Fall Protection: Nothing Prevents Complacency Like Training and Retraining
Service Center Directory
Products & Services Directory
First off, on behalf of all of those involved in the process of organizing Cleaner Times each month, we want to congratulate CETA and PowerClean on celebrating their 35-year anniversary. We also want to thank the manufacturers, distributors, and suppliers that have supported our efforts to bring educational information and news to the pressure washing industry. It takes a lot of work and planning to organize a monthly publication, and it would not be possible without the support of CETA and the support from a lot of their members.
My mother-in-law, Charlene Yarbrough—and Cleaner Times’ first publisher—has shared a lot of memories and her experiences with past CETA/PowerClean trade shows. They are memories that she will always cherish in her heart of a fond experience that she had in working with all of the professionals in this industry.
As we head to Reno, Nevada, to experience this year’s event, let us remember and be grateful to the pioneers in this industry who had the foresight to organize CETA and establish its importance to this industry. They did this by advancing professionalism and shared industry knowledge for the betterment of those associated with pressure washing, and they have provided a livelihood for so many individuals and families. Hats off to you CETA for making the pressure washing industry what it has become today.
The publisher and editor(s) of this magazine do not accept responsibility for the content of any advertisement, including statements made by advertisers herein, or the opinions expressed by authors of by-lined articles. The publisher and editor(s) also reserve the right to reject any ad or article for objectionable content in verbiage or images. The intent of this publication is to provide general information only and is not intended to provide specific advice or recommendations. Appropriate legal, financial, or engineering advice or other expert assistance should always be sought from professionals.
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BALANCE YOUR STAFFING
by Diane M. Calabrese
Find, hire, train, retain, and reward. Just how many facets does staffing have?
Many. But perhaps the most significant one is balance. Somewhere between toooften idle hands and minds and the harried, dedicated employees, there exists the optimal level of staffing.
Optimal in the sense that a transient pulse in workload can be met by the team, while a temporary lull signals
to employees that they should make good use of the extra time to refine processes and procedures or just clean up virtual and real-world clutter. There’s nothing negative about the word redundancy when it applies to team members who can cross over and take on the work of others if the need arises. We want to know that there’s more than one person in the cockpit who can fly the plane, just as we want to know there’s more than one
person who can take and fill our order for parts or chemicals essential for operating our business. A customertrusted sales representative may be on vacation, but the representative’s regular buyers are not.
Thus, make crossover flexibility part of staffing, and make that crossover with competence and good cheer—no staff member who signals by words or sighs that he or she is filling in reluctantly.
Which is the most difficult part of the effort to achieve optimal staffing throughout the year? “Dealing with unexpected absences,” says Christina Vargas, the human resources manager at Chappell Supply and Equipment in Oklahoma City, OK.
Even with the best planning, there will be times when a team member cannot be at work—no need to dwell on the things that can happen unexpectedly because we have all been
there. The unexpected, unfortunately, is very likely to be a sad or negative event in an employee’s life.
Fortunately, team members naturally pull harder together to fill in and help one another when something unfortunate happens. After the urgency passes, there are ways to handle an extended, unexpected absence.
Companies have the option of getting help from a staffing agency. Does Vargas’ company ever use temporary
staffing? “Yes, we do,” she says. Preparation of staff that includes equipping employees to be able to fill more than one role at a company can be a big help should there be an unexpected absence. “We do crossover training,” says Vargas, “It works very well when someone is absent.”
EQUILIBRIUM
The seafaring expression “steady as she goes” applies to staffing. Every
employer wants to maintain the optimal number of team members, but the situation is never static.
Challenges akin to rough seas for the nautical helmsman are a given. A business owner does not know from where the next perturbation will come, but it will come whether in the form of a tornado or a tariff or a to be determined.
Indeed, even the boons to business can simultaneously be challenges that put a company off balance. Consider the positives of being able to receive orders by phone, text, email, etc. Is there any downside to opening so many paths for communication?
“One of the biggest challenges is the inconsistency in demand across multiple channels,” says Ken Hebert, vice president marketing—North America at BluBird Industries in Sheridan, WY. Multiple channels are not the only challenge in meeting the goal of optimal staffing. Hebert’s company serves customers in many different industries.
Each industry has its own annual buying profile. “Pressure washing seasonality peaks differently from automotive or retail, so we’re constantly recalibrating resources,” explains Hebert.
It’s more than channels and seasons that present challenges in staffing. “In addition, the unpredictability of employee absences, especially in key roles, can disrupt workflow, so we’ve placed extra focus on redundancy and flexible scheduling,” says Hebert.
Does Hebert’s company encourage crossover training among employees?
“Absolutely,” he says. “Cross-training has become a key part of our operations culture,” explains Hebert. “In manufacturing and logistics, having team members who can operate across functions, like handling both inbound materials and outbound shipments, gives us real flexibility.”
Temporary employees also sometimes help meet staffing needs at Hebert’s company, “particularly in
warehouse or fulfillment roles where demand spikes,” he says. “For example, during new product launches or seasonal pushes, we may bring in temporary staff to maintain delivery commitments.”
But there’s an important caveat to adding temporary hires. “For customer-facing roles or anything brandcritical, we rely strictly on trained, full-time team members to maintain consistency,” explains Hebert.
Consultants who can bring a fresh perspective to a company include those with expertise in staff evaluation and optimization. Has Hebert’s company ever brought in such a consultant?
“Yes,” says Hebert. “Our company has worked with consultants on a case-by-case basis, typically when optimizing our customer service representatives. While we maintain strong internal HR and operations teams, a consultant can help with best practices.”
Who might consider bringing in a consultant? “I’d recommend
consultants, especially if you’re growing quickly or feeling reactive rather than proactive with your staffing model,” says Hebert.
CONSTANCY
In the 21st century the concept of a business operating with a hierarchical framework has not exactly become taboo. But most companies try to soften the notion that there’s a chain of command and control. Nevertheless, someone must quietly oversee a group of people. If not precisely in charge, final decisions must reside with someone. That someone is most likely the owner or the general manager. What happens when the general manager and/or the owner are unexpectedly absent? Who makes decisions when decisions must be made?
While crossover training and flexibility can fortify a company, there must also be a mechanism in place for substituting for a missing decision maker. An employer who avoids the issue of how the chain of command—really the chain of decision-making— works could be setting up a company for calamity.
The more autonomous and welltrained employees are, the less they may believe they require someone to set priorities and boundaries. Without a designated substitute for the decision maker(s), a company opens itself to confusion among staff.
Optimal staffing must include a component of who reports to whom and how the reporting structure gets amended in the instance of absences. Moreover, staff must respect the reporting structure and adhere to it. No one should be rushing over and trying to grab the wheel from the interim helmsman.
Staff who sustain a business in difficult times and allow a business to grow in fruitful intervals are in place because of the care taken during recruitment and hiring— care that’s followed by clarity in what the expectations are for an employee.
Companies looking for advice on where to begin when refining staffing can contract with a consultant. They can also take advantage of free advice offered by the U.S. Office of Personnel Management (OPM.gov).
OPM is a federal entity that assists federal agencies in the recruitment and hiring of federal employees. Much of the material at the OPM website is open access, and businesses seeking ideas as they strive to improve their own efforts to hire with prudence and purpose can find useful insights there.
Cost-effectiveness in deployment of employees is a concern that should be a part of staffing solutions. And OPM offers advice on that and much more.
The issue of cost-effectiveness is one that should be part of every business decision, of course. But is it?
With staffing efforts there’s plenty of due diligence in hiring, training, and cross-training of employees. In 2025, however, there may not be comparable due diligence in the
deployment of technological substitutes for humans. Consider chatbots. Flexibility is an expectation for employees, but the bots may be so rigidly scripted that they become a source of frustration for customers.
Before substituting a bot for a human employee, a business owner should get to know the strengths and weaknesses of the bot just as he or she would an employee. The same applies to automated response systems for placing and tracking orders. (Test everything.)
Staff who must spend their time trying to counter the negative experiences that customers/prospective customers had with bots or limited choices of an automated phone system will also become frustrated. Disgruntled customers and agitated employees destabilize businesses.
In short, do the simple things first. Recommendations about how to elevate the morale of employees are plentiful. The U.S. Small Business
Administration (SBA.gov) suggests incentive programs to enhance retention and recruitment of staff.
