design

means that business owners should consider changing their interior spaces as a permanent precautionary measure.

Ultimately, one needs to eliminate all the risks that may spread the virus by using existing technology to its fullest extent and by making products available online.

Visit www.vortexdesignsolutions.com for more information.

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feature smart cleaning solutions – robotics

Autonomous cleaning enjoying increasing acceptance Robots are commonly used in manufacturing for repetitive tasks on production lines, assigned to tasks that are dull, dirty and dangerous. Robots have been in use for many years, but they don’t often see the light of day.

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onetheless, robotics are pretty good at these jobs, driving huge efficiencies on production lines, cost reductions, and making for safer workplaces. Their success in manufacturing has led to a booming industry that is now worth more than US$40 billion worldwide, according to Grand View Research.

But while these machines grind away in heavy industries, we have yet to see their actual potential in the ‘real world’.

Visions of a robotics-powered future society remain seemingly distant.

But the recent events surrounding COVID-19 have directed a spotlight onto the types of roles robots could play outside of heavy industry. Across healthcare facilities and retail outlets, fleets of robots have been deployed as cleaners, with some using UV rays to zap microbes from surfaces, in areas where it could be unsafe for human cleaners to tread without protective gear.

Brain Corp, one of the leading players in this area, whose mission is to push the boundaries of what robots can do for us, away from production lines.

While Brain Corp’s robots are focused on cleaning floors – not every surface – amid the coronavirus pandemic they ultimately free up human workers to provide more attentive cleaning to hightouch surfaces like door handles where the virus could be collecting. That neatly sums up the assistive role the company believes robots could play in society.

Initially, Brain Corp established its roots in the world of neuroscience and exploring the future of computing.

Brain Corp’s cleaning robots have been widely used across some 1 500 Walmart stores in the US, laying down the gauntlet for the adoption

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African Cleaning Review July/August 2020

of autonomous robotics in everyday society. “The value of robots is to handle the dull, dirty, and dangerous tasks that humans don’t like to do,” says Brain Corp’s VP of product, program and UX design Phil Duffy, who adds that the fourth ‘D’ is now Data: “humans aren’t very good at counting things en masse.”

can be applied in other high-traffic settings, like airports, with similar results.

Pittsburgh International Airport (US) has teamed up with Pittsburgh-based Carnegie Robotics to deploy a pair of autonomous scrubber/dryers – essentially self-driving robots that clean floors in an ultra-efficient manner.

Brain Corp’s cleaning robots have been widely used across some 1 500 Walmart stores in the US, laying down the gauntlet for the adoption of autonomous robotics in everyday society.

In a retail setting, where Brain Corp’s machines clean the aisles, robots can also gather data to increase the efficiency of their work, recording what’s been cleaned and how far they have travelled, which adds new standards of cleanliness to stores: “All the routes and areas they have cleaned are recorded,” Duffy says, “and that’s really important because it now allows retailers and customers to set cleaning compliance and measure against it.”

UV cleaning Autonomous robotic cleaners are anything but ordinary. What makes them particularly special is the integration of ultraviolet lights that augment their traditional cleaning tools, a first for US airports. In response to the COVID-19 pandemic, airports and other public spaces are searching for ways to enhance their cleaning methods. Researchers believe UVC rays, which have been used to sanitise hospital rooms for decades,

“The application of UV is part of a strategic airport-wide approach to cleaning as airport officials look to incorporate UV-disinfecting technology in additional ways, including on handrails of escalators and moving walkways, elevator buttons and other high-touch areas”, says Katherine Karolick, senior vice president of Information Technology for Pittsburgh International Airport.

“As the aviation industry attempts to rebound from a dramatic downturn caused by the coronavirus pandemic, restoring passenger confidence is key,” says Karolick.

“Passengers don’t just want to see a clean airport, they want to know it’s clean and they want to know it’s safe,” Karolick says. “Ultraviolet robots have been used in hospitals as a way to disinfect and kill microorganisms, so it is definitely something that makes sense for an airport.”

