American Laundry News - June 2020

Late News

Superior Group of Companies donates $5 million in critical scrubs

SEMINOLE, Fla. — Superior Group of Companies Inc. (SGC) reports it will donate $5 million worth of WonderWink® and Fashion Seal Healthcare branded scrubs to hospitals and healthcare facilities in areas severely impacted by COVID-19.

Leveraging its global and domestic supply chains, SGC says it is partnering with Gov. Andrew M. Cuomo’s Central Coordinating Team to distribute scrubs to various New York hospitals, as well as to various Texas hospitals in conjunction with the Texas Division of Emergency Management, and throughout Arkansas with the Arkansas Economic Development Commission.

SGC is also distributing essential scrubs and masks to hospitals and facilities in Haiti through its local operating company Superior Sourcing, and El Salvador, where SGC has a significant presence with The Office Gurus, a global provider of custom call center support and business process solutions. ALN

Laundry industry shares stories of COVID-19 efforts

Operators, suppliers work to provide clean linens, PPE, more in fight against pandemic

COMPILED BY MATT POE, EDITOR

CHICAGO — It’s an unprecedented time in recent history because of the coronavirus COVID-19 pandemic.

It’s unprecedented for two reasons. First very few, if any, people today have experienced a global pandemic.

Second, it’s unprecedented to see people and businesses worldwide come together to fight against and limit the effect of the virus. That includes the laundry industry.

As hope rises that the pandemic will begin to abate, and that business will restart across the country, American Laundry News is pleased to share some of the stories about the industry’s efforts.

LAUNDRY MAKING MASKS

Lace House Linen is an independent,

How to maintain world-class reliability, safety during the COVID-19 economic downturn

BY TOMMY COCANOUGHER

TULSA, Okla. — Since the COVID-19 crisis arose earlier this year we have seen unprecedented impacts and upset conditions take place with our booming economy, impacts that have been felt across all businesses and market segments.

Companies are being forced to reduce staff, either through permanent layoffs or “temporary” furloughs. It seems no job position is immune from these cuts.

During this time, plant managers and operators will be tempted to reduce maintenance tasks, maintenance staff and delay critical maintenance and reliability efforts in order to reduce costs.

In many cases, as processed volume turns down and hours are reduced, it may seem the right thing to do, but in the haste to react to the

Preparing to Ramp Up

Once businesses start opening up across the country, laundries need to start up wisely.

Panel of Experts

In this issue, the experts share ideas about ways to compare new textile sources.

The Newspaper of Record for Laundry & Linen Management

Key components to get through downturn, be in position for success

Lace House Linen employees helped fill a need by making 1,500 masks in four days. (Photo: Lace House Linen)

Having

Deeper

CHICAGO — The relationships a laundry has with its suppliers are vital.

And with the coronavirus/COVID-19 pandemic, these relationships are more important than ever.

That’s what respondents to the most recent American Laundry News Your Views survey indicate.

“Strong relationships foster honesty, reliability and follow-through,” one respondent writes. “Having suppliers that can be counted on make all of us better.”

When asked, “How important would you rate the relationships your laundry has with its suppliers ,” more than three-quarters responded “very important.” Almost 22 say these relationships are “important,” and only 2.4% were neutral on the topic.

No one indicated laundry-supplier relationships aren’t important.

So, the natural question with world events today is if laundries are taking steps to strengthen their supplier relationships. Nearly 55% of respondents say yes, 33 say no, and about 12 don’t know if their operation is doing anything to strengthen supplier ties.

Some of the way operators are working on those relationships at this time include:

ï Helping anticipate future orders.

ï Always trying to improve, every day, in all relationships.

ï Constant development of a disaster plan.

ï We are keeping everyone intact the rest of the year, as it was before COVID-19.

ï Prompt, on-time payments.

ï Better communication, weekly updates on products and availability.

ï Trying to stay in touch and sharing information.

ï Keeping open lines of communication.

ï Adjusted services; adjusted cash flow.

ï Referred business to my supplier.

ï Prompt payment; politeness in every exchange with anyone in the company. Understanding they might have supply disruptions and planning ahead to avoid emergencies.

• I’ve recommended my suppliers to other agencies. I’ve even given advice how to talk with certain people in those agencies to get their attention in a positive way. My suppliers have reciprocated. I’ve been given discounts above and beyond what I’ve expected.

ï Again, by checking in and offering our assistance where relevant and needed.

When asked, “Do your supply-chain relationships go beyond the sales transaction ,” more than 76 of respondents say “yes,” 21 say “no,” and the remaining 2.4 aren’t sure.

How do these relationships go deeper than the sale? Responses from survey takers include:

ï Friendship and beyond; they care about us and keep us informed,

and they help us out any time we need them.

Assistance with customer, stock control, availability to current stock and alternative solutions.

Use them as laundry consultants and industry consultants to get an idea of how our peers are doing throughout the country.

Long-term buying. Payments on schedule.

We work to together to manage ETA times and expedite orders.

Our suppliers are subject-matter experts in their fields. They are resources for training, marketing materials and market intel.

We know how important our relationships are with our suppliers, so we focus on honesty, accountability and loyalty with our suppliers.

Personal friendships. Observations and advice.

Exchange of ideas.

Friends outside of business.

We are open to new ways of doing business; new products that benefit the department either by making staff jobs safer/easier or better products for our end users. ï Visits. Networking at events/conferences. Sharing meals. ï They bring us innovative ideas and are invested in our success. ï Most of my suppliers have contacted personally and asked questions on how they can meet my company’s needs. It hasn’t just happened during this pandemic. They’ve reached out during floods and other disasters that hit my particular area. I’ve called my suppliers many times to ask about potential disruptions for a variety of reasons: trade wars, pandemics, areas of employee strikes. They’ve always responded. Sometimes those responses are, “We don’t know.” If they can admit they don’t know on some instances, I feel I can trust their “We don’t see a problem” responses.

