African Cleaning Review MayJune'16 issue by African Cleaning Review

PROMOTING PROFESSIONAL HYGIENE AND CLEANING

May/June 2016 | R46.00 (incl. VAT)

SCA TORK interview Hard floor care tips ISSA/Interclean Amsterdam Managing multi-site facilities via cloud

contents MAY/JUNE 2016 Vol 17 No. 3 Prime Cleaning Suppliers is a leading South African cleaning solutions supplier, established in 1996. Prime Cleaning Suppliers have spent a number of years building strong brands, many of which have been tested by the SABS 1828 and 1853 standards and carry their mark of surety, which gives the customer confidence when using the products. All disinfectants are registered as per Act 29 and compliance to the VC8054 compulsory specification for disinfectants. Prime Cleaning Suppliers’ complete cleaning solutions covers paper products/dispensers, cleaning chemicals/disinfectants, floor care machines and cleaning sundries. Prime Cleaning Suppliers have an ongoing commitment to ensure the best longterm solution to their customer and represent the following brands: Aquarius, Kleenex, Scott, Wetrok, Wypall, and Rubbermaid Commercial Products.

Interview

Catarina Wickström, SCA MEIA VP – Product and Marketing

Industry News

Advertorial

Educational

Self-cleaning aircraft toilets of the future Corporate transaction to bolster use of occupational skincare range Night shift CBD cleaning programme launched Newell Brands announces completion of Newell Rubbermaid and Jarden Corporation combination Winner of ‘most hygienic way to dry your hands’ essay competition announced 2017 WFBSC conference scheduled for Germany Forum Pulire to explore the future of cleaning Consecutive top service provider accolade for Goscor Cleaning Equipment

Selecting the correct hand protection for the job at hand Hygiene in the changing office environment – report

Features

Hard floor care – Floor care tips and a South African perspective ISSA/Interclean – increasing role of technology reflected at show

12 16

Pest Control Review

People and Events

New Products

New appointment at Matco New African alliance partner for ISSA SA cleaning association well represented in Amsterdam New scrubber-dryer meets need for more effective cleaning Super concentrates portion control Blending multi-purpose functionality with hygienic design

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.

July/August issue

• Healthcare facility hygiene • Waste management

• Automotive wash systems • High-access cleaning

FM Review

Refined and enhanced online pest control reporting and auditing system

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.

September/October issue

Managing multi-site facilities via the cloud New app introduces cashless parking at facilities Lighting solutions for healthcare facilities Cape CBD set for R8 billion construction boom

@AfricanCleanRev Publishing Editor: Johann van Vuuren +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

Upcoming Features

Laundry Review

Operating an on-premises laundry in the digital age

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

November/December issue • Aircare • Sustainable cleaning

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African Cleaning Review May/June 2016

from the editor

interview

SCA targets South African market direct In a move to bolster its operations in Africa, SCA officially entered the

Technology showcase broadens the mind

South African market on 1 April this year by establishing an office in Bryanston, Johannesburg. However, the local market is not totally new to SCA as it previously distributed its products through Sealed Air and also

Having recently returned from the biennial ISSA/ Interclean, which was held in Amsterdam, I must admit that I was delighted to witness the increased number of African cleaning professionals who attended the show, with the bulk of numbers coming from South Africa. I have always maintained that in order to grasp a complete understanding of the broader professional cleaning and hygiene industry, a visit to the European showcase is a must – this is where global issues are addressed and where the latest technology is unveiled and demonstrated. In the South African context, the show is always eagerly awaited because it means that the local industry will be introduced to brand new technology as a direct result of South African visitors having sourced products that are deemed innovative for the South African market – from here, it will be introduced to other African markets. In this issue of African Cleaning Review, we offer you a comprehensive overview of the latest product and technology offering that drew the attention of more than 30 000 visitors from across the globe. We also provide an overview of the massive infrastructure development taking place in Cape Town, which is said to outpace other metros throughout the country. This comes as welcomed news, particularly at a time when the weakening economy creates regular headline news. Developments of this nature equates to mounting requirements for cleaning and hygiene that will ultimately enhance and further develop the scope of the professional cleaning sector. Enjoy the read.

had a joint-venture agreement with Nampak for fast-moving consumer goods (FMCG) products. The SCA Group is best known as a leading global producer and developer of sustainable personal care, tissue and forest products. Sales are conducted in about 100 countries under many strong brands, including leading global bands TENA and TORK. African Cleaning Review Editor Johann van Vuuren caught up with SCA MEIA Vice President, Product and Marketing, Catarina Wickström during the recent ISSA/Interclean exhibition in Amsterdam. Here’s what Wickström had to say about the South African market:

e are implementing a new approach in South Africa. Previously our business model was based on the appointment of more or less one distributor per country, as countries outside of Europe and the US were regarded as export business with affairs conducted directly from Europe. However, we soon realised that South Africa is the largest single market for ‘away from home’ tissue in Africa and therefore was offering huge potential. It was consequently not possible to capture the market effectively by operating remotely and through a single distributor. The strategic decision was made to identify regional and market segment partners that we would like to work with, to then support them with the necessary back up and product training in order to create and bolster our own

identity in South Africa. Our ambition is certainly to grow and to become an important player in the region. The vision is to establish a number of distributors in the major regions. We have already earmarked a number of potential distributors in various regions to get the ball rolling. We have established our first logistics solutions and have identified a suitable product range that will complement and enhance the washroom market. When approaching distributors, we are not looking for exclusivity – as this will be an unrealistic expectation in such a mature market. You may well find distributers that are not traditional tissue distributors do qualify, as the advantage lies in the training and product education offered by us. We believe that we are bringing innovative hygiene solutions and systems to the South African market.

interview We don’t simply sell toilet paper and wipes. We are firstly a hygiene solutions provider and we want to become a trusted partner, by educating customers and end users in all aspects of facility hygiene awareness. For instance, one of the projects that we are launching at the show is a TORK global trend report based on research conducted among 8 000 respondents worldwide.We looked at many countries and studied 12 cities in particular as to how hygiene affects people in the office environment and how the changing office landscape of the modern workplace affects employees. We have also developed hygiene solutions in childcare environments by creating an app called ‘Ella’s handwashing adventure’, specifically aimed at hygiene awareness for children between three to five years of age. In addition, we are about to launch the ‘MAX’ educational package aimed at slightly older children, and the ‘Trend’ report

package particularly for adults and workspaces. We are also able to provide our clients solutions with sustainability in mind. Our dispensers offer control systems, a new toilet system called ‘smart one’ offers a saving of 40 percent on consumption, while ‘express nap’, a napkin dispensing system, offers savings of 25 percent in paper consumption, all aimed at saving the environment. Although we started off with a relatively small team, I look forward to the challenge in South Africa. I am confident that our unique hygiene approach will pave the way to growth and to become an important competitor in the region.

Catarina Wickström sales during 2015 amounted to approximately Euro12.3bn. SCA is considered a benchmark

SCA is a leading global hygiene and forest

in sustainability and has been named one

products company. The Group develops and

of the world’s most ethical companies. SCA

produces sustainable personal care, tissue

was founded in 1929, has its headquarters in

and forest products. As Europe’s largest

Stockholm, Sweden, and is listed on NASDAQ

private forest owner, SCA places considerable

OMX Stockholm.

emphasis on sustainable forest management. The Group employs about 44 000 people and

For more information, visit: www.torkmeia.com

African Cleaning Review May/June 2016

industry news Self-cleaning aircraft toilets of the future

he US aircraft manufacturer, Boeing recently announced it has filed a patent on a prototype that uses ultraviolet (UV) light to kill 99.99 percent of all toilet germs, within three seconds, after every use. With the introduction of UV-light technology, Boeing hopes to change a common perception that toilets are

one of the most unsanitary places on an aircraft. Boeing engineers say that this innovation can minimise the growth and potential transmission of micro-organisms. “We’re trying to alleviate the anxiety we all face when using a washroom that gets a workout during a flight,” says Jeanne Yu, Boeing Commercial Airplanes Director of Environmental Performance, in a statement. Although the company statement says that the “Far UV” light is not harmful to people, it would be activated only when the toilet is unoccupied.

“In the prototype, we position the lights throughout the lavatory so that it floods the touch surfaces like the toilet seat, sink and countertops with the UV light once a person exits the toilet. This sanitising even helps eliminate odours.” Boeing further says that the prototype would lift and close the toilet seat by itself so that all surfaces are exposed during the cleaning cycle. The design also incorporates a hands-free faucet, soap dispenser, trash flap, toilet lid/seat and a hand dryer. A hands-free door latch and a vacuum vent system for the floor are also reportedly under consideration.