The scrubber/dryers are modified versions of machines manufactured

feature smart cleaning solutions – robotics

by Danish cleaning equipment firm Nilfisk. Carnegie Robots designed and manufactured the artificial intelligence and robotic systems that can map an area and then clean it without human assistance. By partnering with the airport they were able to test and refine the systems. “An airport, as a particular application space, is very representative of many public spaces; high traffic, big open areas, reflective surfaces and a lot of safety concerns. Our primary priority

with this testing is to understand how effective the addition of UVC is as a disinfectant in combination with a Nilfisk scrubber/dryer”, said Carnegie Robotics CFO Daniel Beaven.

With Fill-in mode, the scrubber/dryer operator drives the area perimeter and the Advance Liberty SC50 automatically plans a path to clean the interior of the space. With its proprietary sensor suite and software, the scrubber/dryer recognises unknown obstacles as small

Niche Oxford laundry service meets demand for sterile healthcare laundry

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niche laundry business, OXWASH, has taken on the challenge to assist the UK’s National Health Service (NHS) in its fight against the coronavirus pandemic by providing a special cleaning service for medical scrubs, personal protective equipment and uniforms. Since the start of the outbreak there has been a surge in demand for the protective equipment from hospitals, care homes and GP practices, reported OxMail.

OXWASH operates on bicycles across the cities of Oxford and Cambridge, working around the clock to free capacity and meet the high demand for sterile healthcare laundry.

OXWASH founder Dr Kyle Grant, who was born in Cape Town, said: “We have to be able to maintain very high levels of cleanliness and adopt several new levels of PPE and processes to operate safely in the recent COVID-19 outbreak.

The latest demand comes from GPs who have not previously used scrubs

and PPE. We realised we had to help and have the technology to provide a service at a time of crisis. We’re proud to be able to meet the needs of frontline NHS heroes and heroines.”

In addition, there is a need for services from several hotels that have been taken over by the NHS to accommodate key workers during the crisis.

Dr Grant added: “It has been vital to get our service right and we have now successfully undertaken a pilot with two practices, including the Jericho Health Centre. We have developed a threestage cleaning process to achieve levels of sterilisation that exceed the NHS and HSE guidelines. In addition to high temperature washing, we are using an ozone process known to be effective against microorganisms such as bacteria and viruses as well as allergens that was originally developed for NASA to sterilise payloads for space missions. Finally, a chemical sanitisation rinse doubles up as a stain removal step.”

as a tennis ball and then automatically manoeuvres around them, making the Advance Liberty SC50 safe to use in open or congested spaces.

Chemical disinfectant can be added to the process for a deeper clean, and the UV rays then pass over, creating three different levels of cleaning for the surface.

The autonomous scrubber/dryers are the only such third-party safety-certified machines in the world, a certification process approved by the American National Standards Institute that ensures safe operation in public spaces.

The partnership with Carnegie Robotics is the first step of an airport-wide strategy to deploy technology solutions and multi-layered cleaning processes to enhance the health and safety of the travelling public. The UV technology is designed to kill microbes in high-traffic areas, increasing cleanliness and helping to restore confidence in traveling.

Sources: techhq.com, Blue Sky News.

laundry review OXWASH was founded in 2017 by Dr Grant, arising from frustration with the laundry service at many Oxford colleges.

Armed with just a bike and a backpack he started collecting and washing clothes for fellow students, this quickly snowballed into a growing on-demand laundry business as interest grew.

For more information visit: www.oxwash.com

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laundry review Introduce ERP software and its digital companions to stay ahead of the curve

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RP software makes procedures comprehensible, simplifies processes and helps the company to organise the workflow. If innovative app solutions are added, the package is complete. Data is available in real-time, from anywhere and at any time, now we are talking about end-toend digitisation.

It is also becoming increasingly important for medium to smaller textile care companies to stay up to date. The introduction of an ERP software solution can help, especially for industry-specific tasks, such as those encountered on a daily basis. Software tailored precisely to the needs of a modern textile service provider is the tool of choice.

