Build up to 2015 PROMOTING PROFESSIONAL HYGIENE AND CLEANING
May/June 2015 | R43.50 (incl. VAT)
Cannon Hygiene SA turns 21 Nampak divisions acquired, rebranded Toolkit to measure and monitor clean Sealed Air Diversey Care unveils industry leading technology
contents MAY/JUNE 2015 VOL 16 NO. 3 Leading brands offers the complete washroom solution Prime Cleaning Suppliers offers the complete washroom solution with a comprehensive range of products that ensures an appealing and hygienic washroom facility. Products include the Rubbermaid Microburst 3000 auto dispenser, Wetrok Eco Calixin sanitary basic cleaner, Aquarius folded hand towels, Scott Slimroll hand towels, Rubbermaid Auto Sanitizer urinal dispensers and refills plus the Wetrok Reocid sanitary-ware maintenance cleaner. For more information on these prime products refer to pages 16 and 17.
Interview
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Industry News
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Cannon Hygiene South Africa Director Tobie Müller – 21 years of exceptional service
National hand hygiene campaign launched Adidas to use marine plastic waste in its products Nampak divisions acquired and rebranded Safe hand drying – spreading the word not microbes ISSA names new EMEA Services Director Rentokil offers new residual disinfection service
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Features
CleantexPulire – one destination more than 80 brands Introducing Hydrosan disinfectant cleaners with G-cide™ Keeping chemicals part of the carpet cleaning equation Sealed Air Diversey Care – Changing the face of professional cleaning
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Educational
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Laundry Review
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FM Review
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People and Events
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Dining with bacteria
3 ways to cut laundry dosing system costs
Toolkit assists facility managers with measuring and monitoring clean
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Cannon Hygiene SA turns 21 New state of the art facility for Prime Cleaning Suppliers in Midrand Importance of green building maintenance to be highlighted at CleantexPulire conference SATSA launch in Johannesburg
New Products
Solar powered washroom on wheels TASKI offers new scrubber dryer technology New innovation proves effective in controlling public urinating Fast and easy non-hazardous floor stripping
African Cleaning Review is aimed at end-users, contractors and suppliers of products and services to Africa’s Cleaning, Hygiene, Maintenance, Pest Control and Facility Management Services industries. It is published every other month by: e-squared publications. Tel: +27 (0) 11 238 7848 or +27 (0) 72 611 1959 Fax: +27 (0) 86 672 4794 PO Box 1976, Halfway House, 1685, South Africa email: africancleaningreview@cleantex.co.za Website: www.africancleaningreview.co.za Editor/Publisher: Johann van Vuuren +27 (0) 11 238 7848 email: africancleaningreview@cleantex.co.za Features: Teresa Settas +27 (0) 11 238 7848 email: africancleaningreview@cleantex.co.za Advertising: +27 (0) 11 238 7848 email: africancleaningreview@cleantex.co.za Administration and Accounts: Nandé Jacobs email: africancleaningreview@cleantex.co.za All editorial contributions can be sent to the editor who reserves the right to publish editorial based on the strength of its content. No articles or photographs may be reproduced, in whole or in part, without written permission from the publishers. Although every effort is made to ensure the accuracy and reliability of material published in African Cleaning Review, e-squared publications and its agents can accept no responsibility for the veracity of the claims made by contributors, manufacturers or advertisers. Copyright of all material published in African Cleaning Review remains with e-squared publications and its agents.
Jul/Aug issue: • Contract cleaning • Hand hygiene • CleantexPulire 2015 exhibition preview and catalogue Sept/Oct issue: • Hygiene in healthcare • Outdoor cleaning systems • CleantexPulire 2015 exhibition review Nov/Dec issue: • Hard floor care • Matting systems
Diarise the dates
10th Edition of CleantexPulire 28–30 July 2015 Gallagher Convention Centre Midrand, Johannesburg
Visitor registration now open! visit www.cleantex.co.za Online version of ACR
African Cleaning Review is now also available electronically. If you have not received the ACR email newsletter, then email us at: africancleaningreview@cleantex.co.za
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Official Publication
Media Partner
African Cleaning Review May/June 2015
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from the editor
interview
10th CleantexPulire to showcase leading brands and innovations It would seem that this year will be remembered for the various anniversary celebrations by leading companies in the cleaning and hygiene industry. In this issue Cannon Hygiene SA (21), Sebo (30) and TASKI (60) all commemorate their respective achievements, spanning several decades. African Cleaning Review wishes these companies many more successful decades in the future and look forward to working closely with these and other companies to the benefit of the professional cleaning industry. Talking about celebrations, in less that two months the cleaning industry exhibition will celebrate its 10th edition and, being a biennial event that means the first event was launched and held twenty years ago. Some of the first companies to exhibit have disappeared, others changed names or were acquired by larger groups but many grew from strength to strength, establishing themselves in this market as major contenders and will again showcase their innovations this July. By capitalising on both local and international resources CleantexPulire 2015 will deliver a comprehensive overview of the commercial cleaning and hygiene sectors featuring cutting edge technology and an expo first – the international co-located conference featuring high profile global and local speakers. This years’ exhibition, welcoming the largest international exhibitor participation alongside leading South African brands, is set to provide a complete overview of more than 80 global brands, innovations, products and solutions. Now you have to ask yourself the question, can I afford to miss this showcase right here in South Africa? Indeed, everyone who has an interest or responsibility for professional cleaning, hygiene and healthcare should attend CleantexPulire 2015. I certainly look forward to seeing you at the show. Visitors can pre-register by logging on to www.cleantex.co.za.
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Celebrating 21 years of exceptional washroom service Tobie Müller
African Cleaning Review attended Cannon Hygiene South Africa’s 21st celebrations function held at a Cape Town wine estate during April. The company is part of Cannon International, a global washroom and sanitary service provider with operations in 30 countries, on five continents, and will celebrate its 60th anniversary this year.
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t was therefore the ideal opportunity for Cannon Hygiene South Africa to commemorate these significant milestones by inviting their clients to a mid-morning function. Editor Johann van Vuuren spoke to Cannon Hygiene SA Director Tobie Müller about the company’s history and successes.
gives you an idea of its remarkable growth over the past 15 years. For Cannon International the achievement is even greater as the company placed their first sanitary units in England 60 years ago.
Where did it all start for Cannon Hygiene?
For Cannon Hygiene it is first and foremost a matter of providing service excellence. We do not compete on price only, but rather focus our efforts on delivering an impeccable service, combined with superior products. The South African market holds untapped potential and constantly focusing on how we can improve our service has paid off significantly for the company.
When I joined the company it was about six years’ old and, at the time, a small Cape Town-based business employing only 11 staff members. Today the company boasts four branches in South Africa and employs about 160 staff, and the company’s turnover has increased 50 times since then, which
What sets the company apart in the market?
interview the wall, leaving only the automatic parts, battery, etc. to remain, thereby simplifying the cleansing process. Cannon Hygiene is also one of the few businesses that performs a full exchange service, especially on the sanitary waste disposal. We remove the entire unit and replace it with a new sanitised unit every month. We also follow the same exchange process with our soap dispensers, fragrances and all the other washroom products. We are therefore able to perform a quick and efficient turnaround washroom service by spending as little time as possible at the client’s premises but in doing so, provide a professional service.
Elaborate on the company’s scope of services CannonCurve sanitary waste system
Describe the product range We use hygiene products that are custom designed and specifically branded for Cannon Hygiene. We honestly believe that we have the best sanitary disposal units that the market can offer and the concept unit is still regarded as the trailblazer of sanitary waste disposal units. We have recently introduced the CannonCurve, which is a vertical unit. It is a great product that can be fitted to the wall. The automatic version enables the entire unit to be unclipped from
In South Africa we offer washroom hygiene services, which is the main service. However, we do also provide a pest control service and deep cleaning service. Deep cleaning is a unique service and the only other business in the Cannon group that performs this service is Cannon Hygiene New Zealand. It offers a specific benefit to customers, particularly when installing new urinal systems, or in washroom areas with persistent odours.
