Cleaning & Maintenance - December 2020

DECEMBER 2020

THE OFFICIAL PARTNER OF THE CLEANING SHOW

IN THIS ISSUE: Scrubber Dryers & Autonomous Cleaning

Scrubber dryers are established as the workhorses of floorcare, with a broad variety of machines available. The addition of autonomous cleaning options, embracing technology to deliver higher standards, further develops the offering. This feature takes a look at current developments.

Paper & Textile Wipes

With an extensive variety of wiping products available in the market today, from multipurpose, heavy duty to low linting, do people actually know which wipe is the right wipe? This feature will offer some useful guidance.

STANDARDS & BEST PRACTICE

AVAILABLE NOW

BICSc Standards & Best Practice combines a wealth of specialist industry knowledge, Institute experience and technical insight.

More about Standards & Best Practice inside...

Don’t miss the UK’s largest event dedicated to cleaning, hygiene & facilities management

THE

CLEANING SHOW 2021

PUT THE DATES IN YOUR DIARY TODAY!

16-18 MARCH 2021 EXCEL • LONDON @TheCleaningShow

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D EC EM BER 2 020

PLUS: • Industry news • People • Contracts • Products

Scrubber Dryers & Autonomous Cleaning Scrubber dryers are established as the workhorses of floorcare, with a broad variety of machines available.

The addition of autonomous cleaning options, embracing technology to deliver higher standards, further develops the offering. This feature takes a look at current developments. >>> page 22

Paper & Textile Wipes With an extensive variety of wiping products available in the market today, from multipurpose, heavy duty to low linting, do people actually know which wipe is the right wipe? This feature will offer some useful guidance. >>> page 28

COVID-19 Update C&M provides a round-up of the cleaning industry’s continuing role in meeting the challenges posed by COVID-19. >>> page 18

WWW.CLEANINGMAG.COM

STANDARDS & BEST PRACTICE

It’s Here!

The new and long-awaited publication Standards & Best Practice from BICSc Standards & Best Practice offers a wealth of knowledge and explains how the BICSc ethos and principles of cleaning can be adapted to suit a professional cleaning company.

Contents Include

BICSc recommended colour-coding

The Cleaning Professional’s Skills Suite explained

‘BICSc Outcome Criteria’ - Learn an effective and efficient way of measuring cleanliness and what is and isn’t acceptable

‘BICSc Compound Productivity Rates’ provide a standardised figure for calculating time needed to complete a cleaning operation

AVAILABLE FROM OUR ONLINE SHOP

#BeBICSc

ftnl

bics.org.uk

EDITOR’S LETTER C&M

Looking forward

As we draw a veil over 2020, we can start to look forward to 2021 with a degree of optimism. Recent reports concerning the effectiveness of Coronavirus vaccines offers hope that life might, with a fair wind, begin returning to something like normal in the foreseeable future. As an event organiser this optimism is welcome, and we look forward to sharing details of The Cleaning Show 2021 in the coming weeks.

Meanwhile, a new study from Rubbermaid Commercial Products (RCP) has revealed the public’s expectations for hand sanitiser provision in public spaces. Conducted during the summer of 2020 as businesses began to reopen after the first lockdown, the findings from the survey show how businesses can effectively demonstrate their commitment to public health and safety by protecting staff and customers with appropriate solutions that people want to use.

The survey discovered that, overwhelmingly, the public require touch free dispensers, with 93% of respondents saying that this is their preferred way of dispensing hand sanitiser. It also revealed that 75% of people want the security of alcohol-based hand sanitisers, with the remaining 25% preferring an alcoholfree option.

What this report highlights is that the role of cleaning professionals will continue to be of paramount importance, even once the threat of the virus begins to subside. The cleanliness of facilities or transport systems, and levels of customer care, will remain critical for a long time to come, if not forever.

The RCP report goes on to observe that throughout the first lockdown and during the reopening phase, the public focused on facilities that offered hand sanitiser. Increasingly, as more facilities implement hand hygiene solutions, the focus will shift from the existence of provisions to the quality of provisions on offer. This will surely extend to cleaning and hygiene standards in general, as the public’s expectation levels across buildings, transport systems and public places has changed.

The cleaning sector’s role in managing this pandemic has been nothing short of heroic, and it is reassuring to see that this enhanced focus on cleaning operatives as key workers won’t disappear with the virus itself. The professionalism shown by everyone associated with the cleaning sector during 2020 will be essential, noticed and appreciated long into the future. The demand for higher standards has been a key part of the public health evolution created by Coronavirus, and not a short-term fix.

I wish you and your families a very happy Christmas and a happy, clean, tidy and healthy year ahead.

Neil Nixon, Editor Cleaning & Maintenance Magazine

@cleaningmag

WWW.CLEANINGMAG.COM

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CONTENTS C&M

22 Feature: Scrubber Dryers & Autonomous Cleaning.

Scrubber dryers are established as the workhorses of floorcare, with a broad variety of machines available. The addition of autonomous cleaning options, embracing technology to deliver higher standards, further develops the offering. This feature takes a look at current developments.

DECEMBER 2020

08 13 14 18

32

Industry News.

In the news this month… Announcing the CSSA’s 2021 Innovation Showcase, Rochdale Council wins national cleaning competition, BICSc releases ‘Standards & Best Practice’ guide, NuServe gains B Corp certification, New formation for commercial laundry division at Christeyns.

People.

Personnel news and new appointments from across the cleaning and FM sectors.

Contracts.

We take a look at all the latest contracts awarded across the industry.

28

Special Report: COVID-19 Update.

C&M provides a round-up of the cleaning industry’s continuing role in meeting the challenges posed by COVID-19. This month, Nina Wyers, marketing and brand director at The Floorbrite Group, looks at practical COVID-19 advice for high risk areas within the workplace, and Jamie Woodhall, technical and innovations manager at Rentokil Specialist Hygiene, considers ways of preparing your facility for the return to work.

Feature: Paper & Textile Wipes.

With an extensive variety of wiping products available in the market today, from multipurpose, heavy duty to low linting, do people actually know which wipe is the right wipe? This feature will offer some useful guidance.

New Products.

An overview of some of the new products available on the market this month.

05 Editor’s Comment

15 BICSc Comment

A look at the cleaning sector this month.

I’m speaking to you!

WWW.CLEANINGMAG.COM

16 BCC Comment Health sector cleaning operatives on the frontline in the battle against COVID-19. Delia Cannings, BCC and ahcp, reports.

17 A job worth doing – a contractor’s blog.

Lee Andrews reports.

DECEMBER 2020 7

C&M INDUSTRY NEWS

Announcing the CSSA’s 2021 Innovation Showcase THE Cleaning Support Services Association’s

innovations in terms of their impact and in our

(CSSA) 2021 Innovation Showcase celebrates

experience even something small can have a

the cleaning industry’s most innovative

very big impact.”

Lorcan Mekitarian, chairman of the CHSA,

products, services and initiatives. The Innovation Showcase is again backed by the

said: “The CSSA’s Innovation Showcase is a

Cleaning & Hygiene Suppliers Association

superb way to celebrate some of the best ideas being generated in the industry and so

(CHSA), which is sponsoring the event.

Businesses and organisations operating

2020 and can be applicable to any area of the

we are delighted to back this initiative again.

throughout the cleaning industry are invited

cleaning industry. The deadline for entries is

Our members continually innovate, helping

to enter their innovative products, services

31 December 2020. This year the Innovation

their customers address some of the big issues

and initiatives. An ‘Innovators Pitch’ panel

Showcase has an entry fee of £250, which is

facing the sector, including environmental

of industry experts and representatives will

refundable to those entries that do not proceed

challenges, as evidenced by the number of

review and interview the entrants and select

to the three day Innovation Showcase.

our members amongst those who participated

those to be exhibited at the Innovation

Paul Ashton, chairman of the CSSA

in previous CSSA Innovation Showcases. We

Showcase itself, taking place at the London

Innovation & Technology Executive, said:

are looking forward to seeing the entries

Cleaning Show next year.

“The Showcase celebrates innovation in the

and putting them through their paces at the

widest sense, whether it is a new method, idea,

Innovators Pitch!”

approach, or product. We’ll be judging the

WWW.CSSA-UK.CO.UK

To be eligible the product, service or initiative must have been launched since the 1 January

Rochdale Council wins national cleaning competition ROCHDALE Borough Council has won a national

placement one day per week over a six-month

cleaning role…staff development to existing

competition organised by the Association of

period. Redwood students aged between 16

cleaning operatives whilst giving a really

Building Cleaning Direct Service Providers (ABCD)

and 19 years old are eligible to take part in the

good opportunity for new entrants to the

to promote good practice in local authority

project, which takes them on a journey towards

cleaning industry. The Nottingham entry is

cleaning services. Nottinghamshire County

sustainable paid employment. The course

also really good and the fantastic work from

Council came second in the ABCD’s Initiatives

develops their skills and employability through

this team has ensured that the transport hub

Competition 2020, which was supported by the

school-based learning, work-room activities,

remains safe for all users and key workers to

British Cleaning Council.

accreditation, and work placements.

confidently use and safely attend their place

ABCD is the organisation for local government

ABCD chair, Kim Phillips of Rotherham

of work during the pandemic.”

cleaning managers but also has a number of

Borough Council, and vice chair, Jacky

Peter Gurney, facilities manager catering

suppliers and trainers from the industry as

Hammett of Shropshire Council, judged

and cleaning, at Rochdale Borough Council,

members. It is also a member of the BCC.

the competition. In a joint statement, they

said: “On behalf of the cleaning/caretaking

said: “We are pleased to be able to properly

facilities management service at Rochdale

Borough Council’s facilities management

acknowledge and celebrate all the great

Council, we are delighted to have been

cleaning service.

work being carried out by local councils in

chosen as the winner of the ABCD’s Initiatives

delivering essential cleaning services through

Competition 2020. As a service and council, we

Redwood Secondary School, a local school

this competition, particularly during this

strongly support inclusion and being able to

which supports young people with special

most difficult of all times. The Rochdale

work in partnership with Redwood Secondary

needs, to offer an intern a cleaning work

entry gave a different dimension to the

School, which supports young people with

The winning entry came from Rochdale

The service works in partnership with

special needs, is truly humbling. The service and the council are committed to continuing partnership working with Redwood School.