Processes must run optimally, be perfectly co-ordinated and deviations must be identified quickly. To achieve this, processes and data must be transparent. “In future, modern and future-proof production and logistics concepts will require a large amount of information, about the laundry item itself, current product status, product quality and process progress. Effectively this means transparency in the entire operation. This is exactly what our software helps customers to achieve,” says Michael Wieser, Sales Director of SoCom Informationssysteme GmbH. “TIKOS as a complete solution for laundry service providers covers the entire production process of a laundry. As an industry specialist, and because of

SoCom Apps ongoing customer engagement we are aware of the special challenges. Therefore, we are able to provide fast and competent assistance in the event of new requirements.”

Well organised with innovative apps The process design starts with the customer. Innovative app solutions such as the SoCom app texScan enables mobile inventory to be carried out within seconds via smartphone, directly at the customer’s premises.

Customers can now scan inventory or other movements.

With the app solution texOrder, orders or inventories can be made at hospital wards, nursing homes or hotels by the customer without any special training. Information is transmitted directly and is available offline.

The texRoute app is available tailored exactly to the logistics needs of a laundry. With this app, mobile route management as well as container management can be organised comprehensively and profitably. Overlooked or incorrectly loaded containers, which can ruin profit margins, no longer occur. The issue of container shrinkage is also a thing of the past. As with parcel delivery, the customer’s signature can be obtained for container delivery.

Live tracking is possible via a web portal - the current delivery status, set-up times, travel times and dwell times at the customer’s premises can be viewed at the touch of a button. The customer is informed via email, even before the driver arrives. This means that the customer can prepare everything right away - the right containers with the right laundry items to the right pick-up location, thus reducing loading times.

The texEasyPick app offers support in the field of picking.

Orders can be picked easily, paperlessly, and stock is adjusted automatically. Production managers can see the live status of all open pickings at any time and change the prioritisation of individual pickings immediately. Due to the direct interaction of the individual app solutions, the additional container and parking space information stored in texEasyPick can be transmitted to the driver and displayed via the texRoute app.

While all the abovementioned apps are designed for special applications, the texUniScan app covers different fields of application. All barcodes or QR-Codes are captured by a smartphone or tablet camera or external scanner and transmitted directly to the TIKOS database.

“What the app captures and reports back in a processed form is determined by our customers - according to operational requirements”, explains Wieser. Therefore, the range of application of the texUniScan app is enormously comprehensive and flexible. Expensive PC-workstations are no longer necessary and smaller processes can be controlled directly in production by the customer himself, thanks to digital companions.

For more information visit: www.socom.de

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African Cleaning Review July/August 2020

editorial Hako The Scrubmaster B260 R – a new dimension in professional cleaning technology Available with working widths of 108 and 123 cm and equipped with a 260-litre tank, the new Scrubmaster B260 R provides a cleaning performance of up to 8 600 m2/h and complements Hako’s ride-on scrubber-dryer range of equipment. This high-performance machine ensures long operating times in large areas – for example, in shopping centres, warehouses or industrial facilities. Modular extension options ensure high levels of flexibility.

One machine, increased comfort on all levels, versatile application options Increased area performance, tank capacity, flexibility and work comfort: the new Scrubmaster B260 R ideally complements Hako’s scrubber-dryer range.

Excellent comfort: the Scrubmaster B260 R has been awarded the AGR (Aktion Gesunder Rücken e. V. www.agr-ev.de) quality label for its ergonomic machine concept.

When developing the Scrubmaster B260 R, Hako has applied its own high standards in terms of quality, performance and ergonomics. This ride-on scrubber-dryer has been designed to benefit the user: all operating elements are within easy reach and allow intuitive use. The one-button operating system starts all functions at the push of a single button. Filling, cleaning and maintaining the machine is just as easy. Both the back and armrests and the seating position can be optimally adjusted to suit the driver. The entire Scrubmaster ride-on range was subjected to the stringent AGR (Aktion Gesunder Rücken e. V.) test procedures and was subsequently awarded the AGR quality label as particularly back-friendly equipment.

Whether it is high levels of pedestrian traffic – along with considerable amounts of waste – in large lobbies, cleaning during business hours, or various types of residue in major-industry production facilities, each site holds its very own challenges for professional cleaners. With its modular machine concept, the Scrubmaster B260 R easily meets all these challenges. Four different scrub units are available for every cleaning requirement: from a cylindrical brush to 2- or 3-disc brush units and a heavy-duty 3-disc brush unit for use on rough, sanded floors. Optional attachments extend the machine’s functional features even further: for example, the pre-sweep/ vacuum unit, which enables sweeping and wet cleaning in a single working step.