Corporate transaction to bolster use of occupational skincare range in SA

he international Deb Group has been in operation for over 75 years, reaching end-users through its extensive global distributor network. The group’s Deb Stoko provides the most comprehensive and high-quality product range which covers the whole spectrum of skincare needs in the industrial, healthcare, commercial, food and beverage environments. The range provides skin protection against a variety of threats, while providing specialised cleansing options from light, heavy and specialist requirements. During 2014, the Deb Group acquired Stoko Professional Skin Care, a global leader in combating skin disease in the workplace. Just 12 months later, the company launched the new Deb Stoko Range globally. By combining Deb and Stoko’s highly complementary geographic footprints, customers and products, including both company’s research and development teams, they created a ground-breaking range of products and systems to lead the fight against occupational skin disease and the spread of infection. Deb Stoko has been supplying the Southern African industrial and mining sectors with a limited selection of its

African Cleaning Review May/June 2016

legacy Stoko range through distributor MSA Africa. Recently, MSA Africa made a strategic decision to focus exclusively on its core branded manufactured product range, and has handed its hand care component to Tlholo Mining Industrial Supplies as an enterprise development initiative. Enterprise development initiatives aim to assist and accelerate the development, sustainability and ultimate financial and operational independence of the beneficiaries, by assisting them in expanding their operational and sales capacity. Tlholo Mining Industrial Supplies is wholly-owned by Job Moraka, an established entrepreneur who also manufactures and distributes safety signage for the industrial sector with a core focus on safety. “We believe that Tlholo Mining Industrial Supplies will be able to add significant value to Deb Stoko’s existing customers and assist in growing the brand in South Africa. The handover is in the process of being finalised and, as part of its enterprise development responsibility, MSA Africa will remain a support structure for both companies going forward,” says MSA Africa Director Colin Oliver.

Deb Stoko’s Southern African Business Development Manager Karl Weber says: “We are grateful for the loyal contribution MSA Africa has made thus far, and our role is to support the transition between MSA Africa and Tlholo to ensure its success. The Deb Group is passionate to make hands matter in the workplace and Tlholo’s top priority is to grow the use of the world’s greatest occupational skincare product range in South Africa.” For more information on the Deb Stoko skincare range, visit: www.debgroup.com/uk

African Cleaning Review May/June 2016

industry news

Night shift CBD cleaning programme launched

he days of dirty CBDs in Ekurhuleni’s cities are now a thing of the past. On Monday, 11 April, Ekurhuleni Executive Mayor Cllr Mondli Gungubele officially launched the Night Shift CBD Cleaning Programme in Edenvale as part of the Mayoral Clean City Programme, aimed at keeping the city’s streets spotless. To date, the project has created 80 new permanent job opportunities for cleaning brigades who will eradicate dirt on a night shift basis. The eight-hour night shift programme is set to alleviate the scourge of dirt covering the city’s CBD’s and is aimed to improve its look and feel through intensive litter picking and street cleaning. The night shift CBD cleaning programme aims to achieve the

ultimate goal of a cleaner and greener Ekurhuleni in all corners of the metro, by increasing manpower day and night. CBDs including Germiston, Alberton, Kempton Park and Boksburg have proven to be successful pilot projects for this programme over the last two years. The metro is now venturing into other urban centres, such as Edenvale, Springs, Nigel, Benoni, Bedfordview and Brakpan. “We welcome you to the beautiful City of Ekurhuleni, a city built on achievable dreams. We see cleanliness as important to us, given that we are home to Africa’s biggest airport, OR Tambo International, which is a first point of entry to the country and the continent at large. “We are also the proud home of Africa’s first aerotropolis, therefore,

we highly depend on you to keep the image of the city attractive at all times,” says Gungubele, addressing the newly-appointed night shift cleaning brigades. The mayor also revealed that Ekurhuleni has spent over R8 million procuring four state-of-the-art street sweeping trucks to compliment the new night shift staff.

Newell Brands announces completion of Newell Rubbermaid and Jarden Corporation combination

uring April, Newell Brands Inc. announced the successful completion of the combination of Newell Rubbermaid and Jarden Corporation. This transaction creates a $16 billion global consumer goods company with a strong portfolio of leading registered brands. This includes Paper Mate, Sharpie, Dymo, EXPO, Parker, Elmer’s, Coleman, Jostens, Marmot, Rawlings, Irwin, Lenox, Oster, Sunbeam, FoodSaver, Mr. Coffee, Rubbermaid Commercial Products, Graco, Baby Jogger, NUK, Calphalon, Rubbermaid, Contigo, First Alert, Waddington and Yankee Candle. The company has been renamed Newell Brands Inc. and will continue to be listed on the New York Stock Exchange. “The combination of our two great organisations creates a powerhouse

African Cleaning Review May/June 2016

consumer goods company and sets up a very exciting long-term growth and value creation story,” says Michael Polk, Newell Brands Chief Executive Officer. “I am honored to have the opportunity to lead Newell Brands and the development of our business. We expect Newell Brands to unlock far greater upside than either company could have on their own. I want to thank Martin Franklin, Ian Ashken and Jim Lillie for their achievements and leadership at Jarden, and for the role they have played in helping us bring our companies together. “Our immediate focus will be to deliver our 2016 financial objectives, start the work of integrating the two companies and develop the long-term corporate and portfolio strategy that will guide the choices we make and

the realisation of the company’s full potential.” Several management changes became effective as a result of completing the transaction. Newell Brands will be led by Michael Polk as Chief Executive Officer. Mark Tarchetti will serve as the President of Newell Brands, with enterprise-wide responsibility for bringing the companies together and establishing an operating cadence that delivers the full potential of the combination, realising the synergies and delivering the business case. For the balance of 2016, the operating structure will remain largely unchanged with Jarden and Newell Rubbermaid commercial operations running independent of each other. For more information visit: www.newellbrands.com

industry news Winner of ‘most hygienic way to dry your hands’ essay competition announced

ETS Essay Competition winner Sarah Freeston with ETS’s Dr Roberto Berardi.

ourth-year medical student, Sarah Freeston has scooped the prize in the 2015 European Tissue Symposium (ETS) Essay Competition on the most hygienic way to dry your hands. Freeston’s winning essay was judged the best by the ETS Scientific Panel, consisting of six eminent professors and microbiologists from across Europe. She received her cash prize of €1 500 at the Faculty Club in the University of Leuven in Belgium last week followed by a lunch with the Scientific Panel. “Sarah did a wonderful job in emphasising the importance of proper hand washing and drying from the perspective of the bacteria,” explains Prof Marc Van Ranst, Chairman of the Scientific Panel. “Her very well-written essay will be a useful tool in reaching out to a younger audience to convince them that hand drying using single-use towels is the preferred way to dry your hands as the final step in the hand-washing process. This is also the mode of hand drying favoured by the World Health Organisation.” Freeston, who is studying medicine at University College London, noticed the competition after ETS reached out to universities to encourage students to enter. She had seen hand dryers and was keen to read the literature on their hygiene record, particularly as her studies meant that she spent time in a clinical environment and understood the

importance of optimum cleanliness. Freeston says: “The title of the essay interested me as it was quite different from the more academic and scientific competitions. The more light-hearted tone appealed to me and I decided to write the piece from a different perspective in order to engage children who would be put off by a more adult tone. I wrote the essay over the Christmas holidays, so I think I was also inspired by animated films!” In light of that inspiration, Freeston created the germ character Gerry to explain the life of germs in the washroom and the importance of proper hand drying with single-use towels.

ETS has undertaken extensive research into the most hygienic way to dry hands. Studies with both the Universities of Leeds and Westminster have been peer-reviewed and published in the well-respected Journal of Hospital Infection. A strong proponent of broadening awareness of these results among younger people, ETS launched its first Essay Competition last year, following four years of very successful Cartoon Contests. “We are very pleased with the freshness and quality of this winning essay,” says Roberto Berardi, Chairman of ETS. “It is important to convey the facts to the younger generation and to demonstrate that the humble single-use paper towel is, in fact, state-of-the art in terms of hand hygiene and reducing air contamination in washrooms. The future is quite literally, in their – hopefully wellwashed and dried – hands.” To read the essay visit: http://europeantissue.com/ home/ets-written-essay-competition-2015/

Promote your company in The Source of Workplace Hygiene Solutions! Reach your target market cost-effectively by advertising in African Cleaning Review. The direct link to end-users, building service contractors, FM service providers and key institutional sectors. Contact us for more information regarding cost-effective advertising options: africancleaningreview@cleantex.co.za | www.africancleaningreview.co.za

industry news 2017 WFBSC conference scheduled for Germany

he World Federation of Building Service Contractors (WFBSC) will be gathering cleaning industry decision-makers from around the world for their next congress in Berlin, the German capital. For the first time, and from 18 to 20 September 2017, the WFBSC will be holding its congress parallel with the international cleaning trade fair CMS Berlin. The headline topic of the industry’s leading international conference is ’Cleaning in the digital world – processes, people technology’. During the WFBSC’s 21st congress held in Tokyo, Japan, from 4 to 7 April 2016, it was announced that Germany’s Thomas Dietrich, National Guild Master of the National Guild Association of the Building Cleaning

Trade (BIV), will take over as Chair and President of the World Federation from Japan’s Takao Ichinohe. Says Dietrich: “Globalisation and digitalisation will become increasingly important in our sector, particularly where new processes and the organising of our services are concerned. For us as hosts of the World Congress the focus is on networking and exchanging views and how, with the help of the outstanding exhibitors at CMS, we as a service industry can meet future challenges.” CMS Berlin, Europe’s leading exhibition for the professional cleaning sector, will take place from 19 to 22 September 2017. At CMS 2015, the total indoor and outdoor display area covered 24 500 square metres, featuring 377 exhibitors

Thomas Dietrich (left) congratulated by outgoing WFBSC President Takao Ichinohe.

from 22 countries who provided a comprehensive overview of their products, systems and work methods, representing the market’s entire range of cleaning systems and cleaning agents.