Among the incentives SBA names are flex time, wellness programs, and company events. Of course, flex time opens a whole new staffing issue albeit with planned absences.
Before sending employees off to a wellness program or allowing them to take unscheduled time off, a business owner should be certain such diversions from the workday make sense. Talk to team members and listen to what they say.
Proper tools, a predictable (mostly) workload, polite interactions, and possibilities for learning are among the top things that staff want, assuming fair remuneration is a given. And although it’s not really in vogue to say it, they also want clear direction and the knowledge that someone is in charge. That is, autonomy should be backstopped by a decision maker . CT
POWERCLEAN 2025
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PRESSURE SYSTEMS INNOVATIONS TO UNVEIL CUTTING-EDGE SOLUTIONS AT THE POWERCLEAN SHOW IN RENO
Pressure Systems Innovations is proud to announce its participation in the upcoming PowerClean Show, hosted by CETA in Reno, Nevada. This year PSI will showcase an exciting lineup of innovative technologies—several of which are contenders for prestigious Innovation Awards.
Leading the charge is the Pressure Ranger, a versatile, threein-one system that seamlessly integrates pressure wash, soft wash, and both high- and low-pressure rinse capabilities. Designed with efficiency and adaptability in mind, the Pressure Ranger delivers powerful performance across a wide range of cleaning applications.
Also making its debut is the Bandit Chain Gang™ carbon fiber polychain sprocket drive system—a revolutionary belt drive configuration engineered for unmatched durability, power transfer, and reduced maintenance demands.
Completing the trio of innovations is PSI’s all-new hose reel system, purpose-built for high-pressure and chemical applications. Crafted from all aluminum and stainless steel, the stackable reel is available in both manual and 12-volt electric rewind versions, offering strength, flexibility, and space-saving convenience in one rugged package. In addition to these innovations, PSI will present its full standard equipment catalog at the booth, giving attendees a chance to explore a wide range of highperformance solutions.
“We’re thrilled to be a part of this year’s Power Clean Show and to share our latest breakthroughs with the industry,” said Alexis Campbell.
“We invite all attendees to visit our booth, get hands-on with our new products, and discover how Pressure Systems Innovations is pushing the boundaries of what’s possible.”
For more information during the show, please stop by booth #311 CT
KÄRCHER REVIVES
by Valarie Rose Johnson
R ESTORING AND R EVITALIZING
A MERICA ’ S #1 O UTDOOR M USIC
V ENUE WITH V ISITORS IN M IND !
March 2025 marked a landmark Kärcher spring-cleaning initiative at Red Rocks Amphitheatre, America’s preeminent outdoor concert venue favored by some of history’s most prominent musicians. The eight-day project played a pivotal role in Kärcher’s 90th anniversary as one of 90 global cleaning projects. With an emphasis on sustainability and preservation, it turned back the clock on this national treasure’s majesty with a powerful yet gentle cleaning benefiting generations to come. It is all possible through Kärcher’s Cultural Sponsorship program, a philanthropic program designed to support the preservation of historical monuments and buildings, free of charge, for over 40 years on over 200 famous restoration projects worldwide.
Hosting its first concert in 1906, world-renowned and locally beloved Red Rocks Amphitheatre has held regular concert seasons for musicians of every genre since 1947. With its naturally occurring acoustics, it made music history in 1983 as the backdrop for “U2 Live at Red Rocks—Under a Blood Red Sky.”
“This is part of the storytelling that goes on with Red Rocks being able to
pull together the public, the history, and the ecological part with just the natural beauty and the fact that it is an international attraction,” says Alton Dillard, principal consultant at the Dillard Group, who has had a 30-year career in government communications in Colorado (and is a Red Rocks frequent visitor/concertgoer).
Like all other cleaning projects in Kärcher’s prolific past, this groundbreaking cultural “deep-clean” project featuring cutting-edge Kärcher innovative technology was a highly collaborative effort. Partnering with Aramark Facilities Management and involving Red Rocks officials, historians, and other supportive players, Kärcher set out to ensure the highest preservation and sustainability standards were met, aligning with this National Historic Landmark and cultural institution’s iconic presence.
“When we look at our organization and how we get involved with protecting these places, we’re really thinking about what is that community connection,” says Jennifer Orrigo Charles, executive director of Colorado Preservation Inc. “What is a place if it is just saved? We’re not saving it just because it is old. We’re saving it because it’s relevant and it has a future, and the public cares about that.”
John Deffenbaugh, president and CEO of Historic Denver, agrees, “We think that historic places anchor people. They give us familiarity. They give us hope. In order to experience Red Rocks, it needs to be thoughtfully maintained.” He continues, “The Beatles played here, and that takes us back. We can think of the benefits from those times and also what we should learn from those times, and what we can do better.”
Between its legendary concerts, Easter Sunrise services, Yoga on the Rocks, Film on the Rocks, and more, the numbers of visitors since the 1940s— ticketed and sightseers alike—is impossible to enumerate. And with them have come decades of grime and buildup from food residue, biofilm, algae, and other bacteria—even petrified gum stuck under the seats and adhered to rock and concrete for nearly eight decades.
CLEANING CHALLENGES AND APPROACH
“We want to keep it in tip-top shape,” says Elliot Younessian, CEO at Kärcher North America. “We are a cleaning business. Every opportunity we get to do a Cultural Sponsorship Project, we learn. We find new things and new ways to clean. We take (that information) and apply it to new technologies. We are always looking for opportunities to help.”
Sitting at 6,450 feet above sea level, the venue’s mountainous setting with long lines of stairs, curved rock walls and multiple entrances at varying elevations makes navigation an enigma for visitors. So, imagine the challenge it posed for cleaning crews—particularly given
a 100-foot elevation difference between the stage and the top row of seating.
The venue staff performs regular rinsing after each event. The sandstone vertical spaces beneath the bench seats, however, needed a deep cleaning with steam. In addition, chewing gum was
prevalent on the seats and flat surfaces, which needed to be melted away with specialized equipment. These areas, as well as the food concession area on the upper deck, were treated to meticulous, careful removal of unwanted buildup and debris.
RED ROCKS STATS & BACKGROUND
Billboard magazine ranks Red Rocks as the most attended outdoor venue in the United States, with nearly 2 million ticketed concert- and event-goers attending during 2024 alone.
The naturally occurring venue known for its flagship “red rock” boasts a seating capacity of 9,000, hosting an average of 200 events per year.
Along with Kärcher’s cleaning specialists, expert industrial rope access technicians were contracted to rappel down, cleaning the two towers framing both sides of the iconic stage using Kärcher’s steam-cleaning machines. The cleaning method depended on the area and main cause of soiling. Human contact and biological growth on bench seating and along rock walls and capstone
reflected decades of grime, while concrete surfaces and stair treads felt their mark from all that, plus 80 years of heavy foot traffic. A combination of variable pressure hot water, cold water, and low-pressure, eco-friendly steam cleaning techniques removed layers of film and buildup—revealing nature’s unadulterated beauty once again.
In spots with more stubborn buildup, such as concession areas, Kärcher’s degreaser was combined with variable pressure hot water. And keeping in line with sustainable cleaning practices, this wastewater was contained, collected, and safely disposed of in the on-site sanitary sewer, avoiding groundwater contamination.
All this was achieved with Kärcher’s eco-friendly methods that are both effective and safe for delicate surfaces, while using up to 80 percent less water than traditional techniques.
Kärcher North America is a leading provider of innovative cleaning solutions for commercial, industrial, and consumer applications. As a subsidiary of Alfred Kärcher SE & Co. KG, the company brings German-engineered cleaning technology to global markets.
Headquartered in Aurora, Colorado, Kärcher North America employs more than 1,000 people across facilities in Fayetteville, Arkansas; Blackwood, New Jersey; Vancouver, Washington; Monterrey, Mexico; and Mississauga, Ontario. The company manufactures and distributes products under the Kärcher, Landa, Hotsy, Water Maze, and Legacy brands, serving industries such as commercial cleaning, construction, automotive, and agriculture.
Kärcher is dedicated to sustainability, designing energy-efficient and environmentally friendly cleaning solutions that reduce water and chemical usage while maximizing performance.
At Kärcher worldwide, Alfred Kärcher SE & Co. KG, a team of more than 17,000 people in 85 countries and 170 companies, is working together to make the world a cleaner place as the market leader in cleaning technology.