Since its inception in 2013 the service has supported over 10 interns and we are currently working alongside other services showcasing the benefits of working with these students who would not normally be given the opportunity to gain mainstream employment. The service is keen to emphasise that this is a two-way partnership and we have found the inspiring work ethic of the interns can often have a positive effect on the whole workforce.”

WWW.ABCDSP.ORG.UK 8 DECEMBER 2020

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C&M INDUSTRY NEWS

BICSc releases ‘Standards & Best Practice’ guide SINCE 1961, BICSc has been a leader in

of industry experts. Often they are used as a

education, standards and best practice for the

proficiency tested by examination through

cleaning sector. At a time when cleaning and

education or training. BICSc Standards & Best

hygiene remains a top agenda item, BICSc

Practice is a means to simplify an agreed way of

has released a new publication, aptly named

delivering cleaning methodology.

Many dimensions exist within the

‘Standards & Best Practice’.

professional cleaning and hygiene world. This

With contributions from industry experts, it combines intelligence, experience and

publication offers a wealth of knowledge and

knowledge which, when followed, will become

explains how the BICSc ethos and principles of

an integral part of any organisation’s overall

cleaning can be adapted to suit a professional

performance. Contents include:

cleaning company.

Corporate and accredited training members

• BICSc recommended colour-coding.

are offered online access to the publication free

• The Cleaning Professional’s Skills Suite explained.

• ‘BICSc Outcome Criteria’ offers an effective and efficient way of measuring cleanliness and what is and isn’t acceptable.

• ‘BICSc Compound Productivity Rates’

provide a standardised figure for

of charge - just one of the benefits of being a

calculating time needed to complete a

BICSc member. Non-members can purchase

cleaning operation.

BICSc Standards & Best Practice in hard copy

Standards across all professional disciplines originate from the knowledge and experience

from the BICSc online shop.

WWW.BICS.ORG.UK

NuServe gains B Corp certification A cleaning contractor is celebrating after being

year is a further 5% reduction in its overall

recognised by the B Corporation (B Corp) for

carbon footprint.

meeting rigorous social and environmental

NuServe is a recognised Living Wage

standards. NuServe, which has been certified

service provider and celebrates its

by B Lab, the not-for-profit organisation behind

team successes through its ‘Above and

the B Corp movement, is only the second UK

Beyond’ recognition programme. It is also

company providing services in cleaning and

transitioning its entire workforce to Living

our business and operations we have a

facilities management to achieve the accolade.

Wage Foundation pay rates by 2022. NuServe

material positive impact on society and the

has additionally made a contribution to the

environment. NuServe hopes achieving the B

stringent social and environmental standards

World Land Trust’s (WLT) Carbon Balanced

Corp certification will resonate with business

that reflect commitment to goals outside

Programme to offset the equivalent of 27

leaders keen to work with suppliers that can

short-term profits, and excel in practices

tonnes of carbon dioxide emissions from

demonstrate a genuine and concerted effort

relating to energy supplies, waste and water

buildings, travel, waste, and procurement.

to limit their environmental impact and work

Companies certified as a B Corp must meet

use, worker compensation, diversity, and corporate transparency.

Simon Duke, MD of NuServe, said: “Our mission is to uphold the right to good work

towards a fairer society.”

Chris Turner, executive director of B Lab UK,

NuServe - founded in 1996 - has also

and fair pay, to protect our people and our

said: “We are delighted to welcome NuServe

acquired a number of other accreditations

planet, and to deliver quality services that

to the B Corp community. This is a movement

which underline its track record in establishing

honour the trust afforded us. Fundamentally,

of companies who are committed to changing

itself as a planet conscious company.

we’re a family business, with family values, but

how business operates, who believe business

These include being awarded a Planet Mark

with a modern and innovative approach. At

really can be a force for good. We know that

certificate after achieving a carbon-neutral

the heart of our business is a commitment to

NuServe is going to be a fantastic addition to

status by offsetting emissions it produces

sustainability. In fact, in 2019, we amended our

the community and will continue driving the

through its operations with programmes and

articles of association, making our directors

conversation forward.”

funding for carbon reduction. Its target next

legally responsible for ensuring that through

WWW.NUSERVE.CO.UK

New formation for commercial laundry division at Christeyns BRADFORD based chemicals manufacturer

water and energy equipment, has undertaken

teams so as to be more agile and flexible to

Christeyns has rearranged its laundry field team

a reorganisation of its regional teams and

react to customer requirements. We have also

and engineering, water and energy division

announced new area managers for the south

combined our engineering and water and

to better service its client base across the UK.

west and south east.

energy teams due to the synergies in these two

Christeyns commercial laundry division, which supplies detergents, supporting chemicals and 10 DECEMBER 2020

Operations director, Justin Kerslake, said: “We have created smaller, more focused

areas of the business.”

WWW.CHRISTEYNS.COM WWW.CLEANINGMAG.COM

INDUSTRY NEWS

C&M

Companies team up to support local charity THE Carroll Cleaning Company

grateful for the support but as the

has joined forces with a group

appeal has grown we have been

of Calderdale businesses and

overwhelmed by the number of

volunteers to support Overgate

people who have donated and

Hospice in Elland during the

the amount raised. This money is

COVID-19 outbreak. 64 businesses

already making a huge difference

and business people have donated

to the patients in our care. It has

to the appeal, raising £181,107

meant we have been able to

since May 2020.

continue to care for the Calderdale

In March, as the pandemic landed

community, adapting our services

and lockdown was announced,

as the restrictions have changed

the hospice was forced to shut

and supporting local people who

each of its 14 charity shops and

are facing the end of their lives. On

cancel a number of large events

behalf of everyone at the hospice,

and fundraising activities. This

I would like to say a special thank

meant a sudden loss of desperately

you to The Carroll Cleaning Co for

needed income for the hospice

its dedicated support and to all of

which relies on donations from the

the local businesses and business

• Ideal in educational, hospitality &

local community to raise 77% of its

people who have supported

• Contains powerful antimicrobials

running costs. As it entered a new

the appeal.”

• Food safe, ideal for food prep areas

financial year in April, the hospice

marketing director, said: “We

£500,000. As this news was shared

thought it important to continue

with the hospice’s supporters, a

our support for the hospice to

small group of business people felt

recognise the efforts of all key

compelled to act.

workers, including our own colleagues, who have worked

of Overgate Hospice, said: “This year

- and continue to work - so

has been incredibly challenging for

hard throughout the pandemic.

everyone, and the loss of income

Overgate is very close to the hearts

has been a huge concern for the

of many at CCC and we’re delighted

hospice. In April, we had no idea

the appeal has met with such

how long the lockdown would

wonderful support.”

last and how this might affect the

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Anne-Marie Carroll, CCC’s

was predicting a loss of over

Janet Cawtheray, chief executive

KILLS

99.99 %

The Corporate Emergency

patients and families in our care.

Appeal is still open. Email: selina.

When the Corporate Emergency

lodge@overgatehospice.nhs.uk.

Appeal was launched we were so

WWW.CARROLLCLEANINGCOMPANY.CO.UK

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WWW.CLEANINGMAG.COM

DECEMBER 2020 11

C&M INDUSTRY NEWS

Recognition for pioneering manufacturer BIO-Productions has received recognition from

Britain clean while also fundraising for various

a variety of sources in the past month after

good causes at a local level.

enduring its most challenging year to date.

“This is really welcome and exciting news for

Based in Burgess Hill, the company was awarded

us,” said Angela Gill, managing director. “This

a manufacturing accreditation by the Cleaning &

year has been tough on us all and our team has

Hygiene Suppliers Association (CHSA) in October.

had to stay on its toes. It’s been challenging -

It was also named a ‘UK Business Hero’ by the

from meeting the initial rush of demand back

Sussex Chamber of Commerce, in recognition of

in March when the coronavirus crisis started,

its efforts to support the local community during

through to furloughing some of our team in

the COVID-19 crisis.

the middle of the year. Thankfully, business is

really makes us stand out is the brilliant team

strong. We’re so proud of our team and all the

we have at every level of the business. I hope

audit into the quality of Bio-Productions’

hard work they’ve put in to keep us going and

the accolades will give our customers even

products, while the UK Business Hero moniker

to fulfil orders. Bio-Productions is known for

more trust in what we do.”

celebrates the team’s ongoing efforts to keep

quality products but personally, I think what

WWW.BIO-PRODUCTIONS.COM

The CHSA accreditation came after a rigorous

From left, Angela Gill (MD), Phil Karn (production director) and Avonia Bridge (finance director).

GreenZone cuts carbon footprint by 15.8% per employee GREENZONE Cleaning & Support Services has

achieved the 15.8% reduction in carbon

don’t just talk the talk, but that we walk the

cut its carbon footprint by 15.8% per employee

footprint per employee in this, our eighth

walk and act firmly upon our beliefs.”

in its eighth year of reporting to retain The Planet

year of accreditation by The Planet Mark.