Forum Pulire to explore the future of cleaning

he Italian cleaning trade association Afidamp recently announced that the third Forum Pulire congress will be staged in Milan from 14 to 15 September. The event theme is ‘Cleaning as an Absolute Value’ and will cover the future of work, e-learning and e-training, industry 4.0 and new supply processes. This year the organisers are boasting an increased international programme and audience with the support of sector organisations, including ISSA, European Federation of Cleaning Industries (EFCI) and the International Federation of Cleaning Services (FIDEN). According to the organisers Forum Pulire 2016 aims to make a decisive step in defining the identity of the industry and establishing the recognition of its value, especially in terms of development of human capital and its commercial importance to each country. “In this forum, we wish to involve all the people who have been absent until now – the workers,” said CEO of Afidamp Services Toni D’ Andrea. “In order to achieve this, we have established a strong partnership with ONBSI,

African Cleaning Review May/June 2016

Unicredit Pavillion

the bilateral association representing employers and trade union partners, enterprises and employees.” Forum Pulire will have four core values: Freedom, dignity, solidarity and happiness. These according to Afidamp, guarantee the quality of life in a civilized country and are totally represented in the integrated services sector. The opening day will be titled ‘Industry 4.0: The age of collaboration’ and will analyse the new way of doing business for the development of industry and services, with the presence of journalists experienced in the so-called digital revolution.

The second theme will be ‘E-commerce and integrated logistics systems: New supply processes’, to understand the transformation of the distribution channel. ‘Integrated services: New rules for the future’ will open the second day with the debate on the new procurement code, the Green Act, and the construction of an identity in the industry. The day will close with a session on training and development of professional skills. Forum Pulire is set to take place at the Unicredit Pavillion in Milan, Italy. For more details visit: www.forumpulire.it

advertorial goscor Consecutive top service provider accolade for Goscor Cleaning Equipment

Winning Goscor Cleaning Equipment team Front: Senior Technician André Jansen Van Vuuren and Service Technician Stephen Moss. Standing left to right: Service Manager Greg Boyce, Senior Technician Stephen Rapaka, with Service Technicians Tiyisela Mthombeni, Frank Rapaka, Ricky Pugin, Ken Konyani and Donnavhan Van Heerden.

Goscor Cleaning Equipment, South Africa’s leading supplier of industrial cleaning and hygiene equipment solutions, clinched a consecutive top service provider award from key customer, the Oryx Group of Companies. Established in 2012, and based in Meadowdale, Johannesburg, the Oryx Group delivers cleaning and hygiene solutions across diverse South African industries that include the retail, hospitality, health, commercial and industrial sectors. The company’s commitment to service excellence, stringent monitoring and the effective controlling of standards also ensures the provision of high-level skills training, transformation and equal opportunities within the group. The Top Service Provider Awards stem from the Oryx Group’s passion for providing world-class services to its customers – the company believes in rewarding service providers that share this passion for service excellence. “Our objective is simple: Identify the service provider that consistently goes the extra mile to serve our needs,” says Oryx Group National Operations Manager Johan Visser.

“We have been using Goscor Cleaning Equipment’s machines, which includes auto scrubbers for Virgin Active sites as well as the Ghibli Winner 38, since 2012,” says Visser, who attributes Goscor Cleaning Equipment’s consecutive win to its turnaround time. “In the event of a breakdown at a customer’s premises, extended downtime is simply not an option. Of all our machine suppliers, Goscor Cleaning Equipment has delivered the most impressive turnaround time for repairing equipment, irrespective of whether the site is in Gauteng or located as far afield as Potchefstroom or Polokwane,” explains Visser. “The company has proven consistently that it is unbeatable when it comes to repairing machines on-site. The technicians are well trained and well equipped. If the technician arrives, we consider it done. I am guaranteed of having either a repaired machine or a loan unit.” Visser cites the Goscor Cleaning Equipment’s Service Manager Greg Boyce and Service Coordinator Mvelo Msimang for their commitment in providing above customary services and excellent communication skills. “Goscor Cleaning Equipment has a star in Mvelo. If I need an answer I call her as she always has her finger on the pulse of the operation – hats off to Greg and his service team!” Expressing his team’s pride in once again receiving this prestigious award, Boyce states: “We share the same vision as the Oryx Group of Companies, namely to create successful, long-term partnerships with both customers and suppliers in the cleaning, hygiene and allied environment. Recognition as top service provider for such a renowned group bears testament to the dedication, professionalism and innovation Goscor Cleaning Equipment has shown through consistent, on-time product and service delivery.” Goscor Cleaning Equipment, part of the Goscor Group of Companies, and previously known as Tennant SA, boasts 32 years’ experience in the cleaning industry, focusing on providing complete, superior quality sales and rental of industrial cleaning equipment solutions to mines and industries in the Southern African and Southern African Development Community (SADC) markets.

African Cleaning Review May/June 2016

educational

Selecting the correct hand protection for the job at hand

and injuries are regarded as the second most common workrelated injury. As such, it is recommended that workers in a variety of industries, from professional cleaning to construction, wear protective hand gear (gloves) when performing their duties. Wearing the proper gloves can help prevent the following injuries: 1. Lacerations to the skin (cuts, scratches, gashes, etc) 2. Chemicals contacting or seeping through the skin 3. Abrasions (serious cuts that can get infected) 4. Exposure to hot surfaces that can burn the skin Selecting the right glove for the job can become a bit confusing, explains Vicky Adams, Category Manager for Safety, Gloves, and Foodservice products for Impact Products, a leading manufacturer of gloves and other safety equipment for the professional cleaning and related industries. “Different hazards require different types of gloves,” she says. “If chemical exposure is a concern, for instance, selecting a glove designed to protect the worker from heat would not be the correct selection.”

African Cleaning Review May/June 2016

Protective hand gear is an evolving industry. Preventing hand injuries and protecting workers require manufacturers to always be open to new products and new protective hand gear technologies. In order to assist employers and workers to decide which glove is best suited for them, Adams offers the following suggestions: • Have an astute distributor evaluate the work being performed and recommend gloves best suited for those tasks • Select gloves from a manufacturer that focuses on workplace safety products. For some manufacturers, safety products are just a ‘side item’. Select a manufacturer that is serious about worker safety products • Form a committee to evaluate gloves from two or more manufacturers • Have workers wear selected gloves on the job and complete a survey about them. Do not ask questions that can be answered with a yes or no. Ask them specifically what they liked or did not like about the gloves

• W ith gloves selected, evaluate them once again after three to six months of use. The goal here is to see how well they are working and holding up She adds that selecting the right work gloves is not a one-time process. “Protective hand gear is an evolving industry. Preventing hand injuries and protecting workers require manufacturers to always be open to new products and new protective hand gear technologies.” Impact Products is a manufacturer and supplier of branded and private label non-chemical commercial cleaning, maintenance, safety and related products. The company’s offering encompasses a full suite of janitorial products, including floor care products, waste receptacles, washroom accessories, gloves and safety products. For more information visit: www.impact-products.com

educational Hygiene in the changing office environment – report

he quest for smarter, healthier and more sustainable solutions to meet higher employee expectations is changing how companies see their offices, with implications aimed at how facility managers and cleaning companies need to think about office hygiene. Metropolitan areas with high population density and a rich variety of businesses and workplaces are driving the development. To understand how the office environment is changing and the effect this has on hygiene and facility management, SCA has developed the Tork Office Trend Report based on insights from 8 000 respondents worldwide.

The modern office – intelligent, conscious and flexible The report is based on interviews with office planning experts and facility managers, and a global survey of office

workers in major cities such as New York, Shanghai and London. “From cubicles to open office concepts and activity-based work areas, the traditional office space is undergoing a radical transformation. Understanding this evolution is key to being able to provide hygiene solutions that are relevant in modern office spaces,” says Jenny Logenius, Global Brand Innovation manager for SCA Hygiene Products. Employees are becoming more knowledgeable and demand more from their office environments. Managers are following suit and becoming more interested in providing an office environment that is healthy, sustainable and attractive. Employees expect tangible improvements of their office environment – from more flexible workplace setups to apps for locating unoccupied washrooms – putting

pressure on employers and facility managers. This also brings new opportunities for facility service and cleaning companies. “Trends are going from buzz to business impact. The winners among facility service and cleaning providers will be those who harness this development and help drive the demand for new, smarter office hygiene, providing an indispensable part of their clients’ competitive edge,” says Logenius. For more information, visit www.sca.com

African Cleaning Review May/June 2016

feature hard floor care

Start to re-finish: Floor care tips By: Sean Martschinke Hard floor cleaning is often regarded as one of the most complex cleaning procedures available. Normally, a whole range of solutions may be required depending on the type of floor and the kind of soiling. In addition, wear and tear of the floor surface, especially in high-traffic areas need to be considered in order to implement a suitable mechanical and chemical solution. This also means that choosing the wrong product could ruin a floor surface.