ï Often help each other through learning opportunities.

ï Regular non-sales related check-ins to talk about trends and overall industry.

More than 80% of managers who took the survey say they have seen instances when strong supplier relationships have impacted the laundry. Some of these include:

Publisher

Charles Thompson

Phone: 312-361-1680

E-Mail: cthompson@ ATMags.com

Associate Publisher/ National Sales Director

Donald Feinstein

Phone: 312-361-1682

E-Mail: dfeinstein@ ATMags.com

Editorial Director

Bruce Beggs

Phone: 312-361-1683

E-Mail: bbeggs@ ATMags.com

Editor

Matt Poe

Phone: 866-942-5694

E-Mail: mpoe@ ATMags.com

Production Manager

Mathew Pawlak

Digital Media Director

Nathan Frerichs

Phone: 312-361-1681

E-Mail: nfrerichs@ ATMags.com

Advisory Board

David Barbe • David Carter

Janice Ayers Davis • Nick Fertig

Deana Griffin • Steve Kallenbach

Edward McCauley

Main Phone: 312-361-1700 Fax: 312-361-1685

Subscriptions

630-739-0900 x100 www.americanlaundrynews.com

American Laundry News (ISSN 1091-9201) is published monthly. Subscription prices, payment in advance: U.S. 1 year $46.00; 2 years $92.00. Foreign, 1 year $109.00; 2 years $218.00. Single copies: U.S. $9.00; Foreign $18.00.

Published by American Trade Magazines LLC, 650 West Lake Street, Suite 320, Chicago, IL 60661. Periodicals postage paid at Chicago, IL, and at additional mailing offices.

POSTMASTER, Send changes of address and form 3579 to American Laundry News, Subscription Dept., 440 Quadrangle Drive, Suite E, Bolingbrook, IL 60440. Volume 46, number 6. Editorial, executive and advertising offices are at 650 West Lake Street, Suite 320, Chicago, IL 60661. Charles Thompson, President and Publisher. American Laundry News is distributed selectively to qualified laundry and linen management and distributors in the United States.

© Copyright AMERICAN TRADE MAGAZINES LLC, 2020. Printed in U.S.A. No part of this publication may be transmitted or reproduced in any form, electronic or mechanical, without written permission from the publisher or his representative. American Laundry News does not endorse, recommend or guarantee any article, product, service or information found within.

Opinions expressed are those of the writers and do not necessarily reflect the views of American Laundry News or its staff. While precautions have been taken to ensure the accuracy of the magazine’s contents at time of publication, neither the editors, publishers nor its agents can accept responsibility for damages or injury which may arise therefrom.

MEMBERSHIPS

Built to combat infection.

The new Milnor MWB series washer-extractors are built to help decontaminate. Available in loading capacities of 60-200 lb. (26-90 kg), these hospital-grade machines are built with an aseptic pass-through barrier system that reduces the risk of cross contamination by separating soiled linen from clean linen. Automatic safety interlocks on two sets of doors maintain complete separation. Intuitive MilTouchTM controls offer unprecedented insight into your wash, utilizing full color graphic display and resistive touchscreen technology. Contact an authorized Milnor distributor or call 504-712-7656 to find out more.

Trade show in print

Every other year, American Laundry News brings you our special Exhibit in Print section.

We do this because the industry’s biggest trade show, The Clean Show, only takes place every other year. We want to be sure you have every opportunity to connect with providers of equipment, supplies and services.

But it seems to me that this year, the Exhibit in Print takes on even more importance because of the coronavirus COVID-19.

With the pandemic, all industry trade shows and meetings have been postponed or canceled. The opportunities you usually have to meet with suppliers in different settings just aren’t there this year.

All of the important business meetings are being held virtually, and this takes away the opportunity to visit supplier booths to learn about products

The Editor’s Desk MATT POE

and services.

So, turn to page 12 and visit our advertisers’ “booths” and learn about new products and the companies that make them.

There are many suppliers to visit in this issue. What do they have to offer Equipment ranging from washer-extractors to folders. Products like carts and trucks. Even rags, loops, boilers and wastewater equipment.

Hopefully as you read this, we

continue to turn the corner on this pandemic and the economy is getting moving again.

If your operation hasn’t been able to open up, it will, so look at the maintaining world-class reliability article starting on page 1 to see how to keep everything in the best condition to deliver quality goods.

Maybe you already have a restart date in view. Read the article on page 9 for advice on ways to ramp up production after a slowdown.

Reusable textiles seem to be gaining because of the pandemic, and Columnist at Large Eric Fredrick shares a reusable scrubs success story on this page.

Along those lines, our Panel of Experts on page 16 takes a look how to compare new textile sources.

Here’s hoping you’re safely getting back to work and that you’re keeping it clean, everybody ALN

Reusable barrier isogown success story

H istory and some opportunities have a way of repeating themselves. Today we are facing a similar problem to what hospitals faced back in 2009 with the H1N1 virus.

Several people have asked me to resubmit an earlier article I wrote about reusable isolation gowns. It is still a very timely topic and can be used as a blueprint to assist others in developing their own programs.

PART 1: HISTORY, OPPORTUNITY

In December 2009 I published an article about an opportunity to use reusable barrier isolation gowns in all the hospitals that comprise the Carilion Clinic in Roanoke, Virginia. It was an opportunity created by the H1N1 virus and advocated for by environmentally conscious nurses. The ability to start such a program was rewarding after having tried and failed to get approval over the previous seven years.