For more information, visit www. karcher.com/us CT
RG SERIES PUMPS: INDUSTRIAL POWER FROM THE RG 402 LINE
For professionals in high-pressure cleaning, the SRG Series from Annovi Reverberi, part of the trusted RG Series 402 model family, delivers industrialgrade performance in a compact, modular footprint. Designed for contractors and OEMs alike, these triplex plunger pumps offer a range of flow rates while supporting pressures up to 5100 PSI (351 bar).
The SRG lineup includes the following:
• SRG1535N: 4.0 GPM (15.1 L/min)— ideal for precision cleaning
• SRG2135N: 5.5 GPM (20.8 L/min)— a balanced performer
• SRG3035N: 7.9 GPM (29.9 L/min)— built for high-volume output
All models operate at 1450 RPM, minimizing wear and extending service life. With brass pump heads, ceramic plungers, and aluminum connecting rods, the SRG series is engineered for durability in demanding environments—whether it’s fleet washing, equipment restoration, or industrial surface prep.
Each pump features a 24 mm solid horizontal shaft, allowing seamless integration into custom skids or multi-gun systems. Despite their power, all three models share a compact form factor and weigh just 35.2 lbs (16 kg), making them ideal for mobile or modular setups.
As part of AR’s RG Series 402, the SRG pumps reflect over six decades of Italian engineering excellence—offering reliability, serviceability, and performance trusted by professionals worldwide.
Looking for your next pump? Annovi Reverberi can help. Feel the AR Difference for yourself—visit us at www.arnorthamerica.com.
UDOR USA ANNOUNCES TWO NEW LINES OF PLUNGER PUMPS
The new A Series plunger pumps offer the quality and performance you expect from UDOR in a compact package. Featuring flow rates from 2.4 to 4.0 gpm and pressure ratings up to 2900 psi, these pumps will fit into your compact pressure washer designs. Options include 24 mm solid shafts, ¾ inch or 1 inch gas engine flanges, and hydraulic drive or electric motor flange. There is a pump to fit virtually any pressure washing application.
Expanding our plunger pumps range even further is the new AK Series high-pressure plunger pumps. They have all the features of the new A Series pumps with increased highpressure performance provided by a reinforced brass manifold and more robust bearings to handle the increased operating pressure and higher power requirements. AK Series pumps are rated at 2.4 to 4.0 gpm at up to 3625 psi. For more information, visit us www.udorusa.com or call our sales team at 651-785-0666.
WOOD DEFENDER EXPANDS 200 SERIES WITH TREND-FORWARD COLOR ADDITIONS
Wood Defender is bringing fresh color and flexibility to its 200 Series this summer with the introduction of Desert Sand and Cape Cod Gray, two established fence stain shades now adapted for use on horizontal wood surfaces. These seasonal releases give contractors and homeowners more design-forward options for decks, arbors, and siding—in a fast-curing, oil-based formula engineered for performance.
This rollout is part of Wood Defender’s seasonal color campaign, an initiative aimed at expanding product versatility while gauging long-term interest in trend-forward tones. Desert Sand and Cape Cod Gray have each carved out a place in the fence staining market, and their migration into the 200 Series reflects rising demand for a more cohesive exterior palette.
Desert Sand is a warm, sun-washed neutral that complements light exteriors, stonework, and desert-inspired landscaping. Its approachable tone makes it ideal for outdoor spaces designed to feel modern, organic, and inviting.
Cape Cod Gray, in contrast, offers a crisp, cool-toned finish with coastal character. It’s an increasingly popular choice for homeowners seeking subtle color variation that elevates curb appeal without overpowering the rest of the structure.
Formulated specifically for horizontal wood, the 200 Series provides a fast-drying, deep-penetrating stain solution that aligns with today’s jobsite efficiency standards. Contractors can deliver clean, consistent results in fewer steps—an advantage when staining surfaces that require quick turnaround and reliable coverage.
“These colors reflect where exterior design is headed,” says the Wood Defender marketing team. “By introducing them in the 200 Series, we’re helping contractors apply those trends across more surface types—without changing the workflow they already trust.”
Available in limited quantities for summer 2025, Desert Sand and Cape Cod Gray offer a fresh way to meet homeowner preferences while maintaining the speed and performance Wood Defender is known for. Contractors are encouraged to reach out to their local dealer to preview the finishes or place early orders while supplies last.
From fences to decks and beyond, these seasonal additions expand the visual range of the 200 Series—and reinforce Wood Defender’s commitment to combining on-trend color with jobsite-ready solutions.
Reach out today at 800-658-KOTE. Visit us 24/7 at WoodDefender.com
Note: Product News submissions should be emailed to jkidder@cleanertimes.com. Please be sure that your product announcement is accompanied by a high-resolution photo of the product CT
Photo courtesy of Zak Ballard of Ballard Fence.
Photo courtesy of Cale Erskine of Pristine Clean Exteriors.
Photo courtesy of Zak Ballard of Ballard Fence.
IT PAYS TO CLEAN
Even as scanners capture information from transmitters embedded in license plates or affixed to windshields—or simply grab data from GPS trackers—toll plazas continue to function across the country.
One certainty: Where toll plazas still stand, they must be cleaned. How long until toll plazas vanish? It’s difficult to estimate, but it is a safe bet they will disappear before highways do.
Longevity of the plazas is just one consideration for any contractor who wants to enter the niche. Difficulty of access, distance from one plaza to another, and surroundings (vehicles of every size and configuration nearby
spewing exhaust and keeping the decibel level high) are other considerations.
Cleaning toll plazas may present as many difficulties as kitchen exhaust cleaning. But at least there’s no grease, right? Wrong.
Vehicle exhaust and lubricants can accumulate in impressive amounts. The residue forms a slick veneer on all kinds of surfaces. Then, there’s dirt, salt, and “other.”
Some states require that each toll booth have a restroom so that booth attendants need not walk to a central location. (The fewer individuals trekking through the toll area, the safer everyone is.) Restrooms must also be cleaned.
A bid process is the usual path to a contract for cleaning toll areas. The state
or other jurisdiction that operates the plaza will issue it, and the details of bid requirements give the fullest picture of the complexity attached to toll plaza cleaning.
For some contractors, the toll plaza niche may not be an option because of geography. Some states have no toll roads.
An easy way to gain an understanding of the scope of toll booths in a particular state is to consult the tally offered by the Federal Highway Administration (FHWA), part of the U.S. Department of Transportation. See “Toll Facilities in the United States” via https://www.fhwa.dot.gov/policy information/tollpage/page08.cfm
The FHWA tabulation includes information about the entity that has
CLEAN TOLL PLAZAS
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by Diane M. Calabrese
responsibility for each toll area. Such entities are the place to begin when seeking contracts to clean.
There are also commercial purveyors of information about toll booths. Among them is TollGuru.com.
Hydrocarbon residue is familiar to any contractor who cleans parking lots, city garages, shopping centers, and the like. Thus, many contractors could easily transfer methods and tools to a new setting such as the tool plaza if they wished to.
“I know our surface cleaners are used at toll plazas,” says Maxwell Baldwin, owner/director of operations at Whisper Wash in St. Petersburg, FL. “This is a great use of our products.”
What about methods? “I can’t speak to any specific process that a particular contractor has,” explains Baldwin, “as each person has developed their own techniques and ways that work best for them.”
But there are methodologies that transcend specific settings. “Generally
speaking, our products are best used on concrete or flat surfaces,” says Baldwin. “Our surface cleaners are a great option for quickly getting the dirt, grime, and residual salt residue left over from high traffic areas.”
Baldwin offers an observation about the utility of the tools his company makes. “Most people will agree a properly regulated gpm surface cleaner is exponentially more efficient and effective at clearing larger areas compared to a wand-only setup.”
In fact, a combination of tools often is the best way to approach a task. Yes, that includes the task of cleaning toll plazas.
“Typically, one can do edges and borders with a wand or curb cleaner setup and then utilize either a medium or larger machine, like our Big Guy or Mini Mondo up to our larger Mondo Force, or five-foot or even eight-foot Hippo series,” says Baldwin. “This allows the user to really make quick work of all the flat surface concrete in the plaza.”
The “quick work” is significant.
“Time is money for these crews, and having a surface cleaner that can clean as large of an area as possible is your best bet in maximizing profitability,” explains Baldwin.
IS IT A MATCH?
The residues may be the same and the tools familiar, but is cleaning toll plazas just like cleaning a parking garage? Only the individual contractor can decide.