Some of your clients present here today have been with Cannon Hygiene for the full 21 years it’s been around. What is the success story? We are really pleased to have two of our original clients represented
here today. In today’s business environment this is an exceptional achievement and it says a lot about Cannon Hygiene’s professional service and extraordinary client relationships. During the past 21 years these clients reduced and increased their levels of service required but, most importantly, they remained steadfast in their choice of washroom service provider. We value these and other client relationships and therefore continuously look at increasing our levels of client service.
Where to from here for Cannon Hygiene? At this stage our main focus will remain on the provision of quality washroom hygiene, pest control and deep clean services, certainly for the next five years. However, because we are also part of the global OCS Group that offers professional cleaning, laundry, transport and airport services, the possibilities are infinite and we may well add some of these elements to our basket of services in the foreseeable future. Today’s function has been an amazing experience for me personally, looking back at where it all started for the company and contemplating what the future holds makes me proud to be part of the Cannon Hygiene team. Together we look forward to the next 21 years of business in South Africa and possibly the neighbouring countries as well.
African Cleaning Review May/June 2015
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industry news National hand hygiene campaign launched
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linics and hospitals across South Africa supported the World Health Organization (WHO) “Save Lives Clean Your Hands” campaign on World Hygiene Day held on 5 May 2015. Disinfecting hands is a basic protocol for healthcare staff to help prevent germs and viruses from spreading. With the spotlight on antibiotic-resistant superbugs, the WHO has warned that unless something drastic is done, many antibiotics could become redundant this century, leaving patients vulnerable to deadly infections, particularly during operations. “We are operating within the broader framework of the national core standards. Let us all commit to reducing healthcare facility infection,” said Gauteng MEC for Health Qedani Mahlangu at the Steve Biko Academic Hospital in Pretoria. “We know that there have been a lot of negative things creeping into the health sector – health employees behaving in a manner that is not in keeping with what health professionals must do, such as employees answering [their] cell phones while treating patients.” Mahlangu represented Health Minister Aaron Motsoaledi at the
“Healthcare workers should always wash their hands before attending to patients,” added Gauteng Health MEC Qedani Mahlangu.
launch of the health professionals hand hygiene campaign. The Pretoria event was followed by the launch of a countrywide campaign at most South African public and private healthcare institutions to ensure hand hygiene is enforced. Health Department Director-General Precious Matsoso said patients should insist healthcare workers wash their hands. “One of the WHO campaigns is about patient safety. As part of that campaign, hand hygiene is a prominent feature. We need to have good practices,” said Matsoso. “We are saying clean hands are safer hands. Are yours clean? We need to get the public to ask us, as
healthcare providers, not to touch them unless we wash our hands,” continued Matsoso. During November 2014, the WHO declared May 5 “Global Health Professionals Hand Hygiene” Day, with the theme “Save lives – clean your hands”. Dr Augustine Ntilivamunda, Senior Medical Officer for Communicable Diseases at the WHO said “Hand washing, which we take for granted most of the time, is a simple and powerful measure of reducing infectious disease being spread by hand contact. The spread of infections including trachoma, influenza and Ebola could be dealt a blow by consistent, thorough hand washing.”
Adidas to use marine plastic waste in its products
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erman sportswear company Adidas is teaming up with Parley, a group of artists, designers, musicians and scientists to try clean up the world’s oceans with a plan to develop materials made from marine plastic waste that can be used in its products. As the result of its partnership with the Parley for the Oceans initiative, Adidas also said it would phase out the use of plastic bags at its 2 900 stores. Big fashion brands are jostling to highlight their ethical credentials as protest groups such as Greenpeace
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African Cleaning Review May/June 2015
pressure them to cut their environmental impact and improve factory conditions. For instance, Swedish retailer H&M has pledged to triple the amount of products made of recycled fibres by the end of 2015. Plastic used in the consumer goods industry causes marine pollution with a “natural capital cost”, a measure of environmental damage, of at least $13 bn a year, according to the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP). According to Parley much of the plastic waste ends up in mid-ocean
whirlpools, entangling whales, birds and turtles and damaging the internal organs of the fish that ingest it. Adidas said it would work with Parley to develop fibres made from recycled ocean waste for use in its clothing, and potentially shoe uppers, from 2016. Dutch retailer G-Star Raw worked with Parley last year to launch a denim line made out of plastic waste. Adidas made the announcement as it released its annual sustainability report, which detailed other steps the company is taking to improve its environmental record.
industry news Nampak divisions acquired and rebranded
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thos Private Equity recently confirmed that it has acquired the Tissue and Corrugate divisions from diversified packaging group Nampak. All conditions precedent were met and both transactions were concluded on 1 April 2015. The divisions will become autonomous entities under Ethos’ control, reflecting separate, new leadership and operating structures. Furthermore, both businesses have been rebranded and will be called Neopak (corrugate) and TwinCare (tissue). Ethos also announced a number of strategic appointments at Neopak and TwinCare. It is the first time that the company has actively introduced new management as part of an acquisition since 2006. Accordingly: • Kevin Clayton joins Neopak as CEO from Kimberly-Clark, where he was the Vice President and MD
for Middle East & Africa. • B rian Jacobs joins Neopak as CFO, having previously been the CFO of JSE-listed Metair. • Garth Towell joins TwinCare as the CEO; he was the immediate past MD of Kimberly-Clark Sub-Saharan Africa. • Joanne Gould (previously MD of Kimberly Clark Turkey) and Dion de Graaff (previously MD of Stanley Black & Decker Africa) have been appointed joint-COOs at TwinCare, focusing on business-to-consumer and business-to-business, respectively. Ethos partner Shaun Zagnoev commented on the transactions and appointments: “These appointments are the first step in Ethos’ stated objective to revitalise these businesses, through enhanced investment in resources, leadership capacity and strategy. We are delighted to have attracted such seasoned professionals
and believe we have the teams in place to deliver on our investment thesis to achieve the full potential of Neopak and TwinCare.” Incoming TwinCare CEO, Garth Towell, added: “TwinCare is about to commence an exciting journey of reinvigoration. Twinsaver is a legendary South African brand and forms the bedrock of the business. We believe we can rapidly migrate TwinCare into a leading FMCG business. Together, we intend to grow the brand, improve our customer experience and ultimately expand the product range.” Incoming Neopak CEO, Kevin Clayton, said: “Neopak is a robust and reputable market leader in the corrugate packaging sector. I am excited about the opportunity to lead a talented and dedicated Neopak team that, together with Ethos, we believe will inject fresh thinking into driving innovation, customer orientation and manufacturing excellence.”
African Cleaning Review May/June 2015
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industry news Spreading the word, not the microbes, on safe hand drying
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he European Tissue Symposium (ETS) has announced that it will be taking part in the International Conference on Prevention and Infection Control (ICPIC) to stress the importance of proper hand drying as a part of optimal hand hygiene. The conference, a World Health Organization (WHO) initiative, will take place in Geneva, Switzerland, from 16–19 June. ICPIC provides a unique forum for the exchange of knowledge and experience in the prevention of healthcare-associated infection and control of antimicrobial resistance. This biannual event, now in its third edition, includes keynotes and meetthe-expert sessions with world experts and opinion leaders. It is expected to gather delegates from over 100 countries worldwide, keen to gain more information on how to reduce the global threat that is antimicrobial resistance. As an advocate for safe hands and hand hygiene, ETS has been expressly invited to attend and participate. ETS will field two speakers as a part of the Satellite Symposium scientific programme on Why Hand Drying
Hygiene is Important in the Washroom. Leading microbiologist, Keith Redway, will speak on “The risk of viral dispersal and aerosolisation by different handdrying methods”. Professor Mark Wilcox of the University of Leeds and Leeds teaching hospitals will present a paper on “Contamination of the washroom and users associated with hand drying”. “We are honoured to have been invited to participate in this prestigious event. ICPIC provides the ideal platform to address health workers and emphasise the importance of
hand drying as a part of the hand washing process. In regions of the world where we are lucky enough to have running water and soap for hand washing, we must also choose the most efficient method to dry hands hygienically. Studies have consistently shown that single use of towels offer the most effective way to limit the spread of bacteria in and around the washroom,” said Roberto Berardi, president of ETS. For more information visit: www.icpic.com.