My first experience with reusable barrier gowns came in Milwaukee when I worked at Aurora Healthcare. The start of that program was a direct result of the then new OSHA bloodborne pathogen guidelines.

That program was extremely successful, and we were able to develop a special wash formula for the product with the use of a Sutter hydrostatic tester. We knew that the wash formula would need to be different than any other product we washed because the barrier gowns did not sequester any of the chemicals that were placed in the washer. They all stayed in solution and were available to react with any soil present.

CINCINNATI — Hydro Systems, a provider of chemical dispensing equipment, software and services, has published its latest free white paper, “Keeping Healthcare Linen Clean,” which details laundry best practices to prevent the spread of pathogens from linens.

With the current coronavirus COVID-19 situation and healthcare associated infections (HAIs) being a year-round issue, it’s important for both on-premises and industrial laundry programs to follow standard procedures to ensure linens are properly sanitized.

“The coronavirus crisis brings

many cleaning requirements to the forefront, including those for linen,” says John Goetz, global product manager, Hydro Systems.

“During and after this pandemic, it will be important for facilities to understand laundry best practices to limit the spread of pathogens from linens to hospital patients and workers, and to elderly individuals in long-term care facilities.”

The white paper highlights the impact that the coronavirus pandemic and HAIs have on the healthcare system and those it serves. It then discusses how linens can be

carriers for pathogens and provides details around important laundry process factors like wash temperature, chemical concentration and proper handling of both contaminated and clean linens.

The white paper also offers insight into how chemical dispensers support on-premises and industrial laundry programs, and recommended features of these systems.

To access the free white paper, visit https: hydrosystemsco.com wpcontent uploads 2020 04 LaundrySanitization-White-Paper FINAL. pdf ALN

We also knew that any residual surfactant left on the gown would reduce its barrier properties. It was very much a case of using less to achieve more. Our search for the perfect formula was aided by the Sutter hydrostatic tester because it gave us immediate feedback on how the wash formula was working and provided easily repeatable results.

We had tried sending samples of linen out to be tested at an outside laboratory, but the results often took seven to 10 days to get back to us. If there was a problem, we wanted to know about it now, not several weeks down the road.

When I became the director of linen services at the Carilion Clinic, I had a number of problems to solve during my first year of employment. One of my goals was to introduce reusable barrier isolation gowns to the system to help save the hospitals money and increase the value of the laundry.

I approached the infection control department at our largest facility about the idea and was told that they could not support such a program. They had a number of reasons why it was not a good idea:

• Staff would try and wear a reusable isolation gown multiple times during a day.

• Staff would wear them outside to smoke in (visually not a good thing).

• The laundry would not be able to keep up with the volume.

• The laundry staff would have increased exposure to infectious diseases.

• The distribution system would be difficult to manage.

• Quality control concerns.

I tried laying out my best counter arguments to each of these points but simply could not make any headway. I knew from my previous experience that eventually outside events would provide me with an opportunity to provide this type of product.

The opportunity presented itself as a direct result of the H1N1 virus. The use of disposable isolation gowns worldwide

From

COLUMNIST AT LARGE Eric L. Frederick, RLLD

Efforts

family-owned commercial laundry located in Petaluma, California, about 45 miles north of San Francisco. The operation is a mixed plant servicing restaurants and hotels in the area.

Owner/operator Phoebe Ellis says that most of the laundry’s customers are closed at this time because of the pandemic, and it has laid off many employees.

“But we are fortunate to be able to continue service to our grocery stores, food manufacturers and car dealerships,” she says.

California leadership has mandated mask wearing when entering any essential business or when people cannot maintain social distancing of 6 feet.

“As soon as we heard this news, we pivoted and started a new endeavor: mask production,” Ellis shares. “Our employees, who never thought they could sew, cut material or iron, quickly adapted. Our employees reached out to sisters, mothers, mothers-in-law and friends to help with the mask production.”

She says the crew produced 1,500 100% cotton masks, made from over pique cotton napkins, in four days.

“We were able to provide a new essential service to many customers, employees, friends and families,” Ellis points out. “Lace House Laundry is 105 years old, and we are proud to add mask production to our list of essential services.”

OVERFLOW COVID-19 FACILITY PROVISIONS

ImageFIRST Healthcare Laundry Specialists, based in King of Prussia, Pennsylvania, provided linen services to a temporary 1,000-bed overflow facility designed to care for COVID-19 patients beginning in early April.

To prepare for a potential influx of patients from the novel coronavirus, the TCF Center in downtown Detroit was converted into a 1,000-bed medical facility. The

intent was to help with potential overflow from local hospitals, utilizing about a third of the riverfront convention center—roughly 250,000 square feet of space across two floors.

“In these unprecedented times, we must do our part to help these frontline healthcare heroes who are combating this pandemic,” explains Jim Cashman, president of ImageFIRST. “This is not our typical client partnership, but we were proud to find a way to help them.”

In addition, the company has been delivering on numerous requests from its customers. Many have been looking to add or increase scrubs, secure scrub storage, clean their cubicle curtains or get reusable isolation gowns as a direct result of the pandemic.

ImageFIRST has also been working with many other healthcare providers, not currently serviced by the company, who are struggling keeping up with the heightened linen demand.

“We are seeing an increasing number of hospitals switching from disposable paper items to reusable linen due to the intensified concern over infection control,” adds Cashman.

“With our infection prevention laundering and service processes, all of which exceed industry standards, we are very confident that we can provide their patients and staff with safe, sanitized linen and uninterrupted service.”

UNIFORM SERVICE UNDERTAKES NUMEROUS EFFORTS

Philadelphia-based Aramark, keeping with its 84-year history of answering the call for assistance in times of need, redeployed its Uniform Services division production lines in order to manufacture essential personal protective equipment (PPE) for the heroes working in hospitals and in other critical roles across the United States.