The International Bridge, Tunnel, and Turnpike Association (IBTTA. org) is a good place to get some fast facts on tolls and why jurisdictions use them. The short of it is that the federal gas tax—along with any tacked-on state tax—results in insufficient funds for road maintenance.
We have all read about the mounting difficulties for states with a large number of electric vehicles. The weighty vehicles use the road but bypass some (hybrids) or all (EVs) of the gas taxes at the pump. Adding
tolls—not necessarily toll plazas—is a way to recoup some of the revenue.
And although in general there are fewer and fewer toll plazas, thanks to the combination of digital identification and transponder technology, there has been an increase in the number of states with toll roads. In 2012 there were 35 states with at least one toll road. In 2025 there are 38 states.
Robert Poole, the director of transportation policy at the libertarian organization Reason, published an interesting commentary last year (January 25, 2024) titled “The future of U.S. toll agencies.” Read the article with no paywall at https://reason. org/commentary/the-future-of-u-stoll-agencies/ to get more insight into the geography of toll roads.
One surprise extracted from the Poole commentary: Florida ranks as the “most-tolled state.” At that, however, only 1.2 percent of the Sunshine State’s roadway lanes are tolled.
There’s a general correspondence—as most drivers can infer— between tolls and heavily-used roads. The heavier the use (and the more significant the wear), the more likely there are to be tolls.
The New Jersey Turnpike, Pennsylvania Turnpike, and New York Thruway are among the most wellknown heavy-use and tolled roads. The roads also have long histories. The Pennsylvania Turnpike and New York Thruway can trace many of their roadcuts to the Native American trails that first established paths for transit and commerce.
In the interest of efficiency, it’s always possible that our nation will move in one giant leap to a consolidated system of tolls and toll collection—all of it done electronically with revenue apportioned for road maintenance to the responsible jurisdiction. But the safe bet here is it will not happen.
Regardless, opportunities for cleaning toll plazas will continue. Find RFPs [request for proposals] and RFQs [requests for quotations] at
state websites. Also search USA.gov for RFPs and RFQs for specific states. And have a look at the IBTTA.org site, which consolidates and disseminates RFPs and RFQs submitted to it by members. Which are the sorts of expectations a contractor will find in an invitation to bid? Consider an example from the ITR Concession Company LLC (ITRCC), a privately owned entity that finances, operates, and maintains the Indiana Toll Road.
ITRCC issued an invitation to bid March 18, 2021, with the objective of “external toll plaza bunker cleaning” at three locations. Bidders had 13 days to respond. And they were encouraged to visit the sites prior to bidding. Bidders did not have to be Indiana DOT pre-qualified contractors, but if they were, it might be considered a plus.
What’s really fascinating about the ITRCC invitation to bid is the upfront notification that the winning contractor will not be reimbursed for tolls incurred on the Indiana Toll Road when
completing the project. The winning contractor also has responsibility for coordination with local government agencies, utilities, railroads, etc. and obtaining any permits necessary for road closures or roadside work and so on.
Something to consider, based on the Indiana example: Cleaning will be the easy part. Logistics can be difficult. “Onerous” is the word that comes to mind before difficult.
Florida RFPs tend to be very prescriptive on methods. A contractor will not have to decide how to approach a project given the solicitation will have spelled out the approach. For instance, the expectation in one RFP is to “pressure clean” the canopy over the plaza but to be certain the signs, items, and reflective lighting around the plaza are “hand washed and rinsed.”
In other words, contractors will find often radically different lists of expectations depending on the state (and/ or owner of the toll plaza). One commonality in the RFPs we reviewed is
the detail given to how the contractor/ vendor will be paid. A great amount of itemization is required.
Contractors who prefer to work on a lump-sum-and-let-us-get-the-jobdone basis may not be comfortable working through multiple levels of itemization. And, in the same context, realize that many entities soliciting bids give only one option to bidders: Quote a per-square-foot price for flat surfaces.
Obviously, with the amount of itemization required and ancillary tasks (e.g., permits) for which the contractor may have responsibility, no bid for toll plaza cleaning should ever be submitted without a site visit to the prospective work areas and a thorough evaluation of which methods will get the job done, how much time it will take, and what could go wrong.
Stout-hearted contractors looking to enter a new niche might consider cleaning toll plazas, but be sure about the determination to do so. CT
by PWNA
P SAFETY AND COMPLIANCE IN PRESSURE WASHING A GUIDE FOR PROFESSIONALS
ressure washing is a highly effective cleaning method, but it also comes with inherent risks and regulatory requirements. Ensuring safety and compliance is not only crucial for protecting workers and clients but also for maintaining a professional and reputable business. The Power Washers of North America (PWNA) is dedicated to providing guidance and resources to help industry professionals uphold the highest standards.
UNDERSTANDING SAFETY HAZARDS
Operating a pressure washer involves handling high-pressure
water, chemicals, and heavy equipment. Common hazards include the following:
• High-Pressure Injuries—Direct contact with high-pressure streams can cause severe cuts and lacerations.
• Chemical Exposure—Many cleaning solutions contain hazardous substances that can cause burns or respiratory issues.
• Slips and Falls—Wet surfaces increase the risk of slipping, especially when working on elevated structures.
• Electrical Hazards—Water and electricity are a dangerous
combination; improper handling can lead to electrocution.
• Environmental Concerns— Improper disposal of wastewater and chemicals can harm ecosystems and result in regulatory fines.
KEY SAFETY PRACTICES
To mitigate these risks, professionals should implement the following best practices:
• Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)—Always wear appropriate PPE, including gloves, safety goggles, respirator, steel-toed boots, and hearing protection.
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• Proper Training Ensure all employees receive training on equipment operation, chemical handling, emergency procedures, and other relevant training as needed.
• Safe Work Practices—Keep hoses organized to prevent tripping, maintain a stable stance when operating equipment, and never point the spray wand at people or animals.
• Electrical Safety—Use ground fault circuit interrupters (GFCIs), and avoid using equipment in wet conditions without proper insulation.
• Chemical Handling—Follow manufacturer instructions for dilution and application; always store chemicals in labeled containers.
• Job Site Awareness—Assess each work area for potential hazards before starting a job.
COMPLIANCE WITH INDUSTRY REGULATIONS
Regulatory compliance is essential for avoiding legal issues and maintaining a professional reputation. Key areas of compliance include the following:
• Environmental Regulations— The Clean Water Act mandates proper wastewater disposal. Implement best management practices (BMPs) to prevent runoff into storm drains.
• OSHA Standards—The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) sets guidelines for worker safety. Ensure your company follows their requirements.
• Equipment Maintenance— Regular inspections and servicing of pressure washing equipment help prevent malfunctions and extend the lifespan of machines.
• Insurance and Licensing—Many states and municipalities require
pressure washing businesses to have specific licenses and liability insurance.
By prioritizing safety and compliance, pressure washing professionals can protect their teams, enhance their service quality, and contribute to a safer industry. Stay informed, stay prepared, and always operate with professionalism and responsibility.
PWNA’S ROLE IN SAFETY AND COMPLIANCE
PWNA is committed to equipping pressure washing professionals with the necessary tools and education to operate safely and within legal guidelines. Our training is available in both English and Spanish to support a broader workforce. We offer specialized courses, including OSHA 1910, Respirator Safety, Environmental Compliance, and DOT regulations.
For a complete list of classes and additional resources, visit www.pwna.org. CT
CONTROL OF INVENTORY MATTERS
by Diane M. Calabrese
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Tool chest? Spice shelf? Both? There’s nothing unfamiliar about inventory, including how vexing it can be.
Nothing evaporates faster than certainty about a spare fuse when the fuse is urgently needed or a container of chili powder when the chili dinner requires seasoning. Where do things go? Even worse may be having a spare part or a spice but realizing it is far past its expiration date. Control of inventory matters.
Service businesses require controls just as urgently as manufacturers or distributors. A comprehensive set of spare parts, from small fittings to backup nozzles and hoses, should be part of the mobile inventory in every contractor’s truck or van. It’s fortunate that with the techno-driven inventory systems available to manufacturers and distributors, they never experience a where-did-it-go moment. Until they do.
Digital inventory systems are only as reliable as the scope of the system and the parameters established for input. Scope establishes which items are included. For example, should restroom towels and toilet paper be inventoried along with everything else?