ISSA names new EMEA Services Director
Dianna Steinbach
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ollowing a period of unprecedented membership growth, ISSA, the leading trade association for the cleaning
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industry worldwide, has strengthened its presence in Europe with the appointment of Dianna Steinbach as Director of Europe Middle East and Africa (EMEA) Services. Dianna, who served previously as the Director of Marketing based at ISSA headquarters in Chicago, will be relocating to Europe with her family to fill the position currently held by Keith Baker as of 1 September 2015. Dianna Steinbach has been at the heart of the cleaning and hygiene industry for 19 years and, prior to joining ISSA in 2002, served as editor of the US-based Contracting Profits and Housekeeping Solutions magazines. In her tenure with ISSA, Dianna has directed the Association’s
global marketing and communications activities, including the acclaimed Value of Clean campaign. She has also chaired high-profile exhibition panel discussions, and personally led seminars and webinars for ISSA. Dianna commented: “It is an honour to follow Keith and assume responsibility for ISSA’s EMEA operations. I am committed to continuing and building on Keith’s many successes, as we expand operations and add new products and services throughout the region.” Keith Baker will continue to represent ISSA as Director of Industry Outreach EMEA. In this role, Keith will be responsible for membership growth as well as member support and trade show services.
industry news Rentokil offers new residual disinfection service
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s an extension to their pest control service offering, Rentokil has launched a residual disinfection service, which reduces the risk of illness and contamination caused by surface pathogens. Pests carry bacteria and viruses, and pathogens from human hands, clothing, footwear, utensils and other tools can also contaminate surfaces, posing a serious health risk to both customers and colleagues. Pathogens are spread throughout a space by production methods, surface contamination, people and pest urine and faeces. Infection can then occur through skin contact (particularly through cuts or wounds), or by consuming contaminated food or water. Rodents, insects and birds can carry a range of disease causing pathogens including salmonella, hantavirus, leptosprosis and E.Coli. Rentokil Pest Control’s new residual disinfection service uses a unique bactericidal mist to combat this threat; the disinfectant used in the service
kills up to 99.9% of pathogens and – most importantly – is certified SABS HACCP food safe. Monthly disinfection treatments should form part of any HACCP or ISO 22000 compliant business’s schedule of cleaning, and Rentokil will provide documented proof of a regular disinfection service taking place as well as swabbing results, should customers require them. To ensure the best results, Rentokil recommends that a monthly residual disinfection service should be done immediately after the monthly deep clean. The disinfection service is applied in the form of a spray or mist to all surfaces, and because the treatment is in the form of an ultra-low volume (ULV) mist, the droplets will reach any space or surface missed by the daily cleaner. The product is non-corrosive, non-staining and can be applied safely to any surface including plastic, soft metals and fabric. Blanket misting provides thorough disinfection of all surfaces and spaces.
The bactericide is effective against bacteria, viruses, mould and fungi (including spores) and can be used in various premises from factories and warehouses to office buildings and residential homes. Most importantly, as the product is certified SABS food safe, it is also suitable for use on food production sites, in restaurants and food outlets. For more information visit Rentokil’s website: www.rentokil.co.za.
African Cleaning Review May/June 2015
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e n il n tio ! On istra pen g wo e r o n
10th
edition
S IN
CE 1998
One destination more than 80 brands!
2015 The source of professional cleaning and facility hygiene solutions in Africa.
The one international trade show in Africa for all sectors of the professional cleaning industry
28
29
30 July 2015
Gallagher Convention Centre Midrand | Johannesburg | South Africa Supported by:
NATIONAL CONTRACT CLEANERS ASSOCIATION
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African Cleaning Review May/June 2015
Show hours: th 28 and 29th – 10h00 to 17h00 30th – 10h00 to 16h00 Entrance: Free
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Pre-register now to visit Africa’s Cleanest Show at www.cleantex.co.za
exhibition preview CleantexPulire
CleantexPulire – one destination, more than 80 brands In this exhibition preview African Cleaning Review highlights the products and activities of certain of the companies already committed to exhibiting at this year’s CleantexPulire ’15 exhibition (the 10th anniversary of this African event for the professional cleaning industry). The exhibition is scheduled to open its doors on 28 July 2015 at Gallagher Convention Centre in Midrand, Johannesburg. A comprehensive exhibitors’ catalogue will form part of the July/Aug issue, and will also be distributed to visitors upon entering the exhibition.
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his year’s exhibition features a strong international contingent, representing more than 30 percent of the total number of exhibitors which will be showcasing their products in Africa for the first time. The exhibition will provide visitors with a complete overview of the latest in cleaning and hygiene technology, showcased by leading local and international companies. Following the recent launch and roadshow, the South African Textiles Services Association (SATSA) will exhibit this brand new industry Association for the laundry and dry cleaning industry at CleantexPulire ’15. The exhibition will open its doors at 10h00 and secure parking is available for visitors, close to the hall and inside the Convention Centre’s
premises. The Convention Centre is also easily accessible via the Gautrain with bus services available from and to the Midrand station. Entrance to CleantexPulire ’15 is free and visitors are encouraged to pre-register at: www.cleantex.co.za for easy access. This celebratory edition of CleantexPulire will also feature an industry specific conference on the first day with leading international and local speakers offering their expertise and industry knowledge to a captive audience. Confirmed speakers include Dr Ilham Kadri, President of Diversey Care & Vice President and Officer of Sealed Air (keynote address); Mr Brian Wilkinson, CEO of the Green Building Council South Africa; Mr Toni D’Andrea, Managing Director of Afidamp Servici Srl and the Pulire Network of
international shows; Mr Pete Oliver, EMEA Marketing Leader, Health & Wellness Segments, Kimberly-Clark Professional* and Mr Clive Damonze, National Chairman, National Contract Cleaners Association (NCCA). The cost to attend this exclusive conference is R350 per person, excluding VAT. A discount applies for more than one delegate representing the same company. Contact info@cleantex.co.za or visit www.cleantex.co.za for more information or to register online. The second and third show days will feature various industry Association presentations, Association meetings as well as business presentations. There is no charge to attend these informative and educational presentations. Further details are available at: www.cleantex.co.za.
Be sure to diarise 28, 29 and 30 July 2015 to visit this 10th edition of Africa’s Cleanest Show, CleantexPulire 2015. The show only takes place every second year and offers visitors the opportunity to interact with captains of industry in a neutral environment, while keeping abreast with the latest trends, developments and product launches.
Abrasivos Aguila is a Spanish company specialising in the manufacture and marketing of chemical products, diamond tools and abrasives focusing on treatment, restoration and maintenance of natural and artificial stone surfaces and all other types of surfaces with more than 50 years of experience, being present in the most important international markets.
Annovi Reverberi is an Italian company specialising in powerful, easy-to-use and trendy high pressure washers, cleaning the most stubborn dirt.
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exhibition preview CleantexPulire ARCORA International is a German company specialising in various professional cleaning segments including ARCOTEX microfibres, EcoMop, ARPAD cleaning and pads and X-LINE cleaning systems, cleaning and maintenance products, ARCHEM Chemicals as well as Artech Cleaning Machines.
CleanJack SA is an interactive system for time and attendance registration, created for cleaners and managers of cleaning companies. Dutch-designed CleanJack consists of a shock-proof handset, RFID stickers, an online dashboard for planning, real time tracking and direct communication. Cleaners clock in and out, managers have an overview with the dashboard and can immediately take action when a situation calls for it.
Fimap, an Italian company represented in South Africa by Cleanwise, is a national and international leader in the design and production of professional floor-cleaning machines. Fimap offers several models of scrubbing and sweeping machines, vacuum cleaners and single disc machines to meet any kind of cleaning need, equipped with innovative technological solutions that allow achieving high hygiene levels respecting the environment and reducing costs.
Factory Cat, a USA company represented by Factory Cat Equipment SA is a worldleading manufacturer of floor scrubbers, floor sweeper and floor scrubber-sweeper machines for the industrial sector. Due to the cleaning performance and capabilities of these industrial quality and superior strength scrubbers they are now available in Africa to provide the industrial sector with the toughest, most effective cleaning equipment on the market. Brands offered are Tomcat, Stolzenberg and General Floorcraft.