The company converted its uniforms manufacturing plants, which ordinarily produce lab coats, work shirts, pants and coveralls, to produce respirator and

medical masks, scrubs and isolation gowns. In just one week, Aramark converted its facilities to design the products, re-engineer and configure the production lines, and train employees on fabricating the new products.

Aramark expects to produce millions of masks, scrubs and isolation gowns. The first shipment of scrubs and isolation gowns was delivered to clients in early April. Production of respirator and medical masks is scheduled to begin by mid-July.

“As the country pulls together to battle the COVID-19 pandemic, we are pleased to be able to assist the brave frontline workers who need it most,” says CEO John illmer. “It’s this selfless passion for service that defines our company and we are proud to do our part

during this extraordinary time.”

Helping assist with the shortage of supplies is a continuation of efforts Aramark has undertaken throughout this unprecedented public health crisis.

The company partnered with the Debra and Leon Black Family, the Mayor’s Fund to Advance New York City, Robin Hood and the American Red Cross to launch “NYC Heroes Fund” and provide 300,000-plus packages of shelfstable food, household cleaning and personal care products, as well as over-the-counter medicine to NYC hospital staff on the front lines combating the COVID-19 pandemic, alleviating the burden of having to shop for themselves and their families.

In the communities where Aramark serves, employees have

banded together at hospitals, schools, and other facilities, providing safe and hygienic meals, uniforms, refreshments, and facility services. To date, the company has donated more than 110,000 pounds of food to local organizations and continues to serve free and reduced meals to over 215 schools during the pandemic.

At healthcare facilities across the country, Aramark opened on-site “pop-up” grocery stores to serve as a one-stop shop for doctors, nurses and other hospital staff to grab necessities, such as bread, milk, eggs and toilet paper, on their way home.

The company also mobilized its emergency relief and large-scale event expertise to aid temporary field hospital operations in various cities.

HOSPITAL TRIES COPPERINFUSED MASKS

University Hospitals in Cleveland acquired 25,000 copper-infused reusable masks from Cupron Inc., a copper-based technology company, to free up harder-to-obtain masks.

“UH is one of the first health systems in the country to be allotted shipment of this innovative product,” explains Daniel I. Simon, MD, chief clinical & scientific officer and president of UH Cleveland Medical Center.

“This copper-infused fabric has been clinically validated to reduce the spread of hospital acquired infections such as C. diff and MRSA. In utilizing the 25,000 Cupron masks for caregivers who are not treating COVID-19 positive patients, we can free up use of harder-to-obtain surgical masks and in some cases N95 masks.”

Even when repeatedly subjected to the industrial laundering process with high temperatures, high pH values, long cycles and harsh chemicals, Cupron says its technology, blended into the fibers at a specific concentration, remains effective, rendering these reusable masks a viable solution for caregivers during this unprecedented time.

In response to the COVID-19 outbreak, Aramark has converted its uniforms production lines to make scrubs, as well as masks and isolation gowns, for healthcare providers and other frontline workers who rely on this gear to perform their jobs. (Photo: Aramark, Business Wire)

KEEP THEM SAFE

THE RIGHT CLEAN MATTERS

Now more than ever, laundries must continue to ensure the health of their staff and customers through precise laundering. Whether you have an existing or new washer, Girbau Industrial has the adaptability to meet all recognized laundering standards. Available in capacities up to 255-pounds, Girbau Industrial washers deliver complete control over chemical dosing, water levels, number of baths & rinses, extract speeds and rotation action. All washers are ozone & UV disinfectant compatible and through auxiliary electric heat kits can be adapted to hit and hold up to 192˚F water without upgrading your hot water system.

Tools f the Trade

Personal protective barriers created for laundry operations

Leonard Automatics has introduced its patent-pending Leonard Personnel Protective Barrier (PPB) system for laundries to provide a greater level of protection for employees. The company says that not only is this something needed now during the coronavirus/ COVID-19 crisis, it will likely become the standard in production facilities.

Leonard says the PPB barrier system creates another layer of protection for operators where traditional PPE may not be available or restrictive in function. This allows the adding of another layer of protection

Laundry

with physical barriers, which have the potential to block the transmission of contaminants.

Used properly and with other infection control practices such as handwashing, using alcohol-based hand sanitizers, and covering coughs and sneezes, these barriers can minimize the spread, the company says.

Leonard says the PPB system is available for any application where social distancing is not achievable: tunnel finishing hanging lines, large and small piece folders, soil sort, etc. www.leonardautomatics.com 704-483-9316

process monitoring toolkit offers processing safeguards

The Healthcare Laundry Accreditation Council (HLAC) says its HLAC Laundry Processing Monitoring ToolKit (PMTK) can be a highly effective resource for laundries taking extra precautionary measures amidst the current healthcare crisis.

Introduced last summer, HLAC’s PMTK is an encased set of five self-contained, colorcoded sampling kits designed to measure the number of microorganisms found in a laundry on hard surfaces, in the air, on linen, in the water and on employee hands.

“PMTK was a breakthrough innovation at the time of its introduction, and, arguably, its significance is even more apparent in today’s guarded environment,” says Gregory Gicewicz, former HLAC board president and current board member who headed the committee that developed the ToolKit on behalf of HLAC.

He says PMTK was developed by HLAC as a response to the challenge for laundry operators to continually know how well their processes are per-

forming and whether their standards are on target as originally intended.

