Cleaning & Maintenance - January 2020

JANUARY 2020

THE OFFICIAL PARTNER OF THE CLEANING SHOW

IN THIS ISSUE: Floorcare

To get the maximum life out of floors, to keep them in good condition, hygienic and safe, they need to be cleaned through a regular maintenance programme. This feature looks at new equipment and techniques developed to maintain hard floors, particularly during the harsh winter months.

Carpet & Upholstery Cleaning

Daily vacuuming is vital but is it enough on its own to preserve the life of carpets? This feature looks at the best practices for maintaining carpets and upholstery.

REGISTER TODAY FOR THE REGION’S LARGEST CLEANING & HYGIENE EVENT

The Manchester Cleaning Show is firmly established as the event for procurement officers in the North-West to source cleaning equipment and services for healthcare, education, hospitality, entertainment, manufacturing, government and care home facilities.

Enjoy two days of product sourcing, demonstrations, education and networking.

25-26 MARCH EVENT CITY MANCHESTER Organised by

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REGISTER TODAY FOR THE REGION’S LARGEST CLEANING & HYGIENE EVENT

25-26 MARCH EVENT CITY MANCHESTER The Manchester Cleaning Show is firmly established as the event for procurement officers in the North-West to source cleaning equipment and services for healthcare, education, hospitality, entertainment, manufacturing, government and care home facilities.

2-Day Exhibition

Enjoy two days of product sourcing, demonstrations, education and networking.

BCC Seminars

WHO ATTENDS

Networking Events

2-Day Conference

2,500 professionals responsible for cleaning, hygiene or facilities management, including contract cleaning companies and facility managers from educational establishments, large office premises, hospitals, industrial and manufacturing sites, leisure and entertainment centres, hotels, government buildings, residential and nursing homes, retail centres and transport providers.

Organised by

www.cleaningshow.co.uk/manchester

Official Media Partner

The Official Partner of the Cleaning Show

JA N UA RY 2 0 2 0

PLUS: • Industry news • People • Contracts • Products

Floorcare To get the maximum life out of floors, to keep them in good condition, hygienic and safe, they need to be cleaned through a regular maintenance programme. This feature looks at new equipment and techniques developed to maintain hard floors, particularly during the harsh winter months.

Carpet & Upholstery Cleaning

Meeting sustainability goals

Daily vacuuming is vital but is it enough on its own to preserve the life of carpets? This feature looks at the best practices for maintaining carpets and upholstery.

Neil Nixon reports from Numatic where its recently-introduced ReFlo technology is starting to have a positive impact on meeting the company’s ambitious sustainability targets.

>>> page 30

>>> page 22

>>> page 24

WWW.CLEANINGMAG.COM

Simplification and recognisability are the two keywords at the root of this rebranding.

A font with simple lines was used together with a yellow element – a lightning bolt – symbolising strength and speed, two qualities that reflect Lavorwash’s current objective: to become stronger and more innovative in the world of domestic and professional cleaning.

The launch of this rebranding represents a further milestone in our growth and business development.

Cal Crutchlow Lavor major sponsor - LCR Honda Team

Lavor GB, Unit 18, Park Court, Sullivans Way, St.Helens WA9 5GZ Tel: 01744 738 079 Email: sales@lavorpro.co.uk Website: www.lavorpro.co.uk

Discover the full range at www.lavorpro.co.uk

EDITOR’S LETTER C&M

All roads lead to Manchester

The Manchester Cleaning Show takes place at EventCity on 25-26 March 2020. Now firmly established as the North West’s premier cleaning and hygiene event, it offers an invaluable opportunity to meet with suppliers, make new connections and gain knowledge about the key challenges affecting the cleaning sector.

This year’s free to attend conference programme offers attendees the opportunity to learn more about a diverse range of topics impacting the cleaning market. From cleanliness in the workplace to single use plastics, from strategies to build a successful cleaning business to understanding the power of marketing, this year’s conference will have something for everyone. A full programme is available online – www.cleaningshow.co.uk/manchester - and will also be featured in next month’s issue of C&M. In the meantime, here are a few of the highlights: • Cleanology’s Dominic Ponniah will reveal the results of recent research that explores attitudes to workplace illness, the rise of ‘presenteeism’, and cleanliness at work, including techniques for containing the spread of infection in the workplace.

• Adam Marks, cyber underwriter for insurance provider Hiscox, will look at the emerging cyber threats facing UK businesses.

• Robert Scott’s Steve Courtney will consider how cleaning can help businesses with sustainability, particularly focusing on Toucan Eco - a sustainable, effective and safe disinfectant cleaner that removes the need for chemicals and the singleuse plastic bottles they are supplied in.

• I will quiz Suzanne Howe, managing director at SHC, about different marketing techniques that can be employed to have a positive impact on winning and retaining customers. Topics to be discussed include: marketing to establish your brand;

understanding your customer and how to reach them; and retaining customers through engagement.

• Neil Spencer-Cook and Michelle Iland from BICSc will discuss the importance of practical training and assessment. This presentation will look at how training motivates and promotes experiential learning within your organisation and discuss a ‘train and retain’ ethos, showing how training will have a positive effect on your company’s bottom line.

• Paul Twiss from InnuScience will make the case for sustainable cleaning. He will outline InnuScience’s unique biotech and how it offers a long term solution to sustainable cleaning, and look at why sustainable cleaning doesn’t necessarily result in a downgrade in cleaning performance.

• Arco’s Nick Foort will look at skincare and discuss processes to prevent a future dermatitis epidemic.

This is just part of the programme but serves to show the diverse topics being discussed at this year’s Manchester Cleaning Show. And remember, attendance is free of charge.

I look forward to seeing you there.

Wishing you a happy, clean, tidy and healthy month ahead.

Neil Nixon, Editor Cleaning & Maintenance Magazine

@cleaningmag

WWW.CLEANINGMAG.COM

Cleaning&Maintenance

JANUARY 2020 5

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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CONTENTS C&M

24 Feature: Floorcare To get the maximum life out of floors, to keep them in good condition, hygienic and safe, they need to be cleaned through a regular maintenance programme.

This feature looks at new equipment and techniques developed to maintain hard floors, particularly during the harsh winter months.

JANUARY 2020

08 13 14 17 18 22 32

Industry News In the news this month… ESA given warm welcome by the BCC, CHSA donation supports Grief Encounter, Principle opens window cleaning centre of excellence, Wates FM receives Living Wage Foundation accreditation People Personnel news and new appointments from across the cleaning and FM sectors.

Special Report: No is also an answer Barrie Torbett, Master of the Worshipful Company of Environmental Cleaners, explains that in order to ensure the survival and maintain high standards of the cleaning industry, a harder line has to be taken on fairer pricing.

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

30

Special Report: Probiotics in cleaning What role do probiotics play in the cleaning process? And, how do they operate in comparison to traditional cleaning products? Dr John Lear, technical director at BioHygiene, reports.

Special Report: Carpet & Upholstery Cleaning Daily vacuuming is vital but is it enough on its own to preserve the life of carpets? This feature looks at the best practices for maintaining carpets and upholstery.

Special Report: Meeting sustainability goals Neil Nixon reports from Numatic where its recently-introduced ReFlo technology is starting to have a positive impact on meeting the company’s ambitious sustainability targets.

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

05 Editor’s Comment Looking back at the past month in the cleaning sector.

WWW.CLEANINGMAG.COM

16 BICSc Comment Protest or demonstration?

20 BCC Comment How SAM is driving high safety standards in the window cleaning sector. The FWC’s Andrew Lee reports.

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

Lee Andrews reports.

JANUARY 2020 7

C&M INDUSTRY NEWS

ESA given warm welcome by the BCC THE trade body representing the UK’s resource

the industry and drive out poor practices. We

and waste management industry has joined the

always look to build collaboration and work with

British Cleaning Council. The Environmental

partners. There is a lot of overlap with the BCC

Services Association (ESA) has around 100

and lots of areas where we can work together.”

BCC chairman, Paul Thrupp, said: “I am

members, two-thirds of whom deliver recycling and waste services, and is working with

delighted to welcome the ESA as we share

members to make the circular economy - where

common goals in the desire to promote

all waste is eliminated and resources are reused

sustainability and high standards. Working together will make us stronger, help achieve the

- a reality.

The industry is set to invest £10 billion

ESA executive director, Jacob Hayler, said:

objectives within waste elimination and reuse

in new facilities with the right government

“As well as working to bring about a circular

and ensure the industry’s voice is heard.”

policy platform.

economy, we aim to raise standards across

WWW.BRITISHCLEANINGCOUNCIL.ORG

CHSA donation supports Grief Encounter STEPHEN Harrison, immediate past chairman and vice president of the Cleaning and Hygiene Suppliers Association (CHSA) has donated over £10,000 to the chairman’s charity, Grief Encounter. The money, raised by CHSA members and their guests at the association’s gala ball and golf day, will be used to pay for a residential retreat for up to 30 bereaved children. Grief Encounter supports bereaved children and their families to help alleviate the pain caused by the death of someone close.

Stephen Harrison said: “The loss of a parent, sibling, grandparent, or close friend is traumatic and can be confusing for young people. Grief Encounter does wonderful work, giving them the support they need at what’s an incredibly difficult time. We are proud to have hit our goal of raising £10,000 for a retreat that gives children the space and support they need. A

From left to right: Richard Fogelman (Grief Encounter), Stephen Harrison (CHSA), Lorcan Mekitarian (CHSA), and Louise Scott (Grief Encounter).

huge thank you to all our members and their

Encounter, retaining it as the Chairman’s Charity

the chairman’s charity, making a contribution is

guests at our gala ball and golf day who made it

for 2019/2020. He said: “Putting something back

important to us. We are delighted to have been able

possible for us to hit the target.”

is at the heart of the ethos of the CHSA. From our

to fund the residential retreat and will now talk to

undergraduate bursary for the children of our

Grief Encounter about our target for the next year.”

members’ employees to the money we raise for

WWW.CHSA.CO.UK

The new chairman of the CHSA, Lorcan Mekitarian, is continuing the link with Grief

Principle opens window cleaning centre of excellence PRINCIPLE Cleaning Services has opened a

London Business Alliance, a non-profit making

“Our new centre of excellence is the next step

centre of excellence for its window cleaning

organisation, which gives local people the

in our growth plan for the window cleaning

division. The new Principle Windows facility in

opportunity to get back to work. It now directly

division. Principle has become a market leader

Stratford has a training and classroom area for its

employs 75 full-time staff including IRATA-trained

in London with innovation and constant

high-level access team, secure and dry storage

abseilers, a five-strong management team with

improvement forming the basis of the team’s

facilities for rope access equipment, and state-

a manager devoted to rope access activities

culture. The division has come a long way

of-the-art reach and wash filtration tanks. The

and a technical lead and full-time safety and

since 2013 and we look forward to many

company has also added electric vehicles to its

administrative support. The division has annual

more years of adding value for our clients

fleet to support its sustainability objectives.

turnover of around £5 million.

with consistent focus on safety, innovation,

The window cleaning division was set up in 2013 with four employees from East 8 JANUARY 2020

David Saville, window cleaning operations director at Principle Cleaning Services, said:

technology, and sustainability.”

