INCLEAN July-August 2020

DELIVERING SUSTAINABLE HYGIENE INFORMATION

www.incleanmag.com.au

July / August 2020

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INCLEAN is published by The Intermedia Group Pty Ltd on behalf of ISSA – The Worldwide Cleaning Industry Association.

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Editor’s letter

T

he last few months have brought unprecedented change, but there appears to be light at the end of the tunnel as restrictions across the country begin to ease.

As businesses begin to move from the current lockdown phase to recovery, and staff prepare to return to work; daily cleaning practices, client expectations, and frequencies of clean are set to be taken to a whole new level to ensure the health and safety of building occupants.

Organisations will need to have a robust return to work cleaning plan that clearly outlines what a return to business entails. Read some of the elements your return to work cleaning plan should include to achieve desired outcomes during the recovery phase on page 24.

Continuing our focus on returning to workplaces, we also look at how to protect building occupants post-COVID-19 and some of the changes to expect, such as ATP (adenosine triphosphate) monitoring systems. Read about the growing importance of building verification on page 32.

Another way facilities and contractors alike have responded to the pandemic is by increasingly leveraging the use of automation and robotics.

Autonomous machines are increasingly playing a pivotal role to help minimise the spread of COVID-19, keep up with increased cleaning requirements and reduce human-to-human contact. Find out more about how these technologies are being applied on page 40.

Also, in this edition Dr Greg Whiteley examines how to effectively clean schools and aged care living facilities, and we ask some of the industry’s leading carpet care experts about the latest trends and technologies.

As the sector’s trade magazine, we are focused on keeping the industry connected and supporting our readers through this challenging time. If you have a positive news story to share, please get in touch by emailing the team at info@incleanmag.com.au.

Happy reading,

Claire Hibbit Managing Editor

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The Intermedia Group takes its corporate and social responsibilities seriously and is committed to reducing its impact on the environment. We continuously strive to improve our environmental performance and to initiate additional CSR based projects and activities.

As part of our company policy we ensure that the products and services used in the manufacture of this magazine are sourced from environmentally responsible suppliers.

This magazine has been printed on paper produced from sustainably sourced wood and pulp fibre and is accredited under PEFC chain of custody.

PEFC certified wood and paper products come from environmentally appropriate, socially beneficial and economically viable management of forests.

The wrapping used in the delivery process of this magazine is 100 per cent biodegradable.

www.incleanmag.com.au 3

What’s on 2020 Budapest Cleaning Show 14-15 October 2020

The exhibition is hosted by the Hungarian Cleaning Technology Association www.budapestcleaningshow.hu/en

Forum Pulire 2020 13-14 October

The event will be held in PalazzoRegione Lombardia, a prestigious venue in central Milan. www.issapulirenetwork.com

Thank Your Cleaner Day 20 October 2020

A New Zealand-based social initiative to recognise cleaners. www.thankyourcleanerday.com

ISSA North America 26-29 October 2020

Chicago will play host to ISSA North America, the top event for professionals in the cleaning industry.

Total Facilities 27-29 October

Total Facilities is the nation’s only central marketplace for facilities professionals. www.totalfaciltiies.com.au

Interclean Amsterdam 3-6 November 2020

Interclean is the world’s leading platform for cleaning and hygiene professionals. www.intercleanshow.com

2021

MOST CLICKED www.incleanmag.com.au

Spotless settles investor class action for $95 million

Distillery issues recall after hand sanitiser sold as gin

Downer EDI subsidiary Spotless settles investor class action out of court.

Victorian distillery issues recall after nine bottles of hand sanitiser were incorrectly labelled as gin.

FWO launches legal action against cleaning company Workplace regulator launches legal action against Sydney-based cleaning services provider for allegedly underpaying two casual workers.

Victoria to hire 1500 cleaners in cleaning blitz Victoria to create short-term positions for 1500 cleaners to work across 10 regional and 26 suburban communities.

Top concerns among workplaces ahead of re-opening

SA to offer businesses ‘COVID-clean’ training toolkit

Cleaning company director reveals nine common concerns leading organisations to ramp up cleaning.

Online training program includes hand hygiene practices, effective surface cleaning, use of PPE and disposal of contaminated waste.

23-24 MARCH 2021 SYDNEY

ISSA Cleaning & Hygiene Expo 23-24 March 2021

The premier trade event for Australia’s cleaning and hygiene industry will take place at ICC Sydney. www.issacleaninghygieneexpo.com

Safety in Action Conference 23-24 March 2021

The leading safety event will be co-located with the ISSA Cleaning & Hygiene Expo. www.safetyinaction.net.au 4 INCLEAN July / August 2020

ON THE COVER Central Cleaning Supplies is the exclusive Australian and New Zealand distributor for LionsBot International. LionsBot International develops robotic machinery including LeoRay, a robot that provides fully automated UV-C disinfection, and interactive LeoBots, a range of specialised floor cleaning robots.

IN THIS ISSUE JULY / AUGUST 2020

ISSUE #4 VOLUME 33

8

Sponsored

08 Managing a cleaning business during COVID-19 20 Giving the industry what it needs 28 Understanding the main guidelines for hospital cleanliness 30 How to improve cleaning standards in hotel housekeeping

12

20

Regulars

03 Editor’s letter 12 Industry 16 Cover story 46 Restoration 52 Opinion 64 Products

65

Features

24 Draft a return to work cleaning plan 32 Protecting building occupants post COVID-19 36 Effective cleaning in schools and senior living facilities 40 Rise of the machines

68

30 www.incleanmag.com.au 5

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INDUSTRY // SPONSORED

George Stamas, managing director of GJK Facility Services, talks leadership, learnings, and life post-COVID-19.

Managing a cleaning business during COVID-19 HOW PREPARED WAS GJK FOR COVID-19?

Whilst no one was prepared for COVID-19, GJK Facility Services was able to respond to the rapid onset of this devasting virus in a very timely manner. This was in part due to a few factors: Firstly, GJK was in the process of reviewing our Business Continuity Plan (BCP) and subsequent pandemic policy (based off the Spanish influenza pandemic) so enacting these action items was very quick. This included the establishment of a pandemic leadership committee, who worked tirelessly to ensure all aspects of not only our people, our clients but our business were always protected.

Secondly, GJK’s operations team were truly remarkable. Once the business sought and confirmed the best method to counter COVID-19, we established a COVID Leadership Team. This frontline management team consisted of leaders from our healthcare, transport, and education sectors, who (having already been trained on infection control) were able to quickly learn the appropriate processes, equipment, PPE and methodologies to tackle COVID-19.

From this, the leadership team worked with our HO departments to develop workshops, videos, and online learning systems, to rapidly train their own supervisors and frontline leaders on what they learnt…. and all within hours! This was quite a feat – considering we manage some of the country’s largest busiest public areas, high profile government facilities which had not shut at that stage.

To say we are proud of our frontline team on how they are handling this pandemic would be an understatement. We are all forever indebted to them for their service.

IT CONTINUES TO BE A CHALLENGING TIME FOR EMPLOYERS AND STAFF ALIKE. HOW HAS GJK MAINTAINED PERSONNEL DURING LOCKDOWN RESTRICTIONS? Yes, this has been a brutal time for all Australians, whether you are the employee or the employer it has affected us all in so many ways, and no one is or was immune. As a business leader the impact on staff has been our biggest challenge. This includes fears around the virus, isolation, and the psychological impact overall that this has had on many people in general. Being mindful of this, our pandemic committee have been working hard to ensure we are constantly looking at ways to check-in and support our teams.

Overall, it has battered me how tough this has been on our industry. With significant reductions across certain sectors, a reduction in staff at GJK was always inevitable. However, I believe GJK has mitigated as much loss as we could by operating across a broad range of sectors. And, where some sectors had closed, others like transport and government have ramped up cleaning services and this gave us the opportunity to retain and redeploy wherever possible. Which has helped keep most of our team employed. www.incleanmag.com.au 9

INDUSTRY // SPONSORED

“

Elevated cleaning standards are a major priority for many businesses, not just from a hygiene or infection control perspective, but also for the wellbeing of their staff as they return to work.

”

10 INCLEAN July / August 2020

LOOKING TO THE FUTURE, HOW DO YOU SEE CURRENT EVENTS IMPACTING ON CLEANING AND DEMAND FOR CLEANING SERVICES POSTCOVID-19?

WILL THERE BE GREATER EMPHASIS AND EXPECTATION OF CLEANING SERVICES? Likewise, from a head office or a management perspective, we were able to redeploy or retrain staff in other functions of the business that were in demand. This has managed to keep the impact low, but it’s been a very tough time for everyone.

WHAT PRACTICES/PROTOCOLS HAVE BEEN IMPLEMENTED BY GJK TO ADHERE TO CURRENT RE-OPENING REQUIREMENTS? Due to current government requirements our head office is continuing to operate as a work from home basis. We have been able to ensure that whilst doing this it has also not impacted the work we do for our clients. However, when our staff are required to enter our head office, we have put in place a process to ensure their safety. This includes temperature scanners at the front entrance, sign in logbooks, doors have made automatic or have been left open. We have also positioned multiple touch free hand sanitisers around the office space and lastly have placed our very own “welcome back packs” on their desks. This initiative was developed to ensure both our team and our clients are ready to re-enter the workforce. In addition to this, we have also taken multiple steps to ensure our frontline team members and their health are always maintained. This includes, adhering to social distancing measures, staggered start times, review frontline staff based on high risk (age and illness) and navigating ways to limit their exposure.

Throughout this time, I feel as though cleaning in general has been brought to the fore, with a greater value placed on its importance and the importance of people doing the work… our frontline heroes. From a business perspective, I believe elevated cleaning standards are a major priority for many businesses, not just from a hygiene or infection control perspective, but also for the wellbeing of their staff as they return to work. People want to feel safe and know their employer cares, so this will create a big focus on “visible” workplace and daytime cleaning.

LASTLY, IS THERE ANY ADVICE YOU WOULD LIKE TO GIVE BUSINESSES REOPENING SOON? Absolutely. Be prepared and put your people first. Whether it’s your office team, your cleaning staff or contractors that come onsite, you need to set up systems and processes to not only ensure the health and wellbeing of your team but prepare to support the mental wellbeing of them as well. One thing my team have rolled out both internally and to our clients is our ‘welcome back pack’. The packs are a simple gesture, which includes a ‘5 steps to stay safe’, hand sanitisers, anti-bacterial wipes which all formed a pack for clients to provide to their staff as they returned to work. Lastly, I would not be doing my job as managing director if I didn’t mention our business, so if you need help in any way, reach out. The team at GJK would be more than happy to help you get back to workforce and get back to bringing our country back to where it needs. ■

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INDUSTRY NEWS

Learning Sphere develops training program in response to COVID-19

R “

The cleaning industry has not been immune to the changes and challenges COVID-19 has brought us, and while we are now hopefully lessening the impacts from this virus, it is clear we will see changes in how we clean and what clients will need for their workplace.

”

12 INCLEAN July / August 2020

egistered training organisation Learning Sphere has developed a tailored training program for infection cleaning in response to COVID-19.

“Learning Sphere Training Solutions has been instrumental in developing and training a tailored, yet specific, Infectious Clean program across most of NSW,” said Luke Bordin, managing director of Learning Sphere.

“We are proud to have been involved in the urgent strategies to help cleaners across most of the NSW Governments sites – schools, TAFE’s, courthouses and government office – to educate and train select cleaners to respond effectively if rooms or buildings were lockdown due to a COVID outbreak.”

According to Bordin, within the first week of the COVID-19, Learning Sphere created a 13-minute ‘Learning Bite’ tutorial that was sent to NSW government cleaners on their mobile phones.

Within the first 24 hours more than 2000 cleaners engaged with their personal Learning Bite with video instructions and a questionnaire.

An additional three-part Learning Bite series was developed for “Infectious Cleans” training, along with a strategy to teach cleaners under COVID-19 restrictions.

“This meant cleaners could receive the theory before their practical training. The training was focused on both responding to infectious cleaning and preventative steps as part of daily practices,” Bordin said.

Throughout NSW and to all major border towns, workshops were delivered to groups of 10 cleaners or less in major venues.

“The cleaning industry has not been immune to the changes and challenges COVID-19 has brought us, and while we are now hopefully lessening the impacts from this virus, it is clear we will see changes in how we clean and what clients will need for their workplace.

“However, over the past two months, through the thick of this virus in Australia, many cleaners have been educated to help reduce the spread and handle infectious breakouts. For most of these cleaners, who never worked in a hospital or aged care home, this has been a new learning curve.”

The challenges of having all adequate PPE for full infectious cleans was met through supportive clients and suppliers who backed the program.

The other major contributor was the NSW Government Training Services who subsidised and continued to show interest in what was being taught, said Bordin.

The program has now expanded to include many NSW Defence sites, NSW Police Academy and specialised cleaning companies.

At present, Learning Sphere is continuing to deliver training, and is now preparing for post-COVID-10 cleaning practices across various industries.

“Learning Sphere received a thank you and commendation from the ministers’ office for the efforts and work to help flatten the COVID curve, especially focused on the cleaning industry and delivering these vital training programs during the height of restrictions.

“Learning Sphere in turn would like to thank its dedicated trainers and support staff for continuing to help the Australian public.”

INDUSTRY NEWS

Kathryn Groening

ISSA Oceania appoints education consultant ISSA Oceania has appointed Kathryn Groening as an education consultant.

Groening, who is commercial manager of social enterprise, Two Good Co, said she is excited to be working with the ISSA team ahead of the ISSA Cleaning & Hygiene Expo in March 2021.

The ISSA Cleaning & Hygiene Expo, the industry’s leading trade event, will take place 23-24 March 2021 at the International Convention Centre in Sydney.

“I am looking forward to sharing and collaborating with the ISSA community.

We aim to support businesses in achieving profitable growth, whilst utilising innovation and social outcomes,” Groening said.

Groening will work in collaboration with the local ISSA team to develop the education program for next year’s trade event, with topics to include

innovation, social outcomes, supply chain, procurement, logistics, finance, legal, training, human resources and technology.

The program will also include sessions from the Specialised Restoration & Cleaning Professionals (SRCP) and Global Biorisk Advisory Council (GBAC), both divisions of ISSA. Groening has extensive experience in the facility management and building services industries, specialising in cleaning, safety, and hygiene, having previously held senior management roles at Winc Australia.

“In these unique times of a global pandemic. We are seeing a new level of respect for the BSC and FM industry workers. Safety, hygiene, and wellbeing are now top of mind. It’s time to celebrate the achievements and the innovations of manufacturers and cleaning hygienists.”

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INDUSTRY NEWS

Polivac International releases new range Battling the current unfortunate crisis, individuals and businesses should be vigilant and implement appropriate hygiene practices, says Polivac.

According to research, a combination of cleaning and disinfecting is the most effective way to combat cross-contamination.

Polivac International has introduced a new product range of electric power ULV foggers and battery-operated foggers.

“These foggers are engineered to exacting standards, to provide effective coverage with less spray solution. They are easy to use, lightweight, and portable. Best for trouble-free operation in supermarkets, hotels, hospitals, commercial facilities, offices, factories, schools, gyms, etc,” the company said.

“Polivac International is aiming to equip the cleaning industries and community with the best technology to help our community fight this unforeseen situation which has affected the lives of many.

“Performing continuous research and manufacturing equipment and machines that meets the current needs and wants of our customers has been our top priority.”

WA introduces mandatory hygiene training for venues Western Australia’s hospitality industry is being prepared for a return to business with the launch of a mandatory COVID-19 hygiene training program.