“In a responsible healthcare laundry, rigorous surface disinfecting already is a paramount part of processing, including disinfecting of carts, tables, conveyors and shelves,” says Gicewicz. “But we also know from recent studies that the virus that causes COVID-19 can live on surfaces and in the air for several hours to days. Given this, the challenge for laundries is how to know if these tested surfaces are really clean. PMTK can help quantify how clean their surfaces are and how effective their cleaning process is.”

Also, Gicewicz says hand hygiene is important within a healthcare laundry to protect employees as well as clean linen from contaminated organisms.

Monitoring can be performed at the laundry’s convenience: one time, quarterly, semiannually, etc. Pricing is determined by length of the lease.

www.pmtknet.org 855-277-4522

Identification technology key to properly dispersing linens

The industrial laundry and rental uniform industry supplies essential reusable textiles for businesses that are vital during the coronavirus, such as healthcare, manufacturing and food service. In addition to linens and uniforms, other facility services are provided as well to keep life-sustaining companies moving fluidly.

For industrial launderers to properly disperse linens and garments back to the correct owners, the items must be labeled with identification technology. Penn Emblem Co. says its ExpressPrint T7 Thermal label Tape has been adding efficiency to the industry for more than 30 years.

This thermal tape is marked with a barcode specific to the recipients, adhered to garments and scanned throughout the laundry process to efficiently move it to its end destination and in the hands of the rightful owner.

In addition, the company says the PennLock RFID Chip Cover helps secure an RFID (radiofrequency identification) laundry chip to garments to aid in identification and protect the chip throughout laundering.

These products are more critical than ever during the coronavirus because the virus can be contracted by infected surfaces, according to Penn Emblem. Therefore, if clean linens and apparel are not delivered to the proper location and owner, the potential for spreading this deadly virus is increased.

“Penn Emblem is proud to be designated essential during this time and to be able to continuously support our valued clients when they need it most,” says Randi Blumenthal, president. www.pennemblem.com 800-793-7366

New laundry method to transform typical healthcare garments into PPE

Gurtler Industries Inc. says that its research and development team has developed a new laundry method utilizing Pulse Shield fluid repellent fabric finish to transform typical healthcare scrubs and clothing into fluid-repellent garments, increasing their potential use as personal protective equipment (PPE).

The current healthcare crisis caused by the COVID-19 pandemic has strained the healthcare community to a point where there is a significant shortage of PPE. Plus, a general lack of disposable isolation gowns and protective coverings has further deepened the healthcare community’s concern.

Gurtler says its Pulse Shield is a fluid-repellent finish that can be applied in the laundry process. Normally used to extend the useful life of surgical gowns and textiles, Gurtler’s research team has demonstrated a method to transform normally non-repellent healthcare wear into fluid-repellent protective garments.

The research supported by multiple evaluations using accepted AATCC fluid-repellent test methodology was performed using typical healthcare wear, including 100% polyester scrubs, blended cotton/poly scrubs and patient gowns, and 100% polyester laboratory coats.

Gurtler says the laundering and treatment method developed by its scientists produces garments that pass all the tests for fluid (water and oil-based) repellency with excellent performance after multiple washings. www.gurtler.com 800-638-7300

Ozone systems and laundry operations

EDRO Corp. says that anything that can be washed in a regular washerextractor is washable in its DynOzone ozone system-equipped washerextractor, helping hospitals, nursing homes and healthcare facilities.

The company says DynOzone uses ultraviolet (UV) radiation to create two types of activated oxygen gas (germicidal ozone and oxidizing ozone). This is then injected directly into the washtub to kill bacteria, dangerous pathogens and odors.

Every DynOzone-equipped machine is automatically sanitized when used, says EDRO.

The company says DynOzone saves laundry owner/operators money by providing: ï Improved germicidal/bacterial cleaning properties. ï Improved sterilization/disinfection of laundry.

Improved cleaning power.

Improved fabric life.

Improved fabric softness.

Improved laundry quality—brighter, whiter, cleaner.

Reduced chemical/detergent costs.

Reduced chemical usage/discharge.

Reduced rinsing/drying cycle times.

Reduced hot water/energy consumption.

Reduced fabric damage.

Reduced carbon footprint.

The DynOzone Ozone System has full retrofit capabilities enabling the system to be fitted to non-ozone washer-extractors.

www.edrocorp.com 860-828-0311

Manufacturers: Have you introduced a new product? Revamped your system? Released a new catalog? E-mail your product news, along with a high-resolution image, to mpoe@atmags.com and we’ll consider publishing your news free in Tools of the Trade.

Preparing to ramp up

BY SAM SPENCE

SADDLE BROOK, N.J. — It is well established that these are challenging times with the coronavirus COVID-19 pandemic. We live this fact daily all segments of the laundry industry are impacted.

Volume in the hospitality segment is down as much as 90 , and some operators have temporarily shuttered their plants. Food and beverage is slightly better, seeing declines generally ranging from 40 -70 , depending on geographic location, with the big coastal cities hardest hit.

Healthcare volume declines vary as well, depending on geographic location, with some actually up while others seeing declines of 30 or more. Uniform is faring well comparatively, with “modest” declines of 20 -30 .

With this said, I do believe the situation is beginning to rebound, and laundries should start planning for a return to relative normalcy.

STAFFING

Determine your incremental staffing needs to accommodate a gradual increase in volume. Start with your pounds per operator hour (PPOH) goals and calculate how many people will be needed to reach that goal at expected poundage intervals.

For example, if your PPOH goal is 100, an increase of 4,000 pounds per week justifies one employee at 40 hours.

For furloughed employees to return, it is important to verify contact information prior to calling them back to work. Reach out to employees to confirm availability and take this opportunity to communicate your return-towork plans.

Some addresses and phone numbers are likely to change, and availability may be limited due to school closures or other circumstances. We want to be sure to have available staff prior to needing them, and it is important to maintain open lines of communication.