Mark sustainability certification. GreenZone’s

Starting our carbon measurement and

The Planet Mark, said: “GreenZone puts

total carbon footprint in year ending December

reduction journey at such a low and focused

sustainability at the heart of its work, and

2019 was 90.6 tCO2e, a decrease of 5.8% from

base means that it is a very challenging

it comes as no surprise to see its carbon

year ending 2018. The relative carbon footprint

task to continue to find innovative ways

footprint fall so convincingly, even as

was 1.4 tCO2e per employee, a decrease of 15.8%

of cutting carbon year on year. However,

its company grows. From the products

compared to the year ending 2018.

with sustainable practice firmly at the heart

the company uses to the way it delivers

of everything we do, GreenZone has, and

its service, our environment is of core

from energy use in the building (purchased

always will, continued to challenge industry

concern to GreenZone, and the results

electricity), from fuel used by the fleet, from

norms and operational standards to drive

are showing. The company serves as an

waste disposal, and from the production of

positive environmental change. Being able

excellent example to all companies of how

paper used in the offices.

to demonstrate to our clients independent

a committed way of thinking can deliver

verification of the reductions we have

real change for the environment.”

achieved offers testament to the fact that we

WWW.GZCSS.CO.UK

This year’s footprint includes emissions

Steve Trew, managing director of GreenZone, said: “We’re delighted to have

Steve Malkin, CEO and founder of

Coronavirus funding helps Aberdeen cleaning firm navigate pandemic ABERDEEN-based Gold Star Cleaning has

Scott Willox, director of Gold Star Cleaning,

secured funding from Royal Bank of Scotland

said: “At the beginning of the year we

to ease cashflow pressures and secure the

could never have anticipated the impact

company’s future during the pandemic.

coronavirus would have on our business. It

When the first COVID-19 restrictions were

has undoubtedly been the biggest challenge

Scott Willox, director of Gold Star Cleaning.

Carol Gray, relationship manager at Royal

introduced, the cleaning and maintenance firm

we have faced in our 40-year history.

immediately turned its attention to diversifying its

However, the incredible support we have

Bank of Scotland, said: “The way Gold Star

offering to overcome the impact of coronavirus

received from Royal Bank of Scotland has

Cleaning has adapted to the challenging times

and safeguard jobs. The funding package

enabled us to navigate our way through the

over the last few months is a real testament to

provided the business with additional security and

crisis. Carol, our relationship manager, fully

its leadership and sustainable business model.

peace of mind, allowing it to focus on servicing

understood our requirements as a business

I’m really pleased we’ve been able to support

its clients wherever possible, whilst following

from the outset and has been really helpful

the team during this period and I’m confident

the strictest health and safety guidelines. It also

throughout the whole process, enabling us

the company will continue to thrive in the north

enabled it to retain all 150 staff members and has

to secure the funding quickly and obtain a

east as the pandemic subsides.”

assisted with cashflow for wages.

safety net.”

WWW.NATWESTGROUP.COM

12 DECEMBER 2020

WWW.CLEANINGMAG.COM

PEOPLE

C&M

Cleaning and FM industries pay tribute to Patrick Jongbloet MEMBERS of the cleaning, hygiene and FM

been bravely fighting health issues since 2016

sectors have been paying tribute after a

but ultimately lost the battle. Patrick was a

popular colleague sadly passed away. Patrick

splendid chap. He was great fun to be around

Jongbloet had a variety of roles connected

and great company. He was well-known in the

to the FM and cleaning and hygiene sectors

industry and very well-liked. He will be missed.

over a number of years so was well-known in

Our thoughts go out to Patrick’s family.”

The BCC has made a donation in Patrick’s

the industry.

memory via https://patrickjongbloet.

His first role in facilities was with Eurotunnel in the 1990s. Other roles included a senior

worked there part-time until February 2019.

muchloved.com/ which is fundraising for

consultant with the FM Guru consultancy

He continued to minute-take during meetings

Cancer Research UK.

and five years at Emprise Services. Patrick

until a few months ago.

Jongbloet joined the secretariat at the British Cleaning Council (BCC) in December 2017 and

BCC chairman, Paul Thrupp, said: “The news of Patrick’s passing is extremely sad. He had

The team at C&M and the Cleaning Show extends its sympathies and best wishes to Patrick’s family, friends and colleagues.

Richard Dyson elected to CHSA council GREYLAND CEO, Richard Dyson, has

sales, then later establishing Greyland

been elected by its members to the

in 1999. From sales director to managing

council of the CHSA. Dyson has a wealth

director, and now CEO, Dyson has helped

of experience in cleaning chemicals

develop Greyland to be one of the

manufacturing, having worked on the

dominant forces within the UK cleaning

Dymachem shop floor as a 16 year old,

chemicals manufacturing sector.

progressing as a young man through to

WWW.GREYLAND.CO.UK

WWW.CLEANINGMAG.COM

DECEMBER 2020 13

C&M

CONTRACTS

A hard day’s work LIVERPOOL’S most famous sons got special

cleaner specialising in disinfection and

attention when the city authorities upped their

decontamination using electrostatic spray

contingency for halting COVID-19’s spread.

systems. It also offers carpet, upholstery

John, Paul, George, and Ringo (or their effigies

and mattress cleaning. In addition to the

at least) got a proper spraying of Prochem’s

spraying-related services, the business

D500 Microsan biocidal cleaner from start-up

relies on its brand new Prochem SX2100

sanitising specialist Vaxinol.

Steempro Powermax for the balance of the

National TV news networks picked the story

company’s day-to-day work. “It’s a very fast

up as did the local newspapers and while The

and efficient machine that cuts through the

Beatles may have been used to the attention,

work,” said Howard.

for Craig Howard it was all very new. Former

Howard and his two colleagues put the hot

cleaning solutions salesman Howard and co-

water extractor to task recently when called in to

director Bradley Griffiths set up their cleaning

clean auditorium upholstery in an old cinema.

business in April. “Coronavirus had already

He said: “The seats were very grubby indeed,

kicked off so we moved fast to meet demand for

but we set to work, going back over the job to

deep cleans from the commercial sector and the

sort out any marks and spots, and two days

business just kept coming in,” said Craig Howard.

later, thanks to the Steempro and Prochem’s

Merseyside-based Vaxinol is a commercial, industrial and residential

solutions, we brought them back to life.”

WWW.PROCHEM.CO.UK

Incentive QAS lands ‘significant deal’ INCENTIVE QAS, the cleaning arm of the

Incentive QAS, said: “It’s a fantastic testament to

Incentive QAS has now entered the

Incentive FM Group, has secured a significant

our operations and our track record in securing

mobilisation phase for the new contract,

contract. Following 12 months of a delayed

this prestigious contract. We were told that

which is set to take around three months.

and competitive tender, Incentive QAS is now

we stood out as a front runner from the start,

Account manager, Tony Hall, will be bringing

the chosen partner for 65 mixed-use properties

and it was our strong management structure,

his expertise and experience to oversee the

across London and the south east of England

innovation and experience in the industry that

commercial partnership. Worth over seven

for a leading property management company.

set us apart. The tender was very challenging,

figures, this contract adds to Incentive QAS’s

The new client was forced to pause the

particularly with a backdrop of the pandemic,

growing client list and portfolio.

procurement phase due to the pandemic

but we didn’t compromise our efforts or

but has now appointed Incentive QAS to

commitments during this time.”

David Brown continued: “We’re really excited to deliver these services across the portfolio

oversee cleaning services within the 65-strong

and we’re confident that our services will further

buildings portfolio that includes commercial

strengthen their customer and client experiences

property, a business park, retail outlets, and

across London, Greater London and the South

mixed-use commercial spaces. Incentive

East. We pride ourselves in prioritising innovation

QAS will be delivering daily cleaning and

and manageable solutions across commercial

housekeeping, washroom hygiene, pest

and mixed-use spaces, and we look forward to

control, window cleaning, and periodic

delivering these services successfully over the

cleaning throughout the portfolio.

duration of the contract.”

WWW.INCENTIVE-QAS.COM

David Brown, commercial director at

Compass directs Brayborne to more school cleaning BRAYBORNE Facilities Services has won

contracts specialising in daily and periodic

the contract to provide cleaning services to

cleaning in the commercial and educational

schools during this pandemic is the need for

eight primary schools operated by Compass

sectors. Further contracts in the sector picked

provider flexibility,” said divisional director, Amanda

Partnership of Schools Trust across south

up in 2020 include west London’s Hammersmith

Fry. “Being positioned to take on short notice

east London. The appointment is the latest

Academy, The Clere secondary in Newbury GFM

amends to cleaning specifications and schedules

of a series of education cleaning contracts

Education’s secondary schools Bay House and

and supply additional day staff while keeping costs

awarded to Brayborne covering 20 sites across

Brune Park, five sites operated by Havant and

down is a plus as far as schools are concerned. To

southern England.

Southdown Colleges, and Haberdashers Aske’s

manage major workarounds, you need experience

Federation’s Knights Academy, Knights Temple

and Brayborne has decades of that.”

Grove and Hatcham College.

WWW.BRAYBORNE.CO.UK

Part of The Exclusive Services Group, Brayborne manages over 1100 staff across 250 14 DECEMBER 2020

“The denominator particularly common to

WWW.CLEANINGMAG.COM

BICSc

C&M

I’m speaking to you!

COMMUNICATION is fraught with

difficulties. The story of soldiers

The Government has been accused of sending mixed messages. In

The point I am making here is that if you ask people not to do something

in the trenches during the

my personal experience, I have

like ‘stay at home, protect the NHS, save

First World War where the

the following illustration. If I

lives’ they are inclined to do it. It is then

message was passed down

started a cleaning operative

very difficult to ask them to do something else.

the line ‘send reinforcements,

on a new contract and they

we are going to advance’

had the floor of an office

that ended up as ‘send three

building to clean on their

goes with ‘assume’ which is, of course,

own, I would walk the floor

‘Never assume, because when you assume

shillings and four pence, we

We have all heard the mnemonic which

are going to a dance’ is an illustration of how

with them and show them everything that

you make an Ass out of U and Me’. The

even one language can cause issues.

needed to be cleaned on a daily or weekly

use of an incorrect word can have huge

basis. However, if there was a monthly task

negative consequences. Nelson at the

about England and America being two

such as ‘dust the venetian blinds’, I would

Battle of Trafalgar did not fly a signal that

nations separated by a common language.

state this on subsequent site visits. ‘Have you

read ‘England assumes that every man will

So we all think we know what we are saying

dusted the venetian blinds this month?’ The

do his duty’ did he? He flew a signal that

but the person receiving the message may

response would be either ‘No’ or ‘I am going

read ‘England expects that every man will

translate it differently, even when delivered in

to do that this week’. If, however, I had asked

do his duty’.

the same language.

the cleaning operative to remove drinking

It was George Bernard Shaw who spoke

In conclusion, I am reminded of Dr

cups to the kitchen every evening for the

Stephen Covey’s ‘7 habits of highly effective

language is: 7% is the spoken word, 38% refers

catering staff to deal with the next day (later

people’. Habit number 5 is ‘Seek first to

to voice and tone, and 55% relates to body

I managed to convince the caterers this was

understand then to be understood’ or as

language. Over the last few months of being

not a cleaning task) I would have needed to

one of my colleagues in Belfast said: ‘Stan,

on Teams and Zoom video calls, some of the

ask several times, but I can assure you I only

you have got two ears and one mouth, use

body language, let alone the dress code, is

had to tell that cleaning operative once not

them proportionately’!

pretty poor!

to remove cups to the kitchen.