The specialised COVID-19 hygiene training course, run in partnership with the state government and the Australian Hotels Association (AHA) WA, will need to be successfully completed by every staff member employed at a hospitality venue. Businesses will only be able to reopen once all requirements of the initiative are met.

The AHA Hospitality & Tourism COVID-19 Hygiene Course draws on state and federal health directions regarding COVID-19.

The course is two-tiered, with all staff required to complete the basic training, while a second more detailed Hygiene Officer course will be required for managers and supervisors.

When re-opening occurs, each venue must have one hygiene officer on duty at all times to ensure venue compliance. The more advanced tier-two aspect, for venue hygiene officers, will launch on Wednesday, May 6, 2020.

Businesses will also have to display signage that the venue is compliant with all conditions. Staff will receive a certificate of completion, a badge and wallet card which contains prompters of the key learning outcomes from the course.

AHA(WA) CEO Bradley Woods said the new and innovative online course will equip hospitality staff and management with a comprehensive understanding of COVID-19 hygiene requirements, helping prepare businesses to re-open safely and responsibly.

“This is the first hospitality and tourism specific COVID-19 hygiene course of its type in Australia and will put WA in a frontline position for when venues re-open,” Woods said.

GBAC introduces STAR facility accreditation program The Global Biorisk Advisory Council (GBAC), a division of ISSA, has introduced its GBAC STAR facility accreditation program on cleaning, disinfection, and infectious disease prevention.

It is the industry’s only outbreak prevention, response, and recovery accreditation. GBAC STAR establishes requirements to assist facilities with work practices, protocols, procedures, and systems to control risks associated with infectious agents, such as SARS-CoV-2, the virus responsible for COVID-19.

“GBAC STAR is the gold standard of safe facilities, providing third-party validation that ensures facilities implement strict protocols for biorisk situations,” said GBAC executive director Patricia Olinger.

14 INCLEAN July / August 2020

“Accreditation empowers facility owners and managers to assure workers, customers, and key stakeholders that they have proven systems in place to deliver clean and healthy environments that are safe for business.”

To achieve GBAC STAR accreditation, facilities must demonstrate compliance with the program’s 20 elements, which range from standard operating procedures and risk assessment strategies to personal protective equipment and emergency preparedness and response measures.

Facilities will apply online and provide all documentation and supporting evidence with their application. The GBAC STAR

Accreditation Council determines the status of all GBAC STAR facilities.

“In the wake of the coronavirus pandemic, the GBAC STAR accreditation program is exactly what facilities need to confidently reopen and keep staff, customers, and communities safe,” said ISSA executive director, John Barrett.

“The way the world views cleaning has changed overnight. To effectively recover from this crisis and prepare for the next, it’s essential that businesses take these necessary steps—and we’re thrilled to have a stable of top organisations that have already committed to the program.”

INCLEAN is published by the Intermedia Group on behalf of ISSA

INDUSTRY NEWS

Quayclean Australia launches commercial arm Quay Supply Australian-owned cleaning and presentation company, Quayclean Australia, has launched a new commercial arm, Quay Supply Network, to assist businesses, schools and public venues source and supply cleaning and protection products.

Quay Supply Network specialises in supplying hand sanitisers, anti-bacterial hand washes and soaps, hospital grade disinfectants and a broad range of Personal Protective Equipment.

Quayclean Australia CEO, Mark Piwkowski, said the creation of Quay Supply Network was particularly pleasing during Australia’s most challenging business period since the Great Depression.

“Quayclean director, Sash Petrevski, has led the charge and has been working tirelessly behind the scenes over the past four-six weeks to establish supply chains with Australian-made manufacturers and test the viability of the business in the marketplace.”

Petrevski, who founded Quayclean with his brother Loui in 2002, said high-quality cleaning supplies and products have never been as important as a result of COVID-19. “Customers are requiring consistent supplies of cleaning and protection products to enable them to conduct thorough deep cleans and allow them to maintain commercial operation,” he said.

Quayclean has also introduced a new Safespace communication initiative. Safespace is a series of information certifications such as touchpoint, floor and seat stickers, caution tape and door hangars which has been designed to give patrons, students and

staff reassurance that the highest level of sanitisation and cleaning are in place, to keep them safe when entering a facility.

The program also offers short videos and animations to be sent out to the general public, staff or students to assure them that all correct procedures are in place, and make them feel confident to return to work, school or sporting/entertainment venues when restrictions are lifted.

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INDUSTRY NEWS

Airbnb, Diversey develop cleaning guidelines for home sharing industry Airbnb has partnered with Diversey to develop its newly launched enhanced cleaning protocol – the first overarching standardised guidelines for cleaning and sanitisation in the home sharing industry.

Educational materials and tools are now available for hosts in 12 countries: Australia, Brazil, Canada, France, Germany, Italy, Japan, Korea, Mexico, Spain, the United Kingdom, and the United States. In the coming weeks, resources will be available to more hosts around the world.

The standards are informed by guidance issued by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) in the United States and Europe and advice from former Surgeon General of the United States, Vivek Murthy.

Diversey has endorsed the enhanced cleaning protocol and will help develop more solutions for the Airbnb communityw moving forward.

All hosts in these 12 countries can access the cleaning educational materials in their local languages through the Resource Center, including a Quick Start Guide and Cleaning Handbook with guidance on the use of personal protective equipment, how to clean every room in a home, what to sanitise, and what supplies to have on hand.

These guidelines include requiring all hosts and guests wear face coverings, limiting group size, and maintaining social distancing. For Experiences conducted in a private space hosts are required to follow an enhanced cleaning protocol.

Wage theft legislation passes Victorian Parliament

Victoria has become the first state in the country to pass laws establishing criminal penalties for employers who deliberately underpay or don’t pay their workers.

Employers who dishonestly withhold wages, superannuation or other employee entitlements, will face fines of up to $198,264 for individuals, $991,320 for companies and up to 10 years’ jail.

18 INCLEAN July / August 2020

Offences will also capture employers who falsify employee entitlement records, such as payroll records, or who fail to keep employment records.

New record keeping offences are aimed at employers who attempt to conceal wage theft by falsifying or failing to keep records.

The Wage Inspectorate of Victoria will be established as a new statutory authority with powers to investigate and prosecute wage theft offences.

Employers who make honest mistakes or who exercise due diligence in paying wages and other employee entitlements will not be subject to the legislation.

The government has also consulted with employer groups and unions, and in February this year released a consultation paper seeking public feedback on the proposed legislation.

Almost two thirds of Australians rely on gig economy platforms, study finds Almost two thirds of Australians routinely rely on online platforms such as Uber or Airtasker to buy goods and services, according to new research commissioned by the Victorian Government.

The survey, conducted by researchers at Queensland University of Technology, the University of Adelaide and University of Technology Sydney, is Australia’s largest ever study regarding the on-demand economy.

Until now, little has been known about the true size of the gig economy, the characteristics of its workforce and the challenges participants face.

The survey was commissioned by the Victorian Government to support the work of the Victorian Inquiry into the On-Demand Workforce. The report is due to be released by the government later this month.

It follows preliminary findings from the research that were released last year. The latest report contains additional analysis and a review of previous literature on platform work.

The Digital Platform Work in Australia: Prevalence, Nature and Impact report found 62.7 per cent of its 14,000 respondents had used an online marketplace in the previous 12 months, while 7.1 per cent of participants have used a digital platform to find and perform work.

The report provides valuable insight into the gig economy, including: More than 100 different platforms are being used by respondents to undertake work. The five most popular platforms are Airtasker, Uber, Freelancer, Uber Eats and Deliveroo More than a third of current platform workers work across more than one platform People who speak a language other than English at home are 1.5 times more likely to be platform workers The Victorian Government’s inquiry was commissioned following widespread concern over the wages and conditions offered to workers in the gig economy. Chaired by former Fair Work Ombudsman Natalie James, the report will be presented to the Government and made public shortly.

INDUSTRY // SPONSORED

SPONSORED

Giving the industry what it needs

BIC Services’ Interactive Customer Experience Platform delivers a more efficient and customercentric service model for clients.

C

lients are crying out for innovation, and BIC Services have answered that call with the Interactive Customer Experience Platform.

Chief Information Officer, Tino Stanojevic, began working on the project in May 2019, wanting to develop a real-time customer-centric service delivery and service management system.

What he could never have predicted is that the project would need to be accelerated and deployed to help cope with a global pandemic.

THE EVOLUTION OF ICXP BIC Services developed ICXP to deliver a more efficient and customer-centric service model for clients. Instead of working on repetition, ICXP empowers service teams to offer real-time responses to client requirements.

20 INCLEAN July / August 2020

The technology works via a combination of Customer Experience Kiosks (tablets), wearables, Bluetooth Beacons and IoT sensors.

Building occupants can use Customer Experience Kiosks to make a service request, and the closest technician will be alerted.

They can also use the Kiosks to rate performance, giving BIC Services’ clients the ability to trend performance levels over time, opening a whole new layer of transparency when it comes to performance reporting.

“Transparency creates solid and longterm relationships. We don’t want to hide mistakes or avoid the hard conversations. The data we’ve gathered through the ICXP has been invaluable in tweaking service delivery and setting ourselves up for performance improvements,’ said Chief Executive Officer, Tony Gorgovski.

INDUSTRY // SPONSORED

CREATING EFFICIENCIES AND CUTTING COSTS BY RIGHTSIZING SERVICE LEVELS Under and over servicing creates problems with efficiency and service delivery. ICXP addresses both issues and cuts costs in the process The system uses a range of IoT sensors to measure Asset Utilisation (e.g. foot traffic, bathroom use). The Platform also tracks service team movement and provides heat mapping of service levels.

The BIC Services team then uses this data to create Asset Profiles and determine servicing schedules for each asset.

Service teams can even set up alerts based on usage levels. So, if an asset needs to be cleaned after 100 uses, the closest technician will receive an automatic alert directing them to that asset as soon as the specified threshold has been exceeded.

The system ensures proper servicing while minimising inefficiencies created by overservicing. The Platform also allows for building occupants to raise specific issues, creating a proactive system of service where resources are used efficiently, and clients control service delivery.

Initial client investment will be offset by resource and time-savings over the lifespan of the contract. For long term contracts, BIC can absorb costs.

“We know how important this technology is, for our clients and for our service delivery.

We’ve designed it to provide ROI, so cost doesn’t need to come into the equation for us or clients,” said Gorgovski.

COPING WITH COVID-19

The Platform will be especially helpful in dealing with End-Of-Trip (EOT) facilities. Safe Work Australia sent out a directive for all shared showers to be cleaned after each use.

Usually, this would mean placing a dedicated technician inside each facility, but ICXP alleviates that need.

“ICXP uses small motion sensors in the showers to detect and record usage. The Kiosk displays the shower status (cleaned after use / not cleaned), and the system dispatches notifications to cleaners when showers require cleaning,” said Stanojevic.

“Custom rules mean cleaning requests/ notifications can be dispatched immediately after each use during EOT peak hours, while during off-peak periods, requests can be dispatched after 50 per cent of the showers need cleaning.”

“

The technology works via a combination of Customer Experience Kiosks (tablets), wearables, Bluetooth Beacons and IoT sensors.

”

EXPANDING ICXP INTO OPENSPACE MANAGEMENT ICXP was first deployed at the Commonwealth Bank building South Eveleigh, NSW. This is the perfect space for the first iteration of the ICXP as BIC Services had a dedicated team in place to service the building, so technicians are always on hand to respond to ad-hoc requests.

Rolling out the Platform for the CBRE/Place Management NSW (Places) contract presented a new set of challenges. The contract calls for service provision across a range of built environments in a large area precinct. Service teams need to work across large distances, making it difficult to facilitate immediate responses to ad-hoc requests.

Client sending a service request

Necessity is the mother of invention, and Stanojevic and his team quickly set about readying ICXP for the challenge of COVID-19.

“The pandemic was declared during the early stages of deployment. Our immediate thought was that it would be a roadblock in development, but it has actually sped things along,” said Stanojevic.

“The Kiosks are now voice-enabled, so the system is entirely touch-free. They are also connected with the COVIDSafe app, so we get anonymous alerts if an affected person has been in one of our service areas, allowing us to take appropriate action and disinfect the space.”

The Kiosks can also help in enforcing social distancing by doing smartphone counts in each room. If the room is over-capacity, the Kiosk will display a warning. www.incleanmag.com.au 21

INDUSTRY // SPONSORED

“

We know how important this technology is, for our clients and for our service delivery.

We’ve designed it to provide ROI, so cost doesn’t need to come into the equation for us or clients.

”

TOP RIGHT: ICXP allows for compliant EOT facility servicing MIDDLE RIGHT: Wearables include tracking capability (onsite at Places) BELOW: Kiosks allow for realtime customer feedback, creating transparency in service delivery and relationships

Asset Profiling helps to overcome the issue of distance and the lack of a stationary workforce.

BIC Services uses Profiling to determine when buildings or spaces receive the highest levels of use to ensure those areas are serviced at the right times. It also means that servicing schedules can be set, so technicians are within range when ad-hoc service requests are most likely to be made.

“Essentially, the ICXP takes the guesswork out of servicing the Places contract. Asset Profiles mean site managers can create schedules tailored to customer’s actual usage based on historical data. The Platform even allows for customised rule inputs, so a rule could be set that specific assets are given immediate issue response status,” said Stanojevic.

The Kiosks also had to be updated to accommodate for use in a public space. Tablets are ideal for indoor usage, where power sources are readily available, and they are not exposed to the elements or risk of vandalism. For Places, Tino and his team quickly pivoted to virtual Kiosks.

‘Modern smartphones are ready-made QR code readers through their built-in camera applications. So, instead of using tablets, we used QR Codes which users can scan using their phones. The QR code will take them to a webpage, and they can input service requests and satisfaction scores, as if they were doing it on a Kiosk” said Stanojevic.

A PLATFORM TO BUILD ON ICXP has been rolled out across two very different contracts, and the results so far have been heartening. But for the BIC Services team, it’s just the beginning.

“Tino and his team are just getting started in terms of delivering innovation to our clients.

We’re looking into new markets and technology like ICXP is expanding our capabilities,” said CEO, Tony Gorgovski.

“Not only can we deliver a better, more customer centric day-to-day service, but we can also enjoy a more open, transparent relationship with clients. Our reporting systems are setting the standard in the industry, and clients appreciate the transparency we offer.”

“We’re nowhere near finished”, continued Stanojevic, “we’re just scratching the surface in terms of what ICXP is capable of, which the COVID-19 related upgrades have demonstrated.”

“The beauty of ICXP is that it is real-time, rule-based and very flexible, making it almost infinitely customisable. We can change outputs depending on client needs and space requirements. We see plenty more service scenarios and situations where the ICXP can improve outcomes. Our roadmap holds many exciting innovations.”

BIC Services’ commitment to investing in technology and innovation has paid off. The Platform has already delivered extraordinary client outcomes and it will be invaluable setting them up for a move into new verticals and spaces.

Learn more about the Interactive Customer Experience Platform here: https://bic-services.com. au/interactive-customer-experience-platform. ■

22 INCLEAN July / August 2020

INC

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As a founding member of the top Cleaning Accountability Framework We We deliver innovative, and services.

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As aa founding member the Accountability (CAF),sustainable we are committed to driving standards and positive changeof the industry. Framework (CAF), committedtotodriving drivingstandards standards and and positive change (CAF), wewe areare committed changethroughout throughoutthe theindustry. industry.