Finally, if you work in a union

Reliable

current conditions, an unfortunate short-sightedness may cause some to neglect the most critical of items that can have negative effects down the road.

The decisions involving the deferral of planned maintenance and critical tasks need to be made systematically and carefully, considering the impact on future financial implications as well as the impact on safety.

A world-class reliability program is built around a number of key components that need to be assessed during this time. A shotgun, shootfrom-the-hip approach, which is so common when these decisions to make operational changes have to be made, is not conducive to the long-term viability of a manufacturing or processing operation.

Let’s look at a few areas of importance that can help get us all through this economic downturn and poise us for success coming out of it on the other side.

STAFFING

Staffing with skilled multi-craft maintenance professionals was a challenge for companies worldwide prior to this crisis. Companies were pulling out all the stops to recruit, hire, train and retain key players on their reliability teams.

Reliability managers were working with colleges, universities, votech schools and technical colleges, trying to refill the pipeline with a properly trained next generation of technicians. We should not stop those efforts, or we’ll find ourselves right back in the same condition soon after the crisis abates and we get back to work.

Maintenance and reliability employees have not been immune to the staffing reductions that have driven millions of workers into the rank of “unemployed.” If your company does need to reduce staffing levels, consider the following options.

For those team members you want to be sure to retain, consider

relocating them temporarily into another position. You’ll need to work with human resources (HR) to find a spot that may require a bump or cut in another area, but one that will be easier to back-fill later on when you can move your reliability employee back into his or her normal role.

It may not be in the maintenance and reliability team for a while, but you keep them on staff and they’re there when you want them back. Consider how you can protect their compensation package, tenure and benefits, but keep them on your team.

Furlough vs. RIF. This is a tough one. Many companies over the past few weeks have implemented a furlough option vs. a standard layoff or reduction-in-force. This is a good option, particularly given that in many cases benefits and lengthof-service are protected, and the CARES Act provides a significant, albeit temporary, bump in unemployment pay.

For your key employees, if you can’t find a temporary spot elsewhere in the company, consider a furlough as a good option to keep them available to you for later callback.

Stay in touch with those employees that are either RIF’d or furloughed. Your personal contact and touch during this time will endear them to you and be a benefit when they have a choice to return or not. You may be able to connect them with free or low-cost online training tools that will help them enhance their knowledge and skills while they are away from you.

You’ve worked really hard over the past several years to build your maintenance and reliability teams and systems. Right now, more than ever, we need to work harder to keep them intact inasmuch as is possible given the current economic conditions. Work to protect your teams and systems.

PLANNED CONTRACT MAINTENANCE

Many in our industry use outside contractors for planned maintenance. This includes monthly boiler and steam system evaluations, water softener service, wastewater

and wash alley evaluations, inventory checks for chemistry, HVAC service, and other specialty tasks.

My recommendation is that you do not discontinue or defer these services. Deferring maintenance and reliability assessments and check-ups on these critical systems in your plant only serve to create a situation that will be regrettable later on.

Monthly boiler rep visits generally include more than just a check on your inventory of chemistry levels. These specialists will evaluate your daily test logs, look for patterns in the test results you may miss, and will work with your team to assure your boiler continues to run at peak efficiency and safety.

HVAC service is important, especially as we get ready to go into the summertime period. Your plant employees will appreciate HVAC systems that work as they are supposed to, and morale can be kept at high levels. Inoperable HVAC systems can result in safety concerns in the summer—you don’t want employees dropping out in the heat due to the impact on their health during the workday.

Keep your regular service from your wash alley chemistry vendor in place as well. Not only do they check chemical inventories, they will titrate loads and make adjustments in formulas that will keep your quality levels high. This is important now as many markets are transitioning from winter formulas to summer formulas and product mix may be changing.

Access into your facilities may be limited now with all the new guidelines and restrictions on social distancing and limiting exposure to others. Typically, a visitor to a plant, even those who come monthly or on another regular schedule, will be checked in at the front door and then authorized to enter the area where they are doing this work. Consider other methods to allow access and limit exposure.

Have your tech rep visitor call you from the parking lot or foyer, at which point you can authorize entry to them through a back door or other entrance where minimal contact with other employees is possible.

Have them follow your com-

pany’s rules on personal protective equipment (PPE), which may now include the wearing of face masks and gloves. Avoid contact and maintain social distancing.

Upon completion of their work, they can debrief with you via phone or leave the report in a designated area for you. Their exit may be the same way they entered, and they should advise you when they leave, to maintain proper security measures for your facility.

Don’t neglect your planned maintenance and reliability tasks and systems assessments by outside vendors. They play a very critical role in the ongoing reliability and safety of your equipment. Taking a short-sighted approach to this and deferring or discontinuing this service during this time will cost you later on.

IN-HOUSE PREVENTIVE MAINTENANCE & RELIABILITY TASKS

With the reduction in processed volume across our industry, and the impact on staffing, processing hours, and reduced equipment utilization rates, this is a great time to consider some important opportunities that you may have not had previously.

If your team has had trouble getting into the wash alley for preventive maintenance (PM) activities or major projects such as a bearing replacement, seal job, or whatever, now is a great time to schedule that work on straight time vs. overtime or Saturday. Many plants don’t generally get the advantage of having a machine down during the week for long enough to execute all the tasks they truly should be doing.

Clean, clean, clean! This is a good time to tear open a dryer and complete a thorough cleaning of lint from all those nooks and crannies where it hides. This is the source of many dryer fires and is often a neglected process. While you’re at it, check door seals, thrust wheel condition, tune up that burner, clean out those exhaust ducts and assure your dryer is running at peak. Same goes for your tunnel finisher.