WWW.BICS.ORG.UK

Studies have shown how important body

WWW.CLEANINGMAG.COM

DECEMBER 2020 15

C&M BCC COLUMN

Health sector cleaning operatives on the frontline in the battle against COVID-19 Delia Cannings, a director of the British Cleaning Council and the national lead for education and training at the Association of Healthcare Cleaning Professionals (ahcp), reports.

JUST as a little positivity was sneaking back into lives and we were adjusting to the new normal following the decline in COVID-19 cases after the first spike, the second wave hit us in the autumn. Members of the ahcp have been on the frontline in the fight against the virus since March 2020.

My colleagues are directly involved in managing and delivering cleaning and hygiene services in most NHS and independent hospitals. Members also hold key roles in many primary care and GP clinics and surgeries, nursing and care homes, and other residential care settings provided by the public, charitable and private sectors.

As in other sectors of the cleaning and hygiene industry, ahcp cleaning operatives across the country have remained steadfast in their attempts to contain the virus throughout. Members never relented in dedication and commitment. Many have gone above and beyond, working longer hours, taking on extra responsibilities and adopting new standards and practices to prevent COVID-19 contamination.

Colleagues also played a vital role setting up and staffing Nightingale Hospitals and are now operating them again, receiving COVID-19 patients when beds in other facilities run out.

The camaraderie observed as teams across occupational areas work together has been phenomenal - they have been supporting each

other, holding each up and, sadly, falling in a pile together when the exhaustion kicked in. But, like the rest of the health service, we are now very stretched and in some parts of the country, this has been the case for weeks.

Pure fatigue has taken its toll and many colleagues are also self-isolating. The combined impact is concerning.

To cover these shortfalls, agency staff have been engaged. In one establishment, 108 staff places needed to be filled.

The stark reality is that full, comprehensive training in COVID-19 secure procedures and processes for replacement people cannot be guaranteed where a rapid response is required. Therein lies a further risk factor.

To add to the problem, some people’s behaviours changed while they were furloughed or self-isolating. We have noticed an increase in drinking, smoking and substance abuse among patients, visitors and colleagues. Increased mental health issues, anxiety and depression, self-harm and suicide rates add to the issues already caused

by COVID-19, making a difficult situation even more complex.

We have also seen an increase in vermin problems facing ahcp cleaning operatives, as during lockdown periods waste and rubbish is not readily available, so starving rats and mice have left their natural habitats to venture boldly into new areas to seek food and shelter,

leaving their trails of carnage behind them. In some cases, in the absence of humans in the street, vermin seem to think they are running things now!

All these challenges are impacting on the dilemmas our cleaning teams face and must all be managed. A number of strategies and initiatives have been introduced to assist and support colleagues in dealing with these challenges and help them continue to provide a first-class cleaning and hygiene service. These include: • COVID-19 testing kits being delivered to the homes of staff and collected.

• Health and well-being sessions.

• Online support, counselling and discussion groups.

• Confidential help lines.

• Workshops for sharing best practice.

• An increase in break times to enable sufficient rest and rehydration.

• Ongoing COVID-19 secure training for staff.

But, in the long-term, only a vaccine can provide a solution to the virus and prevent further spikes.

It would be remiss not to mention the devastating impact the Government announcement earlier in the year about its future immigration policy had on ahcp members and the cleaning and hygiene sector as a whole. For workers in our industry to be categorised as unskilled was an insult and a serious kick in the teeth.

I challenge the decision-makers in Government to spend 24 hours working alongside healthcare cleaning professionals in these pandemic times and beyond before writing us off as SKILL-LESS!

THE OFFICIAL PARTNER OF THE CLEANING SHOW Get the biggest read within the cleaning, hygiene and support services sector delivered to your inbox every month.

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01/06/2020 13:12 WWW.CLEANINGMAG.COM

A JOB WORTH DOING - A CONTRACTOR’S BLOG C&M

The human challenge of cleaning in a pandemic Lee Andrews, CEO of DOC Cleaning, reports.

IN normal times, one of the wonderful things about a cleaning company is the human factor. The pride in delivering a service across hundreds of locations, day after day, through hundreds of committed staff.

If you don’t enjoy the people aspect of cleaning, then you’re in the wrong industry.

And yet the human factor has proved immensely difficult to deal with in 2020, especially for those contractors involved in office cleaning, retail, hospitality and, as is the case here at DOC, in the cleaning of museums, galleries and entertainment venues.

Many industries have been hit hard, but cleaning, an outsourced industry whose destiny is so utterly bound up with the fortunes of customers, has taken a beating in human terms. Brave staff, who have acted as an emergency service before, during and after lockdown, now face a protracted period of unemployment until such time as the country is rescued by a vaccine. The reinstatement of furlough, whilst welcome, was regrettably announced rather late in the day for many employees.

It’s not just frontline staff who have felt the strain.

Whilst other industries ravaged by the pandemic have cut overheads, the labour-intensive nature of cleaning means that our overhead has been under far greater pressure than in normal times. HR,

payroll, admin, finance, operations - all have had their shoulder to the wheel solidly since March. As we all know, the sheer weight of amendments to rosters, timesheets, payroll and invoices, not to mention the handling of potential redundancies, has placed demands on overhead in a way that is hard to imagine in other industries.

COVID-19 has thrown into sharp relief the perils of working as an outsourced supplier or contractor.

One of the reasons why organisations outsource in the first place is to benefit from the inherent flexibility of the arrangement - the ability to switch a service on or off at fairly short notice. Yet it has also highlighted the peculiar disconnect that exists in cleaning between the value of the service during the pandemic and its apparent expendability. In what I hope will turn out to be a minority of cases, I have heard about customers who were quick to ignore contracts and suspend cleaning with little or no notice - all in a manner that is hard to imagine with other outsourced services. Have organisations whose buildings have remained closed for long periods cancelled their IT support contracts for example? Or did they see it as too big a risk?

On the positive side, I am also aware of many

customers who have made financial commitments to their cleaning contractor in the form of retainer payments whilst their buildings have been wholly or partially closed.

They have understood that cleaning contractors did not have the option of simply closing down until the storm blew over.

They have recognised the benefits of continuity, knowing that when the time comes their contractor will be ready and primed to restart the service, not to mention being available at a moment’s notice to step in with interim emergency cleaning tasks.

The creation of sustainable employment and the protection of employees’ health and safety has always been a key strategic objective both at DOC and for the vast majority of contractors who are in this business for the long term. It is of immense credit to our industry that we have doggedly pursued this objective throughout the pandemic and that we will continue to do so until life returns to normal.

Season’s Greetings to you all. Here’s to a New Year that more closely resembles the ones we’re used to!

WWW.DOCCLEANING.COM

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DECEMBER 2020 17

C&M

SPECIAL REPORT: COVID-19

COVID-19: Cleaning teams continue to work on the front line Neil Nixon reports.

Following on from the features in the previous seven issues of C&M looking at the frontline role the cleaning sector continues to play in tackling the COVID-19 pandemic, I am continuing to migrate any news, new product information or video interviews/webinars online to allow for the more immediate dissemination of any updates. Please take a look at www.cleaningmag.com – content is changing on a daily basis.

I will continue to utilise the pages of C&M to focus on cleaning during the pandemic in detail and, as with this month’s column, to seek advice on best practice from recognised industry experts, and to learn from the experience of others.

PRACTICAL COVID-19 ADVICE FOR HIGH RISK AREAS WITHIN THE WORKPLACE There is a lot of advice out there about safe working practices in the workplace relating to COVID-19, but this article focuses on those high risk, high traffic areas, including entrances, canteens, kitchens, and washroom facilities. What can you do to reduce the risk of contracting and spreading Coronavirus in these areas? Nina Wyers, marketing and brand director at The Floorbrite Group, has created a simple guide with ideas that are easily implemented to make a big difference.

Entrances

to wipe the surfaces they use before and

High touch point door handles are obviously

after use.

•C onsider removing high touch point items

a huge issue in these areas as everyone in the

like microwaves.

building will have physical contact with them at

•M ark vacant seating and table areas to

more than one point throughout the day. What

clarify social distancing guidelines.

can you do?

• I n larger canteens mark out a one-way

• Install hand sanitisers on both sides of the

traffic system.

entrance ways so that only sanitised hands touch the door. Then re-sanitise on the

• V entilate areas well where possible.

other side.

• I nstall electronic air sanitisers (not to be

• If it is not practical to install external

will kill viruses and the later does both

sanitisers due to being on a busy street and

(NB: check which viruses the chemicals are

there is a risk of vandalism, then install on

effective against).

sanitised following entry to the building.

kill germs in the air and neutralise smells.

• I ncrease cleaning frequencies.

•U se a combination of antibacterial and

the inside of the building so all hands are • Swap touch point fingerprint and button

confused with air fresheners) which actively

Canteens and kitchens

virucidal or anti-microbial cleaners.