We directly employ over 2000 permanent staff worldwide and service our contracts with existing, permanent staff wherever directly employ over 2000 permanent staff worldwide and service service our contracts with existing, permanent staff wherever We We directly employ over 2000 permanent worldwide and contracts with existing, permanent staff wherever possible.

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INCLEAN Ad.indd 1

FEATURE

Draft a return to work cleaning plan Words Tim Poskin

Consider the outcomes of your cleaning program in the recovery phase of the global pandemic.

24 INCLEAN July / August 2020

I

n the post-pandemic world, cleaning is going to be different. Whether you need to increase cleaning and disinfection levels or decrease your cleaning budget spending after your pandemic response, one thing is clear – there is going to be change. The ability to quickly develop and implement proven strategies to meet this change is critical to your organisation’s success.

As this new reality unfolds, organisations need to have a robust return-to-work cleaning plan that clearly outlines what a return to business entails. To help, here are the elements your plan should include to achieve desired outcomes during the recovery phase.

INITIAL ASSESSMENT The arrival of the global pandemic has demanded cleaning organisations dive deep into operations, expectations, and outcomes. New outcomes may be complicated to understand as organisations search to find answers and definition from numerous sources.

The first step is defining your organisation’s status to gain insight about the strengths, stability, and weaknesses of your entire operation, as well as opportunities resulting from today’s new requirements.

It is easy to lose sight of the big picture when meeting the numerous daily pandemic requirements has become a habit. Without

FEATURE Cleaning transparency helps reduce return-towork fear and anxiety and allows the end user to have confidence the cleaning process is in place and working as designed. It involves open and honest communication with your customers about all the components included in your cleaning plan and how these components impact them.

WORKER TRAINING Empower your workers with classroom and hands-on training specific to the tools, equipment, chemicals, and personal protective equipment (PPE) they will use. Ensure the training also includes your organisation’s pandemic response plan. Training helps staff understand why their work is critical to the health and welfare of building occupants and guests that utilise the space they clean.

SUPPORT SYSTEMS

“

As this new reality unfolds, organisations need to have a robust return to work cleaning plan that clearly outlines what a return to business entails.

”

Put support teams in place that not only understand the parts of your operations that need to be changed, but also the reasons behind the changes. Properly setting up your new cleaning plan with this support is critical to long-term, sustainable results. The support and guidance of individuals who know what can and cannot be changed will generate the desired outcomes in your operation. Make sure to implement tracking systems that measure key metrics so operations can provide evidence of new cleaning plan outcomes.

EFFECTIVE LEADERSHIP As a leader, you will need to be proactive and have the flexibility to adapt your decision processes to daily information changes. Dynamic thinking can prevent you from leading your organisation down chaotic and disruptive paths in reaction to the fear and panic of others. Create leadership reserves to prevent burnout at the top of your organisation.

CULTURE CHANGE the correct dataset, you could miss systemic problems that affect cleaning efficacy, creating negative outcomes in your organisation.

WORKLOADING AND TRANSPARENCY In the new reality, be sure your cleaning plan matches the correct number of people and appropriate types of resources to the necessary tasks and functions. Some cleaning organisations will need to significantly increase cleaning frequencies to continuously combat coronavirus risk. Your new cleaning plan must be workloaded to clean and disinfect the built environment while being transparent to users more than ever before.

Even if you don’t plan for the new culture in your cleaning plan, let me be clear that a new culture is forming. If you don’t have a plan, you may not like the outcome. An organisation’s culture is driven by beliefs, values, attitudes, and behaviours. Your new plan needs to include a narrative and actions to navigate the culture change.

QUALITY ASSESSMENT Ongoing assessment is the key to knowing where your organisation stands. Cleaning plan assessment components include: Process: Identify, document, and measure all processes workers are following to clean and disinfect. If you don’t have a documented process, it’s difficult to achieve repeatable results and it’s extremely hard to get consistent results. www.incleanmag.com.au 25

FEATURE

“

As our country shifts toward reopening, the cleaning community must focus on how its plans affect the safety and health of clients.

”

Cleaning Plan Essential Outcomes Clean and disinfected facilities free of unwanted matter

Cleaning transparency of the cleaning system to stakeholders

Frequent training on PPE for daily, detail, and pandemic cleaning

Safe and healthy cleaning workers who are viewed as cleaning professionals

Stakeholders and occupants gain an understanding of the value of cleaning

Separation of cleaning task by daily, detail, appearance, and pandemic cleaning

Cleaning tools and equipment are determined by cleaning specification

Cleaning workers are trained prior to entering the workplace

Cleaning workers are crosstrained to perform all needed cleaning functions

Cleaning supplies, chemicals, and tools are tracked in use

Defined workloading including tasks, tools, and cleaning times and tolerance

Adoption of automated touch-free and hands-free cleaning technology

High-touch points are identified within all facilities

Integration of all building systems that impact cleaning

New cleaning beliefs and behaviors at all levels

Certification of cleaning workers including increased compensation for achieving certification

Regular assessment with measurable results to assess cleaning efficacy

Defined modes of cleaning and disinfection based on space need, surface type, and risk levels

Logistics: Assess the cleaning logistics to identify best practices for setting up and deploying the cleaning plan. Cleaning logistics include all physical inventory and tools needed for the cleaning plan to work. Install established stocking levels to prepare for potential supply chain disruption.

Appearance: An area’s appearance is a direct outcome of cleaning. Measure appearance on a scale that allows you to set a value on how something looks. Cleaning appearance can be measured in many formats including yes/no, 1 to 5, and others.

Tolerance: All cleaning tools are not created equally. Understanding the cleaning tolerance of the tools and equipment is essential to achieve cleaning plan outcomes.

Effectiveness: When something is deemed effective, it has an intended or expected outcome.

Effectiveness measures whether you are getting the desired outcome not only in appearance, but also in germ control, as pathogens you cannot 26 INCLEAN July / August 2020

see can cause harm. Cleaning plan effectiveness can be measured using testing equipment such as ATP meters, particulate counters, moisture detecting devices, and tribometers.

To determine if your return-to-work cleaning plan is ready to implement, consider the outcomes you want the plan to generate. The Cleaning Plan Essential Outcomes chart will guide you.

As our country shifts toward reopening, the cleaning community must focus on how its plans affect the safety and health of clients.

Traditional cleaning plans, whether executed internally or with outside resources, must evolve to new standards set as a result of the pandemic.

Be prepared for change and flexibility when executing your new cleaning plan.

Tim Poskin is founder and systems integrator of ISSA’s Cleaning Change Solutions Consulting and serves as the executive director of the ISSA Workloading and Benchmarking Committee. He can be reached at tim@cmiccs.com. ■

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INDUSTRY // SPONSORED

READ MORE ››

What are the main guidelines in Australia for hospital cleanliness?

SPONSORED

You can make sure your hospital environment is maintaining cleaning standards by following the evidence-based guidelines from the National Health and Medical Research Council.

A

ustralian hospital cleaning guidelines are geared for infection control and prevention. Following these guidelines can help protect doctors, staff and patients by ensuring risk is mitigated according to rigorous protocols.

The main concern when it comes to the cleanliness of hospital environments is a secondary infection from multi-resistant organisms (MROs). These are typically bacteria, many of which can not only survive on most surfaces and/or in the air but are also resistant to many antimicrobials.

MROs can cause infection in vulnerable patients and in staff members. Cleaning services for hospitals must be focused on reducing (and, whenever possible, eliminating) the presence of MROs with specialised cleaning solutions.

You can make sure your hospital environment is maintaining cleaning standards by following these evidence-based guidelines from the National Health and Medical Research Council.

There are four levels of risk when it comes to evaluating the chances of a hospital-based infection spread. These include:

VERY HIGH RISK A very high risk exists when there is an active outbreak of a deadly disease in a high-risk area, or if the infection is more moderately dangerous but highly contagious. Examples include any outbreak in an environment housing vulnerable populations, including children, the elderly, immunocompromised patients or those who have recently undergone transplant surgery.

A very high risk protocol typically requires cleaning at least once or possibly twice a day.

Disinfecting procedures are rigorous, and geared to combat MROs. Vacuuming must be completed 28 INCLEAN July / August 2020

with a high-efficiency particulate air filter, while deep cleaning should be done using a steam cleaner or antimicrobial shampoo.

Rubbermaid HYGEN disposable microfibre cloths can be used in occupied and discharged patient rooms as well as isolation and ICU rooms.

They are ideal for high-touch areas and other high-risk settings.

HIGH RISK A high risk exists in areas that are typically vulnerable to infection. These locations aren’t experiencing an active outbreak but house members of vulnerable populations who can become infected more easily than the average patient or member of staff. Examples include intensive care units, high dependency units, burn wards, renal units, operating suites and emergency departments.

Protocol for high-risk environments typically requires cleaning once a day or whenever any surface is visibly soiled, and includes many of the same cleaning requirements as those of a very high risk area.

Rooms with high public foot traffic (such as ERs) or a need for continual monitoring requiring constant entry and exit by staff can benefit from HYGEN disposable microfibre mops that get rid of most microbes and keep areas cleaner for longer.

SIGNIFICANT RISK A significant risk exists in general wards, where there may be a diverse collective of patients ranging from those who are only slightly ill or injured to the seriously unwell. Significant risk protocols generally entail cleaning once a day for most high-touch surfaces, but areas such as the spaces under stationary beds may be spot-checked daily and thoroughly cleaned once a week.

INDUSTRY // SPONSORED Floors can be kept clean using high quality mopping equipment including washable microfibre mops. These are compatible with a range of cleaning agents, and can be switched to prevent cross contamination - then laundered and reused.

“

protective measures, including personal protection equipment (PPE), many risks to patients and staff in a hospital setting can be mitigated.

By using the right cleaning protocols and cleaning solutions, dependence on antimicrobials can be reduced. This can help stem the proliferation of antimicrobial-resistant bacteria, which may in turn reduce the need for prescribed antibiotics in patients. Finally, antibiotic-resistant infections may also be cut down, saving patients’ lives and reducing the risks of hospitalisation.

Rubbermaid hospital cleaning options provide not only efficient, effective ways to fight against MROs but also deliver functional solutions for cleaning services workers to protect their health and safety. From cleaning carts to flexible mop handles and dusting wands, these products are designed for ease of use and the prevention of injury.

LOW RISK A low risk exists in areas designated for rehabilitation, long-term care, administrative office staff and for domiciliary nursing services.

These house patient populations and staff who are traditionally less vulnerable to bacterial infection.

Low-risk protocols require daily cleaning of high-touch items, weekly cleaning of low-touch items and spot cleaning or after-discharge cleaning when an item is visibly soiled or when otherwise needed. Spacious, lockable cleaning carts that allow large open floors and less sterile rooms to be cleaned quickly and competently can aid workers in servicing these low-risk areas.

Rubbermaid carries a full line of complementary hospital cleaning solutions designed to eliminate the majority of microbes.

When used properly in conjunction with other

Rubbermaid hospital cleaning options provide not only efficient, effective ways to fight against multi-resistant organisms (MROs) but also deliver functional solutions for cleaning services workers to protect their health and safety.

”

Using the proper procedures and the right equipment can help keep Australian hospitals safe for staff and patients alike. For more information on Rubbermaid hospital and healthcare cleaning solutions, contact our team today. ■

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SPONSORED

How to improve cleaning standards in hotel housekeeping

W

“

If you’re looking to redefine clean, Rubbermaid has the products and solutions you need to set a higher standard and set yourself apart from other hotels.

”

30 INCLEAN July / August 2020

hen people visit Australia and book a hotel room, every person differs when it comes to the accommodation, they want the most. For some, these musthave inclusions are more comfort-related; for others, they’re technological, such as free Wi-Fi or complimentary tablets.

But there’s one hotel feature every guest not only wants but has come to expect: cleanliness.

Spotless bathroom floors and fresh, newly washed linens are an indication of quality, excellence and respect for the individuals who are in town for business or pleasure.

If said cleanliness doesn’t meet their exacting specifications, guests have no qualms about booking with a different hotel provider - of which there are plenty. In fact, according to the Australian Trade and Investment Commission, the total number is approximately 296,655 throughout the country – with more than 53,200 additional rooms expected between now and 2028.

Whether you’re just breaking into the hospitality and accommodations space or are a long-time member, here are a few strategies you can employ to improve cleaning standards in hotel housekeeping. They may be the difference between a one-time visitor or a repeat customer.

1. DEVELOP A MISSION STATEMENT To notably improve cleaning standards, you have to define what those standards actually are so your staff can reach them every time they break

out the towels and spray bottles. Perhaps the best way of going about this is by putting those standards or work processes in writing. Naturally, the ideal is to be the best in every respect when it comes to cleanliness, but in order to reach this goal, staff should be able to point back to a set of rules or regulations that informs their efforts.

Only when workers are clear on these standards can they appropriately apply themselves.

2. TRAIN TO RETAIN Through repetition comes learning. This is particularly true in hotel housekeeping. Most people have a general idea of what it takes to keep a washroom, bedroom or lobby area clean, but each person has different ideas of what they consider clean to be. As a result of this, your staff should be clear on the hotel’s definition, not their own.

The best way of going about this is through training. Whether it’s the manner in which staff scrub the toilet seats, hang the bathroom hand towels or vacuum the floors, ongoing training helps ensure that everyone is on the same page to assure that each room is just as spotless as the next.

Even when your staff has been with the company for a while now, it never hurts to review so your crew isn’t just going through the motions but fully engaged. Follow-up training can also be a smart way to introduce new cleaning methods or tools that may be more effective than the current routine.

INDUSTRY // SPONSORED

3. ASSURE THAT CERTAIN TASKS ALWAYS GET DONE When hotel guests head out for the day and housekeeping comes in, it’s usually pretty clear which parts of the room have been used and which ones haven’t. For example, guests may bring their own soap and shampoo, so there’s no need to replace non-used toiletries with new ones.

However, there are some living aspects that ought to be taken care of regardless of whether it does or doesn’t look necessary. Vacuuming is a classic example. A rug or hardwood floors may seem to the naked eye like they’re crumband dust-free, but upon closer inspection, they could probably use a once-over so microscopic particles and debris are swept away. Regular vacuuming is an easy way to keep dirt at bay.

4. PERFORM SPOT CHECKS Guests are the ultimate determiners of whether a hotel is truly clean; if they think otherwise, they’ll likely let you know. It should never get to that point. Every now and then, perform spot checks so your staff remain fastidious about their

housekeeping efforts. This helps with quality control and can provide you with an opportunity to see where your workers are exceling and where there’s room for improvement.

5. REGULARLY CREATE NEW BENCHMARKS Speaking of which, even when your staff is doing all the right things and spot checks are going well, there will always be things that housekeeping can do better in so they can further improve and not just meet, but exceed guests’ tidiness expectations.

So, once you reach a goal in one area or aspect, see where else there may be room for growth.

This may not just be in the quality of clean, but in overall productivity. You may be able to introduce new workflows that can allow staff to keep rooms as spotless as ever and also take care of other odds and ends, such as washing linens, folding towels or restocking used amenities.

Contact Rubbermaid Commercial Products for more details. https://rubbermaidcommercial.com.au ■

Sources: www.tourisminvestment.com. au/en/research-insights/hotelperformance.html www.hotelmanagement.net/ operate/housekeeping-best-practicesto-improve-productivity www.hssstaffing.com/hospitalitystaffing/5-tips-to-improvingquality-standards

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www.incleanmag.com.au 31

FEATURE

Protecting building occupants in a post-COVID-19 world

Words Robert Kravitz

32 INCLEAN July / August 2020

A

s property managers worldwide begin to reopen their facilities, we can expect some to have bright and bold signs, welcoming back tenants and building users.