WWW.PRINCIPLECLEANING.COM WWW.CLEANINGMAG.COM

C&M INDUSTRY NEWS

Wates FM receives Living Wage Foundation accreditation WATES FM has achieved ‘recognised service

impeccable service for our clients. We recognise

provider’ status with the Living Wage

that for families, communities and businesses

Foundation and will be working with the

to prosper, hard-working people should be

organisation to promote the Real Living Wage.

paid fairly and the Living Wage supports this

As a recognised service provider, Wates FM will

principle.”

Katherine Chapman, director of the Living

now work with its supply chain and clients to

Wage Foundation, added: “The benefits the

promote the Living Wage employer standards.

Living Wage brings to staff and businesses

This includes a commitment to offer a Living Wage bid alongside every market rate for all

are clear. Wates FM is one of a number of

prospective and current clients, giving clients

recognised service providers who have collectively delivered pay rises to over 80,000

the choice to implement the Living Wage at point of tender.

hard to ensure fair payment to our employees

workers. That’s hugely important in a sector

and our supply chain partners, and securing the

that accounts for around 7% of UK GDP, and

FM, said: “We’re extremely proud to receive the

Living Wage status is an acknowledgement of

I welcome the leadership shown by them in

recognised service provider certification from

this long-standing commitment. Our business

tackling low pay.”

the Living Wage Foundation. Wates FM works

is reliant on teams who work hard to deliver an

WWW.WATES.CO.UK

James Gregg, managing director of Wates

Engie named best sustainable FM company in the UK ENERGY and support services specialist,

practice. Other platinum-scoring FM service

environmental, social and governance (ESG)

Engie UK and Ireland has come out on top in

providers included Skanska Facilities and

performance of FM service providers annually.

the Sustainable Facilities Management Index

Vinci Facilities, while Bouygues Energies

Acclaro’s team conducts independent

(SFMI) Awards for a second successive year.

and Services and BAM FM achieved gold

assessments across 23 criteria including

classification.

sustainability frameworks, management

Engie achieved a platinum grade and the top SFMI score overall for 2019. Mitie,

Now in its seventh year, the SFMI is run by

systems, energy, water, compliance, health

which acquired a silver grade, received

sustainability consultancy Acclaro Advisory.

and safety, employee development, diversity,

the Rising Star Award in recognition of its

As the only sustainability benchmark for

and more.

growing commitment to sustainable FM

the UK FM sector, the SFMI judges the

WWW.ACCLARO-ADVISORY.COM

ABM UK takes the JEEP to 250 new students ABM UK has recently kicked off year three

past two years have been a huge success,

of its Junior Engineering Engagement

going from 32 students in year one to over

Programme (JEEP). The programme aims to

250 in year three is fantastic. Targeting

tackle misperceptions amongst children and

schools in ‘opportunity areas’ has been a

their parents of the facilities management

huge focus - we want to ensure all young

industry and create a pipeline of future

people have the same opportunities to

technical talent.

learn about the variety of paths to success

The third year will build on the success of the programme which has been delivered by ABM and partners to over 280 students since 2017. In

available to them...university is not the only way.”

Adam Baker continued: “Research from

addition to this figure, the JEEP Teacher Pack

final module surveys revealed that there

has also been downloaded by thousands of

was a 14% increase in students considering

teachers for self-delivery.

engineering and facilities management as a

Supported by education delivery partner

career and a 24% rise in the understanding

The Transformation Trust, ABM UK is taking

and importance of apprenticeships.

the immersive programme into 12 new

Seeing feedback like this shows us that the

schools, reaching new students in London,

programme is working. Our goal is to change

Leeds, Manchester, and Bradford. Year

perceptions of apprenticeships and the FM

three will see over 250 budding engineers

industry across the UK and we’re in it for the

participate in the programme.

long haul.”

ABM UK director, Adam Baker, said: “The 10 JANUARY 2020

WWW.JEEP-ABM.ORG WWW.CLEANINGMAG.COM

INDUSTRY NEWS

C&M

£4000 donation to Children’s Heart Surgery Fund B&M Waste Services is continuing

to miss school for endless hospital

to support local charity, Children’s

visits. This year we particularly

Heart Surgery Fund, through a

enjoyed working with the B&M

donation of £4000. In addition to

Waste staff who volunteered at

its donation, B&M Waste promotes

our CHSF Superhero Walk. It

the charity on the side of its iconic

was brilliant to see the children

big yellow trucks as a continuing

enjoying B&M Waste educational

assistance in spreading

recycling games about why we

awareness of the valuable work

need to take care of our planet.

the charity facilitates.

We look forward to working

Georgie Abbott, corporate partnerships manager at

together again in 2020.”

Jayne Kennedy, B&M Waste’s

Children’s Heart Surgery Fund,

senior marketing and social value

said: “Thank you so much to

manager, said: “We’re so pleased

everyone at B&M Waste who

to be able to support such a

has been involved in fundraising

wonderful cause. Whilst we can’t

activities to support Children’s

imagine how difficult it must be

Heart Surgery Fund (CHSF). We

for parents and families in this

are incredibly grateful for the very

situation, particularly at this time

generous donation of £4000. To

of year, we hope this donation

put this into context, £4000 could

can continue to aid the charity in

cover the cost of 40 Kardia mobile

providing support and ground-

devices, allowing patients to

breaking equipment for the

record their heartbeat remotely,

children they work with.”

which means children won’t need

WWW.BANDMWASTE.COM

Warrington Mayor opens new food hygiene facility

Antibacterial

Innovation

Time saving

No buckets required

From left to right: Aaron Barber, Graham Hunneman, Mayoress, Mayor Wendy Johnson, Andy Bethel, and Joanna Leech.

CHRISTEYNS Food Hygiene’s newly

Christeyns Food Hygiene, said: “This

refurbished 78,000 sq. ft facility at

is a great step forward in the growth

Cameron Court, Winwick Quay,

of our business as we prepare

was officially opened recently by

for the new decade. Warrington

the Mayor of Warrington. Members

provides a great location with

of Christeyns senior management

easy access to our customer base

team, joined the Mayor, Cllr Wendy

across the UK and Ireland and I

Johnson, and other guests at

am pleased to announce we have

the opening event to celebrate

secured a new 10 year lease. Our

not only the state-of-the-art

thanks go to Mayor Wendy Johnson

site improvements, but also the

and to all those who have come

company’s 30th anniversary.

here today to mark this milestone.”

Neil Jones, managing director at WWW.CLEANINGMAG.COM

WWW.CHRISTEYNSFOODHYGIENE.CO.UK JANUARY 2020 11

C&M INDUSTRY NEWS

Atalian Servest retains CIPS ethics accreditation for a third successive year ATALIAN Servest has been awarded the Chartered

organisation and the world’s largest professional

Institute of Procurement and Supply (CIPS)

serving procurement and supply institute. The

Ireland, said: “We are incredibly proud to have

Corporate Ethical Mark for the third time in three

Ethical Procurement and Supply accreditations

been awarded the CIPS Corporate Ethical Mark

years. Atalian Servest is one of 59 companies

focus on issues including corruption, fraud,

for a third straight year. This achievement is

worldwide to achieve the accreditation, joining

bribery, exploitation, and human rights abuses

testament to both Atalian Servest’s unwavering

the likes of the NHS England, John Lewis and

in supply chains. Organisations involved are

commitment to ethical procurement and the

Heineken UK. All 59 companies have taken

facilitated in implementing strategic policy and

hard work of our teams. As a global company,

proactive steps in the last 12 months to safeguard

creating a procurement environment in which

we have a duty to ensure that our colleagues,

against unethical conduct in procurement and

best practice is carried out. Appropriate self-

clients and wider supply chain adhere to the

supply management.

governing mechanisms are put in place, priorities

highest possible standards.”

set, and staff and stakeholders engaged.

WWW.ATALIANSERVEST.CO.UK

The awarding body, CIPS, is a not-for-profit

Hull company joins global drive to eliminate plastic pollution

Daniel Dickson, Atalian Servest CEO, UK and

B&M pledges support to ‘Home Street Home’ charter B&M Waste Services has joined numerous other Liverpool city region businesses in signing the LCR Homelessness Charter. This drive urges other private sector businesses to do their bit in achieving B&M Waste’s nominated charity, Crisis’s aim to end homelessness.

The launch of the charter took place with the aim of encouraging a minimum of 200 businesses across the region sign up to the pledge. The charter suggests ways that businesses, no matter their size or industry, can make practical steps to help the homeless community.

‘Charter champion’ David Curtis, director at

HULL-based green cleaning company Bio-D

“Shocking images of waste in our oceans shown

B&M Waste, will learn more about the causes

is one of the leading businesses in a global

by programmes like Blue Planet have really

of homelessness and the issues people face on

drive towards eliminating plastic pollution.

highlighted the scale of the plastic problem

a training day hosted by Crisis. The aim then is

Bio-D signed up to the Ellen MacArthur

facing our planet, and this has helped drive

to disseminate this back to the 280 B&M Waste

Foundation’s global commitment on plastic

demand for change from the public. As an

staff to raise the business’s awareness of the

in October 2018. As part of the commitment,

ethical business that has been working to offer

issues surrounding homelessness. David Curtis

companies across the world pledged to use an

consumers a naturally-derived alternative to

said: “236,000 people in Britain experience the

average of 25% recycled content in their plastic

regular cleaning products since 1989, it’s always

worst forms of homelessness. Sadly it’s not

packaging by 2025.

been our ethos to create products that are safe

always something that happens to ‘someone

for both the environment and user and that

else’ and the scale of the problem is immense.

of 75% - which has now been reached after

goes so much further than just the ingredients

The business community in the Liverpool city

making the switch on lines from spray bottles to

that go into them. Alongside our promise to

region is determined to help the public and

small refill containers. The recycled packaging

only use ethically sourced ingredients which

voluntary sector to tackle this issue, and we

can then be used, refilled or recycled once again

are vegan friendly, cruelty-free and have full

are proud to be one of the first to sign the

as part of the Ellen MacArthur Foundation’s

traceability, the majority of our packaging is

charter with a pledge to help in as many

vision to keep plastics in the economy and out

now made from plastic waste which might

ways we can. We urge other businesses to

of the environment.

otherwise have gone to landfill.”

follow suit.”