Staff kitchens and canteens are high traffic areas. In addition to numerous people wanting

Washroom facilities

to use the spaces at the same time during lunch

Washrooms are another high traffic area.

desks and consider installing screens to

and break times, tables, worktops, fridges, and

When you’ve got to go, you’ve got to go. There

protect reception staff.

microwave surfaces are high touch point risk

are multiple areas to consider including door

areas. What can you do?

handles, toiles flushes and seats, taps, and

entry systems for individual key cards or fobs.

• Clearly mark safe distancing from reception

• Install hand sanitisers outside lift doors or use antimicrobial lift button covers to eliminate viruses.

• Ventilate the area well where possible.

•S tagger lunch and break times to limit the number of people in these areas at any one time.

hand driers. What can you do?

• L imit the number of people in the toilets at any one time.

• Increase cleaning frequencies.

• Place hand sanitiser at the entrances.

•P lace hand sanitiser at the entrance.

• Use a combination of antibacterial and

• Consider installing a sanitisation station

•M ark vacant urinal and sink spaces to clarify social distancing guidelines.

virucidal cleaners. The clue is in the name!

within the space, containing hand sanitiser,

Antibacterial cleaners will only kill bacteria

virucidal or anti-microbial surface sprays

• V entilate the areas well where possible.

where as virucidal or anti-microbial cleaners

and paper hand towels, and encourage staff

• I nstall electronic air sanitisers which actively

18 DECEMBER 2020

WWW.CLEANINGMAG.COM

SPECIAL REPORT: COVID-19

kill germs in the air and neutralise smells.

• Install electronic washroom hygiene monitors which can track cleaning time

C&M

requirements or the replenishment of stock

frequency for your business by the onsite

items such as soap and paper products.

cleaning team.

• If you don’t have the budget for an

and attendance. Manage, audit and review

electronic hygiene monitor you can always

your cleaning regime and also alert the

use a wall mounted toilet inspection sheet,

onsite cleaning team to immediate cleaning

which can be signed hourly or at a suitable

• I ncrease cleaning frequencies.

•U se a combination of antibacterial and virucidal or anti-microbial cleaners.

WWW.FLOORBRITE.CO.UK

Preparing your facility for the return to work Jamie Woodhall, technical and innovations manager at Rentokil Specialist Hygiene, reports.

After months of lockdown measures to

The eventual easing of restrictions will

help stem the spread of Coronavirus, the

also represents a mindset shift - from reactive

nation will, in 2021, begin to emerge from its

cleaning and disinfection against Coronavirus,

quarantine and adjust to the ‘new normal’.

to a more planned and proactive approach to

One step toward normality will be the

keep people safe, and enabling the country to

government encouraging those working from

return to a sense of normal for the long term.

home to consider returning to work. While this instruction may be a welcome relief to some

The HATS model

workers, it starts a ticking clock for employers

Rentokil Specialist Hygiene’s HATS critical

and facilities managers to make sure people

appraisal survey is helping organisations back Continued on Page 20.

can return to work safely.

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30/07/2020 15:56

DECEMBER 2020 19

C&M

SPECIAL REPORT: COVID-19

Continued from Page 19.

purifiers can help improve air quality - they

to business safely. When our experts survey

should have a HEPA filter to tackle bacterial

premises to assess risks and implement solutions

and fungal matter, and an activated

to ensure safety and compliance, we focus on

carbon filter to help tackle volatile organic

four key areas: Hygiene factors, Atmosphere, Touch, and Social distancing (HATS).

• Hygiene factors: Poor hygiene creates

chemicals within indoor areas.

• Touchpoints: When reviewing a facility’s hygiene hotspots, it’s important to consider

potential transmission routes for

high-frequency shared touchpoints. Once

Coronavirus and other microbial infectious

identified, these should be incorporated

of disinfectant when they are sprayed; mist

diseases and pathogens, so the first thing

in the cleaning regime and hand sanitiser

blowing space treatment - designed for

to do is to assess the overall cleanliness

or surface disinfection stations should be

very large, open spaces. The speed of the

of your premises and develop a cleaning

installed nearby.

jet and the volume of air that is generated

regime that is fit for purpose. This should

• Social distancing: Wherever possible,

means that liquid disinfectant is powerfully

take into account the size, use and hours of

facility managers must assess the

blown out into large areas, effectively

operation. It should also factor in areas that

immediate working area and layout plans to

disinfecting these areas quickly and in a

require more frequent cleaning attention.

mitigate the risk of individuals coming into

much shorter time than more conventional

The most common hotspots include

close contact with others. There are many

methods; ultraviolet (UV-C) light - UV light

main entrances, waiting rooms or lobbies,

tools to help ensure safe distancing such

in the form of a handheld lamp causes

washrooms, kitchens, canteens, and

as signage, retractable barriers, floor mats

the photochemical deconstruction of the

administrative areas.

with guidance and reminders, as well as

DNA of microorganisms, deactivating its

protective screens being common solutions.

reproductive processes so that viruses can no longer spread; and ultra-low volume (ULV)

Proactive cleaning strategy

disinfection fogging - a mist of disinfectant

A cleaning procedure or regime should

which settles on top of, underneath and on

mandate cleaning routines as well as specialist

the sides of objects, enabling technicians to

deep cleans at regular intervals. A deep clean

disinfect a large area in a short period of time.

should include a thorough disinfection of high frequency touchpoints, as well as moving all

Final thoughts

furniture or equipment away from the walls

With offices looking to reopen across the

transmitted by respiratory droplets which

to make sure no areas are missed from the

country, hygiene and cleanliness is at the heart

are expelled when someone with the virus

standard cleaning routine. There is a range of

of government guidance. Making a facility safe

coughs, sneezes or even speaks. This means

specialist tools and methods of application

for workers to return can be daunting for FMs as

that air quality is a vital consideration to

that can be used in deep cleaning, in order

the guidance can be complex and is constantly

help protect workers. It is important that air

to eradicate pathogens such as Coronavirus,

changing. It is important you call in the experts,

conditioning units and ventilation systems

including: electrostatic disinfection - a

who will provide consultative knowledge and

are regularly cleaned and serviced to ensure

powerful disinfection treatment that involves

specialist hygiene services.

they are operating as they should. Air

adding an electric charge to liquid droplets

WWW.RENTOKIL-HYGIENE.CO.UK

• Atmosphere: Coronavirus can be

EMPLOYING A PHILOSOPHY OF ‘ENVIRONMENTAL DISINFECTION’ dangerous levels of CO2 into the atmosphere.”

BioHygiene is advising the FM and cleaning

immediate or the external environment in

sectors to remain environmentally conscious at

which they are used. By immediate impact, we

a time when the use of disinfectants is likely to

look at negative effects to the user - alcohol-

FM sectors should ask suppliers questions

be at an all-time high across the country. The

based sanitisers that can dry out the skin,

around raw materials, CO2e, packaging, and

green-minded biotechnology company, which

irritate the eyes and cause safety concerns

aquatic toxicity when purchasing sanitisers

saw sales of its all-purpose and hand sanitisers

due to its high flammability. In addition, the

and disinfectants to ensure they tick the

rocket throughout the pandemic, is keen to

inclusion of alcohol in skincare products and

various boxes with regard to sustainability.

stress that when considering ‘environmental

the possibility of its transference and tainting

Only through diligence on all these points can

disinfection’ we must look out for both short-

in food preparation, can cause conflict with

‘environmental disinfection’ be delivered.

and long-term effects.

certain religious beliefs. By external, we refer

According to BioHygiene, the cleaning and

Unsurprisingly, BioHygiene’s range of

to wider impacts on the environment in the

alternative sanitising products tick all of

explained: “At present, there are still traditional

traditional sense: quats and chlorine that

these boxes. Its foaming hand sanitiser is

products in the market that contain quats,

can produce dangerous levels of aquatic

100% biodegradable, alcohol and quat

alcohol, chorine, hydrogen peroxide, or a

toxicity, both short and long-term. This also

free, and is made with natural and

mixture of these. All of these can impact the

includes manufacturing processes that release

sustainable technology.

Erum Ahmed, director of sales at BioHygiene,

20 DECEMBER 2020

WWW.CLEANINGMAG.COM

SPECIAL REPORT: COVID-19

C&M

that contained over 65% alcohol. This has

controlling the spread of germs with sanitising and

available, Erum Ahmed added: “The market

ultimately allowed product to reach the market

disinfecting used as a belt and braces approach.

has recently been flooded with hand sanitiser

without going through the usual accreditation

We just want people in the industry to ensure

of varying quality. This can be attributed to the

processes, raising questions of safety - for both the

that, however they choose to clean, they use our

standard derogation made by the WHO at the start

user and the environment. Ultimately, we do still

philosophy of ‘cleaner, leaner, greener!”

of the pandemic, approving any hand sanitiser

recommend frequent cleaning as the first point of

WWW.BIOHYGIENE.CO.UK

Questioning some of current products

CREATING COVID-SAFE WORKING ENVIRONMENTS FOR CUSTOMERS Workplace hygiene specialist, Simply

Andrew Shelley, operations director at

Washrooms, is working with its customers to

Simply Washrooms, said: “Now more than ever,

ensure stringent infection control measures are

choosing services and products that reduce

in place to help tackle the challenges COVID-19

bacterial growth and help stop the spread of

presents. Its specialist range of workplace

viruses is central to creating a safe working

hygiene services helps reduce the spread of

environment and keeping people safe. We

viruses and creates a safer working environment:

provide guidance and advice on infection

• Wall mounted and freestanding hand

control measures and our specialist range of

sanitiser systems to ensure everyone has

workplace hygiene services and products help

access to important hand hygiene measures.

reduce bacterial growth and stop the spread

• Air purification systems to help reduce airborne

of harmful viruses. Over the last few months,

and contact surface bacteria and viruses.

• Antibacterial door protection guards

we’ve worked closely with our customers to ensure stringent infection control measures are

including door handle covers and push

in place and ensure their workplaces are COVID-

plates that reduce bacterial growth and

secure so they can remain operational.”

cross-contamination.