However, if we look a little closer, we might find some fine print added to those signs, indicating that “we’ve made a few changes while you were gone.”

Building users should expect this as should the cleaning contractors maintaining these facilities.

Among the changes to expect, which are being developed or installed in buildings all over the world, are the following: • Thermal cameras may be installed at key building entries. These monitor – and score – how closely building users are adhering to

social distancing regulations. A poor score could have serious repercussions.

• Some major banks around the world are installing phone apps that can trace worker interactions within a building and with customers. This way, if worker “A” should become infected, and they have recently had interactions with workers “B” and “C,” in the facility, those other workers will be sent home for up to 14 days until it is verified if they are not infected.

• Systems are being installed that can take the temperature of several individuals at one time as they walk into a facility. Those with a high temperature will be stopped at the door. While this won’t indicate if they have COVID, a hightemperature reading is viewed as a red flag.

FEATURE

• A major North American advertising company with offices in Australia, is about to sign off on what many believe is a very intrusive system. Its 22,000 workers worldwide will be required to disclose medical and personal information about themselves and, in some cases, family members. Such information is typically viewed as private and confidential.

Their goal, however, is to determine perceived health risks. (See sidebar: What else can we expect) These examples tell us that facility managers and employers are taking significant steps to monitor and track their staff. While a variety of surveillance measures around the world were implemented after 9/11, the arrival of COVID-19 is bringing things to a much higher level. Many organisations now believe this is the only way they can reopen their properties, and what is even more important, keep them open by protecting the health of building users.

This pandemic’s “consequences are farreaching, and it is going to change the way offices and other commercial facilities operate,” says Scott Rozendaal with Spillz.

“When people are hired for a new job, they’re not going to ask others if ‘this is a good place to work.’ Instead, they will ask if this is ‘a safe place to work.’”

Oh, and one more thing. Do not expect these surveillance systems to be removed once concerns about the virus dissipate.

“Employers don’t have any incentives to remove surveillance [systems] once they install them,” says Jason Schultz, a law professor at New York University.

VERIFICATION Many of us understand why building managers are taking these steps, even if we believe it may be unpleasant and concerning.

But for managers and companies around the world, these steps provide them with something they need right now and that is verification that the people working in the facility are healthy.

Without some form of verification, because COVID is so contagious, if one person is sick, the virus could quickly spread to many other building users. When it comes to cleaning, building managers and business owners are also going to be looking for verification.

“They will want proof - and proof on an ongoing basis - that surfaces in their facility are hygienically clean and healthy,” says Marc Ferguson, with Kaivac. “This will apply not only to high touch but low touch areas as well.”

In terms of proving that surfaces are clean, ATP rapid monitoring systems are the best tools we have. Most cleaning contractors have heard of

these, many are using them now, and many more will be acquiring them going forward.

However, because they will be playing a more prominent role in professional cleaning, it is well worth our time to better understand what ATP systems are all about.

Before ATP, which stands for adenosine triphosphate, the only way a cleaning contractor or building manager could determine if a surface was clean and healthy was to swab it, place the swab findings in a Petri dish, and wait. Within a few days the results would show if contaminants were present.

ATP monitors can evaluate surfaces in seconds instead of days. They do not indicate what pathogens are on a surface, however. What they do is measure the concentration of light units generated by organic material or living cells on the surface.

After a swab is rubbed on a surface, it is then placed in the monitor. Within seconds, a digital evaluation appears.

A high number indicates that a large volume of organic material or living cells are present.

This is cause for concern. A low reading indicates the opposite. (See Sidebar: Some caveats about ATP monitors)

FLOORCARE We have long underestimated the impact soiled floors can have on disease. More than ever before, as the largest surface in a facility, floors will come under greater scrutiny.

“At one time, a major hospital association in the United States advised hospitals to pay only moderate attention to floors, indicating the primary concern is their appearance,” says Ferguson.

“The only reason for a clean, glossy floor, according to this association, [was that it] raised staff morale and increased patient comfort and trust levels.”

Fortunately, they no longer have this view.

Likely it was changed as a result of studies such as this one published in the American Journal of Infection Control.

In this study, researchers took samples from the floors of 159 patient rooms in five hospitals and found that many were contaminated with health care-associated pathogens that are known to cause nosocomial (healthcare acquired) disease.

While our focus here is not hospital floors, what this and many other studies indicate is that floors can harbor pathogens that can cause disease and those pathogens can be transferred to people.

These pathogens may be those that cause MRSA (Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus Aureus) or COVID-19. This makes proper floorcare in a postCOVID world even more essential. www.incleanmag.com.au 33

FEATURE

What else can we expect • Everyone may be asked to walk in a clockwise or counterclockwise direction like one-way traffic on a road • Moving desks so they don’t face one another • Installing high barriers between workstations • Limiting crowds in highly populated areas like cafeterias and conference rooms.

• Employers are likely to require masks or other face coverings worn at all times • Employer-provided meals and community refrigerators will likely be a thing of the past • More contract- tracing systems that help ensure social distancing policies in the workplace are being followed.

HOW CAN THIS BEST BE ACCOMPLISHED? First, what to avoid:

Mops and buckets: Custodial workers have long assumed mops and buckets get contaminated with use and then spread that contamination on the floor as the mop is used. Now we have studies going back 50 years that verify this is the case.

Not only can floor mopping spread contamination, with use, the process minimises and then eliminates the efficacy of the disinfectant being used.

“As the [cleaning] worker mops a floor and immerses the mop into the bucket of disinfectant solution, the solution will degrade. At a certain point, a disinfectant will be rendered ineffective,” according to Kelly Pyrek, writing in the October 31, 2018 issue of Infection Control Today magazine. 1

What to consider: Automatic scrubbers: While these tend to be costly machines, both to purchase and to own, they can help ensure soils and pathogens are removed from floor surfaces.

34 INCLEAN July / August 2020

Auto Vacs: These systems have been independently tested and proven to perform as effectively as – if not more effectively than – automatic scrubbers. 2 These machines also have few moving parts, resulting in fewer repair needs.

Aqueous ozone: Made by different manufacturers, these machines can be effective at cleaning and sanitising floors and other surfaces. However, cleaning professionals should evaluate this technology closely to determine if they will prove most effective for their specific needs.

As others have observed, this virus has taught us many things, including the significance of sound and effective cleaning practices.

“The professional cleaning industry is prepared to lead the way in protecting the health of building users,” adds Ferguson.

“Some say this is our industry’s calling.

Let’s make sure we have the products, knowledge, and training to answer this call.”

Robert Kravitz is a frequent writer for the professional cleaning industry. He can be reached at robert.kravitz@outlook.com. ■

References 1

“ Shoe Sole and Floor Contamination: A New Consideration in the Environmental Hygiene Challenge for Hospitals,” by Kelly Pyrek, Infection Control Today, October 31, 2018

2

ased on studies by the TURI Surface Solutions B Laboratory at the University of Massachusetts, US.

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FEATURE

Effective cleaning in schools and senior living facilities Keeping at risk members of society healthy.

36 INCLEAN July / August 2020

FEATURE

Words Dr Greg Whiteley

I

n my last article, I highlighted the connection between the contaminants on the floor and the superbug risks for patients in hospitals. In this article, you might wonder why we have joined schools and our seniors together.

Well, there are two good reasons. First, both cleaning contexts involve people who are at an elevated risk of serious health complications from infectious diseases and common microbial pathogens, such as the influenza virus.

Children are at risk because their immune systems are still developing. For this reason, they can be more vulnerable to serious complications with germs that would pose little threat to a normal adult.

The older members of our communities, particularly the frail and infirm, often have many other existing health conditions. These other health difficulties can add up and leave the elderly with a lower immune response to fight

off germs that in the past may have caused them no more than a passing cold or flu.

This is also the case with the risks associated with the COVID-19 pandemic involving the SARSCoV-2 virus (the latest designated name for this novel coronavirus), particularly for the elderly, and especially when they are living in close proximity to each other.

The second reason to link schools and senior care is cleaning. In both the school and senior living facilities, the standards of cleaning are often poor, and cleaning is conducted without meaningful quality control.

The cleaning processes, when performed badly, will simply move the germs around rather than remove them altogether. The purpose of cleaning is “to remove germs and soils,” says industry expert Dr. Mike Berry, and where cleaning simply moves the germs from one place to another, this amounts to cleaning failure, and probably negligent conduct.

FEATURE

The common feature in both schools and senior living facilities is the close proximity of people to each other. Also, there is the abundant frequency of commonly touched surfaces. So, if one person gets an infectious germ, then the closer proximity increases the likelihood of person to person spread, or person to surface to person spread.

THOROUGH CLEANING

soils. In the context of schools and senior living facilities, this means the removal of the germs and soils that frequent those locations, particularly on the HTO. Measuring the cleaning process involves using a fluorescent marker (FM).

Pricing drives the cleaning tendering process rather than the quality of cleanliness outcome. Where no valid scientifically based measurements are taken to assess the quality outcome, germs and superbugs can exploit the failure with both survival and infectious intent.

Too often the scale of cleanliness is assessed using only a visual or sensory method (e.g. visual dust or malodorous smell), and so germs (which cannot be seen with normal eyesight), survive in biofilms or layers of soil that is left behind after the cleaning staff has passed by.

Measuring the cleanliness outcome should involve microbiology, (FM) fluorescent marker or ATP (adenosine triphosphate) measurement.

Studies have demonstrated that where the cleanliness outcome is improved, the risk of disease transmission is lowered. This applies equally to schools and senior living facilities.

For schools, there is an additional benefit because both the health and educational outcomes for students are improved through better cleaning outcomes.

So, what should we do? Focus on cleaning quality in schools and senior living facilities to reduce the risk of disease transmission in these community settings. This will by necessity involve improved monitoring of the quality of the cleanliness as an objective outcome.

As responsible and professional members of the cleaning community, with superbug threats on one side, and the new COVID-19 disease risk on the other (all are spread via droplet and surface contact), we need to be vigilant to ensure that what gets touched gets decontaminated.

Remembering what Dr. Mike Berry says, that cleaning is “…the removal of unwanted germs and soils,” thorough cleaning must, therefore, include and reflect the removal of germs and

Dr Greg Whiteley is chairman of Whiteley Corporation. This article first appeared in ISSA Today and has been republished with permission. ■

SURFACE CONTAMINATION

“

The common feature in both schools and senior living facilities is the close proximity of people to each other.

Also, there is the abundant frequency of commonly touched surfaces.

”

38 INCLEAN July / August 2020

Remember this simple principle: “What gets touched gets contaminated.”

So, what are the items that get touched most frequently in schools and senior living facilities?

In no particular order, every surface, tap, knob, door, and object in a bathroom, everything around where people eat, most doorknobs, and all corridor and staircase railings.

In schools, you can include school desks, cafeteria tables, and racking for cafeteria trays.

In senior living facilities you can also include bed railings, bed trays, call buttons, and walking aids.

There is a relatively new term used in healthcare settings to indicate high touch objects and surfaces. That term is HTO (high touch objects and surfaces).

Focusing cleaning efficacy around HTO is the best way to minimise the spread of infectious organisms via hand touch. The contaminated surface and contaminated hands are inevitably connected via the act of touching something.

So, to clean an HTO, the key concern should always be to remove the germs and soils, as well as achieve a clean looking object or surface.

There are two key points to consider in the cleaning process. First, what is “thorough cleaning” and how can it be measured? And second, given wiping is the most fundamental activity in any cleaning process, what does “effective wiping” really mean, and can it be measured?

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Rise of the machines Will recent events accelerate the adoption of robotics?

40 INCLEAN July / August 2020

A

s businesses move from current lockdown restrictions to recovery and staff prepare to return to work; daily cleaning practices, client expectations, and frequencies of clean are set to be taken to a whole new level to ensure the health and safety of building occupants.

One way facilities have responded to COVID-19 is by increasingly leveraging the use of automation and robotics. Autonomous machines are increasingly playing a pivotal role to help minimise the threat of an outbreak, keep up with increased cleaning requirements and reduce human-to-human contact.

In recent months, cities around the world have ramped up their use of autonomous floorscrubbing machines and sanitising robots – some even going as far as launching disinfectant drones. From city streets, to retail and healthcare,

the deployment of robotics has brought the value of automation sharply into focus.

Beyond the scope of cleaning, robots are being used around the world to distribute products such as hand sanitiser and face masks, check temperatures, and in some cases, even food delivery.

The International Federation of Robotics (IFR) predicts an average growth rate of 20 per cent to 25 per cent between 2018 and 2020 for the professional service robots’ market, reaching $27 billion in value.

UVD Robots, the Danish manufacture of ultraviolet-light-disinfection robots, has shipped hundreds of its machines to hospitals in China and Europe during the COVID-19 pandemic, while Hong Kong International Airport recently implemented a round-theclock robot to clean public toilets and key operating areas in the terminal building.

FEATURE In April, US-based robotics company Brain Corp announced it had raised $36 million in funding to help meet the growing demand on the front lines of the crisis for autonomous mobile robots (AMRs) in retail, healthcare, airports, education and other industries. “We have always envisioned a world where robots make the lives of people safer, easier, and more productive,” said Brain Corp CEO, Dr Eugene Izhikevich.

“Autonomous robots are playing a vital role in supporting essential businesses and their workers during this health crisis. This investment will help us continue our pace of innovation and fuel our growth as we execute on the opportunity in front of us,” said Izhikevich.

Brain Corp also revealed retailers had significantly ramped up their use of robotic floor scrubbers as the COVID-19 outbreak grew this year. According to the company’s data, autonomous usage of BrainOS-powered machines in retail locations in the US spiked 13.6 per cent in March 2020, compared to the same month last year, and 13 per cent during Q1 of this year. The San Diego-based company said its BrainOS-enabled robots were on track to deliver more than 250,000 hours of work throughout the month of May.

AUTOMATION ADOPTION Professor Toby Walsh, a leading researcher in artificial intelligence (AI) and professor of AI at UNSW, believes COVID-19 will accelerate the uptake of automated technologies and autonomous machines. “While it is still early days, we will start to see automation be accelerated from COVID-19. It is already becoming increasingly accepted in other sectors, and we see used in our everyday lives such as self-check-in at airports and self-serve check out in supermarkets.”

In 2019 US-based Tennant Company inked a partnership agreement to supply a fleet of the company’s T7AMR autonomous floor cleaners – equipped with Brain Corp’s self-driving operating system – to US retailer Walmart.

The robots operate collaboratively alongside Walmart associates by utilising a “teach and repeat” approach which allows associates to deploy the machine and adjust cleaning routes as the environment changes.

Chad Angeli, general manager of Tennant ANZ, says Tennant has seen strong interest in the T7AMR autonomous floor cleaner trending from multiple sectors such as retail, airports, healthcare, and logistics in Australia. Globally, the company has reported an increase of autonomous usage of more than 25 per cent from the first week of January to the last week of March with its T7AMR. According to Angeli, local interest has been around refocusing and repurposing staff during times of increased demand.

“Now more than ever, services and businesses must take their daily cleaning practices to a whole new level so that employees and patrons feel safe going into any space. Service providers alike will need to recognise the importance of hygiene and cleanliness in any environment from this pandemic.

“There will likely be an increase in expectations of service providers to equip a higher level of cleanliness going forward which may increase wage pressure on businesses,” explains Angeli.

Joe Camilleri, managing director of Central Cleaning Supplies, the exclusive Australian and New Zealand distributor for LionsBot International, says his company has also received significant interest for robotic machines from the cleaning industry with the purpose to assist with efficient cleaning and providing the current workforce with the latest technologies.