Guangzhou Newmade Cleaning Products is a Chinese company specialising in the manufacturing and selling of high quality cleaning products, namely trolleys, mops, brushware, etc looking to expand into South Africa and Africa.
ISAL, an Italian company, is the Kärcher development centre of heavy-duty industrial and municipal sweepers providing a comprehensive and innovative range of products for professional cleaning.
Kimberly-Clark Professional* is a leading global health and hygiene company with offerings including industrial supplies, food processing compliant wipes, and innovative washroom solutions. Our world-class brands include KLEENEX®, SCOTT®, WYPALL*, JACKSON SAFETY* and more.
Kärcher South Africa is a manufacturer of cleaning equipment, accessories and provider of professional cleaning solutions. High-pressure washers, floor scrubbers and polishers, sweepers, vacuum cleaners and related industrial cleaning equipment.
Kranzle South Africa offers industrial high-pressure cleaners and cleaning systems distinguished by their extraordinarily high quality, extremely modern design, long service life and economic efficiency with top class technical support.
Lavorwash Group is an Italian company and a worldwide leader in cleaning industry offering a wide and complete range of cleaning machinery suitable for any kind of applications, both indoors and outdoors.
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exhibition preview CleantexPulire
NATIONAL CONTRACT CLEANERS ASSOCIATION
National Contract Cleaners Association (NCCA) strives to provide leadership to the industry by creating a professional environment through facilitating and coordinating industry activities, by providing quality services, maintaining a national platform and influencing the environment to achieve the desired benefits for its members and the professional cleaning community as a whole.
Newell Rubbermaid Commercial Products® provides commercial and institutional solutions that increase productivity while saving water and reducing chemical use in the sanitary maintenance, waste handling and away-from-home washroom categories. Driven by purpose, our Rubbermaid Healthcare® brand exists to increase nurses’ capacity to care. By better enabling the keeping of electronic medical records and delivering innovation to wall cabinets, wall arms and medical carts, Rubbermaid Healthcare optimises productivity to give nurses more time to care for patients.
Nilfisk is one of the world’s leading manufacturers of professional cleaning equipment. Nilfisk’s product range covers almost any needs of the professional cleaning customer with additional brands recognised for their high quality and reliability, including Industroclean, WAP, Unger, Host, Chicopee, EnviroCare, PGI, 3M and Rubbermaid.
Prime Cleaning Suppliers is a leading cleaning solutions supplier. The company is a major distributor of paper products, dispensing systems, cleaning chemicals and sundries. The company distributes major brands including: Kleenex, Scott, Wetrok and Rubbermaid.
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exhibition preview CleantexPulire Roots Multiclean is India’s largest indigenous manufacturer of cleaning machines and cleaning equipment. Roots Multiclean Limited is an environmentally conscious corporate, committed to delivering comprehensive, value added cleaning solutions for varied consumer needs.
Safic Environmental Solutions is the first chemical company in South Africa certified as an ISO 9001, ISO 14001 and OSHAS 18001 organisation offering a wide range of chemical solutions for almost every industry, from water purification to environmentally developed products and equipment and represents Cleanfix, the Swiss floor-cleaning equipment manufacturer, Greenspeed as well as SRI.
SCA is a Swedish leading global hygiene and forest products company. The Group develops and produces sustainable personal care, away-from-home tissue and forest products. Sales are conducted in about 100 countries including the UAE under many strong brands, including the leading global brands TENA and Tork, as well as various regional brands.
Scentpur is from Malaysia and is a designer and manufacturer of high quality integrated washroom hygiene systems. It exports to many countries worldwide and Scentpur’s product ranges cover all hygiene environments such as commercial and home washrooms, healthcare, leisure facilities, etc.
Sealed Air’s mission is to understand customer needs, provide excellent quality products and has the following solutions for you: integrated floor care; kitchen care; infection prevention; TASKI* Floor Care Machines, TASKI* Work Stations and Tools; on-premise laundry solutions; dilutions and dispensing platforms; laundry products; multi-surface cleaners; odour control technology; carpet care; insect control; personal care; washroom care; specialty food service solutions, and Diversey Care offer you solutions from consulting to time and task monitoring.
Santoemma is located in Italy and has been manufacturing professional cleaning machines since 1980, with products sold worldwide through networks of qualified dealers and operating in different fields. Santoemma machines have been designed to be efficient, reliable and long lasting working tools in areas such as washrooms, offices, working areas, transit areas, store rooms, change rooms, cafes and restoration areas.
Sappi Southern Africa is a specialised paper company offering various paper solutions suited for use in non-woven applications. Lyocell has particularly high strength and moisture absorbent properties; lyocell fibres are suited for use in non-woven applications in the healthcare, industrial and disposable product markets, as well as in fashion textiles.
SATSA – South African Textile Services Association represents launderers and dry cleaners throughout South Africa and provides technical, training, quality and hygiene and national/international standards and specifications support that affect every launderer and dry cleaner, as well as textile, chemicals, machinery and ancillary suppliers. The Association advises and informs members and represents the industry in all related issues.
TVH is a Belgium company with representation in South Africa. It is a one-stop-shop, whether you are looking for a part for the simplest hand trolley to the heaviest forklift or tractor, from the smallest nut to the complete chassis: you will find it all at TVH. TVH is also well-known as a specialist in new and second-hand forklifts and aerial work platforms. Brands represented include Alto, Clarke, Comac, Dulevo, Fiorentini, Hako, Minuteman, Nobles, Powerboss, Rubbermaid, Tennant, Viper and Windsor.
For a complete and updated list of brands and companies visit the show news webpage with hyperlinked logos.
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educational
Dining with bacteria Most of us assume that when we dine at a reputable restaurant, it is clean and sanitary. After all, are most restaurants not regularly inspected by local public health officials? While they may be inspected and relatively clean and healthy at the time they open, during the course of the day, most restaurants become very soiled. In fact, some chefs and restaurant connoisseurs say it can almost be as bad as “dining with bacteria”.
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o do you know those areas in a restaurant that contain the most germs? The results may surprise you. Based on reports covering more than five years, Kaivac, manufacturers of the No-Touch® and OmniFlex™ Crossover Cleaning systems, presents the worstoffending areas (for bacteria):
Condiment bottles/shakers These containers of salt, pepper, tomato sauce, hot sauce and other condiments are rarely wiped clean by restaurant staff.
Salad bar tongs and sneeze guards Serving utensils such as salad bar tongs are touched by scores of people during each shift. Related to this are the sneeze guards placed over salad bars or buffets – if not cleaned every two or three hours, these can become coated with germs and bacteria.
Washroom floors Washroom floors can be home to as many as two million bacteria per 6.5 square centimetre.
with their bare hands and not always washed before use. For more information on no-touch cleaning systems visit: www.kaivac.com.
The kitchen telephone Many restaurants have a telephone in the kitchen. It’s rare for kitchen workers to consider washing their hands before using the phone, and even less common for them to wash their hands after using the phone. Any germs on the phone can be transferred to their hands and the food they are preparing, and vice versa.
Washroom doorknobs Usually washroom doorknobs are cleaned daily (or as often as the washroom is cleaned). But during the course of the day, they can become infested with bacteria.
Ice
Lemon wedges
Several studies reported that as much as 70 percent of the ice produced in an ice machine contained bacteria, often more bacteria than that found in toilet water. The reason? Ice machines are rarely cleaned.
Most unexpectedly, reports indicate that lemon wedges are not only frequently contaminated, but these are often contaminated with fecal matter. The reason: they are handled by delivery people and other workers
Reach your target market cost-effectively!
Advertise in African Cleaning Review – your direct link to end-users, building service contractors, key institutional sectors including government, healthcare, education and retail centres, hospitality, food processing and general manufacturing. The source of workplace hygiene solutions Email: africancleaningreview@cleantex.co.za Website: www.africancleaningreview.co.za
African Cleaning Review May/June 2015
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feature cleaning chemicals
Introducing Hydrosan disinfectant cleaners with G-cide™ In an exclusive interview, African Cleaning Review asked Luka Nakos and Andrea Bowker at Columbus Cleaning Solutions to elaborate on the company’s revolutionary disinfection product range with groundbreaking features that will entrench it as the preferred product range in the healthcare, food and beverage industries, as well as commercial and hospitality industries.