WWW.SIMPLYWASHROOMS.COM

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Make it happen | Make it Hako 13/11/2020 09:17 DECEMBER 2020 21

C&M

SCRUBBER DRYERS & AUTONOMOUS CLEANING

Autonomous cleaning – embracing technology to deliver higher standards Julie Kitchener, head of customer service and marketing at ICE, reports.

WITH the pandemic still very much in the

The Co-Botics equipment has been designed

and deliver these measures and improve

forefront of our minds, there is now an even

to integrate into cleaning team operations,

wellbeing for hygienic environments - to co-

higher demand for automated and socially

picking up the manual and repetitive tasks,

exist, to collaborate, and to work cohesively

distanced cleaning. Earlier this year, ICE

which will then allow operators to focus on

within the workplace to drive standards,

launched the highly anticipated Co-Botics

hygiene and sanitising activities to promote

efficiency and sterility.

line - the industry’s first comprehensive range

cleaner and safer environments. It’s not

of autonomous floor cleaning machines. We

about replacing people it’s about embracing

activity as anything available. They are extremely

believe that automation will help shape the way

technology to deliver higher cleaning standards,

intelligent and can be fully operated, controlled

cleaning operations and functions are carried

infection control and ‘proof of clean’. Using

and managed by the cleaning teams on site.

out in the future, but in a collaborative and

autonomous cleaning is a very natural and

The features ensure the delivery of the following

cohesive way.

progressive way of how we can help support

key requirements when using autonomous

These machines are as close to human

equipment in day to day cleaning activities: •S afety and efficiency - safe, consistent and easy to map and control.

• I ntelligent - it will clean any area without the need for technical intervention.

• Environmentally friendly - water recycling capabilities and a run time of up to five hours.

•P roof of clean - fully integrated telemetry and cloud-based reporting on a clean by clean basis.

We currently have machines installed and operating alongside cleaning teams in schools, airports, train stations, hospitals, hotels, manufacturing/warehouse facilities, and retail environments across the UK. And we are already seeing how the introduction of Co-Botics is helping facilities to provide hygienic and safe environments for employees and visitors. In fact, Luton Airport has become the first airport in the UK to receive certification from the Airports Council International (ACI) Airport Health Accreditation programme, which provides airports with an assessment of how well their health measures align with worldwide standards and industry best practices. The airport has introduced Co-Botic equipment into its daily cleaning operations, which has hugely contributed to the accreditation and means that passengers and staff can be confident of the utmost cleanliness and hygiene levels throughout the airport.

22 DECEMBER 2020

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SCRUBBER DRYERS & AUTONOMOUS CLEANING

C&M

In the area of education, schools have found that introducing autonomous equipment has resulted in increased efficiency as the Co-Bots are utilised to clean the corridor and hall floors whilst the valuable labour resource focuses on detailed cleaning tasks such as sanitising and deep cleaning. They also see real value in deploying autonomous equipment to support in the fight against viruses. The Co-Botic And it’s not only airports in the transport

equipment helps with socially distanced

sector that have benefited from introducing

cleaning and will be able to support cleaning

autonomous cleaning equipment. Train stations

with minimal human interaction during any

across the UK have integrated robotic sanitising

future outbreaks or lockdown situations.

machines into their cleaning operations as part

The demand for Co-Botics is really gathering

of a drive to re-instil confidence in travel as the

pace, possibly fuelled by the heightened

pandemic continues.

priorities for infection control at an appropriate distance. To clean as we have always cleaned will not be good enough as the world around us changes and we are always looking for ways to innovate and develop. Facilities service providers must achieve more, both in terms of productivity and quality, without compromising financial budgets. Therefore, we believe that investment in automated cleaning is not just pioneering, but essential for future cleaning.

WWW.ICE-CLEAN.COM

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DECEMBER 2020 23

C&M

SCRUBBER DRYERS & AUTONOMOUS CLEANING

How do autonomous floor scrubber robots work?

Michel Spruijt, vice president and general manager of Brain Corp Europe, reports.

AUTONOMOUS floor care solutions work

Are specialists needed to teach and deploy

in parallel with employees and serve as an

robot cleaning machines?

effective tool in helping teams get the job done.

That depends on what autonomous cleaning

In the case of robots powered by BrainOS, Brain

solution you’re working with. One of Brain

Corp’s commercial operating system, machines

Corp’s biggest value propositions is that

are manually trained to follow specific routes

robots powered by BrainOS require no type of

via a ‘teach and repeat’ process. Once a robot

specialised set-up or technical expertise. With

has an understanding of its environment, it can

the help of an advanced and intuitive user

then operate seamlessly in autonomous mode,

interface, anyone can easily deploy the machine

effectively navigate around obstacles, and

and have it running autonomously right away.

adapt to dynamic, public environments.

These robots also require no specialised type

This frees up time for employees, who can now concentrate on higher-value tasks such as

Michel Spruijt

of infrastructure changes. While some floorcare robots utilise specialised beacons or magnetic

restocking shelves, disinfecting surfaces and

a long time. That way, the machines employees

tape, BrainOS-powered machines can be set

interacting with customers. Brain Corp partners

are working with are from the brands they

up in any indoor space with no additional

with original equipment manufacturers who

already know and trust...now equipped with

environmental updates needed.

have been leaders in the floorcare industry for

autonomous capabilities.

What are the benefits of autonomous cleaning?

By automating the repetitive aspects of commercial floorcare, cleaning providers are able to offer greater consistency, coverage and quality in everyday operations. With cleaning more important than ever before, it’s imperative that businesses win back customer trust and keep employees safe with a state of ‘constant clean’. By leveraging the power of automation, managers are able to more effectively provide this and also audit their cleaning programmes through the use of advanced, digital reporting.

Not only is the cleaning more consistent - it’s also verifiable.

The coronavirus pandemic has created an increased and consistent need for disinfection. How does robot technology improve cleaning consistency and ensure safety in various industries?

A comprehensive cleaning programme always requires cleaning before disinfection (ie ‘c comes before d’). Robotic solutions provide the ‘gateway’ that every facility needs in order to be considered safe...and that’s the cleaning of an environment’s floors. Once dirt and germs are picked up from the floor, the use of disinfectant can be deployed if needed. As far as high-touch

24 DECEMBER 2020

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SCRUBBER DRYERS & AUTONOMOUS CLEANING

C&M

surfaces are concerned, the use of robotic floorcare ensures that employees have more time to do the focused, detail cleaning that is now required to effectively combat the virus.

Has the data shown an increase in use of cleaning robots in response to the COVID-19 pandemic?

Yes, absolutely. We saw robotic usage across the BrainOS-powered fleet increase by 24% in April 2020 compared to the same month the previous year and have seen a 15% increase in the year overall. 68% of that increase occurred during daytime hours. This shows that robots are not only being used more overall, but that they’re being deployed at times when environments may be experiencing high foot traffic (such as in the case of retail).

to other tasks, we’re likely to see the trend of

must be as adaptable and flexible as possible.

additional detail cleaning and disinfection

Coronavirus necessitated that businesses

What impact will autonomous technology

continue both in the short term and far beyond

completely rethink their day-to-day operations

have on cleaning practices in the future?

the pandemic.

in order to ensure safety and work within the parameters of the ‘new normal’. Technology

We can expect to see an increased use in autonomous technology and the digital

Do you believe that there will be a greater

like robotic floorcare can be scaled up

reporting that goes along with it. Managers

need for automated cleaning technology in

and down almost immediately, making it

will become accustomed to using this data in

the future?

a compelling solution in this new, highly

order to streamline operations and maximise

Absolutely. What the pandemic has shown

dynamic environment.

efficiencies. With employees now reallocated

us, amongst other things, is that businesses

WWW.BRAINCORP.COM

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DECEMBER 2020 25

C&M

SCRUBBER DRYERS & AUTONOMOUS CLEANING

Scrubber dryer choices SCRUBBER dryers are established as the

with advanced pads, such as the diamond-

workhorses of floorcare, whether managed

impregnated Twister by Diversey, that can be

in-house or by contract cleaning teams.

used on various types of hard flooring with water

The variety of machines on offer - and the

alone for reduced long-term costs and enhanced

accessories and options available - can make

sustainability. Manufacturers offering a wide

the choice daunting. With its range of Taski

selection of pads and brushes will advise on the

scrubber dryers, Diversey offers numerous

right ones for any machine or flooring type.

Choose batteries carefully and do not

choices, all supported with technical,

compromise on performance. Advances in

application and maintenance expertise.

battery and charger technologies also mean

One of the most important considerations is to match the size of machine to the proposed

that machines of all sizes will work harder and

application. Too large and it will probably be

longer between charges. That means more time working and less time standing still while

under-utilised and unproductive, ultimately costing more to own and operate. Too small,

in the decision. A machine that has a lower

being recharged, all of which adds to better

and it could be over-used, inefficient and prone

purchase or rental cost may be less energy

productivity and cost-effectiveness.

to more unscheduled outages.

efficient, consume more water or products

Manufacturers with a consistent design

or be more prone to breakdowns than an

approach are likely to incorporate common

models extending from compact uprights for

alternative which initially appears more

features across their range. This can include

confined areas to the large ride-on machines for

expensive. This combination of purchase price

everything from user controls, routine service

expansive spaces, Diversey offers a broad choice.

and running costs is the total cost of ownership.

points, control systems, and technology.