LionsBot International develops robotic machinery including LeoRay, a robot that provides fully automated UV-C disinfection, and interactive LeoBots, a range of specialised floor cleaning robots. Each LeoBot is designed to perform a specific function such as; LeoScrub for floor scrubbing, LeoMop for mopping, LeoVac for vacuuming and LeoPull which pulls a 450kg bin, suitable for rubbish collection.

Camilleri says facilities are seeking technologybased alternatives for eco-friendly technology.

“We have had a lot of enquiries and where the robots have been trialed the feedback has been extremely positive.”

Nilfisk Australia managing director, Michael T Hansen, says automation helps mitigate the COVID-19 risk in two ways: “Autonomous machines such as floor cleaners free up staff time to focus on cleaning and sanitising hightouch areas such as door handles, light switches, railings and washroom fittings, which according to health authorities is the highest priority when trying to mitigate risk during COVID-19.

“An autonomous floor cleaning solution allows for the cleaner to be hands-off with their most time-consuming task – cleaning the floors. This not only gives them time for high priority and new tasks, but also eliminates the risk of exposure to contaminants during the floor cleaning process.

“Secondly, autonomous machines clean more effectively. Floors aren’t as high touch as many other surfaces, but contaminants on the floor can transfer to these other surfaces very easily.”

Nilfisk launched its Liberty SC50 Autonomous Scrubber in Australia earlier this year. The machine, also available in North America and Europe, was developed in partnership with Carnegie Robotics.

Hansen says autonomous robots work alongside the industry’s workforce, to do some grunt work, so staff can focus on tasks that require the human

“

Now more than ever, services and businesses must take their daily cleaning practices to a new level so that employees and patrons feel safe going into any space.

”

www.incleanmag.com.au 41

FEATURE

“

Autonomous machines such as floor cleaners free up staff time to focus on cleaning and sanitising hightouch areas such as door handles, light switches, railings and washroom fittings, which according to health authorities is the highest priority when trying to mitigate risk during COVID-19.

”

42 INCLEAN July / August 2020

touch. What’s more, the solutions significantly reduce the amount of time staff need to spend in areas where germs may be present.

Once a route is programmed into a machine, the machine will clean that same route every time, while staff work on cleaning and sanitising high-touch areas. When the cleaning route is completed, or the machine needs assistance, it will notify the operator.

“Autonomous machines introduce consistency in cleaning effectiveness as they are not influenced by temperature, illness, or temperament,” explains Hansen.

A NEW REALITY With the rapid introduction of artificial intelligence (AI), workers are facing new realities of how they can work together with technology to bring out the best in one another.

According to Deliotte’s 10th annual 2020 Global Human Capital Trends report, “The social enterprise at work: Paradox as a path forward,” using AI is now a business priority, with 70 per cent of respondents reporting that their organisations were exploring or using AI at some level.

According to the report, most organisations are not looking to replace workers with machines, with only 12 per cent of survey respondents saying their organisations are primarily using AI to replace workers, while 60 per cent said their organisation was using AI to assist rather than to replace workers.

Fifty-nine per cent of organisations say the redesign of jobs to integrate AI technology is important or very important for their success over the next 12 to 18 months, but only 7 per cent say they are very ready to address this trend.

“We believe that organisations are at a crossroads with respect to workforce strategy and transformation,” said Cameron Pitt, Deloitte Lead Partner for Workforce Transformation.

“We are seeing two type of organisation emerge. Firstly, organisations that manage humans the same as they have in the past, treat AI as a technology implementation, and make moderate gains in efficiency.

“Secondly, organisations that choose to redesign work and the workforce, and strive to seamlessly integrate human intelligence with AI into what we call collective intelligence (Hi + Ai) or ‘Superteams’, and create a significantly faster, smarter, leaner and more agile workforce.

“Superteams are combinations of people and machines leveraging their complementary capabilities to solve problems, gain insights, and create value. For example, many companies are using chatbots to assist customer service representatives. Putting AI onto teams can enable organisations and individuals to reinvent

themselves and work together in new, more productive ways.”

Camilleri’s advice for companies seeking to include robotic machines as part of the cleaning team is to look for the robot to best suit their needs with an affordable solution. “Look for a supplier that offers comprehensive technical support, providing around the clock service and what else the robot can add value to your business, beyond its cleaning abilities.”

With the seemingly unavoidable shrinking of the labour force prominent across a wide number of industries during the COVID-19 crisis, Angeli says Tennant’s T7AMR should be seen as a ‘cobot’ (collaborative robot), helping alleviate pressure on cleaners and allowing existing cleaning staff to focus on providing improved sanitisation through detailed cleaning as well as other high value-add tasks such as stocking shelves, cleaning bathrooms and cleaning, and disinfecting other high touch surfaces.

Walsh anticipates more partnerships to develop between human workforces and machines, with autonomous machines able to improve efficiency and worker safety. “There’s still a long to go until we will have machines able to do all the tasks that humans can do, and in some cases that won’t be possible. But for now, we can allow machines to do the more routine tasks or higher risk tasks, such as window cleaning.

“Self-checkout is an example of how when we automate tasks, part of the task still requires a human element – there is still a supervisor managing the machines – but we modify if so that humans do some of the work, and machines do the rest. We’ll increasingly start to see more of those types of partnerships happening in other industries including cleaning. For now, workers should be looking at how they can upskill themselves and embrace the technologies and understand how the machines work.”

Nilfisk Australia’s Hansen says expectations of clients will continue to increase in terms of level and frequency of clean. He notes this change is also psychological for many business clients who want to ensure minimal business impact from COVID-19 and improve their competitive position by building trust with staff and patrons.

“Forward thinking businesses will see autonomous machines as a way of not only demonstrating their commitment to cleanliness and hygiene in these times, but a way to take pressure off staff, increase safety, and deliver a better level of clean, in a more efficient way.

“We are also seeing a number of businesses wanting to be at the forefront of technological development, and this is a perfect way to showcase that in conjunction with improved cleaning methods.” ■

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RESTORATION

Carpet care Experts weigh in on the importance of implementing a carpet maintenance program.

46 INCLEAN July / August 2020

A

common mistake by facilities is failing to implement a comprehensive maintenance program in place.

A recent survey conducted by Whittaker Co, found the majority of Americans (93 per cent) would form a negative perception of a company or organisation if its facility had dirty carpet.

The survey of 2102 adults, conducted by market research firm, The Harris Poll, found 56 per cent of respondents would look for an alternate facility to patronise after encountering unclean carpet in a public building.

A proper carpet care program extends the useful life of carpet while maintaining a high appearance level, reducing water usage and dumping of chemicals. A properly maintained carpet reduces indoor pollutants and allergens because of its particle trapping effect and reduces overall costs of operation.

According to Kristine Collins, product manager for SEBO Australia, companies who do not implement cleaning programs, or use incorrect cleaning equipment, appear to do so for two main reasons: budget constraints and poor cleaning knowledge.

“Shortcuts could actually cost you more in the long run and companies who just surface clean with ‘suction-only’ vacuum cleaners perform a

grave disservice to their customers, ‘if it looks clean then it must be clean’. Wrong.”

To be able to implement a maintenance program access to the correct equipment is essential. “Cleaning soft floor with incorrect, non-approved methods, equipment and chemicals may result in damage to the product and invalidation of the warranties,” says Collins.

Another common mistake is not knowing the cleaning or maintenance requirements for the installed carpet. “Carpets are not all the same, the construction, fibre and backing systems vary and some cleaning methods may inadvertently void manufacturer warranties. Different carpet fibres may require chemical usage, which has a pH range that should be exceeded.”

DEVELOPING A CARPET CARE PROGRAM A carpet maintenance program seeks to prevent and anticipate soil before it builds up. It lays out how you will clean and care for your carpet on an ongoing basis and ensure your carpet continues to look its best and help you avoid costly problems down the road.

IICRC instructor, Jason Twigg, recommends the planning, development and implementation of a carpet care program be undertaken in the first year of use. “Prevention is always better than the cure, this is so true with carpet care programs,” he says.

RESTORATION In conjunction with an effective cleaning program, budget should also be top of mind.

“Know how much you have to spend and utilise that in the best manner,” explains Twigg.

“This includes daily/weekly vacuuming to remove dry particulates using an upright vacuum with a beater bar, spot and stain removal when required, interim cleaning methods such as encapsulant cleaning and restorative cleaning methods such as hot water extraction cleaning.”

It is also essential cleaning take place over set months of the year. As Twigg explains: “More than 70 per cent of soil is dry particulate that starts at the bottom of the carpet fibre and works its way to the top where we see it. If it’s visible, the carpet is loaded with this soil, making is more difficult to remove.”

He advises to “clean for health, then appearance”. “Like any flooring material we find whatever is in the air will end up on the floor. For this reason, carpet is a great filter (often called a sink) and for this reason it needs to be emptied, if not it can be a source for contaminants such as dry soil, bacterial and viruses.

“It’s essential we remove these contaminates before they are aerosolised and either breathed via airborne contact or they find their way into the HVAC system. By doing so, we also make the work area look clean, demonstrate to our staff and clients a professional appearance. A win, win for all concerned.”

Another consideration is the life cycle cost of the flooring.

“Too often customers ask what the cost of cleaning will be over a year which is only one part of the decision. They should also ask, what is the cost of replacing the carpet if it prematurely “uglies out” from lack of correct maintenance,” says Twigg.

“Multiple studies show that a preventative maintenance program will extend the life of the carpet for many years, thus saving money on replacement.”

According to Daniel Pisaniello, GM wholesale, Godfreys, a carpet maintenance program should include the chemicals, equipment, and systems you will use to maintain the appearance and condition of your carpet (and protect your manufacturer’s warranties).

‘It should take into account carpet location, environmental conditions, foot traffic and traffic patterns, the cleaning program you will use and your cleaning budget,” explains Pisaniello.

When formulating a carpet maintenance plan, Collins advises to refer to the carpet manufacturer’s warranty statements as well as the Australian and New Zealand standard AS/NZS 3733 – Textile floor coverings – Cleaning maintenance of residential and commercial carpeting.

“It is important to note that carpet is a three-dimensional product. Unlike hard,

two-dimensional flooring, carpet has depth and the ability to hide soiling. Even though it may not appear dirty, carpet requires routine maintenance, particularly vacuuming, to remove soiling and keep it looking beautiful for years,’ says Collins.

“Frequent and thorough vacuuming with the correct type of vacuum cleaner for the application is the single most important component of a carpet maintenance program.

Eighty-five per cent of dirt in carpets is dry, insoluble soil.”

EQUIPMENT KNOW-HOW While cleaning carpet won’t prevent disease outbreaks, by implementing a maintenance program it will help reduce the number of contaminants within the indoor environment.

“Daily vacuuming is the single most important step in correct carpet cleaning,” says Collins. “As it is the vacuum cleaner which should remove the maximum amount of debris prior to any other form of carpet cleaning schedule taking place such as hot water extraction.

“Vacuum cleaner type and carpet construction will directly affect the hygiene of the carpet and in turn indoor air quality (IAQ),” Collins says adding, vacuuming should be undertaken using a quality upright vacuum cleaner with a power head, preferably with dual motors.

“It is recommended that the upright vacuum cleaner come with a brush height adjustment facility and checked prior to every use.”

Collin says vacuum bags should be disposable, not reusable. “This not only keeps the vacuum performing optimally day after day but also reduces air borne dust and allergens from re-entering the atmosphere. Vacuum cleaners can only filter what they pick up.

“Suction only cleaners such as backpacks, barrels and battery powered vacuum cleaners that do not feature a rotary brush roller are not routinely recommended by carpet manufacturers for the correct care of their flooring products.

She advises sweepers and suction-only cleaners may be used at any time for surface touch-up. “Their use is to be in addition to, not in lieu of, the scheduled vacuum cleaning with an upright vacuum.”

Pisaniello says the best method of cleaning carpets is usually steam cleaning, which can deodorise and sanitise carpet from dirt, odours and bacteria.

“Dry cleaning carpet is also effective in preparing carpet for foot traffic as quickly as possible. Keeping your carpet clean and sanitising it regularly provides a preventative safeguard against dirt and germs. Using the correct, safe carpet sanitiser will further prevent viruses and germs in your home or work environment.”

“

Frequent and thorough vacuuming with the correct type of vacuum cleaner for the application is the single most important component of a carpet maintenance program.

”

www.incleanmag.com.au 47

RESTORATION

“

Carpet is a threedimensional product.

Unlike hard, twodimensional flooring, carpet has depth and the ability to hide soiling. Even though it may not appear dirty, carpet requires routine maintenance, particularly vacuuming, to remove soiling and keep it looking beautiful for years.

”

There are several questions for consideration to help focus your search efforts before purchasing new equipment, such as, is the cleaning equipment purchased suitable for the carpet type and desired outcome to be achieved?

“It’s easy to get caught up in the ‘latest and greatest’ when perusing new equipment, says Pisaniello.

“Confirming with experts in floorcare will allow you to avoid incorrectly landing on a machine that is either too much, not enough, or just does not fit your needs. Most importantly, your equipment is tested and properly certified.”

According to Pisaniello, the most important considerations include: the type of flooring to be cleaned, does the facility need to control allergens, frequency of clean, size of the area, noise level and how much maintenance is required.

Tony Antonious, owner and managing director of Polivac International, says flooring type, the facility’s size, cleaning method and frequency of clean need to be considered before purchase.

“You need to purchase the right machine for the right area.

“Cleaners and carpet cleaning technicians need to understand the type of carpet they will be working with, which may require carpet testing. Technicians also need proper training of three main components – carpet, machinery and chemicals.”

Collins warns to be wary of price. “Typically, if the price is too good to be true then the goods 48 INCLEAN July / August 2020

will soon add to landfill. Both short- and longterm cost savings are achieved when the right piece of equipment is used for the task at hand.

“Filtration is often taken for granted.

Manufacturers may state their equipment has a HEPA filter but really what is the quality of air being exhausted from the machine? Where is the HEPA filter situated within the system? Final exhaust air should be free of dust borne particles.”

Twigg suggests looking beyond the purchase price. “What does it cost overall? Not just the purchase price, but its cost to service, and repair because all equipment regardless of price or manufacturer will need repair.”

DO’S AND DON’TS Pisaniello says vacuuming is one of the most important parts of routine carpet maintenance, as well as frequently rotating furniture.

“Furniture is heavy and can sag into your carpet, causing indents and worn patches. Also, don’t let stains sit and don’t use the incorrect chemicals on your carpet.”

Twigg recommends using a professional cleaning technician. “Just like any profession, training is especially important, Training and education is an ongoing journey as this industry is constantly changing and evolving.

“Also, understand what technologies are being used in carpet manufacturer, both locally and overseas. Be aware of new fibre development and construction methods.

RESTORATION Polivac’s Antonious says technicians need to undertake regular training on carpet materials and technologies. “The technology of carpet continues to change and advance and technicians need training need to be skilled on the latest processes and procedures.”

Collins agrees staff need to be experience for the task at hand. “Knowledge is key, and staff should undertake an accredited program or training to benefit both them and the company’s potential future earnings. Knowing how to identify and solve the cleaning problem as well as have access to the correct equipment to do so may take out the ‘guess factor’ and reduce costly mistakes.

Routine maintenance should also be performed on the cleaning equipment. As Collins explains: “Just as you should maintain the floor in accordance with the manufacturers care guides, you need to perform routine maintenance on your cleaning equipment. This ensures an optimum clean with each use and should be performed on a daily basis. The crucial parts to pay special attention to are the contact points with the cleaning surface, electrical cables and consumable items.”