WWW.BIODEGRADABLE.BIZ

WWW.BANDMWASTE.COM

Bio-D, however, set its own higher target

Lloyd Atkin, managing director of Bio-D, said: 12 JANUARY 2020

WWW.CLEANINGMAG.COM

PEOPLE

Axis appoints sector Miele appoints director to support new UK head of business growth professional sales AXIS Cleaning and Support Services has

THE Professional division of Miele has

appointed Gail Sinton as sector director

appointed Simon Venni as its new head of

designate to support customers in the

professional sales UK. Looking to build on

Midlands region and the business’s continued

Miele’s success in sales of commercial laundry

growth. She brings with her over 30 years’

equipment, dishwashers and other appliances

experience within the cleaning industry.

into key sectors such as care, hospitality and

Simon Giles, chief operating officer, said:

NIC appoints regional director

veterinary practices, Venni is keen to help Miele

“Her initial goals will be utilising her wealth

achieve dominance as the number one brand

of experience to further enhance our ability

choice for commercial environments.

to deliver the very highest standards of

C&M

Sam Baily, sales and marketing director at

customer service. Her appointment is part of

Miele, said: “We are delighted that Simon has

NIC Services Group Ltd has promoted Gary

a key strategy to further excellent customer

joined the Miele Professional team. He brings to

Haman to regional director. Ken Atherton,

experience through expanding the senior

the role a real understanding of growing sales in

national operations director at NIC, said: “The

management team. Gail will be leading a

key markets through independent partners and

NIC board is delighted to promote Gary to this

number of exciting projects, capitalising on

strategic accounts. Importantly, he shares the same

new role which will complement our continued

the latest developments and innovations

values and integrity as the Miele business and is

growth. His vast experience in the industry

in the cleaning industry. Initially these

committed to a culture of continuous improvement

embodies the company’s vision and values. We

will impact existing customers within the

or ‘Immer Besser’ as we say around here. I’m really

look forward to him continuing to support and

Midlands, with the aim to roll out these

looking forward to working with Simon to grow our

expand our multi-service solutions offer to both

initiatives nationwide.”

business, together with our partners.”

our current and new clients.”

WWW.AXIS-CSS.CO.UK

WWW.MIELE.CO.UK/PROFESSIONAL

WWW.NICGROUP.CO.UK

lincoln cleaning technology_half page.indd 1

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11/12/2019 15:26

JANUARY 2020 13

C&M INDUSTRY VIEW

No is also an answer Barrie Torbett, Master of the Worshipful Company of Environmental Cleaners, explains that in order to ensure the survival of the cleaning industry and to maintain high standards, a harder line has to be taken on fairer pricing.

Stop accepting less for more

government has already said that National

Clients fundamentally don’t want to increase

Living Wage (lower than that suggested by the

their overall costs. Cleaning contractors are

Living Wage Foundation) should be paid by

therefore put in a position where they have to

everyone by 2025. The struggle remains to get

reduce their margins to remain competitive.

paying clients on board with this. There is no

However, this can turn out to be commercially

legal machine to compel them to comply - their

fatal to their business. If you operate the

only legal obligation regarding remuneration is

business on such thin margins, it eats into

to pay the minimum wage, which is less.

the sustainability of the company. They can fold - even if they are big organisations, as we

It’s all about perception

have seen.

The cleaning industry specifically is considered

If the clients don’t wish to pay the contractor

the low end of the market when it comes to

IN recent years, I’ve been very concerned about

sufficiently to cover wages, they take the

employment and advancement prospects, but

the marked trend of companies returning their

services back in house, without having to pay

it’s an incredibly essential service. When critics

cleaning services in-house. The relationship

the contractor’s profit margin. However, on the

say that cleaning operatives are unproductive

between clients and contractors has

flipside they also adopt the risk, so if they get

or unprofessional, it can be disproved easily.

deteriorated somewhat, and generally it’s about

the service provision wrong, the client bears

Stop the staff from cleaning in busy public

reconciling fair pay rates.

that responsibility.

areas, with high footfall, like an airport or

In my past experience as a cleaning and

Meanwhile, for the client who agrees to pay

shopping mall, and see what litter havoc is

FM contractor servicing large brands, we

the Real Living Wage (as specified by the Living

wrought in 60 minutes. Don’t empty the bins,

were ‘supressed’ when it came to negotiating

Wage Foundation), the catch-up margin will

wipe surfaces, clean toilets, or vacuum in an

contracts. Clients were very focused on the

be bigger. In the meantime, the client tells the

office for one night, and it will be noticed the

quality of cleaning staff yet were only prepared

contractor that they have to find some of that

next morning.

to pay the minimum for skilled operatives. This

money in their existing budget to cover the

approach invokes thoughts of the old adage,

shortfall, but how? They’re already stretched.

‘putting the cart before the horse’.

It’s like going into a pub for a meal, wanting

It pains me to say it, but the cleaning industry has to accept a certain level of responsibility for this poor impression by others. If we worked

to pay 15% less, but expecting the same

in unison to change social awareness, we

the National Living Wage, for the most part they

standard of food. Therefore, to comply with the

wouldn’t even consider accepting the pressure

are still not swayed enough to pay more for the

request, the landlord has to carry that burden.

from clients to reduce costs. Having said that,

Nowadays, while more clients are aware of

service that they receive.

So, what should the industry do? The

there’s always someone out there who will choose turnover rather than margin.

Regrettably, however, there are cleaning contractors in our industry that don’t pay the minimum wage or employ people correctly and by the latter, I mean legally. Sometimes contracts change hands, and TUPE (Transfer of Undertakings [Protection of Employment] Regulations 2006) engages, but then we discover that some staff members transfer who aren’t on the TUPE list and that are being paid under the minimum wage. It is a blot in our copybook.

Let’s change the lens through which they look at us The WCEC’s role is to ensure that the industry progresses and with propriety - this includes training and employment. As a collective body

14 JANUARY 2020

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INDUSTRY VIEW

C&M

and voice, we must collaborate to make the cleaning industry more attractive. We also need to raise the bar in how we present ourselves: not as the fairies that come out at night and make everything clean, but as skilled, experienced and dedicated individuals and teams.

There’s no avoiding the elephant in the room.

Wages need to improve and that’s just a fact we must incorporate into our business plans and contractual agreements. Furthermore, there’s got to be a clear career path. There’s an inherent advantage to joining the cleaning industry. If you have common sense, are prepared to work hard and learn, you can progress.

If you want to focus on education during your career - even starting at the practical end of the business and then diversifying, there are several options available like personnel management, health and safety, and human resources,

‘no’ if fees are pushed too low, and speak up for

of employment, from operatives, right up to the

accountants, IT, and compliance officers to

their worth and the survival of their business.

board and all the positions in between.

name a few.

Also, we must have a clear and honest

Let’s not forget thinking outside of the

conversation about what things actually cost

professionals’ box. We are currently collaborating

suggests these support services industry

instead of working in an accountancy fog that

with the construction industry and continuing

options to sixth formers looking for careers. In

results in businesses continuously running at a

to approach ex-military personnel who struggle

fact, it’s considered a poor choice of career, yet

loss, and clients feeling that they can under-pay.

to find employment after they leave the service.

it provides services from which every single one

For example, for some time now, hospitals

I have discovered first-hand that no one

Both these sectors offer a wealth of skill,

have been outsourcing to receive a better

experience and expertise which is perfect for

cleaning service. However, cleaning contractors

raising the standard of cleaning and FM. We must

job-seeking entry level what the multi-faceted

signed the contracts knowing that they couldn’t

look at the transferable value, rather than get

opportunities are that exist in the cleaning and

deliver the right and proper service based on

stuck on titles.

FM industries. And, dare I say, to be respectful

what they actually charged. If the contractors

If we build a better industry, we become

of the people who work in these industries

don’t stand up for themselves at this crucial

more attractive employers. If we stand up for

and safeguard the cleanliness of our built

stage of negotiation, then the losses to their

what we are worth rather than believing the

environment. Many cleaning industry leaders

brand, business, employees, and financials are

poor PR that our industry has suffered socially

started without formal education. However,

dire in the end.

and commercially, we will never succeed.

businesses and succeeded with hard work

Transferable skills also enrich our industry

our act as an industry and command the

and learning on the job. Young people can be

We need to dispel the perception of cleaning

fair fees and wages that enable us to do

targeted and encouraged from a much earlier

being a ‘blue collar’ industry. It is a globally

our best, without the duress of accepting

stage to consider the support services industry,

networked empire, which doesn’t run itself. It

financial losses.

without going down a strict academic path.

needs an army of skilled workers, at every level

WWW.WC-EC.COM

of us benefits.

Let us actively inform young people at

Cleaning isn’t a dirty word. Let’s clean up

they progressed, built large and successful

Dedication, working hard and common sense can achieve the same career progression.

Undercutting dilutes service Some of our counterparts in Europe, like the Netherlands, are supported by laws which dictate what every cleaner should be paid.

Their wages are generally healthier than our minimum wage; in the UK the minimum wage is just too low to make it workable for staff who depend on it.

UK cleaning contractors are being criticised for not delivering adequate services. This is caused by caving in and accepting a much lower fee than the job demands. At this point of negotiation, contractors can - and should - say WWW.CLEANINGMAG.COM

JANUARY 2020 15

C&M BICSc

Protest or demonstration?

I have taken a great interest of late

and driven by social media. My contention is this: if a

and discord at the very minimum.

cleaning operation was deemed unsafe or harmful,

Protest normally involves actions

in the change of language from

that are undesirable and sometimes

demonstration to protest as far as

it would be best replaced by demonstrating an

activity regarding Brexit, climate

violent. The question is what do

alternative methodology. If this failed, then a protest

change (the Extinction Rebellion)

protests actually achieve? The

from the workforce would be likely. If we could

etc is concerned. I believe there

estimated costs of policing for

only concentrate on finding a solution that was

is a distinct difference between

this year’s fortnight-long autumn

achievable and demonstrable, protests should not

constructive and destructive.

protests by Extinction Rebellion

be necessary.