This makes it easier to match the performance

Manufacturers such as Diversey with a large

For users this means that one machine will

of a machine to the application requirements

installed base across multiple customers will be

look and work much the same as a larger

with fewer restrictions. Moreover, offering a

able to give a good prediction of whole life costs

or smaller alternative. This familiarity helps

larger range helps ensure the needs of larger fleet

based on real customers’ actual experience.

promote consistent use, reduces retraining

operators can be met from a single source which

Choose a machine that can be used with

With the Taski range comprising 20 main

requirements, and simplifies daily maintenance

can simplify pre- and post-sales support and

a wide range of cleaning products, pads or

checks. For suppliers, it can simplify everything

enable greater deployment flexibility.

brushes. This will ensure it can clean a variety of

from manufacturing to service with resulting

flooring types and give the desired finish. Many

reliability gains and cost savings.

operators are choosing to run their machines

WWW.DIVERSEY.CO.UK

Total cost of ownership - sometimes called whole life cost - should be another factor

Partnership strengthens machine offering HOOPER Services Ltd has recently announced

been looking for to become one of our UK

its collaboration with Border Cleaning Machines

distributors. Welcome aboard!”

in Shropshire as a UK distributor of the TSM

Border Cleaning Machines Ltd has been

Tools portfolio, which includes the Willmop 50B

established for over 25 years in Oswestry,

vertical scrubber dryer range.

Shropshire and operates throughout Shropshire

Dave Clark, sales director at Hooper

and Cheshire and parts of Wales. It is a

Services, said: “We are very happy that the

specialist in the supply of high-quality industrial

team at Border Cleaning Machines has come

scrubber dryers, sweepers, pressure washers,

on board with us to work with this fantastic

carpet cleaners, and industrial wet and dry

piece of equipment. Not only are they able to

vacuum cleaners. The company offers a full

sell the machines, Border Cleaning Machines

workshop repair facility and can also carry out

is also available to support the range with any

on-site repairs and servicing from its fleet of

demonstrations, servicing or spares - which

mobile service vans.

is exactly the sort of company that we have

WWW.HOOPERSERVICES.CO.UK

26 DECEMBER 2020

WWW.CLEANINGMAG.COM

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C&M

PAPER & TEXTILE WIPES

Textile wipes: reusable, recyclable and rentable IT can be argued that cleanliness is a true sign

Traditional cleaning methods

of perfect standards in the workplace and in

Many industrial companies use rags or blue roll

particular, on a factory floor or workshop. After

for all of their cleaning processes. Taking a one-

all, if a factory isn’t clean, it’s possible that its

size-fits-all approach, these rags and rolls are

processes and output are far from perfect too.

expected to clean up oil or chemical spills, safely

In reality though, managers and employees

remove metal filings, wipe down machinery,

have so much to think about, that keeping

clean hands, and more. Lacking absorbency, an

industrial machinery and the environment

absence of specialty and an expectation too high

clean is often low on their list.

for their capabilities, rags and rolls might leave

Factories and plants are naturally a

the workplace cleaner, but certainly not clean.

greasy environment with oils and coolants

Adding to this that these items aren’t recyclable

often dripping onto surfaces and floors.

means the environment is impacted too.

offers an oil-trapping mat that actually absorbs up to three litres of engine oil, solvents or other

Keeping areas clean and safe can be a challenge, but a clean working environment is

Reusable, recyclable and rentable

liquids. Flexible in nature, the mat can be placed

crucial to efficiency and the health and well-

alternatives

in any area where drips, leaks or spills might

being of employees.

The situation is, however, changing for the

occur. It soaks up liquids and holds them in its

better, with the advent of recyclable, rentable

special fibre core, keeping the surface dry.

Health and safety

industrial cleaning wipes. These are far more

According to the HSE, Great Britain lost

absorbent that traditional materials, easier

collection container and at an agreed schedule,

28.2 million working days last year due to

and safer to use. Such companies deliver high

MEWA collects the containers and delivers fresh

work-related illness and workplace injury.

quality wipes and mats which, once used,

wipes and mats without any interruption to

One of the primary HSE recommendations in

are collected, laundered and returned to

the customer. The used wipes and mats are

addressing worker safety is the prompt clean-

workplaces for reuse.

then thoroughly cleaned in an eco-friendly

up of spills to reduce the risks of injuries from

One of the leading European players in

Soiled wipes and mats are placed in a

way, checked for damage and, once approved,

slips and trips and unnecessary exposure to

this sector is MEWA Textile Management

put back into service - a circular economy -

hazardous substances.

which produces wipes at its factory in

allowing them to be re-used up to 50 times.

Immenhausen, Germany. Certified to EN ISO

The washing process is in compliance with all

substances are given the code 15-02-02 by the

14001 (Environmental Management), its range of

legal environmental protection and disposal

UK Environment Agency and must therefore be

highly-absorbent industrial cleaning wipes takes

requirements. In fact, the oils and fats contained

disposed of appropriately to comply with waste

into account the varying surfaces that need to be

in the mats are separated, processed and used

disposal regulations. Failure to do so can result

cleaned by offering different weaves of cloth for

for heating and drying, further contributing to

in fines or even jail.

different surfaces and applications. MEWA also

the reduction of energy consumption.

Wiping cloths contaminated with hazardous

Reusable towels result in up to 95% less waste, use up to 48% less energy and represent around a third less global warming potential than virgin fibre paper. Even when compared to recycled paper, MEWA’s reusable approach scores highly.

This interesting new approach to cleaning is one that will undoubtedly save money, increase productivity, reduce injury risk, enhance overall quality, and allow staff to focus solely on their work without the worry of a dirty working environment. And of course, a clean and efficient factory will only serve the right impression to any customers or visitors to the factory floor.

WWW.MEWA.CO.UK 28 DECEMBER 2020

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PAPER & TEXTILE WIPES

C&M

Why getting the right wipe matters WITH the extensive variety of wiping products

accessible and easy to use in all situations. The

creates a more segregated cleaning solution to

available in the market today, it can be quite

right wiping solution makes cleaning processes

limit bacteria and viruses from spreading from

overwhelming to know which ones to choose.

more effective and maintains cleanliness for

one area to another. When using a wipe for an

There are a whole host of cleaning wipe

longer, with less residue or fibres after use.

extended period of time there are also wipes that can help inhibit the growth of bacteria on

designs, from multipurpose, heavy duty to low linting, but do people actually know which wipe

Reduce costs

is the right wipe?

Cleaning budgets can also be limited, so it is key

the wipe itself.

There are different wipes available for

to make rational decisions when you purchase

Green cleaning

all industry sectors and each offer a range

your wiping products. Although premium wipes

While first and foremost it is important to have

of unique benefits. The type of wipes a

may appear to be more expensive, they often

a wipe that is fit for purpose and does the job it

business uses can have a positive impact on

provide multiple factors which help to cut

is intended for, there are multiple ways to help

the quality of its services and the safety of its

cleaning costs.

the environment when selecting the right wipe.

working environment.

As an example, industrial wipers and low lint

From using the wipe in the correct way which

cloths can offer a single-step cleaning process

helps reduce overuse and therefore waste, to

job ensure everything is cleaned properly with

for superior wiping results first use. As well

understanding the product makeup and from

the right materials and chemicals, it also helps

as a guarantee of little to no linting, tearing

where the raw materials are coming which help

contribute to a healthy and productive workforce.

or shredding, you can get the job done more

reduce carbon emissions, there are multiple ways

Here are some reasons on why getting the right

efficiently and with one wipe compared to using

to help limit the impact on the environment.

wipe matters and how it can assist your business.

multiple wipes for the same process with a less

Not only does choosing the ideal wipe for your

efficient wipe.

Business efficiency

Compostable wipes that will break down without leaving microplastics are also available.

These wipes are eco-friendly alternatives which

Investing in the right wipe is a simple way to

Avoid cross-contamination

maximise cleaning speed and efficiency across

When selecting a wipe, you’ll need to ensure it

your organisation. In addition, a higher quality

meets all necessary standards and be confident

COVID-19

wipe is important for completing operations

that surfaces are properly clean. By establishing

The COVID-19 pandemic has highlighted more

more swiftly and boosting productivity. A

a colour-coded cleaning system, this will assist

than ever the need for an effective cleaning

properly selected wipe is more reliable,

with cross-contamination prevention and

process at all times. It is vitally important for

help to promote green cleaning.

businesses to take note and evaluate their workplace cleanliness and hygiene levels to eliminate bacteria and control disinfection.

By using the right wiping solution, it could make all the difference, from protecting staff and customers from contracting the virus to allowing everyday practices to continue normally. Whether it is a typical office, warehouse, factory, or clinical room, it is crucial that your wipes are appropriate for your setting and provide optimum level of safety.

Do you have confidence in your wipe?

Getting the right wipe can have a valuable impact on every type of industry. However, our perception of cleaning products needs to shift as price is not everything. The attitude of simply buying any wipe must change if people want to maintain the highest standard of cleanliness and hygiene in their facility.

WWW.HARRISONWIPES.CO.UK WWW.CLEANINGMAG.COM

DECEMBER 2020 29

C&M

PAPER & TEXTILE WIPES

Setting the standard for a cleaner future For cleaning professionals, the onset of the coronavirus pandemic has only served to accelerate the requirement for optimum hygiene practices and infection prevention. James Taylor, marketing director specialties EMEIA at Berry Global, discusses the innovative cleaning solutions expected to play a critical role in meeting heightened expectations of cleanliness in the ‘new normal’.