Why not try our range of Scrubmaster cleaning solutions yourself?

To book a demo, or for more information about our products, contact Sonia Pretorius, Inland Sales Manager: soniap@600sa.co.za,

Highly versatile application options: for example, with the optional pre-sweep/ vacuum unit and the overhead guard.

011 922 0000 or Cape Town Area Sales Representative Craig Childs at: CraigC@eiegroup.co.za, 021 959 8851 or visit: www.600sa.co.za

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editorial Tork Introducing two NEW Tork PeakServe solutions.

Meet the needs of your entire facility with the same refill. as standard and mini dispensers and as adapters for recessed hand-towel cabinets, enabling you to meet the needs of your entire facility with the same refill.

Key features:

We have expanded the Tork PeakServe® family to enable more customers to experience the benefits of the system – including high-traffic customers with medium-traffic washrooms, as well as customers using recessed cabinets. Now they can serve their entire facility with one system using the same refill.

The Tork PeakServe® Continuous™ Hand Towel system uses compressed

bundles to offer the highest capacity on the market*, which means that you can avoid run-outs during peak hours.

In combination with the easy-to-use, continuous system, Tork PeakServe lets you: • Free up staff time for actual cleaning • Speed up washroom flow • Save on storage space and reduce transportation environmental impact Tork PeakServe is now available

• High capacity – up to 2100 towels • Top-up in use – refill at your convenience • Fast and easy to refill – twice as fast • Fast dispensing – serves in 3 seconds • Continuous towels – connect between bundles • Compressed bundles – more towels in less space Bring it on with Tork Peakserve!

For additional information please contact: kirsty.collard@essity.com

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Be part of the official African delegation to visit the bustling city of Amsterdam and the world’s largest professional cleaning exhibition Holland’s capital city is a hub for happy cyclists, beer-drinkers, tourists and art-lovers. Amsterdam’s go-to bohemian vicinity brims with coffee shops, bars and restaurants, and the renowned Albert Cuyp market is well worth a visit.

During the fall of 2020, the world of professional cleaning will gather in Amsterdam at what is regarded as the world’s largest exhibition of its kind. This is your opportunity to view the latest cleaning technology and updates on global trends and developments while connecting with cleaning professionals from over 143 different countries. The exhibition floor stretches over several halls and is divided into eight specific segments, namely: high pressure; laundry; management; mobility; steam cleaning; washroom; waste solutions; window cleaning; and healthcare. The other three segments – machines, equipment and detergents – are fragmented and can be found in every hall. The first Interclean exhibition took place in 1967 and it has since developed into the world’s leading trade fair for the professional cleaning industry.

“ I have really enjoyed the trip, learned a lot about new technology and will surely implement some systems. The trip was very well organised.” Awie Human, Branson Chemicals “ Thank you for an amazing trip. It was well planned and executed. It was fun and also very beneficial.” Simon Barrett, SB Marketing

Tour departs Saturday 31 October 2020 Interclean 2020 tour package:

• • • • • • • •

Five-night 4-star accommodation in Amsterdam, including breakfast Direct flights to and from Amsterdam Hotel/airport transfers, welcome drinks on arrival including activity Day-trip sightseeing tour to Rotterdam in luxury coach including tour guide and lunch Transfer – hotel to RAI exhibition centre on opening day Three-day city tram pass Two-hour evening canal cruise through Amsterdam city canals including drinks and snacks Farewell three-course dinner including all drinks at a traditional Dutch restaurant

New Interclean 2020 show dates

3 - 6 November

Amsterdam, The Netherlands “With the new dates we have ensured you will still be able to see all of the original major exhibitors.”