A year-round process Even under ideal conditions, floors are exposed to contaminants and outside soiling. Without adequate cleaning measures in place, such soiling can cause serious damage to even the best floor finish. Proper floor maintenance, especially during winter months, includes frequent cleaning, installation of highperformance matting and damp mopping with a daily cleaner. If floors require more serious care, buffing/burnishing or using an automatic scrubber and then recoating the floor can usually remove soils and blemishes on a finished floor, restore its shine, and add a layer of protection. If a durable finish has not been applied, floors can take on a darkened appearance. Even when a finish has been applied, simply polishing, scrubbing, and recoating are not enough to restore a floorâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s appearance due to the volume of soil that has been tracked in. The best option in this situation is to strip and then refinish the floor.

Floor stripping and refinishing pointers Before going further into the stripping and refinishing process, facility managers and cleaning professionals should consider some basic floor-refinishing facts. Firstly, after carefully selecting your floor care products, this includes daily cleaners, strippers, finishes, and so on, ensure that they are the same brand and have been obtained from the same manufacturer. There is often a synergy in these product formulations, meaning they work together well. This can also streamline the chemical selection process for your floors.

African Cleaning Review May/June 2016

Further, rather than viewing floor care as a cleaning task, building managers and cleaning service providers should recognise floor care for what it is an investment. If done properly, a proactive floor care programme can pay returns by minimising slip-and-fall accidents, reducing costly refinishing cycles, helping to maintain a clean and healthy facility, and establishing the quality impression facility owners and occupants want to convey.

The stripping/refinishing process There are several steps to properly strip and refinish a floor. The first step is to clean the floor effectively before stripping: Sweep or vacuum and then damp mop the floor using a fresh mop. Change the mop head and rinse the bucket frequently to ensure that dirt is not spread from one area to another. When using strippers, gradually apply in small areas to ensure the chemical does not dry on the floor. A stripping pad must be attached to the floor machine, typically a low-speed buffer. A wet/dry vacuum should also be employed to help remove the slurry left behind during the refinishing process. The goal is to ensure that soils and the old, damaged floor finish is vacuumed up and thoroughly removed. While cleaning professionals should not cut corners, there are ways to streamline the process and move things along a bit faster. For instance, using a no-rinse stripper that does not require the use of a neutraliser can save time. Be careful that chemical residue is not left on the floor, as this can harm the floorâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s appearance and impact the durability of the finish once it is applied.

When applying finish, remember that these chemicals dry from the top-down. Therefore, while the surface may be dry to the touch, the finish may not have dried thoroughly or hardened completely. Waiting 30 minutes or longer between applications should be sufficient in most cases, but the reality is that many environmental factors impact on how quick the finish dries. As to the number of coats, view the first two coats of finish applied to the floor as the foundation. From there, three or four additional coats are typically recommended. Note that it is extremely important to apply thin, even coats of finish as this enables each coat to dry more thoroughly and harden, increasing the durability of the finish and creating better protection for the floor.

Beyond stripping and refinishing Daily care is critical to maintaining floor finishes after the refinishing process. Many facility managers find it best to establish a daily floor maintenance programme. An astute distributor can help customers create this programme, which should include regular sweeping/ vacuuming and damp mopping, as well as buffing/burnishing and scrubbing. Given the expense of flooring products and installation, floor care is a crucial investment for any facility. Implementing a proper daily floor care routine is an essential part of protecting this investment. The author: Sean Martschinke is a CIMS ISSA certification expert and product manager at Tornado Industries, a manufacturer of professional floor care and other cleaning tools and equipment.

feature hard floor care

Hard floor care: A South African perspective In general, the contract cleaning industry is regarded as a very competitive business environment. Facility managers and property owners often focus on reducing cleaning costs, frequently to the detriment of the quality of service provided by the contract cleaner.

ccording to Nilfisk SA General Manager Gavin Herold, there are generally two schools of thought when it comes to hard floor maintenance costs. Firstly, certain property owners focus mainly on the monthly cost of maintaining the floor area. This can prove to be an extremely short-sighted approach in terms of the life expectancy of the floor. Secondly, lifecycle costing comes into play. This is where the aim is to minimise costs and maintain the floorâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s appearance level over the expected lifecycle of 10 to 15 years. The reality is that the premature replacement of floor surfaces will far exceed any short-term savings made on monthly maintenance. During the contract cleaning tendering process, building owners occasionally make the fundamental mistake of specifying the number of staff members, equipment and chemicals to be used on the site. Facility managers specify these

inputs hoping that they will receive a cost-effective service. However, the golden rule is not to specify the input, but rather to specify the output, which equates to holding the contract cleaner responsible for the levels of service â&#x20AC;&#x201C; this allows cleaning contractors to use their industry expertise to compile the cleaning regime that optimises the staff and equipment complement. It is important to note that approximately 90 percent of the dirt that accumulates on a floor surface is tracked into the building by pedestrians. Therefore, it is important to realise that a correctly selected entrance matting system will contribute enormously in minimising the amount of dirt that is tracked in. The reduction of tracked in dirt will, in turn, protect the floor surface and reduce maintenance costs. For instance, across the Gauteng province, a high percentage of quartz is contained within dust particles â&#x20AC;&#x201C; this makes it particularly abrasive.

Gavin Herold

It is important to note that approximately 90 percent of the dirt that accumulates on a floor surface is tracked into the building by pedestrians. Therefore, it is important to realise that a correctly selected entrance matting system will contribute enormously in minimising the amount of dirt that is tracked in. African Cleaning Review May/June 2016

feature hard floor care The first signs of abrasive wear on hard floors are normally evident at entrances or around corners, where people swivel their feet to change direction. Once these warning signs become apparent, it is crucial to realise that the floor care regime is not performing adequately. Unfortunately, at this stage it could be too late to reverse the damage to the floor area. It is, however, essential to note that the entrance matting system needs to be maintained and cleaned on a daily basis in order to optimise the effect.

Fundamentally, there are three types of dirt found on hard floors: Dry dirt, wet/sticky dirt, and black heel or scuff marks. The dry dirt affects the life expectancy of the floor and is primarily removed with the use of dust control and sweeping systems. The entrance matting system is designed to substantially reduce the amount of dirt tracked into the facility by visitors. The remainder of the dry dirt that accumulates on the floor needs to be removed as soon as possible, as the combination of foot traffic and abrasive dirt acts as sandpaper on the floor surface. The wet/sticky dirt can be removed with a mopping system or scrubber-dryer.

African Cleaning Review May/June 2016

Building owners and facility managers need to be aware that failure to remove the dry dirt from the floor surface on a daily basis will inevitably lead to premature wear and replacement of the hard floor covering. It is absolutely vital that the specifications in the cleaning contract are correct and are adhered to. Dry dirt, in particular, is not easily visible on the floor surface and facility management may be tempted to cut costs on the

grease – this is dependent on the level of dirt on the surface, and requires the agitation of the dirt prior to removal. This mechanical action can be accomplished with a mop, hand pad or an efficient scrubber-dryer.

methods used to remove it. Building owners and facility managers need to be aware that failure to remove the dry dirt from the floor surface on a daily basis will inevitably lead to premature wear and replacement of the hard floor covering. Essentially, there are two types of cleaning methods: dry cleaning and wet cleaning. Dry cleaning implies the removal of dust or dirt and is performed either by dry vacuuming or dust sweeping. Nilfisk SA promotes the use of a Masslinn cloth method, which is an impregnated cloth that is attached to a light and easy-to-use Masslinn tool. Wet cleaning is based on the principle of either applying water only or by adding a detergent that breaks down dirt and

In order to obtain the best cleaning results, one should analyse the surface for porosity and profile, and then analyse the dirt type – is it neutral, alkaline or acidic dirt? Finally, ensure that you have the right detergent depending on whether the floor is alkaline or acid resistant. Adds Herold: “At Nilfisk, we have made it our mission to enable sustainable cleaning worldwide to improve quality of life. This is how we empower our customers as a trustworthy partner, and why we can promise them that Nilfisk is helping to make their lives safer, cleaner and more productive. The essence of our promise to the customer is that we are there to help make their lives as smooth as possible.”

African Cleaning Review May/June 2016

feature ISSA/Interclean Amsterdam

Increasing role of technology and innovation reflected at show

ne of the most significant and anticipated events of the professional cleaning sector, ISSA/Interclean, took place over 10 to 13 May in Amsterdam – a compact, relaxed and beautiful European city with 96 kilometres of canals, 90 islands and 1 500 bridges. The 26th edition of the exhibition boasted more than 800 exhibitors from more than 40 countries, making it the world’s leading trade show for cleaning and hygiene professionals. Highlights of this year’s show included the increasing impact of robotic technology and how it is expected to change the market, and the management and mobility section featuring the latest information on apps, online monitoring tools, e-learning platforms and workflow management software. The new InnovationLab’s rapid-fire 15-minute presentations focused on the developing fields of robotics, cleaning apps and connected cleaning, and its impact on the professional cleaning world. African Cleaning Review Editor Johann van Vuuren attended the event and shares some of the highlights of an event that covered a gross exhibition area of more than 60 000m2 and attracted over 30 000 visitors from 134 countries. The exhibition is considered a launching platform for innovations worldwide.