Collins also suggests maintaining an adequate supply of chemicals, brushes, filters, and spare parts, etc in-house. This will reduce equipment ‘downtime’ and improve cleaning efficiency.

“Less is more. Don’t think by adding more chemicals it will provide a greater clean. Use the guides recommended and don’t be afraid to ask an expert.” ■

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OPINION

How cleaning and disinfecting can impact indoor air quality

W

hat does a ‘clean and healthy’ indoor environment mean to you? Yes, hygienically clean, and spotless surfaces are important, but healthy bodies need clean air as well as clean surfaces.

In part two of a five-part masterclass series on Cleaning Well, this article will explore how cleaning and disinfectant products, tools, and techniques, can either enhance or reduce indoor air quality (IAQ).

THE IMPORTANCE OF CLEANING FOR GOOD IAQ Multiple studies have concluded that by improving IAQ, you can significantly improve the performance of workers and increase productivity by 4 to 10 per cent. Poor IAQ on the other hand, has been shown to affect individual wellbeing leading to increased rates of sick leave, breaks, mistakes, and risk of workplace accidents1.

The NABERS Indoor Environment Quality (IEQ) Rating and the WELL Building Standard have testing protocols for indoor air quality. A building’s cleaning protocols can significantly affect its air quality via: 1. Dust and mould particles being removed from the building, and 2. Cleaning and disinfectant products being brought into the building.

This article will explain the risks associated with dust and chemical contaminants and how to improve IAQ by cleaning well.

HOW DUST CAN AFFECT AIR QUALITY As every cleaner knows, the air is full of dust particles that continuously build-up on surfaces.

But not many cleaners realise that indoor dust is potentially harmful. While the most common 52 INCLEAN July / August 2020

source of dust is the natural erosion of soil, sand and rock, it can also contain pollen, microscopic organisms such as mould spores, fungus and viruses, plant material, dust mite droppings and dander (dead skin cells)2.

Particles of man-made building and furnishing materials are also commonly found in indoor dust, plus particles of tyres, concrete, herbicides and diesel fuel that are blown or walked into the building.

Many dust particles are invisible to the naked eye (which can see dust at 25 microns). Inhaling sufficient volumes of fine dust may trigger coughing, allergies or asthma. Dust that is .3 microns in size or smaller may penetrate deeply into the lungs where it can be absorbed directly into the blood stream or lead to respiratory disease.

PROTECT OCCUPANTS AND CLEANERS FROM DUST Here are three ways to remove dust effectively and safely: • Damp dust: ‘Feather’ dusters and soiled dusting wipes simply move dust from one surface to another. With the added risk of coronavirus being shed onto surfaces from asymptomatic people, the resuspension of virus particles in dust must be avoided. All surfaces should be damp wiped with a folded cloth, frequently turned to a fresh side, and rinsed out or replaced when soiled. Fully damp wiping on a weekly, fortnightly or even monthly basis, can significantly reduce overall dust levels, save time in the long run and improve IAQ. • HEPA filters in vacuum cleaners: Vacuum cleaners fitted with HEPA filters must trap at least 99.97 per cent of particles with a minimum size of 0.3 microns. Without HEPA

OPINION

filters, it is estimated that vacuum cleaners only retain 96 per cent of particles, meaning 4 per cent of the finest dust particles are blown back into the air.

• Empty vacuum dust bags: Prevent cleaner’s exposure to dust while emptying vacuum dust bags with the use of disposable liners, dust masks, and emptying inside a bin-liner.

VOCs can be in ‘natural’ ingredients such as citrus peel oil (limonene), Pine or Eucalyptus oil (terpenes), or in benzene and other crude oil derivatives which are often toxic. IAQ testing measures the building’s Total Volatile Organic Compound emissions, regardless of the source.

HOW HAZARDOUS CHEMICALS CAN AFFECT AIR QUALITY

HPC Solutions helps service providers identify risks to the health and wellbeing of occupants and cleaners, then use a risk hierarchy of elimination, control and prevention to make decisions. Below are some examples of this risk hierarchy planning to improve IAQ.

Disinfectants as an air contaminant Images of cleaners fogging disinfects while wearing hazmat coveralls and respirators, have featured prominently in media stories covering the COVID-19 pandemic: the cleaning industry fighting an invisible army. But the reality is that many cleaners won’t have access to that level of protection, and neither will the people who use the buildings being disinfected. Respiratory health risks can be equally as serious and must be considered on balance.

Our respiratory tract is the gateway to our body’s system. When a chemical mist, fume or gas is inhaled, it can be deposited in the airways or absorbed via the lungs into the blood stream where it is carried around the body. Multiple studies conducted on healthcare and cleaning workers have found risks of mucous membrane irritation, respiratory disease and work-related asthma 18Fassociated with the high use of disinfectant products, plus elevated rates of chronic bronchitis 3,4,5.

This risk is significantly increased when misting or fogging disinfectants within enclosed and poorly ventilated spaces, such as public transport or washrooms6. Depending on the airflow and disinfectant used, it may also expose sensitive occupants to hazardous chemicals.

On 19 May 2020, Safe Work Australia advised that due to safety risks, disinfectant fogging is not recommended for general use against COVID-19 and should not be undertaken as a response to, or element of a response to contamination of an area with COVID-197.

VOCs as an air contaminant Volatile organic compounds (VOCs) are a group of substances that easily evaporate at room temperature to create indoor smog. VOCs can be up to 10 times higher inside buildings than outdoors8 and depending on the type, have been linked to many health problems including: respiratory irritation; sensitisation; headaches; drowsiness; and confusion; to more serious neurological and central nervous system damage.

Many cleaning and disinfectant products are a source of VOCs: solvent-based degreasers; stain and graffiti removers; polish; air-fresheners; scented products; phenol, ethanol and QUATs disinfectants.

PROTECT OCCUPANTS AND CLEANERS FROM HAZARDOUS CHEMICALS

Eliminate the risk: • Chemical-free: Consider where mechanical cleaning tools and tap water, or technologies that convert tap water into cleaning agents can be used.

• VOC free chemicals: Replace solvent or alcohol-based surface cleaners with VOC-free products. (Check with the manufacturer as this data may not be readily available) • Fragrance-free: Fragrances, by their nature, contain VOCs.

References 1

reating the Productive Workplace C Ed.2, by D. Clements-Croome.

2

ealth effects of dust, Department H of Health WA. Source: www. healthywa.wa.gov.au/Articles/F_I/ Health-effects-of-dust.

3

ealth problems and disinfectant H product exposure among staff at a large multispecialty hospital; M.L. Casey; et al American Journal of Infection Control, 2017. Source: www.ajicjournal.org/article/ S0196-6553(17)30295-X/fulltext

4

uantitative assessment of Q airborne exposures generated during common cleaning tasks: a pilot study. Bello et al.

Environmental Health 2010, pp.9:76. Source: www.ehjournal. net/content/9/1/76.

5

ccupational health risks O associated with use of environmental surface disinfectants in health care, (letter), American Journal of Infection Control, 2016. Source: www.ajicjournal.org/article/ S0196-6553(16)30867-7/pdf

6

ustralia State of the A Environment. Source: https:// soe.environment.gov.au/theme/ ambient-air-quality/topic/2016/ volatile-organic-compounds

7

irborne exposures to A monoethanolamine, glycol ethers, and benzyl alcohol during professional cleaning: a pilot study. Gerster et al. The Annals of Occupational Hygiene, 2014 Aug; 58 (7): pp. 846-59. Source: https:// doi.org/10.1093/annhyg/meu028.

8

ffice Cleaning, Safe Work O Australia. Source: www. safeworkaustralia.gov.au/covid19-information-workplaces/ industry-information/office/ cleaning?tab=tab-toc-employer

Control the risk: • Reduction: Chemicals certified by eco-labels have restricted levels of VOCs, for example: GECA restricts the total amount of VOCs to 3.0 per cent by weight once diluted; recognised sets a range of restrictions according to product type, from 5 per cent to 12 per cent.

• Application: Aerosols and sprays generate fine droplets that can be readily inhaled and remain suspended in the air. Spray chemicals onto a damp cloth not the surface, with a jet rather than a mist.

• Ventilation: Turn on extraction fans, wedge doors open and open windows when working in small spaces. If using fogging equipment, isolate the air conditioner from the fogged area and switch it to external air. Exposure limits: Avoid using two different VOCs in the same area at the same time, or it could cause additive or synergistic health effects, and follow the SWA’s exposure limits for each chemical used.

Protect against the risk: • PPE: P2 respirator masks will stop fine mists and some fumes. If the VOCs are strong or working in a confined space for an extended time, add a charcoal filter.

Cleaning well means leaving the air as clean the surfaces.

Bridget Gardner is director of High-Performance Cleaning Solutions.Find out more about HPC Solutions programs at www.hpcsolutions.com.au or get in touch at: solutions@hpcsolutions.com.au ■

www.incleanmag.com.au 53

OPINION

The Swiss cheese model of accident causation

R

Lining up risk Driver awareness

Safe vehicle

Safe road conditions

Safe traffic conditions

High-volume traffic

ACCIDENT

Low tyre tread Raining Hands-free phone conversation

esearch literature indicates that greater than 75 per cent of incidents are the result of human error. Based on 14 years of cleaning industry data I calculated 65.5 per cent of incidents have a human error element. Of that 65.5 per cent, 51 per cent of incidents were a result of “not looking before moving”.

Some examples of such incidents are described below: • A cleaner walked past a parked forklift when she tripped on the lowered tines. She does the walk daily but, on this occasion, she was looking elsewhere.

• A cleaner bent down to pick up a hand towel in a bathroom. When he stood up, he cut his scalp on the teeth of the hand towel dispenser.

• A cleaner was walking through a car park and hit her head on a flagged ladder protruding from a truck. The cleaner was simply not watching.

When exploring human error from an incident investigation perspective then knowledge of the Swiss cheese model of risk developed by James Reason can offer great transparency.

In the scenario provided in this article the slices of cheese act as defensive layers in a process and the holes in the cheese are opportunities for the process to fail.

Scenario: Emptying bins A cleaner taking a leaking desk bin bag to their trolley Cheese Slice 1

Cheese Slice 2

Cheese Slice 3

Cheese Slice 4

Bag quality

Bag placement

Bag leakage

Events

A bag in an office bin had liquid in it and the cleaner was rushing to remove it.

The cleaner was distracted and put the bag on a hard hallway floor rather than the trolley as required.

The cleaner initially didn’t notice that the bag was leaking onto the hard floor and then mopped it up.

The cleaner forgot to place out slippery when wet signage leading to a slip and fall injury.

Controls at the slice/s may have prevented the slip and fall injury.

Note, that had a stronger bag been used in the beginning the chance water would be leaked may be stopped – hence the injury would not have occurred.

Failing that, should the leaking bag had been placed on the cleaning trolley and no ground leakage occurred, then the injury may not have occurred.

Failing that, then if signage had been place, then the risk of injury would have been significantly reduced. For future risk control all risk factors (holes in the cheese) need to be blocked, correct bags need to be used, correct placement of bags on the trolley needs to occur, and slippery when wet signage must always be placed out until a floor is completely dry.

54 INCLEAN July / August 2020

OPINION An error may permit the issue to pass through a hole in one layer but in the next layer if the holes are in different places then the issue should be caught. Where the holes align then the system is flawed allowing an incident to result.

Due to the nature of the cleaning industry, isolated failures (human or technical) are more likely to involve human error (or be complacencybased due to role repetition).

While it is difficult to eliminate human error from an operation, having robust safety systems in place can certainly mitigate risks.

That said, even the best organisations, with the best safety systems can encounter incidents so we need to do everything practicable and possible to reduce such occurrences.

Theoretically, the Swiss cheese model of accident causation can get rather lengthy and complex.

As such, for the remainder of this article I have decided to include practical examples of the models applicable to a range of industries to give the reader a feel for the application of the model.

SCENARIO: DRIVING BETWEEN SITES Such an example is a cleaning manager driving between sites.

• The manager may have the option of taking a couple of routes but chooses a route with high traffic volume. This represents the first slice of cheese and may be referred to as the “safe traffic conditions” slice where the problem is significant traffic volume.

• The manager had not kept up servicing on his vehicle and its tyres have low tread. This represents the second slice of cheese and may be referred to as the “safe vehicle” slice where the issue is the low tyre tread.

• It is raining heavily whilst the manager is driving. This represents the third slice of cheese and may be referred to as the “safe road conditions” slice where the trouble is the heavy rain.

• The phone rings and the manager is focused on an important hands-free conversation. This represents the fourth slice of cheese and may be referred to as the “driver awareness” slice where the difficulty is concentration.

As a result of the above drawbacks lining up then a car accident occurs.

Dr Denis Boulais is national risk manager at Broadlex Services. ■

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“

When exploring human error from an incident investigation perspective then knowledge of the Swiss cheese model of risk developed

by James Reason can offer great transparency.

”

OPINION

The trials and tribulations of Time and Attendance

T

he last five years have seen a global explosion of Time and Attendance (T&A) solutions available on the market. This has largely been driven by the growth of mobile phones and their ability to allow employees to clock in and out of sites, instead of static hardware devices at each location.

A Google search returns so many different providers that it would take hours just to list them all down, not to mention the weeks it would take to review all of them. So, it is understandable that there is a lot of confusion and frustration when contract cleaning companies look for an effective solution.

In this article I will share some of my personal experiences with T&A solutions and introduce some ideas that could help find the right solution for your business.

WHAT ARE THE BENEFITS? Systems are implemented for the benefits they deliver to your business. In my opinion there are two main benefits of T&A systems:

1. Improved customer service If you have ever been called by one of your clients and they let you know the cleaner has not turned up, then this will make sense to you right away. In an extremely competitive industry, it is vital to ensure services are delivered as specified, and that means knowing cleaners are on-site for their entire shift.

A reliable T&A solution ensures you know when cleaners are not on-site and whether they stay there for their entire shift. This promotes better service delivery and as a result, happy customers.

2. Improved payroll processing Payroll in Australia brings us the complexity of the Modern Cleaning Award, and award interpretation relies completely on the capturing of start and finish times. If you do not have a T&A system you are relying on your staff’s honesty to drive payroll, which is your biggest expense.

56 INCLEAN July / August 2020

Not having working hours in an electronic format also means manual entry into your payroll/timesheet system. This wastes time before payroll is processed, and the errors created as a result waste more time after. T&A solutions allow you to manage real working hours in an electronic format, which opens up the entire process for improvement.

COMMON CHALLENGES OF SELECTING AND IMPLEMENTING A T&A SYSTEM Relying on cleaners’ mobile phones

One of the biggest challenges you will face when implementing a T&A solution is expecting it to work 100 per cent of the time when you are relying on your cleaners to use their own mobile devices.

The psychological barrier that many of your staff might have when they are expected to use their own phones and data is huge. Many cleaning companies attack the rollout from the viewpoint that it will simply be accepted by employees, only to find the opposite very true.

Even if you do convince your employees to use their own devices and data, the technical challenges you might face across hundreds of unknown phones is still a barrier. Incompatibility with older operating systems, malfunctioning GPS units, no availability of data and batteries that are just not charged are some common culprits.

I remember dealing with one of our clients who had an employee using an iPhone 4 that had been dropped so many times the screen was only half visible! It simply is not possible to rely on accurate (or any data) from devices like these.