Evaluate your equipment for corrosion removal and painting.

Evaluate your PM task lists.

PM optimization is one of the key uptime elements related to preventive maintenance and now is a good time to begin that assessment.

Work with your reliability team to evaluate your PM tasks and truly determine which tasks are necessary and which are not. Before discontinuing any particular task, though, check with your equipment manufacturer for their input. Don’t make these decisions in a bubble.

Evaluate the possibility of assigning some PM tasks to select operators. This may be your chance to implement an operator care program. TPM (total productive maintenance) engages all employees in the execution of reliability and maintenance tasks.

You may find that you can have employees do light greasing, oiling, checking levels, completing visual inspections, and other non-intrusive types of tasks that will relieve your now-reduced maintenance staff and give them time back to complete the more critical tasks.

Whether your maintenance and reliability task schedules are timebased or usage/frequency-based, be sure your team is evaluating any decisions to defer, suspend or delay any individual task. It is short-sighted to cut critical maintenance tasks in a vacuum.

Each task needs to be properly evaluated and assessed in view of the overall production schedule, volume, needs, and future impacts on cost, operations, and safety. Just be sensible and organized in your approach to any decisions regarding this important area.

In all these areas, consider the safety of your team, the proper operation of your equipment, and the future financial impacts on your company. Making the wrong decisions in regard to reliability and maintenance today is no different than it was in January of this year— there is an impact on your profits, your customers, your quality, and your employees. Straying from the right decision path now should not be an option.

ALN

Tommy Cocanougher is directorops engineering for Cintas Corp. in the Western United States and Western Canada.

Efforts

environment, be sure to check your collective bargaining agreement (CBA) to verify return-towork parameters.

SUPPLIES

As businesses get back to business, I expect that textile and supply vendors may experience some product shortages. Inventory your supplies on hand and check with your vendors to confirm product availability moving forward.

Keep in mind that demand for cleaning items such as towels and microfiber products will likely continue to increase. If necessary, stock up, however, be sure to avoid hoarding.

Additionally, be sure to communicate expected volume increases with your chemical rep. He or she is likely inventorying and ordering based upon your current volume. As work increases, you want to be sure to have adequate chemical inventory on hand.

FLEET, EQUIPMENT

Be sure your fleet is ready for business by periodically starting and test driving your trucks. Batteries can go bad when not in use and running your trucks will keep them charged.

Fuel can deteriorate if left in tanks for prolonged periods. If you have not already added fuelpreserving additive to your tanks, it might be a good idea to do so.

Check fluid levels to be sure you are ready to go. In addition, contact leasing agencies to communicate anticipated mileage increases and expected service needs.

Periodically test run dormant equipment as well. Clean and wax ironer chests and check belts on finishing equipment. Steam traps and ASCO valves that have been sitting for extended periods may stick. Check them and verify that they are operating properly.

In closing, it is probable that some customers will not return, and that decreased volume may be a reality for longer than we would like to see. Laundry operators will have to operate more efficiently.

To assure success, manage by the numbers to maintain PPOH goals and prepare for a gradual return. ALN

Sam Spence is a senior consultant with TBR Associates, which specializes in consulting services to improve processes, people and company-wide performance.

“We are privileged to be able to supply one of the largest health systems in Ohio with our innovative product during this pandemic event,” says Chris Andrews, CEO of Cupron, Inc.

“University Hospitals is a proven innovator in the healthcare industry, and we look forward to the clinical feedback and shared learnings that arise from their use of our copper technology.”

SCRUBS, MATERIALS

Encompass Group, a manufacturer of reusable textiles, professional apparel, therapeutic support surfaces, and disposable and single-use medical products based in McDonough, Georgia, is working with partners to aid in the ongoing efforts to fight the coronavirus COVID-19.

“It is our company mission to help make patients, healthcare staff, and family members feel safe and comfortable in a healthcare environment,” says CEO John Wood. “Now more than ever we are committed to that mission. We are proud to work alongside our customers to do our best to make a positive differ-

ence in these extremely challenging times facing our industry and our country.”

Recently, Encompass worked with partner Jockey International Inc. to quickly process and ship 10,000 much-needed Jockey scrubs to the temporary hospital located in New York’s Jacob Javits Convention Center. That effort was highlighted in a White House Rose Garden speech made by Jockey Chairman and CEO Debra S. Waller during one of President Trump’s daily coronavirus updates.

Encompass also supplied OR sheeting material to Phoebe Putney Health Systems in Albany, Georgia,

to be used in the production of surgical masks.

“Right now, we’re all being reminded of how important it is to come together and do what we can to help each other,” says Jamie Orlando, vice president of healthcare textiles. “In that spirit, we were delighted to partner with the fine folks at Phoebe Putney Health in their effort to make masks for their frontline workers.”

“I want to salute the team effort required to pull off such important tasks,” Wood adds. “This work engages the entire company and demonstrates just how committed we are to the customers we serve.” ALN

Precision Series® Ironers Deep Chest Ironing

Performance

• Torsion Bar suspension distributes pressure evenly along each roll, assuring uniform drying and travel of flatwork through the ironer with a minimum of padding wear

• Floating Chest self-centers to the ironing roll during operation, optimizing the contact area under pressure

• Adjustable Ribbon Tensioner prevents ironer ribbon from creating uneven surfaces, lines and wet spots on sheets

Efficiency

• Deep Chest Ironers continue to have the largest heat sink and remain the most energy-efficient

• Full insulated chest, canopies, and insulated stainless heat shields contain up to 96% of heat radiation

• Inverted bucket taps ensure condensation purge without remaining open (steam ironers)

• Poly-chain drive ensures high reliability, low maintenance, and low cost of ownership

• Direct Controllable Speed – all rolls run at equal speed

Safety

• Dual caliper disk brake for fast stopping of the ironer drive

• Auto-stop infeed safety gate to prevent hands or items from going into chest

• Solid heat shields along the ironing box keep side frame covers temperatures cool to the touch

• Enclosed canopies prevent foreign items from getting into ironer rolls, chest, and pad

• Roll raise lockout prevents lowering rolls if air pressure has been disconnected

• Safety switches on all doors and e-stops on all four corners

2 0 2 0

The Clean Show is usually the one place and time in the United States where laundry manufacturers, suppliers, managers and operators can come together to check out the latest products, services and more.