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ydrosan is a professional product range that contains G-cide™, a worldwidepatented revolutionary biocide developed and modified in South Africa by local scientist Toni Martin. The exclusive G-cide™ material is used in all disinfection products in the Hydrosan product range. G-cide™ is a breakthrough in anti-microbial, anti-viral and anti-fungal disinfection performance and a gold medal winner at the 26th Congress of Inventors in Geneva in 1998. The product was chosen from 52 competitors and regarded best in the following categories: biodegradability, efficacy and user environmental friendliness.
Relevance of a biocide in a cleaning product When performing a cleaning function in an industry that requires disinfection,
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sanitising and/or sterilisation, a biocide-based product is generally used. The biocides commonly used are QACs and chlorine. Concentrations of raw material depend on the use and application. When dealing with high traffic volumes in healthcare, public facilities, food preparation areas and even hotels, some form of disinfection is required to ensure a total kill of any potentially dangerous contaminations. These include viruses, bacteria, fungi and algae. In all public facilities the key-cleaning component for professionals is to ensure the health and safety of the environment while delivering a superior cleaning result. In the European Union (EU), the use of QACs and chlorine-based cleaners was banned because it divides water extensively and forms nitrosamines (non-biodegradable carcinogenic residues). Any product containing
halogen (chlorine, iodine, fluorine, and bromine), ammonia or amines is potentially nitrosamine forming. These residue-forming chemicals are carcinogenic, i.e. cancer forming, so when studying most reputable cosmetic and household packaging statements, you will discover that many of those products do not contain any nitrosamine-forming ingredients. All Hydrosan products with G-cide™ do not contain any nitrosamine forming ingredients. The product range is also environmentally friendly.
Negative connotations to disinfectants As most professional cleaning experts will agree, a good general purpose cleaning product will perform a sufficient job in the cleaning of surfaces. However in certain industries, for example healthcare,
feature cleaning chemicals Biocides
cleaning as well as disinfection is vital. It has been well documented over the years that the healthcare industry has been battling with the control of micro-organisms that build a resistance to disinfectants, therefore healthcare facilities, under the guidance of infection control staff, have resorted to changing cleaning and disinfection protocols every six months (or even less in some cases) to ensure these micro-organisms do not build up any resistance to the disinfectants in use. The reality is micro-organisms are unable to build up any resistance to G-cide™, consequently in some applications G-cide™ is used to sterilise instruments in healthcare facilities.
Areas of application G-cide™ can be used across a broad spectrum of applications, for example dishwashing, degreasing, high and low level disinfection, crate washing, gumboot washing, vegetable washing and, most importantly, for hand care. Its effectiveness is deemed revolutionary.
Significance in use against diseases Its bacterial efficacy was verified by South African Bureau of Standards (SABS) tests 1593, 1616 and 1615. Its spore efficacy was determined by using the strongest spore as a standard, by the British Kelsey Sykes test (modified) and SABS 1593 of 1994. Fungal efficacy was verified by using the strongest fungus and verified by SABS 1593 of 1994 and SABS 1616/1615. Viral efficacy was verified by the SABS except for: a) HIV in the presence of 20 percent serum organic matter, tests done by Stellenbosch University, March 1992, South Africa; b) Hepatitis B tests performed in Japan. All G-cide™ products are registered with the SABS in terms of the Compulsory Registration of Disinfectants and Detergent Disinfectants, Gazette 19999 of 14 May 1999.
Over the years biocides and preservatives that have come under close scrutiny include Triclosan and Parabens (methyl, propyl and butyl parabens). These are preservatives commonly referred to as MIC TIC, but have been recognised subsequently as irritants. Many hard-surface disinfectants utilised in general cleaning, disinfecting and sanitising remain problematical: • Phenols – not biodegradable; • Hydrogen peroxide – damage to tissue and has low acidic pH (corrosive and not stable); • QACs (BAC50 benzyl ammonium chloride) – banned in the EU. Nitrosamine forming and non-biodegradable because of the benzene ring structure; • QACs (3rd/4th generation) – more biodegradable but still nitrosamine forming; • Chlorine – very high pH; corrosive; not very stable and nitrosamine forming; combines with substance to form nonbiodegradable chemicals. This applies to iodine, fluorine and bromine banned in agriculture; • Peracetic acids, mild acids, citric acids – low pH, corrosive; • Caustic soda – very high alkali, high pH, corrosive. Some people have moved to potassium hydroxide as an alternative to caustic soda; however the product is also high in alkali; • Chlorhexidene gluconate – old technology (1946) does not cater for viruses and causes skin irritation; and • Chlorine dioxide – not very stable, corrosive and nitrosamine forming. Note: Micro-organisms build up resistance to all of the above chemicals and disinfectants. Therefore healthcare facilities are compelled to implement disinfecting regimes that are subject to change every six months (or less in certain cases), as a precautionary measure.
Continues on page 18 >>
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African Cleaning Review May/June 2015
feature Use in training and monitoring to achieve maximum results No special training is required in the use of these products. However, Columbus Cleaning Solutions has introduced its new monitoring CFBI programme that covers inception to servicing and after-sales processes. It is a managed indication programme that includes on-the-job training, equipment focus, dosing systems, auditing, etc.
Reasons for slow acceptance in the market This can probably be attributed to consumer ignorance, lack of information and barriers to entry into the market. With the introduction of the Consumer Protection Act many will be forced to take a closer look at alternative products that offer more tangible solutions to disinfection, especially in healthcare, food and beverage processing, as well as healthcare facilities.
Why choose Hydrosan G-cide™ based products? It is important to repeat the message to cleaning professionals and the general public that they do have an alternative to chlorine and QAC-based products. G-cide™ is a premium evidence-based product for both professional and general consumer use. The product features says it all: • pH neutral • Non-corrosive • Micro-organisms are unable to build up product resistance • Biodegrades to water and carbon dioxide • Contains no metals • Environmentally friendly, no fumes, stabilised and very low in volatility • Non-ionic • Bactericidal (kills in dirty and clean environments) • Fungicidal (kills fungi) • Virucidal (kills viruses) For more information about the Hydrosan product range with G-cide™ or for a product demonstration contact: info@columbussa.com.
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Keeping chemicals part of the carpet cleaning equation By Leah Waldrop, marketing manager for Afflink’s eLev8® system
Cleaning professionals involved in carpet care may not always pay sufficient attention to the chemicals they are using. For example, years ago, a middle-aged woman hired a professional carpet cleaning company to clean her home using the extraction method. The woman left for a few hours to allow the carpet to dry. When she returned, she began to experience trouble breathing and was transported to a hospital where she remained for several days.
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octors determined that her reaction was a result of the chemicals used to clean her carpets. While this is a rare occurrence, it was so severe that public health officials investigated the incident. Health officials found the following: • Large amounts of sodium tripolyphosphate, dipropylene glycol methyl ether, and other chemicals in varying amounts in the carpet cleaning solutions were still present in the carpets and in the air 14 days after cleaning. • Because the reaction was due to the chemicals, the carpets may not have been extracted as thoroughly as necessary, which is one reason these chemical ingredients still existed in such high quantities, so many days later. • Instead of needing just a few hours to dry, the carpets probably required more than 72 hours to dry, which likely exacerbated the woman’s reaction. While such a reaction to carpet cleaning chemicals is unusual, it is possible, and all the more reason for carpet cleaning professionals to pay closer attention to the chemicals they use.