Then there are the set points or parameters. What level of spares indicates it’s time to reorder? And at the other end of the spectrum, when is the level of spares so high— possibly static—that it’s time to make a change to automatic reorders?
Not every business owner will handle inventory the same way. An owner-operator contractor with a strong distributor partner can get a lot of help through regularly scheduled reorders and even reminders.
Still, in an economy where priorities of buyers across the links of commerce change frequently, prediction and stability—two critical factors in inventory control—are not easy. The inventory controls at one business can only be
perfected to the point that the business can make solid assumptions about the inventories of its vendors and buyers.
“The most difficult thing is having vendors who can keep their own inventories stocked so that you can count on rapid and consistent supply,” says Linda Chambers, brand and sales manager at GCE/Soap Warehouse in Norcross, GA. “Small businesses can’t spend their money and space to stock up when demand is low as that can cripple their cash flow with money just sitting on a shelf.”
Bringing balance to inventory is essential to ensure that cash flow does not get disrupted. On the other hand, not holding items in stock can also disrupt the function of a business.
“Not having stock at all means you can’t generate cash flow at all,” says Chambers. It is the proverbial horns of a dilemma.
Finding a way to control inventory is a must for avoiding the dilemma. Does Chambers have any advice?
“We try and set inventory minimums with triggered reorder lists,” says Chambers. But she adds that it may not be a universal solution to the problem.
“If we have sent in those orders and they are not being met, there is nothing we can do,” explains Chambers. “Sometimes going to another vendor does not help either, as with an industry-wide outage of items.”
Unfortunately, the complexity of an order that cannot be immediately filled can cascade into more issues. Consider what happens if a buyer waits for a back-ordered item.
“When an item does come available, all the vendors get it at the same time and fill their back orders; and then we get double or triple what we need to have on hand,” says Chambers. Of course, that creates storage and other issues.
Consistency is a must for a supply chain to function smoothly. Put the emphasis on the word “chain” because if a link weakens or gets severed even
for a short time, the negative results begin to accumulate.
Chambers cites the many factors that have had adverse effects on the supply chain since 2020. They include the pandemic and tariffs.
“It is much better than it was a few years ago,” says Chambers, explaining the pandemic was more difficult to deal with than tariffs. “But until vendors get themselves back to having their supply consistent, we as contractor suppliers will not be able to either.”
As for the structured programs and apps available to optimize inventory control, they may be right for some companies. But many companies prefer to put together their own system.
“We just use the set inventory part of our own programs to set and maintain stock levels,” says Chambers. “But even then, we have to adjust those numbers to account for the time of year. For example, we will not need to keep the same level of wood stripper or paver sealer in winter as we do once
spring and summer are here—when most of our work is done.”
The dynamic nature of inventory makes it a challenge. If outmoded parts or tools are still in stock, they are just taking up space.
It’s a troubling aspect of commerce and industry that society does not have adequate methods for recycling items that are never coming back into use, such as VHS tapes and floppy disks. But along with chemicals and kitchen spices that have passed an expiration date, they must be discarded (properly).
Yes, it is like throwing money away because the cash invested in the items was cash not well spent. Could an exacting inventory method have prevented overbuying of some items? Absolutely.
It’s not always possible to achieve no waste when maintaining stock. But it is possible to reduce waste (of goods, resources, and money) with prudent checks on what’s in stock.
INTERESTED PARTIES
The day-to-day keeping pace with what’s in stock and what’s not is of immediate concern to the business itself. Yet keep in mind the many other interested parties.
Certainly at top of the list is a prospective buyer who wants to know that an order can be filled immediately. Identifying a product as “in stock,” taking an order, and then making a switch to “on order” is a sure way to infuriate the buyer.
Things happen—two orders coming in almost simultaneously via different channels—but avoiding confusion over the availability of items is a must. Ease of business flow is the top reason that inventory control has to be reliable, accurate, and scrupulously maintained.
Parties interested in the inventory of a company go well beyond buyers. They include the IRS, lenders, and other companies that might want to buy the business. (At some point a business will close either because it
collapses financially or, more happily, because it thrives and the owner wants to sell and take on a new venture.)
Valuation of a business includes all assets—land, structures, furnishings, and inventory. A possible buyer will look at the valuation and its components closely. Many a buyer will want to review the fluctuation in inventory over several years because it stands as an indicator of the trajectory of the company—growing, stable, slumping.
Lenders also want an accurate picture of the valuation of a company. Yes, companies may be able to get an unsecured loan from the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA). But once a business is viable (beyond start-up), getting financial backing or a line of credit from a financial institution requires evidence that there’s something that can be reclaimed if the business fails.
Tax laws regarding inventory— particularly obsolete inventory (i.e. the floppy disks)—are complicated. Even though obsolete inventory can bring
tax advantages, most businesses do not have enough of it to get a real boost from a write-down of its worth.
Let’s emphasize the complicated dimension. If obsolete items merited some sort of tax advantage when they were purchased or depreciated, the IRS will be keen to recapture the amount of the advantage. It’s a good reason to simply sell things—for whatever small price they may bring—that fall into the category of obsolete inventory.
Old laptop computers? (Just one example…) Don’t bet they will come out of storage and be refurbished. Sell them and declare any profit. It saves space if not money.
Giving unused inventory to a charity can bring some tax benefit. Again, the rules are complicated. And in this litigious society, be careful regarding donations of anything that might cause injury to the recipient.
Inventory control is not a glamorous endeavor. Taking stock—itemizing and evaluating property—is,
however, an essential component of business.
Even the smallest company should know the entirety of its assets. Perhaps a simple list will do.
As a business grows, its inventory methods generally become more refined. Larger companies now have records of which companies are buying what (and when and how much). And there are manufacturers that integrate their inventory systems with distributors.
Business-to-business integration of inventories enables dynamic forecasting. For instance, a manufacturer can more accurately predict how much product to make given how rapidly the product is purchased. The dynamism quells overproduction.
But on the level of the individual business, excellent inventory methodology does its most important work. It prevents buying what’s not needed and ensures having what is. No overstock, no waste, and no cash tied up on shelves. CT
THE ONE, BIG BEAUTIFUL BILL ACT
by Mark E. Battersby
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The new budget reconciliation law, the socalled “One Big Beautiful Bill Act (OBBBA),” prevents an over $4 trillion tax hike from occurring at the end of this year by extending—and by making permanent—many of the temporary tax cuts of the 2017 Tax Cuts and Jobs Act (TCJA).
Among the provisions of interest to many of those in the pressure cleaning industry is the write-off for equipment and other business assets.
DEPRECIATION WRITE-OFFS
One of the key elements of the 2017 TCJA was a 100 percent bonus depreciation write-off that allowed businesses to immediately deduct the full cost of equipment. Unfortunately, that 100 percent deduction was reduced year after year, sharply curtailing its benefits.
Today, bonus depreciation is back. What’s more, the full 100 percent
deduction will apply through 2029 for property acquired after January 19, 2025.
In addition to bonus depreciation, the OBBBA doubles the amount of the Section 179 first year expensing deduction from $1,250,000 to $2,500,000. It also increases the asset acquisition limit from the current $3,130,0000 to $4,000,000, meaning the deduction would be phased out should the pressure washing operation’s asset purchases reach the $4,000,000 ceiling.
ENERGY
The owners and operators of pressure cleaning businesses who were planning to put energy-related property into service will face new adjustments. Acquisitions that fall under the tax law, including green energy-producing assets, recycling, and storage, will no longer be considered five-year properties for depreciation purposes.
Now, these green energy-related assets will be subject to depreciation using the general class lifetime rules.
While any energy-related property placed in service prior to December 31, 2024, can continue the five-year depreciation, others will be required to depreciate assets and properties over longer periods. This will obviously result in a smaller depreciation write-off for energy-related expenses in earlier years.
Although few pressure washing businesses will be affected, tax credits will continue for wind and solar projects that either start construction by June 2026 or which are operational by December 2027. Of more interest, those electric vehicle (EV) and refueling tax credits that encouraged so many pressure cleaning contractors to go green are another story.
Many of the commercial clean vehicle tax credits have been terminated for vehicles acquired after September 30, 2025. Given an extended expiration date, the Section 30C alternative fuel vehicle refueling property credit (e.g., EV charging credit) will be terminated
for property placed in service after June 30, 2026, making this particularly beneficial for projects that are in development but more than 90 days from completion.