Before any action is taken there must be an

were estimated at £21 million.

I am just old enough to remember the CND - Campaign for Nuclear

This is on top of policing figures for the group’s

agreed outcome, otherwise the protest will continue

Disarmament - marches which began in the early

protests in April.

unabated. Individuals travel seemingly long distances to join these groups - why? When the Reagan

1960s. The interesting use of the word ‘campaign’

Demonstrations are usually peaceful and when

as opposed to protest or demonstration shows the

well organised can have a positive outcome. People

administration wanted to stop the drugs epidemic in

change in language over the years. Direct action

have demonstrated/campaigned for the reduction

the Unites States, it started a campaign called ‘Don’t

normally took the form of peace marches and

of plastics to reduce pollution in the ocean, mainly

Do Drugs’. It is now widely known that the influx of

rallies in Trafalgar Square. The Greenham Common

as a result of the Blue Planet programme. Recently

drugs from South America into the United States

Women’s Peace Campaign was another series

Holland & Barrett demonstrated its commitment

was driven by the CIA funding the contra Guerrillas.

of protests, including a peace camp - again the

to the environment by no longer selling wet wipes.

Famously, the ‘Don’t Do Drugs’ strapline was put onto

language used was ‘protests’.

This would have been unthinkable in the 1970s

pencils which, when they were sharpened, eventually

The choice of protest or demonstration is not

but then again it would have been unthinkable

left the strapline ‘Do Drugs’!

mere semantics. If you check the definition of both,

in the 1980s that Holland & Barrett could legally

whilst they have similarities it is my belief that the

sell cannabis oil. The world changes more rapidly

demonstration or even a protest, the result must be

fundamental difference is that a demonstration

thanks to social media!

achievable and how this is measured needs to be

Many protests - like the Arab Spring and the

can provide an alternative solution to the current situation, whereas a protest usually creates disruption

recent Hong Kong protests - are fuelled by anger

My point is that whether it is a campaign, a

agreed at the beginning of the process.

WWW.BICS.ORG.UK

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CONTRACTS C&M

LNER cleaning contract on track LONDON North Eastern Railway (LNER) has

with LNER to reduce water consumption across

awarded a new station and train cleaning

the route and introduce chemical-free cleaning.

and presentation contract to Atalian Servest.

John Doughty, engineering director at

The contract will run for up to five years and

LNER, said: “I am looking forward to working

includes investment, technology and training

with Atalian Servest. We are undergoing an

to maintain and build on the high standards

incredible transformation of our train service

customers expect at LNER stations and on-

with the complete fleet upgrade to our brand

board LNER trains.

new Azuma trains, timetable enhancements, customer experience improvements, and better

opportunity for Atalian Servest. LNER shares

be introduced for all staff as well as smart-

use of technology. We are especially looking

our values. Sustainability is at the centre

phone technology to improve communications,

forward to the improved environmental and

point of everything we do and our combined

increased waste segregation and recycling,

sustainability benefits of this new partnership

sense of entrepreneurial spirit will ensure we

mobile deep cleaning teams, and a 24-hour

with Atalian Servest.”

continuously collaborate to improve, innovate

Enhanced customer experience training will

helpdesk for train and station presentation needs. Atalian Servest will work in partnership

Daniel Dickson, CEO UK and Ireland at Atalian Servest, said: “This is a hugely exciting

and deliver exceptional service.”

WWW.ATALIANSERVEST.CO.UK

Ecocleen adopts advanced right to work checks solution ECOCLEEN has teamed up with uComply

by introducing real-time right to work checks

to streamline and simplify its ‘right to

that empower local users.

work’ checks. The company will use the

“Effective background checking and pre-

The uAuthenticate mobile application fully validates a wide range of identity documentation including passports, visas,

uAuthenticate mobile application across its

employment screening is a critical part of

ID cards, driving licences, biometric cards,

nationwide network of franchises, so regional

our complete compliance with Home Office

and work or resident permits in a matter

directors can immediately authenticate

immigration guidelines,” said Jean-Henri

of seconds. This accurate scanning and

identity documents. This will further enhance

Beukes, managing director of Ecocleen. “We

verification procedure, with built-in Home

Ecocleen’s robust staff onboarding processes

had previously operated a centralised system

Office guidance, will quickly determine if

for right to work checks that whilst robust

someone has the right to work in the UK

could also be time consuming and result in

and identify any fake documents. This will

unnecessary delays in the recruitment process.

help franchises to speed up the recruitment

The uAuthenticate mobile app will enable

process and ensure contracts have the

our regional directors to make immediate

appropriate staffing levels, while protecting

employment decisions, so they can quickly and

Ecocleen against any potential reputational

efficiently fill cleaning roles while reducing any

loss or fines.

exposure to risk.”

WWW.UCOMPLY.CO.UK

Ezitracker announces strategic partnership with UTS Fleet EZITRACKER has formed a strategic

partnership will allow Ezitracker to easily

partnership with UTS Fleet, a camera, software

integrate our framework and provide total

and tracking specialist for business fleets. The

control and monitoring capabilities of their

move is set to deliver end-to-end visibility of

customer’s fleets.”

remote workforces whilst they work and travel between jobs.

Ezitracker time and attendance

Christian Berenger, managing director of Ezitracker, said: “We have been approached by our customers to develop a telematics

technology enables employers of large and

solution, one that can provide a full picture

small workforces to reduce absenteeism,

of their workforces’ activities both onsite

lower costs via automation, and increase

and travelling between sites. Rather than

productivity and efficiencies. Rob Turner,

reinvent something that already exists

managing director, UTS Fleet, said: “We are

within the market, we took the decision to

delighted to team up with Ezitracker and

find a reputable ‘best of breed’ partner to

provide them with a powerful vehicle tracking

deliver this solution, one that would mirror

forward to delivering a great partnership

solution that fits neatly into their portfolio

Ezitracker’s unrivalled customer service.

programme with them.”

of workforce management solutions. The

UTS fleet ticked all those boxes and we look

WWW.EZITRACKER.COM

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JANUARY 2020 17

C&M SPECIAL REPORT

Probiotics in cleaning For many years, probiotics have been hailed for their widespread health benefits, particularly when consumed by humans and animals to improve and restore gut flora. However, recent times have seen a rise in probiotics being used in cleaning products as an alternative to more damaging chemical cleaners. But what role do probiotics play in the cleaning process? And, how do they operate in comparison to traditional cleaning products? Dr John Lear, technical director at BioHygiene, reports.

First and foremost, cost effectiveness is one

corrode or damage surfaces, probiotic-based

of the major factors most FMs have to consider

cleaners do not, meaning surfaces look new for

- and probiotic-based products have a lot

longer and infrastructure needs repairing less

going for them in this department. Probiotic

regularly. They also pose considerably less risk

cleaners contain an abundance of beneficial

to the employees using the product. Last year,

bacteria, meaning that once they are applied

The Independent published the findings of a

and colonise their surroundings, they continue

study that showed regular use of traditional

to work for long periods. In turn, this reduces

cleaning products was comparable to smoking

the amount of the product that needs to be

20 cigarettes a day, with regards to lung

applied, cutting back on volume used and

damage. Many companies are now aware of

reducing labour time.

this, hence the switch to probiotic- or biotech-

Interestingly, the high levels of beneficial bacteria that can be used in such formulations

based products.

Perhaps the main factor behind a general

and their microscopic size help to make

move towards probiotic-based cleaners is the

probiotic products effective when cleaning

level of environmental impact. Unlike many

hard to reach areas such as cracks and

traditional cleaners, which often use non-

imperfections. The bacteria are able to

sustainable raw materials that can release

GENERALLY speaking, traditional cleaning

penetrate deep into these areas where dirt

harmful chemicals into the atmosphere,

products contain harsh, biocidal chemicals to

builds continuously and work for long periods

probiotic-based cleaners have a considerably

remove dirt and germs, and they have always

of time.

smaller environmental footprint.

been the most popular choice with cleaning

Probiotic cleaning products are also known

companies and facilities management teams.

to be beneficial long-term with regards to

Industry specifics

However, there has been a dramatic uptake

both infrastructure and employees. Whereas

Due to how they work, and the capability of the

in probiotic-based products in the last few

traditional, chemical based products can

beneficial bacteria to reach difficult or hidden

years. These products work by using beneficial bacteria to colonise surfaces, producing enzymes to digest organic matter such as carbohydrates, proteins and fats. Hence these bacteria break down soiling in their immediate environment, producing a long-term cleaning effect and reducing unpleasant odours.

They may also compete with bad bacteria, effectively taking over the area. The uptake of probiotic cleaners is due to several factors, including cost, employee health, labour costs, and the environment.

The rise in popularity of probiotic cleaners This is not to say that traditional chemical cleaning products are not effective, because they are. But it is the way they work, and the impact on the surrounding environment they have, that is seeing probiotic-based products become more popular.

18 JANUARY 2020

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SPECIAL REPORT

C&M

places, probiotic cleaning products are well

levels were the same in probiotic and

were not only successful in ‘controlling surface

suited to a range of industries:

conventional cleaning.

microbial contamination’, but also in ‘lowering drug-resistant species’. This suggests that

Hospitals: as you would expect, contaminated hospital surfaces represent a

Drug-resistant species

probiotic cleaners can very successfully clean

major issue for hospital cleaning staff. Studies

The emergence and spread of antibiotic-

hospital surfaces and manage ‘superbugs’

have shown that probiotics on hospital surfaces

resistant bacteria, often known as

such as MRSA - perhaps a new string to our

counteract the growth of pathogens and, more

‘superbugs’, is a major global public health

bow in the fight against antibiotic resistance.

importantly, they decrease the population of

problem that requires immediate action.

pathogens harbouring drug resistant genes.

There are already strains of bacteria against

A future for probiotics

which we have few or no effective antibiotics

Clearly, probiotic-based cleaning products have

food industry. A test was conducted in the US

and the prognosis for patients unfortunate

a bright future ahead. Much like many other

on Cantaloupe melons by UConn Research

enough to become infected is extremely

eco-friendly cleaning products, they can help

which concluded that probiotics were more

poor. It has even been suggested that the

FMs to control costs, particularly long-term,

effective in cleaning and disinfecting the

antibiotic era is coming to an end.

whilst providing a safer option for the cleaning

Food: probiotics are also being used in the

melons’ surface over the industry standard chlorine wash.