Selecting carpet cleaning chemicals It can be quite an eye opener to see how many carpet cleaning chemicals are available from the many different manufacturers. A quick glance at the website of just one major distributor marketing carpet cleaning chemicals reveals the following: • 72 different carpet cleaning detergents and rinses • 11 carpet protectors • Nine defoamers and descaling chemicals • 28 deodorisers • Four pre-sprays • 22 pet odour and pet stain removal treatments • 15 carpet cleaning shampoos • 81 carpet spotters and stain removers This represents a total of 242 different carpet cleaning solutions. And while this is a major distributor, only a few different chemical manufacturers make all these products. There are many more manufacturers of carpet cleaning chemicals, which means the number of carpet cleaning chemicals and solutions may actually be in the thousands. Because of this, helping your clients select the best chemicals for their needs can be quite the chore.
feature cleaning chemicals What makes matters more confusing is each manufacturer is likely to suggest that its chemicals are superior to brands from other manufacturers. This may be true in many cases, but in the end, the customer is going to have to select the chemical.
So, how can you help? What we see in larger facilities – and a service that cleaning professionals can take advantage of – are computerised programmes or webbased dashboards that some cleaning distributors are now utilising. With some of these systems, the distributor first analyses the chemicals currently in use for carpet care. This is often referred to as a needs analysis. Essentially, it is an inventory of all the chemicals in use, allowing the programme or dashboard to recommend chemical alternatives. Some systems are more detailed and can help users select solutions with
fewer chemicals, fewer volatile organic compounds, or green-certified carpet cleaning alternatives. The ultimate goal with these technologies is to allow customers to find chemical alternatives easily, which are comparable in performance, may be more cost-effective, perform better, or, in this case, have fewer environmental impacts.
Effective cleaning while protecting health While there has been talk of chemicalfree cleaning for different tasks, chemicals continue to play a crucial role when it comes to carpet cleaning and the health of facilities. Cleaning solutions loosen and dissolve soils so that the equipment used can easily and quickly remove it from the carpet. Distributors may consider developing and utilising the software and computerised systems discussed to assist their clients with identifying carpet cleaning chemicals that are
effective, can reduce costs, and are safe for the user and building occupants. Afflink provides an array of comprehensive sales and marketing solutions to more than 300 distributors and 200 supplier organizations of cleaning, packaging, safety, and office products in the US. For more information visit: www.afflink.com.
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laundry review
3 ways to cut
laundry dosing system costs
In this informative article Brightwell Dispensers, a global designer and manufacturer of innovative soap, paper and chemical dispensers and dosing systems for over 60 years, poses some thought-provoking questions relating to cost in use for consideration by laundry operators.
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aundries operate in a crowded industry and are constantly seeking ways to reduce their overheads to remain competitive. This has a direct influence on chemical manufacturers and installation engineers, whose products’ and services’ value and price are questioned and fiercely compared by laundry owners. As an installation engineer or a chemical manufacturer, you can do little to reduce the costs linked to your core products or services. The key lies in your choice of laundry dosing equipment and the company with which you wish to associate your brand. Contrary to popular belief, the purchasing price per dosing unit is not the main driver when it comes to reducing costs. Look beyond the acquisition cost and study the entire lifecycle of the installation. To ensure that you are providing the most cost-effective dosing solution to your customers, here are three important questions you need to ask your laundry dosing system manufacturer.
1. What is the lifecycle of the laundry dosing pump tubes, and what are the alternatives? The most common pump available in the marketplace is the peristaltic pump, suitable for low and high flow. As a laundry requires a consistent and reliable dosage of chemical to achieve the best wash quality, the pump tube is
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a critical component in the performance of any dosing system. Chemicals can react with a peristaltic pump tube in various ways. Chemical incompatibility may cause the tube to split and leak, or degrade the tube slowly over a long period of time. To overcome this, check whether your manufacturer is willing to work with you to find the best tubing material to suit your chemical. Can they offer you free compatibility tests to ensure that you are equipped with the correct peristaltic pump tube? An alternative to peristaltic dosing is the membrane pump – also called the diaphragm pump. Available mostly for high-flow applications, the membrane pump presents excellent dosing characteristics, with renowned stability of pumping rates. It also rarely needs servicing as the pump barely degrades with time, thereby eliminating the need for periodic pump tube maintenance. Its thick membrane and strong chemical resistance allows for the use of some of the most aggressive laundry chemicals. As all advantages come with a cost though, membrane pumps usually require a higher investment than peristaltic pumps.
2. Is the system simple to install and operate? Space is precious in laundry environments and compact installations with multiple pumps are in high demand. Double pump-head systems
such as those featured on Brightswell Dispensers’ BrightLogic OPL systems make the dosing station as compact as possible. These particular pumps are also easy to install and maintain, due mainly to the quick tube change configuration. As the business grows, industrial laundries often need to upgrade their dosing station to cater for a greater variety of chemicals. Make sure the dosing pump you have chosen or installed enables an easy upgrade to avoid extra equipment and maintenance costs. With certain dosing systems, you can add a pump in minutes, without even taking the pump off the wall. You want a flexible unit that automatically recognises the number of pumps, to avoid resetting the whole programming. When it comes to the acquisition cost of the system, you need to consider the price of the computer software. Some manufacturers offer the software for free, while others treat it as a separate purchase. Another aspect to look at is how user-friendly the computer software is. The aim is for a simple and intuitive solution that enables you to assume total control of the laundry unit. Wireless dongles are fast becoming hot property in the industry, and have been designed to make awkward-to-reach units more accessible to programme. These devices do away with the unruly task of climbing over cables to programme the laundry system located behind the machine.
laundry review Brightwell Dispensers have taken system programming to the next level with the introduction of the Brightlogic Laundry iPhone App. The plug-in Bluetooth module on the main dosing unit allows data to be collected and transmitted via your iPhone, enabling users to generate and view customised reports on their phone. The app allows the sales manager to monitor actual chemical usage against chemical sales. Moreover, it reduces expansion service call-outs as salespeople on site can collect data and transmit it to service technicians off site.
Based in the UK and established in 1947, Brightwell Dispensers has gained a strong reputation as a reliable provider and partner for paper and chemicals manufacturers, cleaning companies, dishwasher and washing machines providers and international corporations. The company exports to 85 countries worldwide, supported by a network of exclusive distributors. For more information visit: www.brightwell.co.uk.
3. Is training provided? Investment in equipment only provides long-term value if it is professionally installed and maintained correctly. The best way to gain this knowledge is through a comprehensive training session with your laundry equipment manufacturer. The course should cover the basics for selling and maintaining the systems, as well as in-depth guidance on full installation and programming. Once equipped with this information, you should be able to programme units for optimum performance and ensure that your customer is getting the best from their unit. After the unit is installed, it is important to train all users on operational procedures. Improper use of the system will result in underperformance, poorly washed fabrics and potential damage to the laundry equipment.
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facilities management review
Toolkit assists facility managers with measuring and monitoring clean As part of its ongoing mission to change the way the world views cleaning, ISSA has released the ISSA Clean Standard: Institutional and Commercial, to help facility managers measure and monitor the effectiveness of their cleaning processes.
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uilt on the success of the ISSA Clean Standard: K-12, the new ISSA Clean Standard applies to general institutional and commercial facilities, such as office buildings, retail stores, hotels, and similar facilities. “The ISSA Clean Standard establishes a framework to help facilities assess the effectiveness of their cleaning processes using a blend of ATP testing and traditional inspection methods,” explains ISSA Director of Legislative and Environmental Services Bill Balek. “More importantly, the ISSA Clean Standard focuses on how to use the measurement and inspection results to improve the cleaning process, which contributes to the overall quality of the indoor environment and health of the occupants.” The ISSA Clean Standard derives from the ISSA Clean Standard: K-12, issued in October 2013, which provides a protocol for assessing cleaning effectiveness in schools. The ISSA Clean Standard: K-12 is based on extensive independent scientific
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research, conducted by the Cleaning Industry Research Institute’s (CIRI) Science Advisory Panel, which includes thousands of ATP measurements on high-touch points taken in numerous schools, representing multiple geographic and climatic variations. CIRI’s mission is to raise awareness of the importance of cleaning through scientific research. Its goal is to expand on existing research, help its members to be more effective, improve people’s understanding of the importance of cleaning, and influence the development of public policy. The ISSA Clean Standard provides simplified “ranges of clean” for three ATP meters that, based on extensive field research, deliver a proven, objective, quantitative component to determine whether a facility is truly clean. “The ISSA Clean Standard: K-12 provides the detail necessary to assure a clean and healthy environment,” says CIRI Executive Director Jim Harris. “The measurement, training, and certification procedures applicable to the ISSA
Clean Standard: K-12 can apply to effective implementation of the new ISSA Clean Standard, thereby extending the measurement and systematic evaluation of cleaning practices to as many other facilities as possible.” The standards are also valuable sales tools for all cleaning industry professionals, from distributors and manufacturers to cleaning service providers and can make a difference throughout the cleaning industry. “As ISSA seeks to change the way the world views cleaning and demonstrates the true value of cleaning, these standards serve as a resource that ensures cleaning is treated properly as an investment in our health, safety, and the environment as well as to the bottom line,” says ISSA Executive Director John Garfinkel. Licenses are available for third parties to provide training on how to measure cleanliness based on the standard. The ISSA Clean Standard: Institutional and Commercial, and the ISSA Clean Standard: K-12, can be downloaded at: www.issa.com/cleanstandard.