INTEREST EXPENSE CAPS
For years the amount of interest paid by a business that could be claimed as a tax deduction was limited to only 30 percent of the operation’s adjusted gross income. Most
small businesses—defined as businesses whose average annual gross receipts for a three-year period don’t exceed $27 million (adjusted for inflation)—were exempt and could continue deducting the full amount of their business interest.
While the section 163(j) limit on the deduction for business interest applied to the total amount of business interest of the operation in the tax year, including disallowed business interest carried
forward from prior tax years, the OBBBA updates the provision.
Since 2022 the limitation has been calculated after allowing deductions for depreciation, amortization, and depletion. That form has reduced adjusted taxable income (ATI), the base upon which the limit is applied, thereby reducing annual business interest expense deductions for many taxpayers. The OBBBA restores the add-backs for depreciation, amortization, and depletion deductions.
OVERTIME
Unless exempt, employees covered by the Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA) must receive overtime pay for hours worked over 40 in a workweek at a rate not less than time and one-half their regular rates of pay. Individuals who are properly classified as executive, administrative, or professional employees are considered “exempt employees” and aren’t required to be paid for overtime.
After a failed attempt to increase the minimum threshold for the overtime exemption, it has reverted to $35,568 per year ($484 per week). Employees earning below this threshold are generally entitled to overtime pay.
Now, however, the OBBBA has created a new tax deduction for the overtime pay of workers. Workers making less than $150,000 can dedut as much as $12,500 for single filers and $25,000 for those filing jointly. Unfortunately, this deduction begins to phase out for single filers earning $150,000 or more and for joint filers earning $300,000 or more and will expire in 2029.
The pressure cleaning business, the employer, should remember that overtime is still considered as wages for FICA tax purposes, with wages still subject to Social Security and Medicare tax. What’s more, workers can only deduct overtime that is reported on all information returns, especially Form W-2.
For 2025 the employing business can use a “transition” rule that allows it to approximate overtime amounts using a “reasonable method.” Starting in 2026, employers must report qualified
THE OBBBA MAKES SIGNIFICANT CHANGES TO BUSINESS TAXES— EXTENDING, MODIFYING, AND IN MANY CASES MAKING THEM PERMANENT. THE TCJA CREATED A TAX CREDIT FOR COMPENSATING EMPLOYEES WHILE THEY ARE ON FAMILY OR MEDICAL LEAVE AS LONG AS THE BUSINESS HAD A QUALIFIED PLAN FOR THOSE PAYMENTS. THE OBBBA PERMANENTLY EXTENDED THIS CREDIT WHILE EXPANDING IT.
overtime separately on Forms W-2 and Form 1099.
PASS-THROUGH BUSINESSES
The 2017 Tax Cuts and Jobs Act (TCJA) was originally created to reduce taxes, simplify the tax code, and stimulate growth. The TCJA did lower income tax rates, and it also increased deductions for pass-through business entities.
Under the OBBBA, there is a more favorable tax rate for the income of pass-through businesses, such as sole proprietorships, partnerships, and S corporations; that is now in effect permanently. The OBBBA makes permanent the deduction for pressure washing businesses operating as pass-through entities, allowing a deduction of up to 20 percent of their qualified business income.
The OBBBA also created a new inflation-adjusted minimum deduction of $400 for taxpayers with at least $1,000 in qualified business income to ensure eligible small business owners have access to an enhanced baseline deduction.
PARTNERSHIPS
The tax rules have long governed services and property transfers (or disguised sales) between a partner and his or her partnership, requiring them to be treated as arms-length transactions. Under the OBBBA the rules now include a technical clarification, a simple “except as provided,” by the Treasury Secretary that will expand those rules and make them applicable unless guidance provides an exception. The clarification applies to services performed and transactions occurring from now on.
BUSINESS MEALS
The tax rules generally allow deductions for 50 percent of the cost of business meals provided certain criteria are met. This 50 percent limit applies to meals incurred while traveling away from home on business as well as meals with clients, customers, or employees. Naturally, the meal should not be lavish or extravagant, with the taxpayer or an employee present.
Not too surprisingly, there were some exceptions included as part of the OBBBA. A 100 percent full deductibility is still allowed, such as with the write-offs for recreational expenses that primarily benefit all of an operation’s employees (e.g., company holiday parties).
Food and beverages available to the general public (e.g., promotional events) and meals provided for the convenience of the employer on the business premises can still be fully deducted but face a different treatment.
Those current tax rules “disallow” a number of deductions that might otherwise have been allowed as writeoffs for “travel and entertainment” expenses. Among those disallowed expenses are meals provided at the convenience of the employer.
The OBBBA relaxes this restriction by allowing a deduction as an expense for “goods and services”—including the use of facilities sold in a bona fide transaction at full value—beginning in 2026.
THERE IS A THING ABOUT TOO MUCH LOSS
A little-known and often-overlooked provision in the tax law places a limit on the amount of total business deductions that a so-called “noncorporate” taxpayer is allowed to deduct. The OBBBA makes permanent that excess business loss imitation.
The amount allowed as a deduction is the amount of aggregate gross income or gain attributable to the taxpayer’s business plus a threshold amount indexed for inflation ($313,000 for 2025). Also added is a modification in the way aggregate business deductions will be calculated.
THE BOTTOM LINE
The OBBBA makes significant changes to business taxes—extending, modifying, and in many cases making them permanent. The TCJA created a tax credit for compensating employees while they are on family or medical leave as long as the business had a
qualified plan for those payments. The OBBBA permanently extended this credit while expanding it.
The OBBA also permanently increases the estate, gift, and generation skipping transfer tax (GSTT) exemption to $15 million, allowing greater amounts to be passed as gifts or inheritances beginning in 2026 when the new exemption kicks in.
Under the new rules the charitable donations of incorporated pressure cleaning businesses will, beginning in 2026, have a new 1 percent floor, with only contribution amounts above that being deductible. The 10 percent ceiling remains, while the contributions exceeding the 10 percent limit can be carried forward for up to five years.
Other changes—new deductions and technical modifications—will obviously require the owners and managers of many pressure cleaning businesses to monitor developments and seek professional assistance for help with both planning and reaping the potential tax savings. CT
STEAM CLEANING APPLICATIONS
by Diane M. Calabrese
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Does steam get its due? We’ve asked that question in the past. The answer remains the same: No.
Our nation rests on enormous reserves of coal, which powered transition from an agrarian to an industrial society. The advent of steam engines allowed water to be pumped from coal mines, and coal mining got a big boost.
Local steam engines—reciprocating beauties of many sorts—powered manufacturing until the big leap to electric motors and electricity distributed from a central generation plant.
Worth remembering, though, is that grid-supplied electric power got its start with steam generation. And whether water is heated from fossil fuel combustion or nuclear reaction, steam continues to be a significant force in electric power generation.
Today steam turbines generate most of the world’s electricity and more than 40 percent of the electricity in the United States. And steam remains an unseen and quiet force in industry.
Thus, it should not surprise us that the utility of steam in cleaning applications also gets little attention. Of course, when something works well, it’s often simply overlooked. Depending upon how broadly steam cleaning is defined, the assistance steam provides with cleanups
ranges far and wide. “Steam can be a surprisingly effective and environmentally friendly method for managing weeds, whether it be on a farm, on a college campus, or in your backyard,” says Byron Lafferty, vice president— sales, of Steam Cleaners Inc. in Fresno, CA.
Cleaning up weeds puts us in the broad view category, but to those who combat weed growth, attaching the idea of cleanup to the rogue plants makes sense. For a more exacting cleanup example, try chewing gum.
Steam possesses the power to simplify the removal of gum, and outcomes get noticed. “We’ve found that grounds crews for school districts and municipalities are impressed by how easily gum can be removed from sidewalks with steam,” says Lafferty.
There’s no overstatement in the word “impressed.” The contributions steam makes to cleaning are enormous.
From clean pores (steam baths) to clean surgical instruments (autoclaves), steam often has a direct effect on human health. Of course, it also promotes health indirectly by accomplishing some of the most difficult cleaning tasks in our surroundings.
Given its potency, steam can often achieve cleaning results that would otherwise require use of chemicals. Because it can reduce the need for chemicals, steam brings another health—and environmental—benefit.