Tour package rates subject to exchange rate fluctuations

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To book your travel package or for more information, contact: Steve Braham Tel: +27 11 646 9322 | Mobile: +27 83 265 1268 African Cleaning Reviewsteve@swbagencies.co.za July/August 2020 Email:

Rob den Hertog, director Interclean.

people and events Determined KZN entrepreneur created cleaning business with only R800 Spotting opportunities is an essential skill for entrepreneurs to survive and thrive, especially in rough market conditions, according to Thokozani Potgieter, owner of KwaZulu-Natalbased professional cleaning company ClearView SA. The first time Potgieter honed this particular skill was during the worst days of South Africa’s drought – not a great time to be the owner of a water-consuming cleaning business specialising in windows, cladding and signs for commercial buildings and residences.

“At the time, I had contracts to clean the windows for car dealerships like Audi and VW. It made me very aware of how often they need to wash the cars and how much water this process uses – at least 25 to 30 litres per vehicle,” explains Potgieter. “So, I put together a proposal to wash their cars using a high-pressure steam cleaner that only used about four litres of water to wash a large SUV. My clients were very impressed with the substantial water savings.”

Not long after his car-steam-cleaning brainwave, Potgieter and his team were cleaning bird droppings off the windows and signage at a private hospital when another idea hit home: why not use steam cleaning at medical facilities, crèches and other public spaces to kill germs, bacteria and viruses with heat.

“I realised we could use highpressure steam cleaning applications inside doctors’ rooms, baby cubicles, and waiting areas with furniture.

It would allow us to deep clean in hard-to-reach areas without any harsh chemicals that could cause breathing problems for patients,” Potgieter recalls of his strategy to expand his business to offer these services.

It’s this same problem-solving spirit that induced Potgieter to kick-start his business with just R800 in 2014, after returning from a two-year workingholiday stint in the United Kingdom.

During his time working as a window cleaner in Manchester and Warrington, he saved about R150 000 with the dream of buying property or investing in business. But he promptly lost this start-up capital to scammers who promised quick returns in a pyramid scheme.

Distraught but undeterred, Potgieter secured a R800 loan from his sister to buy a telescopic pole and rented a ladder for his first commercial windowcleaning project at the Newcastle Corner Mall.

From there, he leveraged all he had including selling the phones and laptops he’d acquired in the UK, as well as all his household furniture – to buy and rent the equipment he needed to get his ClearView SA professional cleaning business off the ground.

But there were still days he had to eat expired food from the bin outside his local grocery store just to make ends meet, he recalls. “I didn’t even have R2.50 to buy a vetkoek. I ate from the bin, I slept, and I walked 10 km with my ladder to complete my job the next day. I didn’t want to cancel on my client.”

Thokozani Potgieter Like all small-business owners, Potgieter is having to make some hard choices to get through the COVID-19 lockdown, but he figures his tumultuous journey so far has prepared him to find ways to innovate and strive for excellence during this unexpected crisis: “It’s tough, but I’m using this lockdown time to strategise, plan and work on my marketing and to see how I can recoup my losses when South Africa opens for business again.”

One of his immediate goals is to expand into industrial environments and also to train his team in the use of ropedescent systems so they can tackle up to 50-storey high-rise buildings for cleaning.

Potgieter has one more even loftier goal: “My dream is to one day compete in the annual Window Cleaning World Cup. Last year’s winner from the USA cleaned three office-style windows in just 17.02 seconds. I want to beat that record,” says Potgieter.

Visit the ClearView SA website at: www.clearviewsa.co.za

New location and dates for ISSA Show in US Due to the ongoing coronavirus pandemic the ISSA North America show, previously scheduled for 26–29 October in Chicago, will now take place from 16–19 November at the Mandalay Bay Convention Centre in Las Vegas. The new location will allow for a more manageable footprint with enhanced safety protocols according to the ISSA. For more information on the relocation of ISSA Show North America 2020 visit: www.issa.com

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new products Cleaning tool firm launches new lengths in ultra-hygienic handle range Vikan, the global leader in hygienic cleaning tools and systems, launched two new lengths in its Ultra Hygienic Handle range in order to help customers better meet requirements in the food and beverage industry.

Vikan’s Ultra Hygienic Handles are known in the food and beverage industry to be durable, lightweight, easy to work with and simple to clean.