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feature sealed air diversey care
Changing the face of professional cleaning During April African Cleaning Review Editor Johann van Vuuren attended the global 60th TASKI Anniversary Press Conference held in Zurich, Switzerland. This was the largest media event organised to date by Diversey Care, a division of Sealed Air Corporation and it exposed the media to cutting-edge cleaning technology from a global giant in infection prevention, kitchen hygiene, fabric care and building care.
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he event was held at Zurich airport as the city is regarded as the gateway to the world but also the home of TASKI, a leading brand in floor care machines. The Zurich airport is also a major TASKI client with more than 100 TASKI janitorial trolleys and over 50 TASKI cleaning machines operating within the airport at any time. The celebratory event included an opening address by Jerome Peribere, President and CEO of Sealed Air Corporation, followed by Diversey Care President, VP and Officer of Sealed Air, Dr Ilham Kadri, who elaborated on the TASKI 60th anniversary celebrations and announced three exciting developments.
Entering robotics arena a game changer Sealed Air has acquired certain assets of Intellibot Robotics LLC, a US-based privately owned company that
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has pioneered the development of commercial floor-cleaning robots. The acquisition includes certain intellectual property, the manufacturing operations in Virginia, as well as sales, production and engineering staff. The business will be integrated into Sealed Air’s Diversey Care division and its leading brand of TASKI floor cleaning machines. The demand for automated cleaning machines is growing rapidly in the world’s developed countries due to significant advances in technology, labour shortages and the need for higher productivity in daily cleaning tasks. Intellibot’s value proposition is based on “hands-free cleaning” robots, which improve the economics of cleaning by reducing labour costs and increasing productivity. “This is another example of how Sealed Air is changing the game and it positions Diversey Care as the first hygiene and cleaning player to enter the industrial robotics arena. Our industry expertise, global reach, design and manufacturing capabilities combined with Intellibot’s groundbreaking artificial intelligence technology will help accelerate the development of the robotic floor cleaning machines market, ultimately driving efficiencies and business value for our industry,” said Dr Ilham Kadri.
The Internet of Clean™ by Diversey Care With the launch of Internet of Clean™, Diversey Care has taken an early and decisive step forward in making the connected future a reality for the commercial cleaning industry. Succeeding the era of file sharing, e-commerce, and social media, the next internet generation is concerned with connecting machines and devices – popularly known as the Internet of Things (IoT). Applying this concept to the specific and complex needs of the global cleaning industry, Diversey Care conceptualised Internet of Clean, a new platform that connects machines, dispensers, sensors, beacons, and other smart devices to finally achieve broad insight into equipment, consumption and operations. These include improved safety and operational performance, enhanced productivity, remote monitoring, visibility of assets, task prioritisation, more accurate dosing, reduced use of water and/or chemicals, and increased hand hygiene compliance. The user interface at the “back end” of the Internet of Clean is a customisable and highly intuitive dashboard. When the resultant data – and data trends – from connected devices are reviewed in this dashboard, predictive new insights emerge to
feature
provide optimised ways of working to the benefit of both building service contractors and building owners/ operators. During her address Dr Ilham Kadri, President of Diversey Care, said: “The reality is that Internet of Clean allows us to first re-imagine, and then totally transform cleaning and hygiene businesses from being reactive to proactive and even predictive. This is nothing less than an e-revolution and it provides virtually endless opportunities and connections to take place. The insights given by the data from connected devices give real and immediately quantifiable value to our customers and allow them to raise the overall qualitative standards, yet lower the total cost, of cleaning and hygiene regimes. Arguably even more exciting is the fact that the Internet of Clean will be developed over the months and years ahead as we are actively innovating applications whose impact can’t even be fully appreciated today.” Among the Diversey Care solutions included at the Internet of Clean launch are Intellitrail, SmartView, TempTrip and Intellibot robotic scrubbers and vacuums. Other solutions like augmented reality, remote monitoring and reporting applications will be made available as part of the development of Internet of Clean.
Macro floorcare in micro format The new TASKI swingo 2100μicro (micro) scrubber dryer from Diversey Care is a revolutionary ultra-compact ride on that delivers the productivity of a ride-on floor care machine in settings where pedestrian equipment is traditionally used. Its class-leading performance is said to be up to 22 percent more developed than comparable models. “This innovative scrubber dryer marks a turning point in our strategy to develop machines that are so productive they greatly reduce the total cost of ownership,” says Dr Ilham Kadri,
President of Diversey Care. “Building service contractors and in-house teams in retail, healthcare, food service, hospitality, transport and education can all benefit from this performance boost.” Innovations on the new machine include a unique offset feature to clean right up against walls. This capability is unavailable on any other ride-on and allows the machine to clean to the floor edge in a single pass. There is no need for unproductive secondary cleaning. Another innovation is the use of reliable low-energy LED lighting that allows the machine to work for longer without drawing excessive battery charge. This is ideal for low ambient lighting applications but more generally promotes machine visibility to raise awareness and improve safety. A unique “active sitting” driving position supports the operator in the ideal posture and reduces fatigue while allowing easy access for maximum productivity. Machine speed is automatically reduced when turning to promote stability. The design offers full-width protection for the operator to reduce the risk of injuries. The machine supports extensive customisation to enable intelligent total cleaning solutions matched to any application requirement. In addition to a number of machine-specific options any tool or accessory from the extensive TASKI trolley range can be specified. Operators can configure their machines to work autonomously on routine or
Dr IIham Kadri seen posing with the new new TASKI swingo 2100μicro (micro) scrubber drier during the media function.
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feature sealed air diversey care bespoke applications without users wasting time locating and retrieving items. The large tank, efficient scrubber mechanism, advanced cleaning solution control and energy management ensure the machine can cover larger areas (up to 5 000m2), and work autonomously for longer between refills and recharges. Downtime is minimised so that the machine spends more time on productive work.
Sealed Air Corporation creates a world that feels, tastes and works better. During 2014, the company generated revenue of approximately $7.8 billion by helping its customers achieve their sustainability goals in the face of today’s biggest social and environmental challenges. The company’s portfolio of widely recognised brands, including Cryovac® brand food packaging solutions, Bubble Wrap® brand cushioning and Diversey® cleaning
Media representatives visiting the TASKI manufacturing facility in Münchwilen attended a presentation on the history of the company and a guided tour offered a closer look at how these renowned floor cleaning machines were assembled prior to being shipped across the world.
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and hygiene solutions, enables a safer and less wasteful food supply chain, protects valuable goods shipped around the world, and improves health through clean environments. Sealed Air has approximately 24 000 employees who serve customers in 175 countries. For more information visit: www.sealedair.com.
In a detailed account Thomas Oester, head of Technical Facility Management at Zürich Airport presented an overview of cleaning requirements and activities at this bustling airport, regarded as the gateway to the world.