Educational seminars The worldwide cleaning industry association ISSA organised an educational seminar programme that covered all areas of interest, including comprehensive topics as diverse as opportunities created by the circular economy; how to make the most of advances in data gathering; lease vs. buy; adapting to changes in the industry supply chain; and growing profitability. The World Association meeting formed part of the programme and served as a platform where representatives from a number of cleaning industry associations across the world interacted. The meeting agenda included topical presentations by Dianna Steinbach (Director EMEA services at ISSA) and Andreas Lill (Director General of the European Federation of Cleaning Industries).

African Cleaning Review May/June 2016

feature ISSA/Interclean Amsterdam Innovation awards One of the prime highlights of the exhibition is always the presentation of the Amsterdam Innovation Award, and this year’s winner was announced during a special ceremony on the opening day. This competition received a total of 110 entries covering all parts of the sector. The jury decided to give the overall winner prize to Augmented Reality: Suma Revoflow, from Diversey Care. It is regarded as exciting and inspiring technology that has not been seen in the professional cleaning sector previously, which brings with it many opportunities and possibilities. (Read more about Augmented Reality in the Innovation Award Winners section.)

Innovation award winners Cleanfix robot RA NAVI The jury voted the Cleanfix robot as the winner of the Machines, Accessories and Components category because the company has worked closely with users over many years to develop a floor care machine that is now in use across Europe, with many units being sold. The jury was particularly impressed with its unique patented navigation system which uses laser technology and its efficiency in mapping rooms, putting in place virtual walls and ease of use for the operator. It can clean the narrowest of corners, is equipped three cleaning brushes (or pads) and a suction unit. The 660 NAVI scrubs and vacuums independently and highly efficiently. In summary: A robotic floor cleaning machine ready for the real world. www.cleanfix.com Left: Safic MD Eric Platt (SA distributer) with Cleanfix export sales manager Felix Rüesch (right) pictured next to the robot.

Quick & Easy System from Werner & Mertz Professional Quick & Easy is a portable dosing system comprising up to five selected formulations. It needs no installation and the operator does not come into direct contact with the chemicals. The operator wears the system on a belt and can move from room to room with five different chemicals, interchanging between them quickly and easily. One spray head per user is sufficient for multiple applications. Its easy plug-and-play system allows the user to ‘foam-spray’ every surface fast and safely. Dilution happens while foam spraying. The refill cartridges are C2C Gold certified, material health platinum. The judges declared it the category winner for Equipment/ Tools for Cleaning Care and Safety. www.wmprof.com

Augmented Reality: Suma Revoflow from Sealed Air Diversey Care – Management, Training, Solutions and Related Products category and overall Innovation Award 2016 winner. With the use of Augmented Reality facility managers can perhaps go some way to tackle a number of their problems associated with OVERALL the cleaning industry’s high employee turnover WINNER which includes training, knowledge transfer, development of skills and the reduction of errors. The application can be used on mobile phones and tablets to self-train, self-troubleshoot and receive remote support through raising tickets directly with Diversey Care. www.sealedair.com

African Cleaning Review May/June 2016

feature ISSA/Interclean Amsterdam Additional professional cleaning innovations

Tork EasyCube by SCA

SpillEx from Vileda Professional

SpillEx is a disposable, super-absorbing floor cloth designed for fast removal of a wide range of water based spillages from hard floors eg. blood in operation theatres, urine in elderly homes, or to quickly and efficiently remove soft drink spillages that may cause slip-and-fall risks in shopping malls, restaurants or supermarkets. www.vileda-professional.com

LumeCel Microburst® 300 air care dispenser from Newell Europe

Tork EasyCube is a cloud-based system with smart dispensers that provides real-time data allowing its users to confidently deliver a high level of service, and anticipate cleaning and refill needs before it happens. The result is a new logic for washroom cleaning where cleaning schedules are being transformed into when and where it is needed. www.sca-tork.com

Kärcher BRC 40/22C This new carpet cleaning machine from Kärcher changes the way carpets are cleaned by driving innovation forward. The industry’s first walk-forward carpet cleaning machine features a 200° rotating brush and vacuum head enabling a 30 percent productivity gain. The BRC 40/22C provides superior customer value by avoiding motion without cleaning effect and brings enjoyment back into carpet cleaning. www.kaercher.com

TASKI Swingobot 755 by Diversey Care

Rubbermaid® Commercial Products introduced a revolutionary new technology to air care, the Microburst® 3000 Lumecel™ rechargeable energy system that transforms light into power. Designed to improve user productivity, reduce operational costs and provide an environmentallyfriendly alternative to alkaline battery use. Battery-free dispensing systems store energy generated by ambient light, delivering an energy-efficient and highly-productive system that eliminates the costs associated with replacing and disposing of traditional alkaline batteries completely. www.rubbermaid.eu

African Cleaning Review May/June 2016

The new TASKI Swingobot 755 is a small, easy-to-use smart robotic scrubber for hard floor surfaces. With its 432mm cleaning path and hands-free operation, this agile scrubber cuts wastewater and chemical use by 85 percent, while increasing staff productivity. An intuitive touchscreen prompts users through the simple operating process. www.sealedair.com

African Cleaning Review May/June 2016

feature ISSA/Interclean Amsterdam EBKF MonitorGSM EBKF MonitorGSM is a system that monitors work of cleaning equipment. Monitored data is accessible anywhere in the world because files are transferred and stored in the cloud. After you log in to the admin panel youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll see all device data and historical data. All data are transferred to system in real time. www.ebkf.pl

EcomultiÂŽ chemical dilution system The Clean Cube is a public ashtray sunken into the ground. It is the latest invention on butt littering prevention. Smokers can throw their cigarette butts in the ashtray easily while passing by. With the patented locking/unlocking mechanism the Clean Cube is quickly emptied with a special tool, thus preventing the cleaner from having to bend over or having to touch the actual ashtray. www.cleanstreets.nl

Disinfection mats

A multiple chemical dilution system incorporating nextgeneration, precision dilution pin technology eliminating the need for cumbersome metering tips. Flexible configuration options enable users to customise their installation specific to their cleaning environments and regulatory requirements. www.brightwell.co.uk

Cleanbeach beach ashtray and tile ashtray

Disinfection mats are filled with any product or chemical recommended as suitable for protection against diseases or organisms being carried into sensitive areas on footwear. Dimensions: 60cm x 90cm x 4cm; 180cm x 90cm x 4cm or a set of two mats: 110cm x 380cm x 5cm. www.dewitte.biz

Jet hand dryer with air purification

Recently Cleanbeach introduced special beach ashtrays: Biodegradable paper cones that can be obtained from a dispenser right on the beach. Smokers scoop the cone full with sand and place their butts in the ashtray. When leaving, smokers simply lift the ashtray, the sand drains out through holes in the bottom while the butts stay in the paper cone.

African Cleaning Review May/June 2016

The new AIR 3.1 is the first and only completely clean and healthy hand dryer that delivers purified blown air and distributes a fragrance throughout the room each time it is used. Hands are dried quickly due to nextgeneration, high-speed jets of air. The AIR 3.1 incorporates an exclusive patented solution of air purification by photocatalysis and offers perfume or active product diffusion spread by nebulisation. Ideal applications include healthcare and food-processing facilities where HACCP compliancy is required. www.ecodryer.eu

feature ISSA/Interclean Amsterdam Smoking Oasis

IntelliDish™

Smoking Oasis has been specially designed for customers of bars and restaurants who want to smoke. What makes this product so unique is that it is equipped with an ashtray that is placed in the support base and includes special features, such as providing light during the nighttime, warming up the surrounding environment during cooler months, while also having an option to decrease the temperature during the warmer months, neutralising smoke, and its characteristic bad smell (thanks to the misting system). www.idrobasegroup.com

IntelliDish is a management information system designed specifically for dishwashing, which enables managers to increase their up-time and efficiency. This is achieved by the cloud-based monitoring system delivering insight on how to improve productivity through hygiene compliance, managing costs (labour, water, energy, chemicals), while delivering the best performance through a unique functionality – this identifies issues then sends an alarm and provides remote, visual training on how to resolve these issues. www.sealedair.com

Kleen’Control

TemplaCMS

Kleen’Control is a cleaner and a powerful disinfectant for food-contact surfaces. The composition contains a blue dye, which fades before disappearing entirely within five minutes after being sprayed onto the surface. The colourchanging process indicates what area of the surface has been disinfected and ensures that a sufficient period of time has passed to ensure successful disinfection of the surface. www.plms-sas.com

TemplaCMS is a contract management software package with integrated accounts and payroll, designed specifically for cleaning contractors. Its unique ability is in the way it stores all information required to manage a company’s cleaning contracts in a centralised database in real-time, and then delivers tight control of all the contract elements through its modular design. www.templacms.co.uk

