James Marston, Trainer and Inspector at the British Institute of Cleaning Science, reports.
Intrinsic to cleaning services are the machines and kit teams use. Their value and productivity in the workplace depend mainly on two factors. Thoughtful procurement and effective management in operations. It's worth mentioning that cleaning operatives manage, operate, and maintain their machines daily. They need the knowledge to maximise their productivity all year round.
The most common and valuable machine in my view must be the vacuum cleaner. They gather small particles from the floor and the air allowing the operator to remove, clean and dispose of those bedbugs, dust mites, other animals, dead skin cells, grit, and other materials effectively. Well-maintained, with regular bag changes and visual checks make vacuums reliable and great workhorses for the service every day.
Jump to the latest scrubber dryers, robotics and specialist machines. The costs involved and the productivity are at another level. Staff training and their responsibility to ensure they remain in service becomes critical to achieving square meterage targets every day and making the purchase worthwhile.
I mentioned earlier the thoughtful procurement of machinery. The right machine for the right job is vital. Just as important is the company you buy them from, the support they give you post sale and the ability to repair the machine quickly and on-site. Both in the domestic and commercial market users find purchases expensive. The ability to fix one’s own machine with easily fitted replacement parts or batteries should be a key factor when buying. Moving parts that have a limited lifetime can be purchased in advance and replaced quickly.
One of BICSc long-standing points in the mission statement is the preservation of assets which feeds into every course and skill in the Cleaning Professional Skill Suite (CPSS). As we move further into the machine age, this is more important than ever. Choose well-designed machines. Buying does not have to be the gamble it once was. Empower and train your teams to be in control and keep your machines working getting the job done.
More skills, less stress and fatigue are a welcome benefit for all.
www.bics.org.uk
About the contributor
James Marston
Trainer and Inspector
BICSc