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people and events
Cannon Hygiene South Africa turns 21 African Cleaning Review attended a special celebratory event held during April at a Cape Town wine estate aimed at celebrating Cannon Hygiene’s 21st birthday in South Africa, as well as its 60th global anniversary. Cannon Hygiene SA, a leading washroom services provider and member of the global Cannon Hygiene network, hosted the special event for their clients, some of which have been customers since its inception. The company operates in all the major centres including Cape Town, Durban, Johannesburg and Port Elizabeth and currently employs more than 160 people. Cannon Hygiene
boasts a list of clients that spans many industries, offering washroom services, including hand care, air care, feminine hygiene removal and replacement service, WC/urinal care, deep cleans as well as pest control. Regarded as the originator of the modern day “remove and replace” service for feminine hygiene, Cannon Hygiene’s unique germicide Activap® offers customers protection from HIV, Hepatitis A and C, staphylococcus aureus and E. coli in their washrooms. During the past 21 years the company has grown from strength to strength, mainly due to its unrivalled reputation in customer service and business excellence.
The birthday event was a celebratory occasion with a twist. Occasions of this nature are normally celebrated with a cake and this one was no different – except it featured a cake decorating challenge. Guests looked on as Tobie Müller (Director, Cannon SA) Karen Jacobs (Finance) and Reagan Cupido (HR) were handed the task of decorating the cakes. The winning cake decorated by Reagan Cupido was selected by an audience vote. The day concluded with a toast to Cannon Hygiene, its staff and customers and best wishes for another 21 succesful years in South Africa.
Tracy Taljaard – Director Cannon Hygiene SA, thanking clients for their unwavering support.
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people and events
SATSA launched in Johannesburg
Services SETA Cleaning and Hiring Chamber Manager Sandra Malela hosted the event at the SETA’s offices in Parktown, Johannesburg.
The official launch of the South African Textile Services Association (SATSA) took place on Tuesday 12 May at the Services SETA’s offices in Parktown, Johannesburg. Close to 80 delegates representing the broader spectrum of the laundry and dry cleaning industry were welcomed by SATSA Steering Committee Chairman George Scafidas. The event included presentations by the Services SETA’s Sandra Malela and Tebello Mokoena, Roy Roos from the
SATSA Steering Committee Chairman welcoming delegates to SATSA’s Johannesburg launch.
SABS and Ian Harris from Laundry & Textiles Consultancy. Commenting after the conclusion of the event George Scafidas said, “ I am pleased with the turnout and I am confident that we were able to share the aims and objectives of the Association effectively with the audience today. Hopefully the word will spread, resulting in the type of membership that we all anticipate”. The Cape Town leg of the SATSA launch took place on Thursday 14 May.
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people and events
From left to right: Gareth Stanbury, Kusasa Cleaning; Neil Labuschagne, Prime Cleaning Suppliers Cape Town; Lucky Moboa, SCA; Jaco Strydom, Prime Cleaning Suppliers Gauteng and Trevor Longmore, Prime Cleaning Suppliers Cape Town.
New premises bring new opportunities Recently, Prime Cleaning Suppliers (Gauteng) relocated to new premises within Corporate Park South, Midrand. During the launch event GM Sheryl van Wyk commented, “The existing core of this facility provided an excellent base for transforming the building to one that could encapsulate the vision of our company. The renovation and extension
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of the office space created the new look and feel we strived for. Consolidating our manufacturing and converting plants under one roof, totaling 5 000 m², has provided for efficiencies of workflow and processes. Considering our vast basket of products, the layout of the warehouse was of paramount importance.” The celebratory launch was also the
ideal opportunity for Prime Cleaning Suppliers to brief clients on the new and groundbreaking Wetrok Speedclean floor stripper with a hands-on demonstration by staff. “In general this event provided us with a unique platform to share in our passion as a chemical, paper and equipment supply concern with our clients,” concluded Sheryl.
From left to right: Kementhrie Naidoo, Newell Rubbermaid SA; Douglas Burger, Prime Cleaning Suppliers Cape Town and Amanda Martin, Newell Rubbermaid SA.
From left to right: Michelle Hutchinson, Metro Cleaning Services; Mario Witbooi, Metro Cleaning Services; Jaco Strydom, Prime Cleaning Suppliers Gauteng and Mathew Pute, Pro-add.
From left to right: Sheryl van Wyk, Sandra Naidoo and Gail Jooste, Prime Cleaning Suppliers Gauteng.
From left to right: Steve Braham, Africa Floorcare; Clive Damonze, Metro Cleaning Services; Patrick Makhubela, Neledzi Cleaning Services and Douglas Burger, Prime Cleaning Suppliers Cape Town.
African Cleaning Review May/June 2015
new products TASKI offers new scrubber dryer technology The new TASKI swingo 2100μicro (micro) scrubber drier from Diversey Care, a division of Sealed Air, is a revolutionary ultra-compact ride-on that delivers the productivity of a rideon floorcare machine in settings where pedestrian equipment is traditionally used. Its class-leading performance is said to be up to 22 percent higher than comparable models. Innovations on the new machine include a unique offset feature to clean right up against walls. This capability is unavailable on any other ride-on and allows the machine to clean to the floor edge in a single pass. A unique “active sitting” driving position supports the operator in the
ideal posture and reduces fatigue while allowing easy access for maximum productivity. Machine speed is automatically reduced when turning to promote stability. The machine supports extensive customisation to enable intelligent total cleaning solutions matched to any application requirement. In addition to a number of machinespecific options any tool or accessory from the extensive TASKI trolley range can be specified. Operators can configure their machines to work autonomously on routine or bespoke applications. The large tank, efficient scrubber mechanism, advanced cleaning
solution control and energy management ensure the machine can cover larger areas, up to 5 000m2. The ultra-compact design and tricycle-style configuration promotes maneuverability and agility in confined and congested areas. For more information visit: www.diversey.com.
New innovation proves effective in controlling public urinating Groups in Hamburg, Germany recently started introducing “hydrophobic” paint on areas of the city’s busy nightclub district, aimed at deterring late-night revelers from urinating in public, according to the Bloomberg Washington Post. The paint makes the urine bounce back on the unsuspecting individual. The move has generated international attention, and led Australian lawmakers to publicly discuss whether to import the concept.
Originally developed by vehicle manufacturer Nissan to keep cars clean from dirt, the water-repellent paint acts as a reflector. The St Pauli red-light district in Hamburg, where the idea was first implemented, is known for its rampant parties and alcohol excesses. The alcohol consumption has certainly fueled spending in the popular district, but it has also led to revelers urinating in public against the
walls of houses and shops. Public urinating in Hamburg has now become a serious risk as only some of the painted walls have warning signs. A fun night may now end with wet pants, according to state broadcaster NDR. However, it costs about $700 to cover six square metres with urine-repelling paint, which has raised questions about the idea’s efficiency.
Fast and easy non-hazardous floor stripping Wetrok Speedclean is said to be the first non-hazardous polymer floorstripper designed for use with an auto scrubber. The product can reduce polymer floor coating stripping by up to 75 percent and a single person can now perform this task. Speed clean is neutral based therefore no neutralisation and repeated floor rinsing is required. Stripping is
performed with one pass by an auto scrubber, filled with clean water and fitted with a blue pad. Regarded as a quantum leap in floor stripping Wetrok Speedclean was developed specifically for the previously time consuming removal of protective films/coatings on floors utilising a auto scrubber rather than the traditional single disk machine.
African Cleaning Review May/June 2015
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new products Solar powered washrooms on wheels keep neighbourhood clean The streets in San Francisco’s Tenderloin neighbourhood, blocks away from fancy stores and long lines of tourists waiting for cable cars, have been cleaner since solar-powered washrooms started rolling in four afternoons a week. The mobile washrooms on wheels, used particularly by the neighbourhood’s homeless population, are guarded by attendants and have been so successful that city officials say Portland in Oregon, Honolulu and New York have inquired about them in seeking solutions for similar sanitation problems. Supporters of the portable pit stops say having accessible public washrooms has made the neighbourhood, known for crime, homelessness and poverty, more livable.
Two portable toilets with sinks are mounted on a trailer and transported in by pickup trucks Tuesday to Friday to three spots near soup kitchens and park areas that attract large clusters of people. They are dropped off at 14h00 and removed at 21h00 to be cleaned.
Attendants working for a non-profit organisation contracted by the city ensure the portable washrooms stay sanitary and keep them stocked with toilet paper, air freshener, soap, paper towels and seat covers. They also give users a courtesy knock after five minutes.