African Cleaning Review May/June 2016

feature ISSA/Interclean Amsterdam

VIBE

Sanipill

VIBEÂŽ, the new air-care dispenser with patented Vibrating Mesh Technology from Vectair Systems. A mesh/membrane with 2 000 laser-drilled holes vibrates the bottom of a reservoir pressuring out a mist of very fine droplets through the holes. Each VIBE refill can be programmed to dispense up to 90 days of fragrance. A single VIBE dispenser can cover an area of up to 500 cubic metres and can be used in a variety of locations including washrooms and hotel receptions. www.vectairsystems.com

Sanipill is a revolutionary mobile system able to sanitise pillows thoroughly. Within a few minutes, hygiene, disinfection and a pleasant sensation of freshness and cleanliness is achieved by eradicating micro-organisms, germs and bacteria lurking inside pillows. www.sanipill.it

Ultra safe technology

Bananas for safety

The innovative new Ultra Safe Technology (UST) from Vikan reinvents the humble brush to provide the industry with a cleaning product that helps minimise the risk of crosscontamination and bristle loss. Comprehensively tested for safety, durability and efficacy, UST products are said to be the most secure, safe and hygienic brushware on the market today. www.vikan.com

With patents in over 60 countries, Banana Products supplies a full line of products recommended by safety experts for fall prevention. The companyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s solution for slip-and-fall prevention is not only fun and unique, but proven to be more effective. Specifically focusing on floor safety, i.e reducing slip-and-fall accidents, Banana Products associated bananas with safety in order to get the safety message across. www.bananaproducts.com

African Cleaning Review May/June 2016

feature ISSA/Interclean Amsterdam SA Industry participation The South African professional cleaning industry was represented within the Associations section of the show at a stand aptly named Cleaning Association of South Africa. The South African stand, arranged by National Contract Cleaners Association Chairman Clive Damonze, served a dual purpose: As an introductory point and information centre for visitors who showed an interest in conducting business in the country, and also offered South African and other African visitors an opportunity to take a break from the show floor to share notes with fellow industry professionals. The customary SA industry cocktail party held on the first day at the stand, after show closure, attracted close to 100 people. The majority subsequently departed on a boat tour of Amsterdam’s many canals and bridges. To view more pictures visit: www.africancleaningreview.co.za

SA tour group South African cleaning professionals continue to congregate at the show in increasing numbers. This year’s group of 51 made their way to the show as part of the official tour party led by SWB Sports’ Steve Braham. The group arrived in Amsterdam two days prior to the opening of the show which allowed for ample time to shrug off any travel weariness and The 2016 SA tour group pictured in Brussels to spend a day in Belgium where local delicacies including Belgian chocolates and Moules-frites (steamed mussels with onions and celery) were sampled. Towards the end of the show, the tour party gathered at a prominent Amsterdam restaurant to discuss industry trends and the many innovations displayed at this year’s exhibition but also to get to know fellow industry professionals on a social level. Amid the global economic slowdown, the scope of the exhibition continues to surprise and the era of labelling it as an entirely floor care equipment showcase is definitely over. It has transformed itself into the event on the worldwide professional cleaning diary where new products and innovations are launched to a global audience. Various tried-and-tested cleaning and hygiene solutions were introduced with relevance to a multitude of industries serious about maintaining a healthy workplace environment. In terms of development, ‘The Internet of Things’ is certainly where the industry is heading in providing real-time and measured value to clients, including contractors, suppliers, facility owners and managers. For those who are considering visiting the next exhibition in 2018, you won’t be disappointed. It is an invaluable learning curve and remains a source of inspiration for cleaning professionals.

African Cleaning Review May/June 2016

laundry review

Operating an on-premises laundry in the digital age

dvanced controls, remote monitoring, automatic warning e-mails and maintenance reminders, innovations including spray rinse and over-dry prevention – welcome to the future of on-premise laundries (OPLs) in the digital age. The advancements in technology, and the way in which on-premises laundry facilities operate, have changed significantly during the past 20 years – even during the past year, according to this abridged article by Bill Brooks, which is published on greenlodgingnews.com With these technology innovations and advancements, the laundry industry has responded to a more sophisticated OPL and tech-savvy laundry manager. In return, managers are experiencing reduced costs, increased efficiencies and throughput, and extended linen life.

Advanced controls and wireless networking Today’s OPL managers are looking for unprecedented control of their entire laundry facility, increased throughput and maximum efficiency. Laundry equipment with an advanced control system allows managers to gather machine performance and maintenance data. OPL managers who use this feature can instantly access machine service history logs, receive error notifications, view

African Cleaning Review May/June 2016

performance reports and execute many other time- and money-saving tasks. Managers can pull a report, review actual drain and fill times, or even maximum temperatures reached, and use this data to make modifications to their operations. OPL managers at National Health Care in the US, recently installed equipment with advanced control technologies. “Using machines with advanced controls is unbelievably easier than anything I’ve ever worked with,” says Ron Murphy, Operations Manager, National Health Care. “Anything I need to know about the machine, it tells me, from any computer where I access the information. I don’t have to babysit the machine; it alerts me to the issue instantly.” Wireless networking services allows managers to monitor their entire operation off-site from any internetconnected computer, while giving them the ability remotely monitor multiple machines and locations for optimal efficiency. This will then time and money as it makes the monitoring process much easier.

Spray-rinse technology Another innovation changing the face of the OPL, extending the life of linens and increasing utility and water savings is the introduction of spray-rinse technology.

Hotel managers know that the number one priority in reaching guest satisfaction is ensuring bed comfort, particularly with soft and comfortable linens. When caring for hotel linens, effective rinsing is a must. If chemicals remain on linens during the drying process, the heat will cause them to yellow over time. Additionally, the residue left behind can cause linens to become stiff and rough, which negates the purpose of the original investment. Spray-rinse technology leaves up to 22 percent less residual wash chemistry in the load compared to machines that utilise bath rinses alone. Unlike bath rinses, which only dilute wash chemistry, unique spray-rinse technology pulls chemicals through the load and down the drain, ultimately providing superior rinsing results. Spray-rinse technology also decreases cycle rinse time by up to 12 percent, increasing throughput and decreasing water consumption.

G-Force extraction To further reduce the possibility of wash chemicals remaining in linens during the drying process, operators should consider investing in a washer-extractor with 400 G-Force extraction. This will remove the maximum amount of final rinse water from the load.

laundry review The Hampton Inn Suites recently invested in washer-extractors with 400 G-Force capabilities. Says Matthew Barton, General Manager at the Hampton Inn: “The nice thing with these new machines is the extraction rate, so they definitely extract a lot more water than the old machines.” He explains that by “using advanced controls, we’re not doing laundry through all hours of the day, all hours of the night. It’s a very efficient system that really does get the job done in a timely manner.”

Over-dry prevention methods Extending the life of hotel linens also becomes a priority during the drying process. Over-dry prevention technology features sensors that run the entire length of the tumble dryer lifter and connect to a rotary transfer switch. This switch sends the signal to the control and enables the system to sense dryness levels thousands of times per second. The result is incredible accuracy and reduced drying time per load

because the dryer will automatically shut off once it has reached the precise level of dryness. Another common problem when drying bedding is the balling or roping of linens. When linens ball up, the outside of the ball dries (often over-drying), while the centre remains damp. Typically, this error is not caught until after linens are removed, which decreases productivity and increases labour expenses. By utilising a dryer with reversing technology, operators can prevent linens from balling up and ensure an even dry. By using this feature, laundry managers can decrease both utility and labour costs as well as preserve their linen investment. Josh Steinhardt, UniMac Regional Sales Manager for the Boulder Hampton Inn, says that the largest cost in the entire operation boils down to the labour costs of how long it takes to process. “This facility is processing the same amount of linens in six and a half hours compared to the eight hours it took them previously. So between the speed

of the washers and the speed of the dryers, it allows them to process faster than anyone else can allow them to process. That means through the course of the year, you can save thousands, sometimes tens of thousands in dollars.” Combining industry-leading laundry technology with superior-quality laundry equipment works to ensure an OPL moves into a more sophisticated, techsavvy environment. Innovations such as advanced controls, wireless networking, spray-rinse technologies and over-dry prevention methods combine to ensure optimal care of hotel linens, which heightens customer satisfaction and minimises operating costs. “Our laundry comes out very clean every time,” says Barton. “The guests really want that soft, clean linen and we’re able to deliver on that with the advanced technology we have installed.” Bill Brooks is the National Sales Manager for UniMac, a leading provider of on-premises laundry equipment. For more information on UniMac, visit UniMac.com/OPL101

African Cleaning Review May/June 2016

facilities management review

Managing multi-site facilities via the cloud Consuming less energy, improving occupant comfort and productivity, reducing equipment failures and repair emergencies – these are all ideal goals. But in the real world, especially for enterprises with multiple distributed facilities, building optimisation can seem like a pipe dream.

esources and budgets are already stretched to the limit just keeping buildings in operation. Most organisations have a large stock of older buildings with varying degrees of building automation controls, or with some often only containing simple thermostats. Growth, mergers, and acquisitions create even more headaches for facility managers. In this environment, activities like managing the big picture, sharing best practices, and proactively fine-tuning building systems have simply been impractical, if not impossible, for most organisations. Recently, the development of the cloud, and other technologies, has created a new opportunity for facility managers to take control of operations on a larger scale. By using the cloud, which provides connectivity, data storage, and applications without major investments, it is now possible and cost-effective for companies of all sizes to view and manage their facilities landscape in a consistent, centralised way. These advantages make the cloud an ideal platform for enterprise facilities management. HVAC, lighting and energyuse data can be read from the various buildings at regular intervals. This data is then sent to the cloud, where it is collected, aggregated, and delivered via reporting applications to both local and corporate decision-makers. Any number of remote locations can be linked via the cloud, with more being able to can be easily added as growth occurs, and the large amount of data generated by facilities becomes easily manageable.