The addition of the two new lengths – 650 mm and 1 000 mm – means cleaning staff can now use the popular handles for a broader range of tasks.

“Food and beverage production facilities present a huge variety of challenges,” said Jette Fruergaard, Vikan’s Hygiene Product Manager. “The new sizes mean our customers can now find an Ultra Hygienic Handle for every task.

We’ve also introduced new features to further improve grip and usability.”

The new features include the introduction of the ergonomic vertical ridges, as seen in Vikan’s aluminium range, and an easy-to-clean matt finish.

Both ensure better grip, even with wet or greasy hands. The new handles also have a smaller diameter – reduced from Ø 34 mm to Ø 32 mm – making it more comfortable for a wider range of hand sizes.

The handles in the Ultra Hygienic Handle range are compatible with all Vikan’s brooms, scrapers, brushes and food-handling tools.

Founded 120 years ago, Vikan is the world’s leading supplier of hygienic cleaning tools and systems for the food and beverage industry and other hygiene-sensitive environments.

For more information about Vikan’s full range of handles, email: export@vikan.com, or visit: www.vikan.com

Sanitising indoor areas using a dry-fog system Italian cleaning-equipment manufacturer Santoemma recently announced the development of a DRY FOG @7micron sanitation system to eliminate germs and bacteria. This technology allows for complete sanitising of different environments as the sanitising chemical penetrates hard-to-reach areas and those areas where liquid-spray systems would be deemed unsuitable. By using the dry-fog system emitting particles measuring only 7 microns, it is possible to sanitise areas without wetting the surface. The dry-fog sanitising system is

ideal for periodic sanitising of small-tomedium areas within facilities. Once applied it should be left to completely fill the area and to act for a few minutes in order to perform the sanitising action.

In any environment, it is important to perform regular cleaning prior to sanitising surfaces in order to achieve the most effective results. The dry-fog sanitising system is ideal for facilities such as hospitals, schools, gyms, food-processing plants, shopping malls, washrooms, clean rooms, etc.

Santoemma has been manufacturing

professional cleaning machines in Italy since 1980. The company’s equipment is sold worldwide through networks of qualified dealers.

For more information or to view the range of sanitising/foaming systems visit: www.santoemma.com

Paint that inhibits microbial growth in healthcare settings As the COVID-19 outbreak puts major strain on South Africa’s healthcare sector, we are looking to the latest technologies, equipment and solutions to curb not only the spread of the virus, but to address the country’s general healthcare needs in the long-term. The Plascon Professional team introduced a new product for use in the healthcare sector where infection control and antimicrobial performance are essential. Plascon Professional Hygiene™ Low Sheen uses BIODEFENCE™ silver technology which actively inhibits microbial growth between cleaning schedules, promotes a more hygienic environment and helps reduce the risk of cross-contamination via painted surfaces. It also eliminates up to 99.9 percent of E.coli bacteria and provides proven protection against other harmful bacteria with low VOC, excellent wash ability and stain resistance. It will withstand repeated cleaning cycles and maintain its antibacterial effectiveness for its full lifetime.

For more information email: advice@plascon.co.za

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FOCUSED MANAGEMENT = EXTERNAL EXCELLENCE!

SAPCA Cleantex Executive Summit Africa 15–16 September 2021 The Lord Charles Hotel | Somerset West | Western Cape | South Africa A two-day co-located executive event for professionals in cleaning, hygiene, laundry and pest control Day 1: Strategic business management sessions for all delegates Topics: Strategic thinking, leadership, customer care, the future workplace, digitisation, scenario planning, corporate culture and business evolution Day 2: Two independent tracks Track 1: Professional Cleaning Industry summit focusing on business growth, infection control, sustainability, in-depth customer journey mapping, resetting business practices to adapt to COVID-19 Track 2: Pest Control Industry subject matter and training sessions

REGISTER NOW AND SAVE! ISSA | NCCA | BEECA | SAPCA members qualify for preferential rates Two-day delegate package includes access to the cocktail party and gala dinner Sponsors:

Gold

Endorsed by:

Silver

Media partner:

Organisers:

cleantexsummit.co.za • nande@cleantex.co.za || sapca.org.za • info@sapca.org.za