NOW more than ever, effective cleaning practices

with tests revealing around 30% [1] of the germs

laundered and disposable cleaning materials.

and the close and careful sanitation of touch

they pick up are deposited onto the next surface

While disposable cloth and mops displayed no

points, common surfaces, floors, and fittings is

wiped, organisations are increasingly seeking

relevant microbial contamination, spore forming

essential to keeping people safe. In a new age of

more effective solutions. The superior cleaning

bacteria were recovered from both pristine and

cleanliness, where hygiene is coming under even

performance and greater microbial removal

laundered microfibre cloths and mop heads used

greater scrutiny, failure to achieve high standards

proficiencies of reusable 100% microfibre

for cleaning hospital rooms after washing.

carries its own inherent risks.

cloths offer a logical alternative to woven cloth equivalents, but even such solutions have their

Surface cleanliness

contingency plans and cleaning processes are in

pitfalls. For instance, 93% of laundered microfibre

Although the versatility and clinical performance

place to limit the risk in any setting, undoubtedly

cloths still contain dangerous levels of bacteria

of disposable cloths and mops make them an

in certain environments the potential negative

even after washing, according to the American

essential solution for any cleaning professional,

consequences of cross-contamination of harmful

Journal of Infection Control.

inevitably decidedly niche cleaning procedures

While it is imperative that appropriate

bacteria may be even greater. For instance,

will require a more tailored solution. Surfaces

the broad spectrum of healthcare-associated

Down to a science

that are customarily cleaned with spray and

infections (HCAIs), MRSA and at risk inhabitants,

The limited time usage of microfiber-based

wipe systems, for instance, stand to benefit from

already place healthcare environments in a high

solutions – such as Chicopee’s Microfibre Light

advanced impregnated wipe systems.

risk category. Add to that the very real danger of

- feature a unique structure that facilitates

the coronavirus disease, and the need for effective

the removal of 99.99% of bacteria, securely

solutions - such as Chicopee’s Single Use

hygiene protocols becomes even greater.

trapping it in the material without the use

Dispensing System (S.U.D.S.) - encourage better

Those in the industry who are able to adapt

The improved dwell times of innovative

of chemicals, and significantly reducing the

cleaning behaviour when compared to spray and

cleaning strategies to meet the increased

risk of cross-contamination. By virtue of

wipe systems, where chemicals are often wiped off

demands placed on cleaning staff, and

being completely disposable after use, it also

the surface with paper towels too soon.

tailor them to the requirements of any given

safeguards against bacteria being released

environment, are therefore likely to be able

onto the next surface cleaned.

to achieve and maintain the highest hygiene standards in the post-pandemic landscape.

Increasing advancements in the material

A lower cost option than traditional presaturated wipes, cleaning professionals can simply add their own chemical of choice to the

properties of such solutions - such as the

dispenser bucket and wiper roll to instantly

utilisation of patented Chicopee’s Microfibre

create different high performing impregnated

having the optimal solutions and tools in place

4F fabric and APEX technology - facilitates the

wipes for various areas. Such a degree of

in order to reduce the spread of pathogens

efficient removal and locking-in of dust and

flexibility is an essential requirement for cleaning

and diminish infection rates, lessen the risk

bacteria from any hard surface.

teams operating under budgetary restraints.

Central to any cleaning operation should be

to the workforce and ensure compliance with cleaning standards.

At the heart of disposable 100% microfibre

What’s more, all this can be achieved while taking

solutions is a scientifically proven superior cleaning

advantage of Chicopee’s patented Microfibre 4F

efficacy and lower pathogen transmission. Indeed,

fabric, a technical fabric specifically designed to

Meeting the challenge

extensive testing at University College London

deliver the power of microfibre cleaning while

With the prevention of cross contamination firmly

Hospitals under simulated cleaning conditions -

also releasing the maximum amount of cleaning

in the spotlight amid the ongoing pandemic,

and against numerous bacteria - recently revealed

chemical across the surface, and not locking it

one solution that has emerged as an increasingly

that the number of median log10 MRSA and K.

into the cloth.

valuable resource for cleaning team is disposable

pneumoniae incorporating a soil suspension on the

WWW.CHICOPEE.COM/EN-EU/MICROFIBRE

microfibre wipes and cloths - such as those produced

single-use solutions were consistently lower than

by Chicopee, a brand of Berry Global and a leading

reuseable (laundered) microfibre cloth comparatives.

producer of professional cleaning materials.

While traditional woven cloths have been a mainstay in the arsenal of cleaning professionals, 30 DECEMBER 2020

Investigations were similarly positive in favour

[1] Externally certified to officially documented test methods to produce a 4 log removal of S.aureus

of disposable cloths and mops when determining

and E.Coli from a stainless steel surface, transferring

the number of organisms present in pristine,

0% to a second surface.

WWW.CLEANINGMAG.COM

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C&M

PRODUCT NEWS

THE Kardon pedal operated sanitiser dispenser combines advantages in

Make your hand sanitiser station part of the furniture

hygiene with a professional design unique to the UK. These robust wood laminate dispensers come in a variety of colours to suit every interior. The foot operated solution reduces risk of contamination and requires no power supply.

The dispenser comes with a 2.5 litre bottle so you can ‘fill and forget’. If you prefer to use your own pump dispenser, the internal mechanism can be quickly and easily adjusted. The bottle is secured behind a lock requiring minimum supervision from staff. Key features of the unit include: foot operated;

powder coated steel internal mechanism; free standing, no-topple design with weighted base and optional floor bolts; fully mechanical - no batteries or power supply required; available in grey oak, medium walnut and light pine; available in two sizes – 129 or 123cm (h) x 30.5cm (w) x 30.5cm (d); the option to customise units with own branding; and an optional service contract available for sanitiser refills.

WWW.KARDONLIMITED.CO.UK

INFECTION control measures have forced the cancellation of many events this year, including traditional training courses. However, even with coronavirus prevention protocols that are currently in place, cleaning industry staff can still learn and develop their skills using the Jangro Learning Management Solution (LMS).

The Jangro LMS offers a flexible and contactless approach to training. Available to all Jangro customers and staff, this innovative, fully interactive and versatile e-learning platform is optimised for all devices.

LMS offers ‘safe training solution’

It covers a wide range of topics, with varying course lengths, so that users can train remotely at times that suit them.

Joanne Gilliard, CEO at Jangro, said: “Training enables staff to perform their duties to a high standard, without risking their own health (or that of others). At a time when cleaning industry workers are putting their concerns aside to keep public spaces clean, hygienic and COVID-secure, ensuring they continue to have access to high quality and ongoing training is the least we can do for them.”

WWW.JANGROLMS.NET

WEPA Professional, provider of sustainable, environmentally-friendly paper and washroom solutions in Europe, is introducing Satino by WEPA - a new brand

New range of washroom solutions introduced

of cleaning and hygiene products for the UK market. The range will offer everything from paper towels, toilet rolls, kitchen rolls, and cleaning rolls, to air fresheners, soaps, disposal systems, and washroom accessories, and will provide a variety of functional, sustainable options to meet the needs of customers and washroom users alike.

Targeting the independent wholesale sector and buying groups, the launch will be supported by a trade marketing programme incorporating strategic advertising and social media activity.

Highlights from the new suite of products include: four soap/foam dispensers, with manual dispensing and sensory formats

available; nine varieties of paper towel dispenser – one of which features a sensor function - to suit washrooms of differing sizes; six toilet roll dispensers, including jumbo and twin roll options; three waste bin options, available in 8, 23 and 43 litre capacity; and paper towels in w-fold, z-fold and v-fold formats.

WWW.SATINO-BY-WEPA.CO.UK

32 DECEMBER 2020

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PRODUCT NEWS

C&M

IN its first year of operation, Spotta’s Bed Pods have reduced the amount of bed bug

Spotta puts bed bugs to the test

incidents discovered by hotel guests from 50% to just 3.3% in its customers’ properties.

EDITOR

The ‘always-on’ monitoring service uses AI-driven recognition technology to identify insects and provide real time alerts. The Bed Pod enables hotels, other accommodation providers and their pest control partners to identify

occurrences of bed bugs and treat the problem early, limiting the damage pests cause.

Following its first year of real-world deployment in customer hotels - servicing over 91,000 room nights - 52.2% of detections made by Spotta were in rooms with no recent history of bed bugs, demonstrating the system’s effectiveness as an early warning against new infestations. Repeat detections in rooms helped hoteliers assess whether extermination treatments were successful or needed further, deeper treatment.

Across the 12 month period, Spotta was the first to identify bed bugs in 94.2% of cases, significantly reducing the number of guest encounters with bed bugs in multi-room properties. “For accommodation providers, most of the overall financial impact of bed bugs comes from contact between the guest and pests, which leads to complaints, bad reviews and loss of revenue,” said

Neil Nixon neilnixon@quartzltd.com 07957 713316 SALES DIRECTOR

Stuart Dacre stuartdacre@quartzltd.com 01737 855041 BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT MANAGER

Michelle Andrews michelleandrews@quartzltd.com 01737 855086 PRODUCTION MANAGER

Carol Baird carolbaird@quartzltd.com 01923 437619 MANAGING DIRECTOR

Robert Fryers, co-founder and CEO of Spotta.

Tony Crinion

WWW.SPOTTA.CO

CEO

WITH the need for hand hygiene taking on a new urgency in times of

Steve Diprose

COVID-19, Tork manager Essity has won the Visitor’s Choice Award at

CO-CHAIRMAN

Interclean Amsterdam Online 2020 for its innovative and engaging hand hygiene training solution.

The Tork Virtual Reality Clean Hands Training app is a training simulation aimed at improving hand hygiene in

VR training app wins Interclean award

Paul Michael PAID SUBSCRIPTIONS & CIRCULATION ENQUIRIES

Elizabeth Barford subscriptions@quartzltd.com 01737 855028

healthcare. Essity collaborated with behavioural scientists, university hospitals and global hand hygiene experts to develop the tool. Jenny Logenius, global brand innovation manager at Essity, said: “We are proud to have been voted the Visitor’s Choice Award winner at this year’s Interclean Show. By offering fun and innovative training tools to healthcare providers we continue to support medical professionals as they improve hand hygiene compliance for improved patient outcomes.”

WWW.TORK.CO.UK/TORKVR DIVERSEY has announced a 3% to 4% price increase across its Professional product ranges in Europe, effective 1 January 2021, due to continued cost movements and investment.

Since the beginning of 2020, Diversey’s business has been confronted with significant challenges to supply chains, exceptional demand increases and decreases across the different industries and sectors the company operates in and, most importantly, ensuring employees and customers stay safe.

Sinéad Kwant , president Europe, said: “Whilst we continue to adapt our business to the challenge and absorb as much of the impact as we feasibly can, our investment and cost increases are significant and as a result we will be increasing the prices of all Diversey Professional products by an average of 3% to 4%.”

WWW.DIVERSEY.COM

Diversey announces European price increase

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