African Cleaning Review May/June 2016

Cloud-based solutions can also significantly increase visibility into remote building performance. The old adage “you can’t fix what you can’t see” applied to building management. With cloud technology, all staff from the CFO to the maintenance director can have near real-time visibility into energy use and occupant comfort across the enterprise. Added visibility can include live monitoring of metering devices, or visualisation dashboards to view performance metrics, spot trends and gather insights. It can also include graphs, charts and conversions such as kilowatt-to-rand cost, which helps decision-makers understand data. Specific benefits for building management include: • Continuous improvement: Facility managers can see into individual or overall building operations, evaluate energy costs, and compare performance across sites to drive continuous improvement. • Proactive maintenance: Problems can be identified before they become serious, thereby reducing downtime and repair costs. • Occupant comfort: Local conditions can be continuously monitored to ensure the comfort of workers and customers at all times in all facilities. • Real-time alerts: Unexpected events and out-of-spec conditions can trigger automatic alerts, enabling swift action and problem resolution. • Crowd-sourcing: The cloud makes it easy for people to share information, enabling an enterprise to take advantage of crowd-sourcing.

Reusable assets can be stored in the cloud and accessed anywhere. • Improved services: Overall building services can be improved by making more information available to the right people, from local maintenance to corporate planners. Most enterprises will need to make an initial investment in local building controls so in order for sensors can to be standardised and linked to the cloud. Once a basic local infrastructure is in place, enterprises can then tap into the cloud to take advantage of centralised reporting and analysis capabilities. A common question from businesses is how they keep their systems safe when implementing cloud technology. Contrary to some popular views, cloud computing can provide an environment that is more secure and less costly than most internal IT systems, due to centralised data storage, governance, and control. In fact, some cloud services offer the same technology as that used by secure banking. Now more than ever, new advances in cloud technology are enabling enterprises to centrally monitor, control and manage their medium and smaller-sized facilities in a secure and cost-effective way. The While the benefits of the cloud facility management approach enables facilities managers to achieve reduced costs, improved occupant comfort, and overall enhanced building performance across the enterprise, as well as it also helps to create more productive environments for workers and customers. Source: Sourceable.net

facilities management review

New app introduces cashless parking at facilities

lthough South Africa is still very much a cash-based economy, innovative platforms and apps, such as Uber and SnapScan, are gently pushing people towards the cashless, mobile payments revolution. One such platform is KaChing, a ticketless parking app that uses licence plate recognition (LPR) technology to open the boom when users arrive at, and exit, a parking lot. The app automatically deducts the parking fee from user credit cards or prepaid accounts when they exit. Jaco Marais, co-founder and MD of KaChing, says that the app is having a visible impact on consumer behaviour, as it addresses a common (and daily) pain point. “We want our users to have a hassle-free experience and we want the shopping centres to reap the benefits of this convenience,” he explains.

“Customers feel welcomed like VIPs when visiting a KaChing-enabled centre, which leads to increased time spent on site at the respective mall, as opposed to having to quickly vacate before the free-parking period expires – or having to rush off once the ticket has been paid for at the pay station.” According to Marais, there’s also an important security element to the offering – which is often a key selling point for any type of new mobile payment service. “Users are informed the moment their car exits a parking lot, via a payment notification SMS,” he says. For landlords, Marais insists that there are many immediate benefits to adopting the app, although he admits that there is usually some initial resistance. “Resistance to change is natural, but we are finding that once landlords fully understand the benefits

of KaChing, they become really excited about what it offers them,” he says. “Because KaChing is home-grown and serviced in South Africa, it can be installed at 10 to 20 percent of the cost of a conventional pay-station system. The start-up generates revenue from landlords and loyalty programmes, as well as value-added services available to the mall and users. The service launched on a commercial pilot basis in 2015, and is available at Melrose Arch, Campus Square, Morningside Shopping Centre and Thrupps Centre in Johannesburg, and at The Pavilion in Durban.

Lighting solutions for healthcare facilities

egrand works closely with medical professionals and social organisations to provide solutions and technologies that enable sick, elderly and disabled people to live safely, comfortably and as independently as possible. “Legrand has combined the latest energy efficiency technology, enhanced aesthetics and modular systems to meet lighting requirements in specialised environments, where extra attention to visual comfort is necessary. Included in this range of integrated lighting solutions are sensors, automatic switches, LED night lights and indoor emergency lighting units,” states Legrand SA General Manager Johan Bosch. Lighting management sensors are used to monitor the detection area for occupancy and to automatically control lighting. Sensors equipped with a built-in

light level sensor keep lighting off if there is sufficient natural light. When the area is vacated, the lighting automatically switches off after a pre-set time delay. Energy saving motion sensors, with an automatic switch on/off facility, are recommended for areas with little or no natural light, including corridors, hallways, staircases and bathrooms. Legrand’s 230V night lights, with LED technology, ensure there is exactly the right amount of light when it is needed. These units are fitted with a light sensitive sensor that automatically controls lighting levels according to preset light level thresholds. Another useful lighting device is Legrand’s Arteor miniature emergency lighting unit, which automatically lights up in the event of a power failure. A key feature of this unit is that the light fitting can be easily unclipped

from the mechanism and used like a conventional torch - a handy facility when a room is suddenly plunged into darkness during a power outage. Although this removable lighting unit is small, its illumination is powerful, effective and comforting in any environment. Indoor self-contained emergency lighting luminaires are fitted with high power LEDs, with a low consumption switching power supply. These maintained and non-maintained units have a removable plug-in plate for easy installation and maintenance. Legrand’s lighting systems for special need facilities are enhanced by a comprehensive solutions-based service that also encompasses technical consultation and system support. For more information visit: www.legrand.co.za

African Cleaning Review May/June 2016

facilities management review

Cape CBD set for R8 billion construction boom Cape Town CBD infrastructure and business growth is outpacing other metros across South Africa, with construction worth almost R8 billion due to take place in the city over the next five years. The investment into new developments has substantially increased. An additional R1.872 billion has been earmarked in the past year for building within the 1.6km2 central city area. Fourteen major buildings are receiving either a facelift, expansion or are being constructed from scratch. Another five buildings are in the planning phase and two more are proposed for an upgrade.

he overall value of property in the CBD is now estimated at about R24 billion – four times as much as 10 years ago. The Central City Improvement District (CCID) released its fourth State of the Cape Town Central City Report during April, reviewing last year’s developments in the inner city. CCID Chairman Rob Kane says that the report highlights the continued strength of investment confidence in the CBD. “The public and private sectors play a huge collaborative role in driving this economy to succeed, evidenced in the billions of rands that have come into the area in both buildings and infrastructure,” says Kane. Of the new developments under way, R1.76 billion is coming from the private sector, while the public sector is investing R112 million, largely to upgrade existing government buildings, such as the Iziko South African Museum in the Company’s Garden and the Cape Town station. The CBD accounts for 25 percent of the metropole’s economy and 30 percent of its workforce. But the property development under way

African Cleaning Review May/June 2016

shows that there is a move away from development strictly for commercial and business use. Hotel accommodation and residential units worth R1.6 billion are under construction. The four hotels under construction will contribute 1 400 beds in the CBD by next year. The two Tsogo Sun hotels will add an additional 500 rooms. The refurbishment of Triangle House into a Radisson Blu hotel will give rise to 11 floors of five-star hotel and another 11 floors of luxury apartments.