There is also some evidence to suggest that when applied incorrectly, traditional

staff having to use them.

However, with levels of environmental

cleaning products can contribute to the

concern across the globe currently at an all-

also be useful in the battle against illnesses

rise of antibiotic-resistant bacterial strains.

time high, the fact that probiotic based cleaners

in offices. Due to the ability of probiotics to

According to the NHS, if certain bacteria

are known to be less damaging could see them

colonise surfaces and out-compete unfriendly

are exposed to low-levels of biocides found

excel at an even greater rate - as with other eco-

bacteria, they could help to reduce levels

in traditional cleaning products, this can

friendly, biotech led products.

of undesirable species on desks and other

increase the prevalence of genes involved in

surfaces, which could otherwise cause disease.

drug-resistance.

Offices: probiotic-based cleaners could

Finally, any strategy that can reduce the incidence of bacterial antibiotic resistance must be a priority for further investigation. This could

Agriculture: Belgian researchers have

In contrast, a recent study by the US

conducted tests to determine the success

National Institute of Health looking at the

be the most important part of the future for

of probiotics when cleaning pig pens. In this

success of probiotic-based cleaners on

probiotic products.

instance the test concluded that disinfection

hospital surfaces concluded that the they

WWW.BIOHYGIENE.CO.UK

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JANUARY 2020 19

C&M BCC COLUMN

How SAM (Safety Accredited Member) is driving high safety standards in the window cleaning sector Andrew Lee, chairman and safety officer at the Federation of Window Cleaners (FWC), reports.

THROUGH the Federation of Window Cleaners

scheme for the UK’s 225,000 window cleaners would be

(FWC), members have early access to each and

to everyone’s benefits.

every national window cleaning tender.

the key differences between SAM and other safety in procurement paper-trail based schemes.

It was also important to everyone on

In order to be considered for these

the FWC management committee

contracts, companies applying must

to have an accreditation scheme

Feedback from our members tells us that because SAM is a training-based safety in procurement scheme, as opposed to paper-based, it is appreciated

demonstrate that they can meet

which demonstrated a member

by commercial customers particularly as it documents

health and safety standards.

company’s ability to comply with

and demonstrates their commitment to health and

health and safety legislation,

safety. As a result, SAM membership means a window

rather than just a simple online

cleaning company is more likely to be considered by

That is why the FWC launched its very own tailor-made safety in procurement scheme. The Safety Accredited Member (SAM) scheme was launched in 2013. The key aims were to

accreditation. By having this

government bodies and other major organisations

prestigious accreditation scheme,

for proposed tenders, and members tell us that the

members not only give their own

assist member companies in applying for tenders

company’s assurance of meeting high health

that meet their specific business objectives and in turn

and safety standards to all potentially new and

help clients find reputable and compliant window

existing clients but carry the assurance of SAM

cleaning companies.

membership as well.

Before the introduction of SAM, a number of

There are certain standards which must be

scheme has helped them win prestigious contracts which they would not have been considered for had they not had accreditation.

Recently, the FWC assisted a purchasing consortium with its tender documentation in order for it to procure the best possible standards. As the tender went

schemes - such as CHAS, Safe Contractor and

reached for achieving SAM status, and as part of this

live on its sourcing system, the FWC was allowed to

Constructionline - were mandatory requirements for

the company concerned must be accredited with

immediately release the link to its membership. This

some window cleaning tenders, although in many

FWC-delivered Institution of Occupational Safety and

showed how the SAM scheme reinforces the FWC’s

cases they were unrelated or not specific to window

Health (IOSH) Cleaning Windows Safely and IOSH

reputation as an organisation which prioritises health

cleaning. They were broad-based and not specifically

Risk Assessment training qualifications. The FWC’s

and safety.

related to health and safety in window cleaning or the

SAM scheme is audited annually to ensure member

Work at Height Regulation issues. It was also expensive

companies continue to meet health and safety

the importance of asking window cleaning contractors

to achieve and maintain several similar accreditation

standards and procedures.

for the right information and accreditation. We will

schemes at once. The FWC, which has around 800

Window cleaning businesses where staff have

The FWC works hard to educate potential clients on

continue to prioritise this work in order to continue

member companies representing some 12,000

already completed the Cleaning Windows Safely

developing the highest levels of safety within the

employees, wanted to ensure high standards of health

course will have most of the required documentation

window cleaning industry.

and safety in the industry and make it easier for firms

in place already, so will find it relatively easy to achieve

WWW.F-W-C.CO.UK

to apply to schemes and meet the standards required.

SAM status. Completion of the IOSH courses includes

The FWC is a member of the British Cleaning Council.

The FWC thought that a single, consistent, uniform

both practical and written exams and this is one of

The views of council members are their own.

The Professional Independent Registered Trade Association for

Window Cleaning Membership offers numerous quality benefits IOSH Accredited Safety Training Safety Accredited Member (SAM) Procurement Scheme Secure online store at: https://www.windowcleaning.org.uk/ Federation of Window Cleaners Tel: 0161 432 8754 - Email: info@f-w-c.co.uk – Web: www.f-w-c.co.uk

20 JANUARY 2020

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

The ‘Good Work Plan’ should we be alarmed?

Lee Andrews, CEO of DOC Cleaning, reports.

IN 2018, the government published a paper known as the Good Work Plan.

It set out how it planned to implement the recommendations of the 2017 Taylor Review of modern working practices, focusing particularly on new standards of fairness in dealing with employees.

In April 2020, this legislation comes into force and it contains one requirement that may pose a significant challenge for cleaning contractors, namely that employers must issue a ‘Statement of Main Terms and Conditions’ (SMT) on or before day one of a

would choose this style of recruitment, but it is sometimes necessary to maintain the service at a client location.

On the other hand, even where there is a face-to-face recruitment process with a chance to collect personal details and RTW documents, it is preferable to be able to take stock of the situation and make sure that the relevant staff in HR or administration have had a chance to verify and review information potentially including TUPE’d rights - before issuing a formal contract, staff handbook and health and safety instructions to a

new employee’s contract, compared with the twomonth grace period allowed by current legislation.

This SMT must contain not just the current requirements - contract length, notice period, eligibility for sick leave and pay, remuneration, specific days, and times of work – but it must now also contain, amongst other things, details of continuous service, frequency and amount of pay, whether the employee will have to work Sundays, nights or overtime, holiday entitlement, places of work, any collective agreements in place, pension entitlements, and how to pursue a grievance or complaint. Needless to say, the penalties for not complying with the new law will be heavy.

All of this sounds reasonable enough, but it means that some of the workarounds that contractors currently use to maintain a full complement of staff and cover absence in some locations may no longer be possible. There are two points here.

On the one hand, there are situations that require the urgent replacement of staff, often beyond a contractor’s control, where there is little time to carry out anything other than a telephone interview, or recruit based on the recommendation of an existing staff member. This can happen at remote locations, or for a shift starting at unsociable times, making it very difficult to issue either a hard or electronic copy of a contract in time for the new employee’s start on site. No contractor

new member of staff, all as part of a properly supervised onboarding and induction process.

At the best of times this can take a few days, but it is a necessary procedure, allowing contractors to discharge their responsibilities correctly, avert potential compliance issues, or quite simply to pick up on human error in processing new starters. It is therefore worrying to think that there may be instances in the future of legally binding employment contracts being issued to new staff, by whatever means, without proper control, solely in order to comply with the new law.

Whether you manage onboarding electronically using software, or whether you still use hard copy, it is likely that many contractors will have to review both their recruitment procedures, in particular the process of information gathering, and their contingency plans for absence cover in order to ensure they do not fall foul of the new legislation.

So, is this another example of where the government has overlooked the needs of our industry when introducing new legislation? I think the answer is that whilst it was not practices in the cleaning industry that prompted the change in employee protection, we are nevertheless part of a wider world of work. The upside is that this may turn out to be a good opportunity for us to reinforce our position as responsible employers in an industry that increasingly needs to attract and retain good staff.

WWW.DOCCLEANING.CO.UK

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JANUARY 2020 21

C&M

SPECIAL REPORT

Meeting sustainability goals Neil Nixon reports from Numatic where its recently-introduced ReFlo technology is starting to have a positive impact on meeting the company’s ambitious sustainability targets.

2019 marked 50 years in business for Numatic,

Introducing ReFlo

impact of delivery and is easy to assemble in

an anniversary that afforded time to look

In pursuing its Sustainability Formula,

less than 15 minutes. Andrew Ernill said: “Every

backwards on what has been achieved and

Numatic continually reviews, refines and

detail has been considered, from compact

forwards at what needs to be done to remain

adapts its processes to deliver greater levels of

yet generous waste and storage modules, to

prosperous, relevant and socially responsible in

sustainability within its products. One recent

hard-wearing castors and wall protectors. With

the years ahead.

example includes the introduction of ReFlo

a range of optional accessories and mopping

technology which uses up to 97% of the highest

systems available, each cleaning system can be

a focus on the need to respond to the almost

quality recycled plastic in manufacturing certain

adapted to meet user needs precisely.”

inevitable energy and resource shortages of

products within the company’s janitorial range.

As the supply of reliable, consistent recycled

tomorrow. For Numatic this means meeting the

The result is products that are both sustainably

plastic is more readily available, so the number

challenge of engineering sustainable cleaning

engineered and built to last.

of products across Numatic’s extensive range

An unavoidable element of such a review is

will be manufactured using ReFlo technology.

solutions without compromising productivity ECO-Matic: ReFlo in action

As can be seen with the development of the

The ECO-Matic trolley represents Numatic’s

ECO-Matic trolley range, no compromises are

said: “At the root of truly sustainable

best value cleaning system. Ergonomically

made with quality of manufacture and that

manufacturing are products that have been

designed for enhanced usability, productivity

will always be the case. The only hindrance to

engineered to last a very, very long time. The

and simplicity, the range offers a choice

rolling out more ReFlo-manufactured products

most sustainable products are those that

of six models to suit any cleaning need or

will be reliability and consistency of high-grade

you have used day after day, without fail, for

environment. ReFlo technology uses the

recycled plastic supply – something Numatic is

many years. Four values therefore make up

highest quality recycled plastic to provide a

constantly seeking to resolve.

the Numatic Sustainability Formula: longevity,

tough Structofoam construction, ensuring the

efficiency, serviceability, and recyclability.

trolleys are both sustainably engineered and

Sustainability vision

Products need to be built to last; to be highly

built to last.