A partial solution is to provide site-based devices that the business maintains, and therefore you can ensure it is functional. This, however, only works when multiple cleaners work at a single site as it’s simply not financially feasible to provide every cleaner with a device.

Not defining the T&A system as a part of an integrated whole In my last article I wrote about the need to have the final integrated end in mind before you buy

OPINION any system. This principle cannot be broken when selecting a T&A solution, as the last thing you need is multiple systems with duplications all over the place.

Look at your existing systems and ask yourself, “what exactly does the T&A need to do and how will it fit into the rest of the business?”

The basic T&A functions such as clocking in and out, alerts and geo-location are easy to define. Knowing how the system will improve your payroll process will require more thinking.

Your payroll process broadly consist of the following steps: 1. Setting budgets and rosters by sites 2. Publishing timesheets per fortnight 3. Capturing hours, manage exceptions and populating timesheets 4. Perform award interpretation on actual approved hours 5. Approval and finalise pay 6. Statutory pay process including tax, super, payslip and stp Where will your T&A solution fit into the above process? What functions does it need to perform to improve the payroll process? What duplication might it add to the business? These and many other questions need to be asked to clearly define the place of the system in the process.

As the provider of a centralised system that manages all aspects of your cleaning contract in a single place, we always advocate that T&A should only be used to capture hours.

This ensures you keep control of your payroll process but improves it by capturing hours in real-time.

If you do not use a centralised system, it may be wise to expect the T&A solution to perform

other functions like award interpretation, budgets and payroll if these are not already catered for.

Look for one system that fits the entire business Considering the challenge you will face with cleaners and their mobile phones, it is perhaps wise to consider a mix of capturing technologies. T&A systems use a broad range of technologies such as landlines, fingerprint scanners, Bluetooth tokens and Wi-Fi units to aid the capturing of staff hours.

Look at your site portfolio and consider that a mix of systems might be the best way forward.

Sites where security is critical might need a hardware device onsite such as a fingerprint scanner. Perhaps a landline-based system for those sites that are outside of cell phone range?

If your T&A system only has to provide start and finish times to your centralised business solution, this is possible to achieve as you can set site-based integration.

“

Look at your existing systems and ask yourself, “what exactly does the T&A need to do and how will it fit into the rest of the business?”

”

Budget for the cost when you tender Another common mistake that is made starts at the tender stage. If your prospect demands T&A information, consider what the best solution would be for their sites. Critical sites may require a larger investment in on-site devices, and if so, ensure you include it in your budget and tender.

Yes, it will increase the costs to your client but if they take it seriously, then you are already a step ahead of those contractors who did not specify a suitable solution. The biggest mistake you can make is to find an extra $2000 capital expense at each site that you did not budget.

Mark Fermor is owner of Facility ERP. ■

www.incleanmag.com.au 57

OPINION

Stand down of employees Meaning many businesses in this industry have had to rely on stand down provisions.

However, employers should view this option as a last resort and if restrictions start easing then it would potentially be unlawful to continue to use the stand down provisions.

M

any companies have been blindsided by the effects of COVID-19. Companies in industries such as hospitality have been hard hit with the government regulations restricting consumer capacity and imposing a blanket shutdown of certain businesses in this area.

When buildings are shut for business, the effects are like a ripple, with employees out of work, contract workers out of a job and all the moving parts which make a business ceasing to operate.

For business in the hygiene and sanitation industry, while some companies have surged, others have diminished due to forced closures, resulting in the use of stand down provision available through the Fair Work Act 2009 (CTH).

Employers can stand down their permanent staff where there exists a stoppage of work for which the employer cannot reasonably be held responsible and the employee cannot usefully be employed.

Thus, where there are governmentimposed restrictions this would satisfy the above meaning as stated in the Fair Work Act 2009. For example, many hospitality venues like bars, registered clubs and cafes have closed due to government regulations to restrict the spread of COVID-19.

This has resulted in businesses in the commercial cleaning industry to lose out on contracts or are completely unable to carry out the requirements for an existing cleaning contract.

58 INCLEAN July / August 2020

CASUAL EMPLOYEES Within the commercial cleaning industry, the employment of casual workers is high, and for many businesses they do not know whether casuals are to be stood down like permanent employees. There is an important difference here as casuals are not to be stood down.

The reason is noticeably clear, in that it is inconsistent with the casual nature of such employment and each engagement is a separate period.

Therefore, it is recommended that casuals are to be told that there is no further work for them to undertake for the foreseeable future, but pending improvement on operating conditions and the relaxation of restrictions.

INFORMING EMPLOYEES Like any change in one’s life it can be stressful let alone a change during a global pandemic which is characterised by significant health risk and financial implications on business and its employees. Therefore, when businesses approach the topic of standing down their employees, it is advised you respect them through this process by providing clear and written notification of any stand down period. Further, businesses should maintain regular communications with their employees.

This will help employees understand where a business is and allow the maintenance of the employee-employer relationship. Employers should use these communication lines to also find out how employees are faring during this turbulent time. If any employees are suffering, then

employers should ensure relevant support programs are accessible or know where to direct employees to such support.

EMPLOYEE ENTITLEMENTS WHEN ON STAND DOWN It is important that employees are given their correct entitlements whilst on stand down as any non-payment may need to be back paid. Therefore, when employees are on stand down, they will continue to accrue both annual and personal leave in the usual way.

The main reason behind this is that this period of stand down is considered as continuous service for the purposes of service-related entitlements. In addition, employees who are stood down by their employer under the Fair Work Act are still entitled to be paid for public holidays that would otherwise fall during the stand down period. To be paid for the public holiday, an employee needs to have ordinary hours of work falling on that day Further, questions have arisen if employees can take personal/carers leave during a period of lawful stand down. In the recent decision of Communications, Electrical, Electronic, Energy, Information, Postal, Plumbing and Allied Services Union of Australia & Ors v Qantas Airways Limited [2020] FCA 656 it was found and confirmed that employees are not entitled to receive paid personal/carers leave because there is no available work to be performed and thus no income to protect.

Ultimately, in the coming months businesses should continue to stay up to date with relevant information and keep in regular contact with employees. If you do need help navigating these complex employment laws, we at Workforce Guardian are only a call away.

Rushantha Jayaweera is senior employment relations advisor at Workforce Guardian. ■

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OPINION

Five steps to create your own contingency plan

T

he cleaning industry has many risks for both yourself and your customers.

Cleaning is not just regarded as an expense, it is regarded as a vital part of your customer’s business, so as it is an investment for both yourself and your customer, it’s important that you protect this investment.

With so many people relying on your business – your customers, employees, and your family, it is important that just like having insurance you protect this asset (your business). The best and easiest way is to create and regularly update a contingency plan.

WHAT IS A CONTINGENCY PLAN? A contingency plan is your risk analysis of your business. It covers all scenarios and allows your business to pivot or adjust quickly.

It’s a plan that is shared with your customer so they are reassured that you are in control and the business isn’t solely reliant on you and also your management and staff are across this and can respond quickly without any disruption.

This plan will also allow you to manage your costs as you have accounted for all scenarios enabling you to pivot quickly, saving time, money, and your reputation.

BUILDING A PLAN It’s easy: below I have simplified the steps to take and a template for your analysis. All you

EXAMPLE

need to do is follow the steps and fill in the template, add your logo and once completed make sure it is visual for your management team and staff. It is important that they are trained regularly on how to respond.

Step one: List down all the possible risks that will have an impact to your business and bottom line.

Step two: Involve your management team or staff so you can make sure you have identified all risks.

Step three: Consider what needs to be done to resume normal operations after the impact of the event.

Step four: Make sure that this plan is quickly accessible to all employees and stakeholders.

Step five: Always keep this plan updated – it enables your business to pivot quickly in a crisis.

A contingency plan will add value you to your business, by protecting yourself and your customer’s business, allowing you to pivot and respond quickly to risks within your business.

This way you are protecting your bottom line.

So, how would you rate the importance of a contingency plan now?

“

A contingency plan will add value you to your business, by protecting yourself and your customer’s business, allowing you to pivot and respond quickly to risks within your business.

”

Susan Crane is a business coach and director of Susan Crane Consulting. She can be reached at info@susancraneconsulting.com or go to www.susancraneconsultng.com ■

Risk

Probability

Preparation

Response

What are the risks to your business?

What is the likelyhood of this happening and the impacts that would cause the risk?

Low – Medium – High

How could you prepare to prevent the risk where possible?

Outline how you should respond to each risk, what format, timeframe?

Your floor manager calls in sick or leaves.

Medium People have unplanned leave due to circumstances

Always have someone trained so they can step in. You could implement job share so they learn the position and this person could be a 2IC.

Move this person into the role immediately and inform all staff. It is important staff understand this person is 2IC and is ready to step in.

60 INCLEAN July / August 2020

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OPINION For indoor applications, single phase or three phase electric drive machines are the optimum. Single phase steam cleaners are limited to performances of around 1,500 psi and 12 litres per minute.

The limitation is horsepower available in effective single-phase locations. Hot water at those pressures and flows is highly effective, with the ability to hot wash or steam clean large surfaces quickly.

For factories, where multiple guns maybe required to be used, three phase units with pressures of up to 4,000 psi and temperatures as high as 130°C, are readily available. Those machines are vastly more efficient and productive than single phase units by virtue of their flow and pressure.

Hot wash and steam pressure cleaning eradicates germs fast and efficiently.

PORTABLE STEAM CLEANING

Hot blasters and the war on infection

T

he coronavirus, its rapid spread throughout the globe and the ease of with which the disease can be transferred, is a universal wakeup call.

Understanding the rapid movement of the spread of the virus, is the first step.

Knowing that coughing, sneezing, even contact with infected surfaces have made us more wary and more careful.

Disinfectants sold out; people panicked.

In some instances, disinfectants were reserved primarily for outpatients and inpatient care in hospitals, aged care homes and other medical institutions.

HOT WATER KILLS GERMS According to the World Health Organisation (WHO), 99.9 per cent of germs and bacteria can be killed using hot water at temperatures in excess of 60°C. That’s right, that’s killing germs without using chemicals or disinfectants, but rather clean water expelled from a machine through a nozzle and directed by an operator.

We’ve all seen lots of footage on television of European operators cleaning 62 INCLEAN July / August 2020

streets, buildings, park benches and washrooms using high pressure water. It’s the use of high-pressure hot water that makes the difference.

Thus, machines that were developed originally for cleaning machinery, using hot water or steam to melt grease or, wash away dirt at pressure, are now being used in aged care homes, by local government bodies and by cleaning contractors to carry out this “chemical free” cleaning process.

TIME IS OF THE ESSENCE Cleaning indoor and outdoor surfaces is time consuming. Imagine having to disinfect every surface in a restaurant, every outdoor setting in a public park, every bus shelter. The time and effort required to carry out this work is enormous.

Consequently, efficiency is key, so we come to what specification machine to use. Some machines will be used indoors, for example, abattoirs, food processing plants, or in manufacture of pharmaceuticals. There are many more applications, but all of them require an extra level of cleaning vigilance.

There are many applications in outdoor cleaning where germs will congregate.

Classic examples are public barbeques, washrooms in public parks, skip bins and garbage bins outside supermarkets. These are all breading grounds for germs.

Using engine powered steam cleaners, with pressures as high as 5,000 psi, carries out the task quickly. Small compact powered machines can clean 4,000 psi with flows of up to 13 lpm. Not a huge machine, but one capable of delivering steam at up to 130°C. Bigger machines for mobile outdoor cleaning, designed for sterilising and disinfecting large outdoor spaces are also available. Australian Pump produces machines that no only operate at 4,000 psi and up to 20 lpm flow, matched to 120 degrees C steam, that run of diesel engines and can recover expelled, filter it and reuse it.

LESSONS LEARNT We have all learnt a lot in the last six months. We wash our hands more frequently, do not shake hands, and we are super sensitive about having a fever. These are all key factors that drive us towards a cleaner and safer environment.

Covid-19 is on the run, but it sure is not dead yet. We have a lot of work to do and, after other pandemics over the years, we must be realistic enough to realise that if the world’s population increases, this will happen on a more regular basis.

We are all relearning good habits of cleanliness. Hot water and steam are undeniable as vital tools in the war against infection.

Warwick Lorenz is managing director of Australian Pump Industries. ■

TRUSTED BY GLOBAL HEALTHCARE PROVIDERS FOR 48 YEARS Contact Stuart Nicol on 0409 085 175 or 1300 306 380 to become an SYR distributor today

www.whitemagic.biz

Distributor for

PRODUCTS

Lemex Lemex is general use cleaner and deodorant with a pleasant lemon fragrance. It is a neutral detergent containing a powerful cationic surfactant and a fresh long-lasting lemon perfume. Being neutral it has excellent materials compatibility. It is non-corrosive to fibres and common hard surfaces including normal domestic, commercial and healthcare environments. It is suitable for surface cleaning and use on other Class 1 Medical Devices and has been entered onto the Australian Register of Therapeutic Goods (ARTG). Lemex is available in 5L bottles with a 500ml spray bottle.

Whiteley Corporation 1800 833 566 www.whiteley.com.au

Conquest MaxWind 100 per cent electric street sweeper The all-new Conquest MaxWind outdoor walk-behind suction sweeper is a powerful solution for cleaning litter and leaf debris. Helping you achieve your zero-emission and environmental responsibility targets, the MaxWind is 100 per cent electric powered, quieter to operate with up to 30 per cent reduction in noise emissions, and itself is manufactured from up to 93 per cent recyclable materials.

The MaxWind features simple-to-use controls and operates for up to six – eight hours of cleaning time on a single charge. Ideal for keeping streetscapes, pathways, parklands and carparks clean and safe.

Conquest 1800 826 789 www.conquestequipment.com.au

SEBO AUTOMATIC XP20 The NEW SEBO AUTOMATIC XP20 is Sensitive Choice Approved and offers easy and effective floor care hygienically and automatically. A computer control system monitors performance and adjusts the brush height to the optimum floor setting. Featuring SEBO’s anti-allergy, S-Class-Filtration, the AUTOMATIC XP20 captures harmful airborne allergens and retains them in a sealed system.

Low noise and wide 37cm working width, the SEBO AUTOMATIC XP20 also works when completely flat.

Low handle weight and electric brush roller assures easy vacuuming. Integrated hose with telescopic tube is conveniently located for hard to reach areas plus on-board accessories for above the floor cleaning.

Maintenance of the machine is quick and easy with minimal downtime with access to the brush roller, hose and filters within seconds.

SEBO (02) 9678 9577 www.sebo.com.au

64 INCLEAN July / August 2020

PRODUCTS

V-WD-72

V-WD-62

V-CAN-16

V-WD-27

Canister and Wet-Dry Vacuums from Tennant Tennant’s Canister vacuums come as V-CAN-12 and V-CAN-16, both with 3-stage filtration and HEPA (optional on V-CAN-12) provided to clean floors while maintaining good air quality. Also hosting: ` Quiet performance engineered so floors can be cleaned without disrupting work nearby ` Construction with up to 55 per cent (V-CAN-12 AND V-CAN-16) recycled plastic, designed to promote sustainable cleaning programs The Wet Dry Machines come in three options: V-WD-27, V-WD-62 and V-WD-72. All three are equipped with SANIFILTER. The antibacterial treatment of the filters with silver ions (Ag+ ions) destroys bacteria’s membrane cell, fungus, viruses, micro parasites and inhibits their proliferation.