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Construction under way includes: • S peakers Corner on Church Square for office and retail space • Radisson Blu Hotel and Residences located in Riebeek Street worth R1 billion to be completed in September • A new Tsogo Sun hotel situated at the old Tulip Hotel site, on Buitengracht and Strand streets, worth R680 million • KPMG Place offices and retail space on the Foreshore worth R400 million is due to be completed next year • Phase two of the Cape Town International Convention Centre

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worth R832 million,which is scheduled for completion this year Ongoing construction of the Netcare Christiaan Barnard Memorial Hospital, worth R330 million, also due to be completed this year The Sentinel residential units, worth R200 million, located in Leeuwen Street Offices and retail space at the Twinell Building, situated on Long and Loop streets, worth R120 million Refurbishment of the Cape Sun Hotel, situated on Strand Street, worth R250 million Phase two of the redevelopment of the Cape Town Station, worth R210 million The expansion of the Iziko South African Museum in the Company’s Garden, worth R187 million, to be completed this year A R70 million upgrade to the Master of the High Court building, which is to be completed by the end of next year Refurbishment of Wesbank House, situated on Long Street A R1.5 billion upgrade to Artscape

pest control review

Refined and enhanced online pest control reporting and auditing system Global pest control specialist, Rentokil delivers a wide range of tailored services to businesses by utilising leading edge, environmentally-friendly technology. The company launched their first paperless, online pest management system PestNetOnline during 2005. It was the first system which allowed customers to store, manage and monitor all of their pest management data online, in real time, and on any day of the week.

heir latest version, myRentokil is the result of many years of customer feedback and usage data; a new-look version of PestNetOnline with added functionality and a vastly improved user experience. It is easy to use on both computer and mobile device, and delivers real-time information; facilitating a proactive approach to pest prevention and control. Existing PestNetOnline customers are being encouraged to migrate at no charge to myRentokil between March and August this year, and any new customers signed up from 1 March will automatically have access to the system.

customers to focus on the key areas • T rend analysis of pest activity, including reports to support legislative reporting and auditing requirements, and allowing potential risks to be anticipated and preventive measures taken • Customised user reporting with the ability to schedule reports as required • Document download facility; relevant online documentation can be securely downloaded when required

• K nowledge and control at the click of a button • Analysis of recommendations by status added ability to enter notes, print and export data to your inbox myRentokil has been designed to increase the quality, visibility and integrity of a customer’s pest control protection, while saving time and money, and providing greater peace of mind than ever before. For more information visit: www.rentokil.co.za

Safe and secure data During the initial installation of myRentokil, barcodes are set-up on site by Rentokil pest control specialists, and their details entered into a handheld computer. All details of pest activity and pest prevention recommendations are entered against the bar code locations during each service visit. Before Rentokil specialists leave the site for the first time, customers are in receipt of secure, password protected access to all their pest control data.

Key myRentokil features • 2 4/7 information access: As an online tool, customers can gain access from wherever they are on a range of devices, from laptop to mobile • Pest prevention recommendations with priority status, allowing

African Cleaning Review May/June 2016

people and events New African alliance partner for ISSA

Manuel Cosme

New appointment During March, flooring product company Matco, a brand of COBA Africa, announced the appointment of Manuel Cosme as General Manager. Cosme, who spent some time in the UK getting to know the business, will be based at the company’s Johannesburg offices.

ISSA, the worldwide cleaning association, confirmed a new African alliance agreement with the Contract Cleaning Association of Ghana (CCAG). The ISSA forms alliances with industry associations in order to advance the professional cleaning industry in various parts of the world. Pictured here is CCAG President Sammy Laing (left) receiving the alliance certificate from ISSA International Director Alan Tomblin, with ISSA Executive Director John Barrett (far right). “We at the ISSA are inspired by the enthusiasm the CCAG has for helping raise the level of professionalism in Ghana’s cleaning market. That’s why we are so pleased to work together with the CCAG to bring global resources to their members, which reinforces ISSA’s mission to help change the way the world views cleaning,” said Dianna Steinbach (centre back), ISSA Director EMEA Services.

SA cleaning association well represented in Amsterdam Towards the end of the first show day in Amsterdam many South African cleaning professionals met at the Cleaning Association of South Africa stand for the traditional cocktail party. As a number of SA visitors travelled to the show independently this was the first opportunity for them to catch up with members of the SA tour group and to share a few notes. The exhibition stand was officially opened when NCCA Chairman Clive Damonze called on fellow Cape Town businessman Richard Brummer of Cleaning World to perform the ribbon cutting ceremony. Pictures: 1. Joanne Gould (Twinsaver Group), Amanda Martin (Newell Brands), Norman Smith and Elio Rovetti (Costa Lambrianos (Pty) Ltd); 2. Richard Brummer (Cleaning World) and NCCA Chairman Clive Damonze (right); 3. NCCA Gauteng Chairman Patrick Makhubela with Sarita Green (African Corporate Cleaning); 4. The Prime Cleaning Suppliers team – Douglas Burger, Trevor Longmore, Nealia Berger, Jaco Strydom, Jaclyn van Greunen, Bianca Owen, Neil Labuschagne, Willem Smit, Maghidie Kafaar and Archie Bam; 5. Jean de Lange (Premium Chemical Suppliers), Wouter Niemann (Hako SA), Michael Lodder (Platchem) and Craig van der Merwe (Platchem); 6. Luandi Bezuidenhout, Emile Mouton, Peter Harvey (Red Alert).

African Cleaning Review May/June 2016

people and events 4

African Cleaning Review May/June 2016

new products New scrubber-dryer meets need for more effective cleaning

Nilfisk introduces the SC500 with every detail designed to get the cleaning job done easier, focusing on quality, costefficiency and sustainable use of water and detergent. The new Nilfisk SC500 scrubber-dryer meets the growing need for highly-effective cleaning by featuring many improvements. It is said to be an ideal walk-behind machine for cleaning companies, hospitals, schools, offices, supermarkets, shops, sports centres, restaurants, hotels and production floors.

Ease-of-use and manoeuvrability are granted through a foot-operated squeegee lifting system, an ergonomic drive paddle and an innovative dashboard with One-Touch button and intuitive icons to control all main functions while working. The suction power on all types of floors is superior. Consistent cleaning is ensured with the water/detergent solution flow being automatically controlled by the speed of the machine. Furthermore, the user can turn on the new double pressure setting to clean filthy areas whenever needed. The new Nilfisk SC500 offers high productivity, with a 53cm scrubbing width; the water tanks each hold 45 litres, plus operating time of more than five hours on a fully-charged battery. This machine is the perfect tool for daytime cleaning due to its low sound level – this is controlled by a Vac motor which is ‘package’ with integrated noise reduction as well as the silent mode

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feature which needs to be activated. Daytime cleaning will enable a more flexible working schedule, driving down cleaning costs. Another cost-effective benefit is provided by the sustainable Nilfisk Ecoflex system, which allows the user to control the use of water and detergent without compromising on the quality of the cleaning. The brush can be clicked on or off. The plastic squeegee with the patented elastic strap system is lighter and easier to clean, and deck lifting is electrically controlled. Operating the scrubber-dryer has been made both easier and safer – with the introduction of the two-key system: 1. Yellow super user key for changing all major settings and controlling all major functions 2. Grey operator’s key to eliminate any misuse on sensitive floors For more information, visit www.nilfisk.co.za

Get your own regular copy of Africa’s Hygiene, Cleaning, Maintenance, Pest Control and Facility Management Services Publication. African Cleaning Review is aimed at end-users, building service contractors and suppliers of products and services to southern Africa’s Hygiene, Cleaning, Maintenance, Pest Control and Facility Management services industries. It is endorsed by all major industry associations and is a member of the worldwide cleaning industry association, ISSA. In a competitive market you need to be in touch; African Cleaning Review will ensure you stay in touch with industry trends and developments with up-to-date and informed industry coverage featuring unbiased articles and interviews. Photocopy this form and fax to: 0866 724794 to order your copy of African Cleaning Review. The source of workplace hygiene solutions

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new products Super concentrates portion control Snap N’ Dose™ Pro is a safe, convenient, and individual portioned-pack solution that is a great choice for all small cleaning operations. Developed for bucket-andtrigger application, Snap N´ Dose Pro offers a full range of super concentrates. The individual portions help regulate consumption even in the smallest building care operations by controlling operational costs and budgets. For more information visit: www. sealedair.com

Blending multi-purpose functionality with hygienic design When you scale up a bucket to hold 20 litres of solid or liquid elements, then it becomes more than simply a bucket. With this in mind, Vikan recently launched their new 20 litre bucket, a combined mixing station, stackable storage solution, transport system and cleaning vessel that also features state-of-the-art hygienic design, Vikan quality and durability. The 20 litre bucket has been meticulously designed for multifunctionality. Its optimised size, tapered shape, spill-proof lip and clever bottom handle make the bucket ideal for ergonomic ingredient mixing and pouring. The specially designed lid and bottom comprise a secure stacking system, enabling customers to double the volume of stored goods per square metre. A dual-handle system allows for transporting by either one or two persons, protecting workers when carrying heavier loads. Additionally, the bucket is the perfect size and shape for cleaning and disinfecting utensils and cleaning tools. Hygienic design principles, such as smooth surfaces, no acute internal angles and strategically placed drainage holes, have eliminated surfaces where contamination and liquids could accumulate, assisting customers to minimise the risk of cross-contamination. The use of premium-quality materials ensures compliance with EU and FDA food contact requirements and the dependable performance and durability that customers expect from Vikan. Joining Vikan’s 6 and 12 litre offerings in a complete family of hygienic design buckets, the 20 litre bucket is available in five colours. Vikan Global Hygiene Specialist Deb Smith says: “Our product designers have applied EHEDG hygienic design principles throughout the construction of the 20 litre bucket. No matter how you use it – for mixing, storage, transport, or cleaning and disinfection – you can be assured that this bucket will help you maximise food safety and quality.” For more information visit: www.vikan.com