Numatic’s sustainability vision focuses on

or quality.

Andrew Ernill, Numatic’s head of marketing,

efficient, effective and productive in use; to be economically serviced; and to be easily recycled.”

22 JANUARY 2020

The ECO-Matic is delivered flat-packed to reduce transport costs and the environmental

three broad categories: social, environmental and economic.

WWW.CLEANINGMAG.COM

SPECIAL REPORT

Social comprises: supporting staff

do the job and last a long time,

through investment, development,

training and support that help users

health, and wellbeing; community

achieve the best and most efficient

engagement; and rigorous checks

cleaning results, or new technologies

on all suppliers through supply

that meet individual needs and

chain verification.

environments, manufacturers must

Environmental comprises:

drive sustainable productivity.

reducing carbon footprint by

We have designed, engineered

manufacturing products that

and built our products according

last a long time; ensuring zero

to this core philosophy since day

waste to landfill (a target that

one, testing beyond the standards

Numatic achieved in 2017); and

and delivering sustainable

ensuring efficiency initiatives

cleaning solutions that provide

through manufacturing and

the productivity you need today,

infrastructure processes.

tomorrow and for the next 50 years.

Economic comprises: meeting and exceeding requirements of

Performance you can trust.”

ReFlo is just one manifestation of

current legislative, regulatory

the hard work and dedication the

and environmental codes of

team at Numatic has undertaken to

practice; and investment in

ensure greater sustainability. There

innovations to design products

will be more to come, ensuring that

to have the minimum impact on

the company’s ambitions remain

the environment.

true throughout the next 50 years of

Andrew Ernill continued: “Whether by means of cleaning solutions that

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C&M

60

its development.

WWW.NUMATIC.CO.UK

Antibacterial

Highly absorbent

Use wet or damp

Washable

Colour coded

JANUARY 2020 23

C&M

FLOORCARE

The missing kit in kitchen No self-respecting chef would work in an ill-equipped kitchen that could compromise food quality or safety. Yet, says James White of Rawlins, even slick food service providers can take a less professional approach to floorcare.

Faith in disinfectants is also misplaced.

there’d be no need for deep cleans and no

food service operation - from restaurants to

With generous use of chemicals, most of the

compromise on day-to-day cleanliness. If

hotels, hospitals to office canteens. Timing,

dead bacteria are left behind to nourish the

cleaning made good use of automation, the

efficiency and, of course, hygiene are all

next wave and promote a germ’s adaptation

job would be easier to perform consistently

critical. And the modern kitchen is equipped

and resistance to chemical agents. Anyway,

in less time. If chemical use could be

to deliver - from its food thermometers and

many - such as E coli, salmonella, listeria and

minimised, it would benefit the environment

carefully controlled refrigerators to the chef’s

campylobacter - already have a protective bio-

- internal as well as external - and the

razor-sharp knives.

film that helps them keep disinfectant at bay.

bottom line.

KITCHENS are the engine rooms of any

Not so cutting-edge, all too often, is the

Deck brushing can be more effective in

All those boxes are ticked by a relatively

standard of floorcare. Cleaning floors typically

greasy environments, but it involves using

low-cost system based on ‘crossover’

comes down to the mop and bucket. But let’s

lots of water and chemicals. Deep cleans

cleaning technology. Called OmniFlex, this

be realistic, this lowest common denominator

are another response to accumulating dirt

is a modular system that allows any scale

of floor cleaning is better suited to dousing the

and grease, but the drawbacks include the

of kitchen or budget to start with a hygienic

deck of a sailing vessel than the engine room of

increased expense, disruption, and steady

alternative to mopping, then add modules

a professional food service.

deterioration in cleanliness and safety in the

as needs evolve, to create a complete

intervening periods.

floorcare system.

In the pressure-cooker atmosphere of a working kitchen there are already challenges and risks a-plenty. Grease is constantly being

Is there a more professional approach?

If routine cleaning was truly effective,

The new OmniFlex UniVac battery version is designed specifically for food service

generated and accumulating on surfaces,

environments. It combines compact basic

including floors, even before the occasional

but reliable equipment, crucially including a

spill. These warm, moist conditions are

vacuum to remove soils and leave a dry floor

ideal for microbes to survive and breed.

underfoot. Operation is simple yet effective

Meanwhile, staff are on the move, and the

- just open a spigot to apply fresh cleaning

consequences of a slip can be serious with

solution to the floor, use the ergonomic

hot surfaces, liquids and steel furniture all

speed spreader, lightly brush into grout lines,

around. And the clock is always ticking, not

and then vacuum.

just because meals have to be prepared in

With OmniFlex, the dirt and bugs are always

time. Staff will have limited time for cleaning

removed as soiled water is vacuumed away.

duties, and the floor is likely to be last on

OmniFlex has been proven to be 60 times more

their list of priorities. Casual staff may have a

effective at removing soils and contaminants

similar attitude to these duties.

than mopping.

When they’re performed by manual

Certified by the National Floor Safety Institute

mopping, even the most dedicated cleaner

(NFSI) for providing high traction, this approach

can’t be expected to shift soils and toxins

also minimises the risk of slips and falls.

from the grout lines of a tiled floor with a

Operating costs are lower as cleaning takes

mop-head - so soils become embedded in

less staff time, the brushing action reduces the

crevices and cracks. Mops do a good job

need for chemicals, and dosing can be closely

of spreading the dirt around, but don’t

controlled. It is also very easy for unskilled and

remove it, let alone de-grease. Scientific

part-time employees to learn and use.

research using test plates infected with

As it’s modular, there are options to add

organisms have shown that ‘cleaned’ areas

other equipment, including a pump system to

are re-infected as the mop-head picks up

convert to a spray-and-vac system. It’s a simple

soils in the bucket’s contaminated soup

way to achieve clean, safe floors in half the

and splashes them across the floor. Even

time of mopping and a more hygienic kitchen

microfibre mopping only cuts bacteria

environment.

levels by 51% at best, before dragging

Keep the engine room running smoothly and

the E coli back into clean areas, so overall

the customers coming back, not the bugs.

effectiveness dropped to 24%.

WWW.RAWLINS.CO.UK

24 JANUARY 2020

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C&M

FLOORCARE

A year of advancements in floorcare As Robert Scott enters a new year, the cleaning product manufacturer and distributor takes stock of 2019 to recap the Clean Team’s customer highlights.

ONE such highlight was working with Prime Industrial and Janitorial Supplies Ltd and the Museum of Scotland to complete product training on the museum’s newly installed floorcare cleaning system. The museum group, which welcomes over two million visitors annually, wanted to modernise its floorcare regime, reduce chemical usage and create a more sustainable way to clean while impacting visitors as little as possible.

Additionally, the museum wanted to offer a rapid response routine that uses minimal water for a faster dry time.

Due to the training and product advice that Robert Scott had previously given to the staff at Prime Industrial, its team was able to recommend a range of products to overhaul the museum’s cleaning regime. This included Robert Scott’s Alpha trolley and a microfibre flat mopping system that can be pre-soaked for ease of use.

The Alpha trolley provides smart, lockable storage that allows multiple products to be carried at once in compartmentalised sections, separating chemical and non-chemical products. The lockable feature is important in

of Scotland to deliver training on its new

soaked microfibre was simple - it minimises

public areas to ensure products can be stored

products. Their aim was to inform the

the use of water and chemicals and reduces

safely and securely. Additionally, the trolley

janitorial staff of the benefits of the new

the number of tools needed, ensuring staff

folds to a compact size for easy storage.

system and, most importantly, how best to

have all the equipment they need with them

use the new products to benefit both staff

at all times. Staff fed back that this had

for Scotland, and Kelly Brierley, key account

and visitors to the museum. During training,

dramatically reduced the number of daily

manager at Robert Scott, visited the Museum

staff were invited to test the new floorcare

trips they take to the cleaning cupboard and

system, and provided positive feedback on

a water supply point.”

Tracy Kirkpatrick, regional sales manager

the products - specifically, the ergonomic

Bryan Cuthbert, site manager at National

design of the mop handle and pads made

Museums Scotland, added: “The microfibre

from microfibre, allowing staff to carry out

system is more hygienic, better for the

effective, rapid response floor cleaning

environment and has delivered excellent results

without the need for buckets or constant

on our floors. After positive feedback from

wringing out of mops.

our staff, we’ve since ordered more products

Tracy Kirkpatrick said: “Since implementing

26 JANUARY 2020

and we look forward to working with Robert

the new microfibre flat mopping system, the

Scott more in the future. We appreciate the

Museum of Scotland has benefitted from

support and time offered by Prime Industrial

cutting costs on equipment, a reduction in

and Janitorial Supplies Ltd for Robert Scott to

chemicals and water usage, and happy staff

demonstrate the new products and methods of

who now have a set of ergonomic tools at

cleaning to our staff.”

their disposal. The approach to using pre-

WWW.ROBERT-SCOTT.CO.UK WWW.CLEANINGMAG.COM

FLOORCARE

Keeping floors safe this winter WINTER is coming - keep it outside

spreads out water so the mat dries

with the i-matt. Designed for any

fast and the interlocking fibres trap

building entrance but especially

dirt to prevent it from being tracked

effective in retail and supermarket

in. The International Sanitary

environments, the i-matt absorbs

Supply Association (ISSA) estimates

water to keep floors cleaner and

that only 30% of dirt is trapped

drier, reducing slip claims by 90%.

in the first 91cm of the standard

It’s acknowledged that the best

entrance mat. With i-matt, you can

way to trap the elements and other

create continuous walk-off coverage

soils is through the use of walk-off

that keeps floors clean.

mats. A clean mat at your entrance

when using i-matt over traditional

efficiency of your building but

matting is reduced by a claimed

traditional approaches including

92%. When rubber-backed mats

DIY mat maintenance and rental

are sent out for cleaning there are

programmes can be inefficient,

environmental consequences - the

labour intensive and expensive.

impact of transportation and the use of chemicals and water for

represents a holistic approach to

cleaning. With i-matt, you’ll clean

floor safety. i-matt works together

in place using i-mop and i-protect.

with i-mop and i-protect to give

According to i-team, not only

customers everything they need

will you achieve an unbeatable,

to keep their mats working at

long-lasting deep clean with this

peak performance all the time -

system, you’ll also ensure every

removing dirt, dust and water from

ounce of chemical and every drop

shoes and helping the operation

of water used will count.

to be safer, cleaner, faster, greener, and better for everyone. i-matt is an extended duration,

Three technologies working together

clean-in-place walk-off mat that

1. i-matt is an extended duration,

improves floor safety and ease

clean-in-place walk-off mat

of cleaning. i-mop’s cleaning

anchored by New Pig Grippy

performance can be applied

technology that improves floor

seamlessly to the i-matt.

safety and ease of cleaning. The

Instead of losing time and

Lemon Floor Gel

Lemon scented hard surface cleaner

The environmental impact

is key to the image and cleaning

The i-team floor safety system

C&M

proprietary adhesive backing

money moving mats out of the way,

keeps the mat in place yet

customers can clean their floors with

removes easily and cleanly when

i-matt in place thanks to its adhesive

time to replace.

backing. It stays put for up to 12 weeks, and you can i-mop right over its low profile, durable, quick-drying

Lemon Scented Hard Surface Cleaner Fast removal of daily grease & grime.