THE USE OF DRY VAPOR STEAM CLEANING ALLOWS FOOD MANUFACTURERS TO REDUCE THE USE OF WATER AND CHEMICALS AND AT THE SAME TIME ACCOMPLISH THE ESSENTIAL TASK, SAYS CAULFIELD. “THEY ARE STILL ABLE TO SANITIZE THE EQUIPMENT AND ALL SURFACES WITHIN THE PLANT WITHOUT RISKING REMAINING CHEMICAL RESIDUES.” (SUCH RESIDUES COULD POTENTIALLY CONTAMINATE FOOD.)
The closer we look at steam, the more uses we discover. Let’s do some exploring.
But let’s first revisit some terminology. Steam is water vapor (water in gaseous state). Not all steam is equivalent; there’s a precise system for naming the types of steam.
The terms dry (or dry saturated) and wet steam are used. Dry steam is water vapor under sufficient pressure (at its temperature) that there is no liquid component.
If there is no water in suspension (liquid component zero), steam quality is 100 percent, and the steam is designated as dry. Wet steam (or unsaturated steam) retains a liquid component (droplets or mist) at its given temperature and pressure.
That’s it for the extremely short version of steam terminology. Again, the quality, or nature, of steam is determined by the interplay of
temperature and pressure. Even with that, we oversimplify. For instance, there is superheated steam, which can be wet or dry, and there is supercritical water.
INTERESTING AND SIGNIFICANT
Steam gets deployed in efforts to remove mold and prevent mold growth, says Chris Caulfield, general manager of Therma-Kleen in Au Gres, MI. “This is interesting to me because it seems counterintuitive to apply more moisture to an area with a mold issue.”
But steam gets the job done. “The high temperature steam, when applied to mold, not only cleans the mold from the surface but also penetrates deep into the molded material to kill the mold spores and prevent future mold growth,” explains Caulfield.
Cleaning surfaces with moldcombatting chemicals is an option.
But if spores remain, the mold will regrow. By killing both the mold and its spores, steam offers a onestep approach.
We are far from the plateau of new cleaning applications that deploy steam. “The use of steam cleaners to clean HVAC coils and heat exchangers seems to really be taking off,” says Caulfield. “The dry vapor steam cleaners can be used for thinner coils, but for thicker, commercial coils we typically see lower pressure wet steam being utilized for this purpose.”
Steam alleviates the risk of damaging the fins on the coils, a risk that is present with the use of pressure washers, explains Caulfield. “The use of steam cleaners also decreases the amount of water and chemicals required to clean the coils.”
When we link steam to reduction in water use, we may have an intuitive picture of significant savings. But even that image likely falls short.
“The amount of water used in dry vapor steam cleaning is still surprising to most people new to this process,” says Caulfield. “Dry vapor steam cleaners typically use only about a gallon of water per hour.”
One gallon per hour? “This shocks most people when they hear it,” says Caulfield. “Reduction of water usage and elimination of harsh cleaning chemicals are what make steam cleaning the greenest choice for cleaning nearly any surface.”
Cleaning in the food processing industry has benefited enormously from steam. “In my opinion, the use of dry vapor steam cleaning in food processing has been a game-changer, especially in the processing of dry food where very little moisture can be introduced,” says Caulfield.
The use of dry vapor steam cleaning allows food manufacturers to reduce the use of water and chemicals and at the same time accomplish the essential task, says Caulfield. “They are still able to sanitize the equipment and all surfaces within the plant without risking remaining
chemical residues.” (Such residues could potentially contaminate food.)
Nearly any surface can be sanitized using steam, says Caulfield. That’s just one on a long list of uses for steam cleaners. Among the others he cites as examples of the versatility of steam cleaning are eradication of bed bugs, removal of stains from fabrics, elimination of pet odors, and reduction of allergens (e.g., pollen and dust mites).
QUIET INNOVATION
The potency and utility of steam are enormous. Yet day in and day out, steam serves very quietly. Why that should be so is an interesting question. And it’s beyond our scope.
Let’s just say that the innovation involving steam keeps coming quite often very quietly. Like all innovation, a great deal builds upon what already exists.
“One of the most interesting applications I’ve seen is in dry clean
or low-moisture facilities,” says Sean Westerwelle, a sales representative with Steamericas in Gardena, CA. “Think food processing plants or cold storage operations with no drainage.”
In addition to the plusses of steam in such facilities already cited—less water, no chemicals—there’s another.
“Watching our customers hit sanitation targets without flooding a floor or risking runoff and slip potentials is incredibly satisfying,” says Westerwelle.
Putting steam cleaning options within reach of the widest possible customer base will multiply the benefits of steam. And Westerwelle explains that the compact, high-performance steamer, the Optima XEm, available from his company does that. “It’s electric, consistent, and simple, making it ideal for facilities where diesel or bigger units just aren’t practical or allowed.”
Which is the biggest challenge in cleaning? It depends upon the setting. While a commercial property owner may be vexed by chewing gum with a firm grip on walkways, rails, and plazas, a manufacturer might be more likely to think first of grease and oil on machine parts.
“People new to steam cleaning are blown away when they see it remove grease and oil from machinery,” says Westerwelle. Their firsthand experience dispels their assumption that high pressure, caustic chemicals, or a large amount of water are needed.
“Seeing the reaction of people when they see dry steam get into tight spaces and clean more thoroughly without waste is amazing,” says Westerwelle. (Tight spaces, crevices, and the like really put steam to the test, and it sails through.)
Steam simplifies so many cleaning processes. Is there one among them that stands out in Westerwelle’s mind? “One word: sanitation,” he says.
“In sectors like beverage bottling or packaging, steam allows cleaning in place without disassembly,” explains Westerwelle. “This means less downtime and less chemical exposure for workers. It simplifies workflows and shifts how teams think about maintenance.”
There’s a question that hangs in the air in the universe of steam applications, and Westerwelle asks it: “What’s holding more companies back from using steam?”
Does Westerwelle have an answer? “In my experience, it’s a mix of legacy thinking and misinformation,” he says. “People think steam equals fragile, slow, or underpowered until they see a demo. Once that switch flips, they’re often asking themselves why they didn’t try it sooner.”
There’s genuine poetry in the development of steam as a partner in commerce and industry. Steam powers essential processes across sectors, and it also reduces the impact (waste, water use, chemicals) of the processes. CT
WHY ROOFTOP SAFETY ISN’T OPTIONAL ANYMORE
by PWNA
Let’s be real. If you’re in the exterior cleaning business long enough, you’ll find yourself on a roof. Whether it’s soft washing shingles, cleaning out clogged gutters, or washing a tile roof, the job calls for elevation. But here’s the deal—the moment your feet leave the ground, everything changes.
One wrong step can turn a standard workday into a life-changing injury (or worse). You don’t get a second chance when you fall off a roof, and that’s why rooftop safety isn’t just “a good idea”—it’s a must.
THE STATS WILL MAKE YOUR STOMACH TURN
According to OSHA, falls are the number one cause of death in construction. Every year, hundreds of workers lose their lives from falls that could have been prevented. That’s not just a number. That’s someone’s child, someone’s father, and someone’s crew leader.
And let’s get even more specific:
• Most fatal falls happen from under 30 feet.
• Ladders and rooftops are where it goes wrong the most.
• Roofers and cleaners without formal safety training are hit the hardest.
You don’t need to be on a skyscraper to be in danger. A singlestory roof can be just as dangerous as a three-story building if you’re not prepared.
THE PROBLEM? WE NORMALIZE THE RISK
The following are some often-heard justifications for improper roof safety:
• “Been doing this for years, never had a problem.”
• “My guys know what they’re doing.”
• “We’re in and out in 15 minutes.”
Sound familiar? These aren’t confidence statements; they’re famous last words. We’ve all been guilty of shortcutting—no harness, no anchor point, and jumping off the tailgate straight onto the roof. But let’s stop pretending that a clean roof is worth more than your spine or your technician’s life.
SAFETY GEAR ISN’T A BURDEN, IT’S A LIFELINE
The right gear doesn’t slow you down; it keeps you around. The following are what smart pros are using:
• Anchorage systems (permanent or temporary)
• Harnesses with D-rings
• Shock-absorbing lanyards or self-retracting lifelines
• Roof boots with grip
• Tie-off points (even on metal or tile)
• Ladder stabilizers
If your gear is collecting dust or shoved in a trailer toolbox, you’re not protecting your people.