Tennant Australia 1800 226 843 www.tennantco.com.au

V-CAN-12

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PRODUCTS

Airlift Lemon & Airlift Eucalyptus – Disinfectant Cleaner Airlift Lemon and Eucalyptus can be used on different types of hard surfaces. It contains a quaternary ammonium compound as the active ingredient which is responsible for anti-bacterial properties. The product can be used to sanitise floors, walls and fittings (i.e. door handles and handrails). The product can be used as a spray and wipe or mop bucket application. The product was tested by an independent laboratory and confirmed to comply with TGA disinfectant test, Option C for commercial/household grade disinfectants. It is economical to use, and leaves surfaces hygienically clean.

Freudenberg Home & Cleaning Solutions Pty Ltd 1300 669 686 www.oateslaboratories.com.au

Dust Stop Hako has developed a side brush jacket that reduces the development of dust and fine particulates during dry sweeping by up to 90 per cent in comparison to conventional side brushes.

When sweeping heavily soiled and dusty floors, it is almost impossible to avoid dust generation. The Dust Stop side brush jacket prevents dust from rising. Additional benefits: ` Allows unrestricted sweeping close to walls ` No objects are damaged, no marks are left on the floor ` Jacket provides low noise working ` Easy installation, easy changing ` No dust suction or technical installation necessary Dust Stop is suitable for use with Hako Sweepmasters as well as Scrubmasters equipped with a pre-sweep/vacuum unit.

Hako Australia www.hakoaustralia.com.au

66 INCLEAN July / August 2020

PRODUCTS

Hako-AntiBac Cleaning technology made by Hako can not only be used to disinfect floors and surfaces, but also to improve the hygiene of the machine itself: for example, by equipping the solution and recovery tank with Hako-AntiBac. This innovative antibacterial feature protects the plastic material of the tanks and reduces the development of fungal and bacterial growth, which makes it much easier to meet even the highest hygiene standards with a minimum of cleaning effort.

Other benefits provided by Hako-AntiBac: ` Improved hygiene and reduced odour development ` Protects the health and safety of employees due to less contact with microorganisms ` Protects the environment and reduces costs due to the lower consumption of tank cleaning disinfectants ` Extends the service life of the tank ` Standard equipment with Scrubmaster B45 CLH, available as an option for all other models

Hako Australia 1800 257 221 www.hakoaustralia.com.au

Eco-Shield Multi-Purpose Cleaner Concentrate Eco-Shield Multi-Purpose Cleaner Concentrate is an environmentally sustainable heavy-duty multi-purpose cleaner ideal for all areas of cleaning ranging from a spray and wipe, disinfectant, shower, sink and toilet cleaner, wall, and carpet spotter, floor cleaner, to general-purpose and many more uses. It replaces many of the products used in the cleaner’s room and kitchen and food preparation areas. It is a low foaming hard surface disinfectant cleaner specially formulated using environmentally responsible surfactant technology that combines safety with effective cleaning to remove grease, dirt, and soot from all surfaces. Eco-Shield Multi-Purpose Cleaner Concentrate has been certified under the GECA environmental standards in Australia, making it the real multi-purpose green alternative.

Krystalshield & Shield Chemicals 1300 519 074 www.krystalshield.com.au

www.incleanmag.com.au 67

PRODUCTS

Eco-Shield Glass Gleam Plus Eco-Shield Glass Gleam Plus formulated using the latest technology to blend optimized surfactants and HYDROPHILIC Nanoparticles to create the first glass & stainless cleaner/ treatment of its kind. It removes soils, oils and stains and leaves surfaces streak-free and NON-STICK with a noticeable high shine. Eco-Shield Glass Gleam Plus modifies the surface cleaned, leaving it non-stick. This feature reduces the need for constant maintenance due to contaminants such as fingerprints and dirt not adhering to the surface. The Hydrophilic effect is not permanent, but surfaces treated require cleaning less often reducing labour and chemical costs. It is also an ideal replacement for oils and creams on stainless, leaving it looking natural with a high shine and easier to maintain.

Krystalshield & Shield Chemicals 1300 519 074 www.krystalshield.com.au

Available now! Makita 18Vx2 Brushless Blower/Vacuum Makita delivers another genuine petrol replacement in the 18Vx2 Brushless Blower/Vacuum – DUB363V ` Easy to change setup between blowing and vacuuming ` Powerful 234km/h air speed ` Cruise control for long periods of use ` Vacuum mulching with 50L capacity bag ` RRP $399/$599 (Skin/Kit)

Makita Australia 1300 361 690 www.makita.com.au www.youtube.com/watch?v=mEpqWMUlE70

XPOWER Ultra Low Volume (ULV) Fogger The XPOWER Ultra Low Volume (ULV) Fogger is a cold fogging machine that uses large volumes of air at low pressure to transform liquid into droplets that are dispersed into the atmosphere. It can be used to disinfect large and often hard to reach areas in a very short time. Features include: ` Tank size of 1.2 litres and 350-watts power ` Spray distance of approximately 6.5 meters ` Up to 32-minute run time (dispenses approximately 6.4L per battery charge) ` Good for water, oil, or alcohol-based formulations ` Portable with carry handle ` Ideal for use in disinfection, pest control and odour control applications

Cleanstar (03) 9460 5655 www.cleanstar.com.au 68 INCLEAN July / August 2020

PRODUCTS

Kerrick Hot2Go SK40005VH stationary hot water pressure cleaner The Kerrick by Nilfisk Hot2Go SK40005VH is a truly versatile hot water pressure washer that Kerrick can trailer or truck-mount to work for you, right where you need it. ` Rugged powder-coated steel frame with balanced lifting point with remote mounted unloader for easy maintenance ` Efficient industrial-duty electric-start Vanguard engine provides power to the pump and 12V diesel burner, so no electrical supply is needed ` Triplex, ceramic plunger belt drive pumps ` Extended run times with 30L diesel and petrol tanks ` High capacity 1/2 inch stainless steel insulated coil wrap heats water to 120°C

Kerrick 1300 KERRICK (1300 537 742)

Thermometer Infrared

www.kerrick.com.au

Measure temperatures fast with the simple to use Thermometer Infrared available from Cleanstar. The Thermometer Infrared is a non-contact solution that provides accurate temperate measuring for body, water, and room. Features include: ` Large display screen ` Measuring range of 32.0°C - 42.9°C ` Measuring distance of 5-10cm ` Fever alarm ` Memory storage - 32 logs ` Auto shutdown

Cleanstar (03) 9460 5655 www.cleanstar.com.au

www.incleanmag.com.au 69

PRODUCTS

Aussie Heatwave is hot to go Australian Pumps’ portable engine drive steam cleaner provides serious high-pressure steam capability with compact design and low entry point price. The Heatwave offers 4,000 psi pressure and temperatures up to 130°C. ` Honda GX390 13 hp electric start engine with 14-amp charge circuit ` 12-volt diesel fired burner ` Spiralast coil with lifetime warranty ` Heavy duty battery, waterproof battery case and stainless-steel frame with integrated handles Ideal for mobile cleaning contractors, schools and councils cleaning and sanitising amenities and graffiti removal.

Australian Pump Industries (02) 8865 3500 www.aussiepumps.com.au

CCS Fogger ULV 4L Electric Sprayer CCS Foggers are ideal for bulk sanitisation of both small and large areas, and hard to reach surfaces such as ceilings, high walls, and all those nooks and crannies. ` Ultra-low volume 4-litre electric model ` Made of high-density polyethylene industrial plastic ` High-strength resistance to acid and alkali Onsite demonstration available

Central Cleaning Supplies 1300 347 347 www.centralcleaning.com.au

RapidClean floorcare range RapidClean is very excited launch its high-quality range of Australian made floorcare products. There are eight products across the range to give users a broad coverage of floorcare solutions for both carpet and hard floors. The range includes: ` Carpet Plus – Prespray Detergent ` Encase – Encapsulating Carpet Shampoo ` Spotty – Carpet & Upholstery Spotter ` Carpet Fresh - Carpet & Upholstery Deodoriser & Cleaner ` Quick Strip – Hard Floor Stripper ` Gloss Plus – Water Based Sealer Finish ` Quick Shine – Hard Floor Cleaner Maintainer ` Tile Clean HD - Highly Concentrated Degreaser Detergent

RapidClean (02) 4721 1993 www.rapidclean.com.au

70 INCLEAN July / August 2020

PRODUCTS

Resolve Resolve is an alkaline detergent designed for use as a general-purpose cleaner, degreaser and sanitiser. Resolve is approved for use in registered food preparation establishments. It is a water-soluble cleaner-degreaser which rapidly emulsifies, suspends and removes all types of animal, vegetable and petroleum oils. It is extremely efficient at removing greases and grime in industrial, commercial and food processing areas. Resolve being a non-flammable water-based detergent makes the ideal replacement for solvent based cleaners- degreasers. Resolve does not impart any cleaning odours. Resolve is available in 5L and 500ml spray bottles.

Sani-Safe Anti-Bacterial Sanitiser Sani-Safe (405) is a liquid surface and hand sanitiser, killing 99.99 per cent of germs without water. Perfect for hard surface wipe-downs and is ready-to-use without dilution. ` Alcohol-free hand sanitiser ` Non-toxic, safe to use ` Available in 500ml spray or pump bottles and 5-litre bottle

Whiteley Corporation 1800 833 566

Central Cleaning Supplies 1300 347 347

www.whiteley.com.au

www.centralcleaning.com.au

GREEN CLEANING PRODUCT RANGE

Our ever expanding range of GECA licensed products help to reduce the environmental footprint of your cleaning operations. Highly concentrated formulas to reduce cartage and recyclable packaging reduces waste!

NEW

!

Biodegradable, phosphate-free & made using GECA safely sourced sustainable palm kernel oil. volatile organic compound (VOC) content CERTIFIED! Low for good indoor air quality.

Find out more today!

1800 301 302

Contact us:

www.agar.com.au

12-14 Cope Street, Preston VIC 3070

The Chemistry of Cleaning

www.incleanmag.com.au 71 QUARTER PAGE - JUNE2020.indd 1

9/06/2020 11:14:09 AM

PRODUCTS

Rubbermaid Commercial Products SMART APP The Rubbermaid Commercial Products SMART APP delivers much needed, around-the-clock access to essential training content.

The multiplatform Rubbermaid Commercial Products SMART (Simple, Multiplatform, Around the clock access, Relevant, Time saving) APP is the first of its kind in the commercial cleaning market. Developed with health care customers in mind, the free app enables simplicity in accessing essential training content.

Instant access to just-in-time training materials will empower trainers to improve cleaning staff engagement and ultimately optimise their outcomes. Discover the RCP SMART APP today.

Rubbermaid Commercial Products 1300 639 355 www.rubbermaidcommercial.com.au www.youtube.com/embed/s2_fJzmDc_Y?rel=0

Ghibli Rolly Commercial Floor Scrubber Dryer The Ghibli Rolly is a commercial, battery-operated, scrubber dryer designed for effective hygienic cleaning in noise-sensitive environments.

Providing up to an hour of uninterrupted runtime, this 24V lithium battery powered machine features a twin squeegee system with alternative suction in either direction and adjustable brush pressure.

With intelligent handle design, featuring integrated controls and height adjustment, it is whisper-quiet and with the 7.5L easy to fill and empty tank system – it provides a tailored clean on every surface.

Vacspare 1300 722 886 sales@vacspare.com.au

Rubbermaid Spill Mop Developed at the Rubbermaid Design Centre after extensive field research, the High Absorbency Spill Mop (kit and accessories) is the answer for dealing with the accidental liquid spills and incidents that occur on a daily basis, presenting a serious slip hazard for staff, patients or customers if not dealt with immediately.

This innovative spill management solution features a clever no-touch quick-release design so the user can dispose of the mop pad after use without coming into contact with any liquid or contaminated substance. The single-use, disposable pad is made of highly-absorbent non-drip materials that lock liquid inside to securely contain spills during disposal.

Rubbermaid Commercial Products 1300 639 355 www.rubbermaidcommercial.com.au

72 INCLEAN July / August 2020

PRODUCTS

CCS Disinfecting wipes CCS Disinfecting Wipes is a cleanser that is ideal for use on skin and surfaces. Containing the power of Dual Chain Quaternary Ammonium, it kills 99.99 per cent of germs. ` Contains Dual Chain Quaternary Ammonium ` 70wipes per canister

Central Cleaning Supplies 1300 347 347 www.centralcleaning.com.au

Sanitol Antibacterial Hand Sanitiser Hand and general hygiene is critical to the control of infectious diseases, especially in colder months where the Influenza Virus can survive longer outside the body than in the warmer months.

Sanitol Antibacterial Hand Sanitiser is available in 500ml pump packs or 1L pods for use in manual or infrared hand hygiene dispensers. The natural emollients in Sanitol Antibacterial Hand Sanitiser helps maintain skin integrity leaving hands hygienic, soft, and replenished.

Whiteley Corporation 1800 833 566 www.whiteley.com.au

®

www.incleanmag.com.au 73

PRODUCTS

Electric Power ULV Fogger An Electric Power ULV sprayer is imperative for sanitising and disinfecting buildings, supermarkets, offices, factories, hospitals, hotels, schools, restaurants, and gyms. Mitigate concerns related to the spread of infections and maintain cleanliness and sterility with the help of this high-quality ULV Fogger. Engineered to exacting standards, making sure the cleaning jobs are done effectively. ` Easy to handle, lightweight and portable, best for effortless operations and reaching those inaccessible areas ` Complete and effective coverage can be achieved using less spray solution in relatively short period of time. Helps in saving time, labour, and resources ` An ideal solution for protection against wide range of airborne pathogens viruses, bacteria depending on the disinfectant used ` Spray volume: discharge capacity of 5-25L and hour particle of 15-50µm ` Tank capacity of 4 litres and charger 220V, 50h ` Motor with double axial blower runs at the speed of 20,000 RPM

Polivac International

Wertheim Evolution Stick Vacuum Recently awarded the Productreview.com.au 2020 award for Best Stick Vacuum Cleaner, this is now a Godfreys best-seller.

Experience up to 50 minutes of fade-free suction, across two lithium batteries, with this cordless stick vacuum.

Featuring a mini motorised pet brush for upholstery cleaning, HEPA H10 filter for allergen control and a continuous trigger for a more user-friendly clean.

Charging stand simultaneously stores and charges the stick vacuum which easily transforms into a hand vacuum for cleaning tricky spaces.

Exclusive to Godfreys (03) 8542 2182 www.godfreys.com.au

CCS Battery Fogger Disinfection Unit The CCS Battery Fogger Disinfection Unit can sanitise both large and small areas quickly and efficiently, and also have the added benefit of portability due to being battery powered. ` Battery model, rechargeable lithium battery ` 60-minute run time ` 2.5-litre tank capacity ` 6-8m spray distance Onsite demonstration available

Central Cleaning Supplies 1300 347 347 www.centralcleaning.com.au

74 INCLEAN July / August 2020

Wed 15 - Thu 16 September 2021 Newmarket Room, Ellerslie Racecourse, Auckland, New Zealand

In Association with

Media Partner

What to expect at CLEANNZ 2021?

Organised by • Extended line up of new exhibitors • New innovations from the regular exhibitors • Two days of education, updating technical knowledge, skills and values • Pre-show workshops covering hygiene in health care and hospitals, green sustainability, new technology and outdoor cleaning • Gala Dinner featuring the BSCNZ CleanSweep™ Awards on Thursday 16th September 2021 For more information: visit www.cleannzexpo.co.nz or phone 0800 451 590 (NZ) / 1300 789 845 (AUS) For exhibiting and sponsorship opportunities, please contact Samantha Ewart: sewart@intermedia.com.au

Awards