Long lasting fresh lemon fragrance.

Highly diluteable (50:1).

Suitable for many different floor types. including: tiles, sealed wood, vinyl & safety floors. pH Neutral (6.5 - 8).

Fast removal of daily grease & grime.

Low foaming.

Long lasting fresh lemon fragrance.

Highly diluteable (50:1).

Ideal for hand/damp mopping, spray cleaning & machine scrubbing.

Suitable for floors and surfaces including: tiles, sealed wood & cork marble, granite, PVC, linoleum, resin, vinyl & safety floors. pH Neutral (6.5 - 8).

surface and never move a heavy, dirty carpeted mat again.

T: +44 (0) 1444 244 000 E: sales@bio-productions.com W: www.bio-productions.com

i-matt’s walk-off coverage captures water and dirt at the door to keep floors cleaner all day long. i-matt with EFM absorbent technology (entangled fibre matrix) acts differently to traditional barrier matting. The super-thin material WWW.CLEANINGMAG.COM

Continued on Page 28.

JANUARY 2020 27

C&M

FLOORCARE

Drop the mop The Preparation Group looks at how a scrubber dryer and diamond floor pad cleans and maintains not only hard floors, but LVT and vinyl too.

TO get the maximum life out of floors, to keep them in good condition, hygienic and safe, they need to be cleaned through a regular maintenance programme. Whilst textile floor coverings are generally vacuumed, most other hard polished surfaces, wood and resilient floors have traditionally been manually mopped with cleaning solution.

The disadvantage of mopping is that it uses chemicals and too much solution, or poor rinsing, can create a slippery surface. Chemicals with a low or high alkaline pH value on the wrong floor will also cause irrevocable damage.

Diamond floor pads offer eco-friendly and cost-effective deep restorative cleaning.

disc, the key is to select the correct grade for

can be used wet or dry. With the application

Designed to be used with just water, they

the floor. Smooth, non-textured vinyl and LVT

of water the floor can be cleaned quicker, the

are washable and reusable providing a more

are effectively cleaned using the company’s

pad will last longer and an enhanced shine

sustainable choice. Fitted to an STG machine,

1500 (fine cleaning) or 3000 (very fine cleaning)

can be achieved. For cleaning vinyl, LVT and

burnisher or conventional rotary or scrubber

grades only.

linoleum the pads must be used wet. Another

dryer, they clean and polish floors at the same

Diamond cleaning pads come in a range

eco-friendly credential is that polishing the floor

time and avoid the potential build-up of floor

of sizes to fit a variety of machine widths and

at the same time as cleaning, means that there

chemicals. Heavily-trafficked and worn stone,

can leave a soft sheen or high gloss finish

is no need to recoat it with environmentally

concrete, marble, terrazzo, and epoxy resin

depending on the grades selected. They are

unsound waxes or polishes.

floors that have become scratched, stained and

very simple to use. The first step is to ensure

When the machine is in action, the rotating

contaminated can easily be transformed with

that the designated area is swept clean and

operation, pad pressure and speed will affect

diamond pads - not so easily with a mop.

that any loose contaminants, eg dust, sand or

the cleaning and polishing process. If washed

gravel, has been removed to avoid damage

and stored correctly, diamond floor pads will

floor pads are too aggressive and may damage

to the pad and floor. The pad is then fitted to

clean thousands of square metres of surfaces.

vinyl or LVT. The Preparation Group’s Storm

the machine, in most cases it is simply placed

Storm diamond pads are double-sided, so have

diamond pads come in a range of different

under it with no tools required with the weight

up to a 60,000m2 life expectancy.

grades from coarse to fine and like any pad or

of the machine holding it in place. The pads

WWW.PPCGROUP.CO.UK

There is a misconception that diamond

Continued from Page 27.

by the same person in the same effective

soils can be tracked into clean spaces. i-team

operation.

offers the opportunity to revolutionise your

3. When used with i-mop, i-protect HDD

cleaning processes.

applied seamlessly to the i-matt. Mats are

with aXonnite gets mats cleaner and

WWW.KILLIS.CO.UK

cleaned in place as frequently as floors

helps prevent recontamination to make

2. i-mop’s cleaning performance can be

subsequent cleaning easier and faster.

A holistic approach to floor safety i-team emphasises the 4D approach to cleaning, recognising that soil is transmitted throughout a facility - its floors, walls and ceilings, furnishings, and even the air itself through human traffic and the HVAC system.

Because of the inevitability of such crosscontamination, a clean facility will erect barriers to the introduction and spread of tracked-in weather and soils, especially inside building entrances and nearby areas where 28 JANUARY 2020

WWW.CLEANINGMAG.COM

FLOORCARE

C&M

Setting high standards Effective in floorcare for the floorcare healthcare sector WHETHER wood, vinyl, carpet, or tiled

flooring, it is essential to thoroughly maintain your floors in the workplace. Continual foot

ROTOWASH products range from single and dual

in a wide range of sizes, allowing the user to

traffic invariably tracks in dust, dirt and other

pass machines as well as various accessories

clean small, difficult to reach areas right up to

allergens that could potentially disrupt the

designed to deal with the most challenging of

large open space surfaces.

workflow of a business and, at times, even prove hazardous.

floors. ‘Single pass’ machines are best described

The twin cylindrical contra-rotating brushes

as having frontally located water jets. This allows

that are incorporated into Rotowash machines

the cleaning process to be completed in one

are housed in a high grade, strong aluminium

dry and hazard-free with Morclean’s innovative

pass. The ‘dual pass’ range of machines have

casing. All machines have simple to attach

range of professional scrubber dryers. Designed

a combination of contra-rotating brushes and

transport wheels which make them easy to

to give a better result than manual cleaning,

a gravity fed water system. Used in a back and

manoeuvre. Whether it is a flat or uneven

these robust floor washing machines provide

forth motion, these machines provide excellent

surface, the Rotowash machine is equipped

optimum efficiency and have a range of

deep cleansing results.

with brushes that make the cleaning process

features, including adjustable speed control,

easier. The unique design allows them to rotate

forwards and backwards traction and drive

multiple types of hard floor surfaces and

at a speed of 650rpm, and the brush bristles can

handle with a dead-stop safety function, to

carpets. These machines will produce a high-

reach deep down into crevices such as grouted

name but a few. Morclean’s cordless or electric

quality wash that scrubs and cleans surfaces

tiles, studded rubber, entrance matting, and

scrubber dryers are available in pedestrian or

whilst allowing them to dry in a matter of

escalator steps.

ride-on versions.

minutes. The company manufactures machines

WWW.ROTOWASH.COM

WWW.MORCLEAN.COM

Rotowash machines can be used for cleaning

You can ensure that your floors remain clean,

Problem solved At Prochem, we supply innovative, effective cleaning solutions and equipment for carpets, upholstery and floors to professional users. We also provide comprehensive, industry recognised training for new entrants to the industry and experienced contractors alike. So whatever products, equipment, skills and knowledge you need, get in touch with us and we’ll solve your problem.

020 8974 1515

WWW.CLEANINGMAG.COM

sales@prochem.co.uk

www.prochem.co.uk

JANUARY 2020 29

C&M

CARPET & UPHOLSTERY CLEANING

How to maintain a ‘red carpet’ welcome Daily vacuuming is vital but is not enough on its own to preserve the life of carpets. Simon Constantine, UK sales manager at Truvox International, explains how to restore tired and stained carpets and upholstery with minimal effort. sticky dirt bonded to the fibres.

THERE is nothing quite like the fresh

before vacuuming. Afterwards it is advisable to

appearance and smell of a newly laid carpet,

spray with clean warm water (without detergent)

providing brightness, texture and a sense

to minimise dirt and chemical residues.

dry quickly. It may take as little as 45 minutes to

For example, Truvox International

be touch-dry, or at most two hours. Walking on

of comfort. Of course, this can’t survive the

This low-moisture system allows carpets to

almost relentless onslaught of dirt and spills

manufactures the Hydromist Compact in our

the damp carpet causes no problems. Where

without some much-needed care and attention.

facility in Southampton. With a 250mm cleaning

practicable, letting the carpet dry overnight before

But that pristine quality can be revived - and

width, it is ideal for medium sized carpeted

vacuuming ensures the soil is fully encapsulated.

the equipment options and cleaning agents

areas in offices, hotels, care homes, and schools

available mean it has never been easier.

and easy fit accessories are available for

‘dry’ pass - agitating the pile without dispensing

upholstery and stair cleaning. For larger venues

solution - will ensure the Cimex-Encap solution

cleans are essential to restore that lost bright

the Hydromist 55 offers more capacity and

is dispersed even more thoroughly. Multiple

freshness and safeguard the investment. The

productivity, with spray injection from 100psi to

dry passes should only be necessary for the

frequency of these cleaning methods depends

400psi variable pressure, in-line heating and a

most heavily soiled carpets, reducing output

upon the intensity of traffic and type, and the

second vacuum motor.

to around 100m2 per hour. If some areas are

Interim cleaning and at least annual deep

level of wear and tear. Appropriate cleaning

Where there are more embedded oily soils, a

severely soiled, they can be pre-sprayed with

and treatment make economic sense too, as it

Deep cleanliness

the polymeric solution to break down the

will lengthen the serviceable life of the carpet,

If the carpet is heavily soiled it will require

bond with the carpet fibres. The sprayed area

which means less money spent on replacement

deep cleaning. Encapsulation provides the

is left for a short time before the wet/dry pass

or refurbishment in the long run. Improving

answers by combining polymeric chemistry

procedure is followed.

the performance and lifespan of flooring will

and scrubbing technology. These solutions

also provide a healthier environment for staff,

work by releasing sticky soil from fibres, and

Using the right equipment

helping reduce work absenteeism.

then ‘trapping’ or ‘encapsulating’ the soil as

Today’s carpet cleaning machinery can help the

it dries. Our Cimex-Encap cleaning system

cleaning team achieve great results. However, if

Interim cleaning

uses this process to restore deep cleanliness,

one piece of equipment is expected to become

The most efficient way to incorporate interim

brightness and texture to even the most

‘the total solution’ instead of being one part of

cleaning of both carpets and upholstery is by

heavily soiled carpets.

a multi-step cleaning programme, this is bad

using an all-in-one spray extraction machine.