TRAINING IS THE REAL SUPERPOWER
Tools are only half the battle. If your crew doesn’t know how to use the gear properly, it’s just for show. That’s why training is the difference between a professional and a liability.
At PWNA, we’re raising the bar. We offer a Rooftop Safety Course de signed specifically for power washers, soft washers, and roof cleaners. It’s taught in real words by real contractors for real-world use.
Plus, this is just one of 30-plus online safety, compliance, and technical training courses available to members, so you can train your whole team on your schedule from wherever you are.
HERE’S THE HARD TRUTH
You can be the best cleaner in town and still lose everything from a single fall. A $500 job isn’t worth a $50,000 lawsuit or a funeral. Your team’s safety is your responsibility, and training is the first step toward a safer, stronger business.
WANT TO DO IT RIGHT?
• Take the PWNA Rooftop Safety Course
• Get your team certified in fall protection
• Make safety a daily, nonnegotiable part of your jobsite routine
Don’t wait until something happens. Train now, lead by example, and get home safe, every single day. For more information, visit www.PWNA.org CT
by Diane M. Calabrese
Photo by
Lopera Martos
We know that if we climb a ladder with a cracked rung, we take a risk. And we know climbing a ladder with a cracked rung violates an OSHA (Occupational Safety and Health Administration) rule. The “why” of taking the risk doesn’t matter.
Whether it’s time compression or only a single ladder at the jobsite that stops us from making a change, stepping on a weak rung is dangerous. Members of our industry know well the many expectations OSHA has for the use of ladders, scaffolds, lifts, etc.
Fall protection expectations for our industry are covered in 29 CFR 1910 of OSHA Standards, specifically subparts D (walking-working surfaces), F (powered platforms, manlifts, and vehicle-mounted work platforms), and I (personal protective equipment).
An employer’s responsibility for safe walking and working surfaces encompasses all surfaces, not just elevated ones. Consequently, fall protection includes attention to all surfaces, whether at ground level or elevated.
Ground-level surfaces must be free of hazards: sharp objects, protruding objects, loose boards, corrosion, etc., and they must be able to bear the load to which they will be subjected.
In short, fall protection is a comprehensive enterprise. When the walking surface is above ground— a scaffold, for example—employees must be trained in use of the elevated platforms and rope descent. Professional organizations and commercial enterprises offer training (and certification) in high work and fall protection. There’s much to know. For instance, workers ascending ladders over 24 feet must have a personal fall arrest system.
Some state regulations for fall protection exceed those from OSHA. Therefore, the state regulations supersede those from OSHA.
ACCORDING
TO
THE BUREAU OF LABOR STATISTICS
(CITED BY OSHA), THERE WERE 421 FATAL FALLS TO A LOWER LEVEL (AS OPPOSED TO TRIPPING AND FALLING AT GROUND LEVEL) AT WORK SITES IN 2023. THAT FITS INTO AN OVERALL TOTAL FOR THE SAME YEAR OF 1,075 FALLS. MOREOVER, FALLS FROM HEIGHT IS THE SECONDLEADING UNINTENTIONAL FATAL WORKPLACE EVENT.
It’s not just arrest systems in which employees working high must be trained. They must also know how to secure scaffolds.
Scaffold safety includes understanding weight-bearing ability, bracket placement, and width and height. Lifts seem safer than scaffolds, but training is required in how to use them, including required inspections (prestart and routine maintenance).
Tip-overs and entanglements with wires make lifts not the simple, safe alternative to scaffolds that they may seem. Training, training, and more training ensures workers know and follow the proper protocols.
Is there a straightforward answer to which employees require arrest systems? Not exactly, as it depends on the state. But in general, anyone working higher than four feet in a general industry setting (including power washing) above ground should have an arrest system. (Elevation is six feet in construction.)
Four feet. Yes, we see contractors (perhaps soft washing) working on roofs frequently who do not have such protective gear, but they should.
Unsafe practices affect the entire industry. A company that scrupulously follows regulations for fall protection may suffer the consequences of other firms not doing the same. Insurance rates are calculated based on the “experience” (collection of incidents) in a region (or possibly a larger geographic area).
According to OSHA, falls are the most common causes of work-related injuries and death. According to NIOSH [National Institute for Occupational Health and Safety], falls from a ladder are common (20,000-plus each year) not just in the workplace but also outside work (NIOSH is part of the CDC.)
NIOSH puts a strong emphasis on ladder safety. It provides a ladder app that can be downloaded. The purpose of the app is to help ladder users attain the correct (safest) position for a ladder.
The safety risks associated with ladder use, according to NIOSH, are unprotected edges, unsafe positioning, misused protection, and soiled rungs. Unprotected edges on a ladder can result in snagging of clothing, which could cause the climber to lose balance.
If the ladder itself is not positioned correctly, it could slide out from under the climber. NIOSH reports that 40 percent of ladder mishaps occur because an extension ladder slides out from under the base. It advises a 75-degree angle when positioning an extension ladder.
Most important in ladder safety is to match the ladder to the job, advises NIOSH. And, of course, inspect the ladder—no cracked rungs, no grease or debris on rungs, etc. When one is on the ladder, follow the safe practices of not overreaching, not overexerting (and adding a force to the ladder by using it for leverage), and not carrying things up and down that should not be carried.
The biggest safety risk in ladder use, according to NIOSH, is a lack of training. Employers must train workers and retrain them.
OSHA summarizes the approach to fall prevention in three parts: plan, use the right equipment, and train. Plenty of assistance with safety training is available from OSHA. Begin with its primer “Plan. Provide. Train.” The primer includes links to educational resources (https://www.osha. gov/stop-falls/educational-resources) that include fact sheets on safe use of extension ladders, safe use of step ladders, and protection of roofing workers.
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (cited by OSHA), there were 421 fatal falls to a lower level (as opposed to tripping and falling at ground level) at work sites in 2023. That fits into an overall total for the same year of 1,075 falls. Moreover, falls from height is the second-leading unintentional fatal workplace event.
The seriousness of a fall to a lower elevation is easy to forget when engaged in work and deciding to simply get a quick lift from a ladder to gain better reach to the highest part of the exterior. With good planning many residential jobs can be completed without ever using a ladder. As OSHA training materials remind us, it’s all about good planning.
The planning includes being attentive to weather conditions. Obviously, no one should be on a metal ladder (or any ladder) in an electrical storm. And if working in heat, caution must be taken so that warm temperature does not impair judgement.
Sound judgement, or prudence, has a prosaic tone to it. That’s a good thing. On jobsites day in and day out, the best outcome is an ordinary span of work hours. Uneventful except in accomplishing the tasks at hand is the goal.
Ordinariness of a day should never result in complacency, though. Nothing prevents complacency like training and retraining. CT
ZONE 1
American Waterworks, Inc. 13250 Weidner St. Pacoima, CA 91331 818-252-0706
www.americanwaterworks.net
Custom trailer system sales & service.
Nor Cal Pressure Washer Equipment
250-G S. Maple Ave. S. San Francisco, CA 94080 (866) 554-6601
www.norcalpressurewash.com
Hydro Tek Sales & Service, Industrial/Commercial.
Pacific Bay Equipment 609 G Street Modesto, CA 95354 (209) 578-3925/fax (209) 578-3120
www.pacificbayequipment.com
SF Bay area: 28301 Industrial Blvd. Hayward, CA 94545
ZONE 4
Pressure Systems, Inc.
1646 E. Jefferson Street Phoenix, AZ 85034 (602) 253-9579
www.pressuresystemsinc.com Experience Makes a Difference. Working With Water & Finding Solutions Since 1965.
Superior Cleaning Equipment
4422 E. University Dr. Phoenix, AZ 85034 602-257-1357 sceclean.com
ZONE 5
American Cleaning Systems 5261 W. 42nd St. Odessa, TX 79764 (800) 205-7797
www.amcleaning.net
Pressure Washers, Soaps, Degreasers, Hot Shot
Alklean Industries, Inc. 2111 Catalina Dr. Pasadena, TX 77503 (281) 479-5966 www.alklean.com
Hotsy, Mi-T-M, Hydro Tek, Alkota, KEW, Alto, plus many more. POWERWASH.COM 2313 Cold Springs Rd. Fort Worth, TX 76106 (800) 433-2113 www.Powerwash.com
Pressure Washer Sales & Service, Parts, Chemicals. River City Pressure Cleaning Equipment 7306 NE Loop 410 San Antonio, TX 78219