Cimex-Encap involves a simple four-step

practice. For example, there may be a particular

These inject solution and extract dirt with

process. Firstly, thorough vacuuming removes

cleaning method, perhaps for the absorbent

a powerful vacuum. The operator sprays a

all the dry dirt, clearing the way for the

pad system on a carpet where the manufacturer

low-foaming shampoo diluted in water from

polymeric solution to attack that sticky/oily

only recommends hot water extraction. Specific

a solution tank at pressure, using a handle-

residue. Secondly, carpet fibres are coated with

methods might be required for different types of

mounted control. This breaks down and

this diluted solution without saturating the

carpet, for example if tiles are used rather than

loosens oily and greasy soils sticking to the pile

carpet by using a triple-head Cimex Cyclone

woven or tufted carpet.

or fabric, and a powerful built in rotary brush

machine. It scrubs the carpet with pad drives

lifts dirt from deep within the carpet before it is

and pads or shampoo brushes. As the solution

encapsulation - should be preceded by

suctioned away. A second pass of dry vacuuming

dries, it loosens the sticky soil and encapsulates

thorough vacuuming to remove the particulate

completes the process and reduces the drying

it. In the final stage, vacuuming easily removes

grit and soil. It is worthwhile for facility

time. As this is a low-moisture process, a carpet

this material, leaving a revitalised carpet.

managers and their cleaning teams to talk

Both methods - spray extraction and

Guiding the machine at a quick walking pace,

with manufacturers and suppliers. Sometimes

the operator needs to apply only enough solution

they will benefit not so much from embracing

required to shift heavier soiling. For localised

to dampen the surface, by ‘feathering’ a release

the latest technology, but from matching the

stains, a specialised pre-spotting solution is

lever or adjusting a control valve. The dampness

specifications of services and machinery such

recommended. Extremely dirty carpets will

is sufficient for the polymeric chemistry to begin

as their cleaning fleet more closely to their

benefit from spraying in advance and allowing

working, and the effect can be almost instant.

needs and priorities.

the detergent 5-15 minutes to emulsify the dirt

Carpets look cleaner as the solution releases the

WWW.TRUVOX.COM

can be walked on after cleaning.

Two spray cleaning passes may be

30 JANUARY 2020

WWW.CLEANINGMAG.COM

CARPET & UPHOLSTERY CLEANING

C&M

Vacuum cleaner made from recycled plastic VACLENSA, now part of the global Tennant

as the previous model, except for the fact

brand, has replaced its long standing C167PT

that the raw material is made from the

tub vacuum cleaner with a new version made

best and carefully-selected plastic waste.

from recycled plastic.

Manufactured through an innovative process which guarantees strict quality

The C167PT vacuum cleaner has been a staple product offering from Vaclensa

and safety controls, ‘black is green’ plastic

for many years, but as the company

has the same features of brand-new plastic

looks to the future it has taken a serious

but is eco-friendly because 75% has been

interest in its sustainability strategy and

obtained from recycled material.

Cross continued: “In addition to

environmental impact. UK marketing manager, Daniel Cross, said: “As a company

listening to our customers we also have

we take great care in listening to our

our own sustainability strategy and as a

customers and working with them to

responsible company we want to help

ensure we provide the solutions they need.

improve the environment by reducing

For some, innovation is a priority and for

plastic waste. Recycled plastic produces

others it is sustainability, so here we have

no waste because it is itself recyclable

combined both into a single solution.”

and in compliance with RoHS and REACH guidelines as well as meeting TUV Certified

Naming this new innovation ‘black is green’, the C167 tub vacuum has exactly the

recycling process and production.”

same features and technical specification

WWW.VACLENSA.COM

DEEP CLEAN.

WWW.CLEANINGMAG.COM

MAINTAIN.

TRANSFORM.

JANUARY 2020 31

C&M

CARPET & UPHOLSTERY CLEANING/NEW PRODUCTS

High performance and low noise THE new XP range of upright vacuum

human ear is sensitive. Computer-aided

cleaners from Sebo offers high performance

design of noise generating components and

cleaning whilst being exceptionally quiet.

smoothing out airflow through the machine

A powerful rotating brush is essential

has eliminated much of these frequencies

for good carpet cleaning. However, the

at source. Acoustic shielding has further

combination of a number of parts moving

reduced them. The result is, with any form

at high speed can generate a significant

of background noise, the sound from the XP

amount of noise. In designing the XP

virtually disappears, making it suitable in

vacuum cleaners, Sebo engineers were

many cases for daytime cleaning. Indeed,

able to start with low noise as an objective

the XP excels in any situation where low

from the outset and have successfully

noise levels are important.

muted the harsh frequencies to which the

WWW.SEBO.CO.UK

IN 1989 a 30-year old cleaning operative, Tom Sultana, took a training course with Prochem. And now he’s back…

Back to the classroom - 30 years on!

“I went on a two-day course to study carpet and upholstery training,” said Tom Sultana. It turned out to be money well spent as he has steadily built himself a successful and well established business in Bromley-based All Gleaming Clean.

Now he’s back at the Prochem training academy on another upholstery course. Has much changed?

“The biggest change is the emphasis on health and safety’”

said Sultana. “Of course we know more than we did about the subject today…I run my two-year old Prochem Everest truck mount machine seven days a week, with my son Ben with me now, and being on the job itself has in my view been the best way to learn the trade. But I’m pleased to say there is still more to learn about processes and of course there are many new solutions to be tried and tested.”

Professional cleaners can access premium training in 2020 from Prochem. Dedicated course topics span carpets, hard floor and upholstery cleaning as well as stain removal. For carpet cleaners, contract cleaners or public sector operatives, the 1-Day Carpet Cleaning Course is ideal for improving skills and revealing more about products and methods. The 1-Day Upholstery Course and the 1-Day Hard Floor Maintenance Course are for cleaners looking to expand their service offer beyond just carpet cleaning.

And for those new to carpet cleaning, take the 2-Day Carpet Cleaning Course and pick up advice on starting up your cleaning business, hands-on practice identifying fibres and carrying out a professional survey. There’s an option to take the second day at a later date, if you prefer.

WWW.PROCHEM.CO.UK

32 JANUARY 2020

WWW.CLEANINGMAG.COM

PRODUCT NEWS

C&M

CROMWELL Polythene, experts

Scented, antimicrobial tiger sack for clinical waste

in sacks, bags and speciality products for the capture and containment of waste and recyclables, is launching a scented

EDITOR

Neil Nixon neilnixon@quartzltd.com 07957 713316

and antimicrobial tiger stripe sack. The new product is part of its

SALES DIRECTOR

Sansafe and clinical waste management range.

The tiger stripe sack incorporates Biomaster silver antimicrobial technology, added during the film extrusion process. Silver ion-based antimicrobials inhibit the growth of harmful bacteria, including E. coli and Legionella. This saves time, money and resources, as the bacteria which

Vanessa Van Santen-Smith Vanessavss@quartzltd.com 01737 855041 BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT MANAGER

also helps mask unpleasant odours, both inside and outside the liners, helping visitors to have a

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positive impression of facilities. These features eliminate the need to add separate antimicrobial

PRODUCTION MANAGER

causes unpleasant smells is unable to grow in contact with the liners. Pine Scentmaster fragrance

products and intoxicating fragrances during waste collection and disposal.

WWW.CROMWELLPOLYTHENE.CO.UK

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NEW from Leafield Environmental is the EnviroGo, a range of stylish

Tony Crinion

recycling bins that make waste segregation at source an even easier proposition. The EnviroGo has a front, moulded-in handle and two non-marking wheels that provide excellent mobility and manoeuvrability, removing the need for carrying heavy sacks to a point of disposal.

Slim enough to stand back

Carol Baird carolbaird@quartzltd.com 01923 437619

Mobile recycling bin is on the move

against the wall in corridors and open offices, yet with a 90-litre capacity with a bag (or 63-litres with a

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Paul Michael PAID SUBSCRIPTIONS & CIRCULATION ENQUIRIES

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plastic liner), the durable, rotationally moulded EnviroGo stands some 970mm high. A tilting sack frame enables quick and safe bin maintenance.

Each EnviroGo comes with an A3 signage kit for promotional use or to highlight the waste stream. WRAP colour coded apertures and labelling ensure that no-one is left in any doubt as to what waste stream is being collected in each bin.

WWW.LEAFIELD-ENVIRONMENTAL.COM

NEW from Tork is a virtual reality training simulation aimed at

Virtual reality hand hygiene training

improving hand hygiene in healthcare. Manufacturer Essity collaborated with behavioural scientists, university hospitals and global hand hygiene experts in developing this tool.

Tork VR Clean Hands Training and Education uses virtual reality to provide healthcare staff with realistic scenarios where hand hygiene needs to be carried out. And Essity believes itself

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to be one of the first companies ever to use VR in a hand hygiene training simulation.

“Tork VR Clean Hands is designed to make hand hygiene training more engaging and inspiring,” said Essity sales manager, Liam Mynes. “Participants put on their VR headset and prepare to start a new shift at their healthcare workplace. They then face a series of real-life situations in the virtual world where they are expected to practice hand hygiene compliance - using their own hands. If they fail to perform hand hygiene at the right moment, they can try again and will soon learn to adopt excellent hand hygiene standards both in the virtual and in the real world.”

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