But Clean only takes place every other year. Not to mention the fact that the coronavirus/COVID19 pandemic has resulted in other industry trade events being postponed or canceled this year. How is a laundry industry professional like you supposed to stay on top of the latest goings-on in laundry and linen?

Not to worry, you can tour a “show floor” here this year in the pages of American Laundry News the Exhibit in Print!

Call it a “trade show you can fit in your briefcase.” Or a “trade show that won’t hurt your feet.”

The Exhibit in Print is set up so that you can take a seat, maybe even kick back and put your feet up, and tour the “trade show floor” from the comfort of your own desk.

The “booth” articles have been submitted by the exhibiting companies. Any claims made in Exhibit in Print are those of the participating companies, not American Laundry News

Let’s visit the Exhibit in Print floor!

Miura America

With more than 60 years in the steam boiler industry, Miura has become the world leader in innovation and technology.

The company’s impressive benefits include On-Demand Steam, which produces full steam from a cold start in less than five minutes, and lets users turn boilers on/off as needed, saving money and conserving resources.

Other benefits include enhanced reliability; a compact, modular design; advanced controls and remote monitoring; and an industry-best safety record.

In addition to providing total steam solutions for a range of industries, including laundries, in 2020 Miura, along with Armstrong Services and Hartford Steam Boiler/Munich RE, introduced Steam-as-aService (SaaS).

Steam as a Service is a turnkey, fully financed solution that meets the steam requirements of a range of users, from those with an aging steam infrastructure that is operating beyond its optimal life span to new customers, by designing, building, operating, maintaining, and continuously optimizing their steam generation onsite, while allowing them to focus on their core business and “future-proof” their steam requirements.

Steam-as-a-Service offers a range of benefits and advantages that include:

• A cost-effective, highly efficient solution for steam requirements.

• No capital required, steam is delivered for a single, monthly fee.

JENSEN USA

JENSEN’s Express/Blanket is a high-production blanket feeding and folding system. With production figures up to 1,300 pieces per hour, this system can eliminate a huge bottleneck in any laundry.

The JENSEN Express/Blanket consists of the Jenfeed Express Uno, Duo, or Trio (1, 2 or 3-station) cornerless spreader/feeder and a Jenfold Blanket single-lane folder/crossfolder making up to two lateral folds and up to three crossfolds in both bath and thermal blankets. Available working widths are 120 inches and 130 inches.

The simple, yet exceptionally rugged-designed Jenfeed Express is appreciated by both production management and maintenance departments alike. Its high-performance capabilities, coupled with a high level of uptime, allow for consistent productivity.

The Jenfold Blanket is based upon a highly proven multi-decade design. The lateral folds are made via programmable high or low air pressures. The first

crossfold is made via knife blade, the second crossfold is made via reverse belting and an air blast, and the third crossfold is made via reverse belting and a knife blade. This lateral and crossfolding method produces and exceptional finished product.

Add a Viking 2000 Large Piece Separator and a Jenstack Maxstack large-piece stacker and conveyor to complete the system.

www.jensen-group.com | 850-271-5959

clothes cleaner and dry in half the time. Improve hygiene. Reduce time, cost, energy consumption–by half.

With the Laundry Loop® with Sock Snare, clothes stay sorted while they wash and dry.

Laundry Loops

Using

• On-site expertise includes operations, maintenance and administration.

• Reduced downtime even during inspections with the modular system.

• Continuous optimization that increases efficiency based on enhanced data.

• A scalable, flexible solution, up or down, providing the steam needed.

• Green benefits that reduce fuel, conserve resources and lower emissions.

• A compact footprint that reduces the need for costly space and construction.

• A guaranteed solution that outsources risk back by a world-class alliance.

www.miuraboiler.com | 678-685-0929

Finally, Laundry Loops’ newest product is the Laundry Loop® PLUS. This product is 5 inches longer than the original Laundry Loop, with Double Sock Snares, to accommodate institutional/correctional laundry schedules.

www.laundryloops.com | 888-246-5667

Pellerin Milnor Corp.

Pellerin Milnor Corp. is a leading manufacturer in the commercial laundry machinery industry. Featuring one of the widest varieties of equipment, Milnor machines are ideal for any laundry and have been successfully implemented in healthcare, hospitality, food and beverage, and linen supply applications around the world.

Available in both rigid-mount and suspended options, small washer-extractors range in size from 25 to 170 pound capacities and can be paired with the comparable M-Series dryers. Larger washerextractors can handle loads from 220 to 700 pound capacities and are easily matched with the Industrial Dryer series.

Barrier machines for healthcare and cleanroom markets are available in 60 to 700 pound capacities as well. Machines feature a variety of control options that offer users varying degrees of flexibility.

Milnor also specializes in continuous batch washing equipment with its PulseFlow® technology tunnel system. PulseFlow technology offers low water consumption, enhanced chemical performance, low energy usage, and faster washing by combining True Top Transfer with standing bath washing and controlled intermittent counterflow rinsing in every process module.

PulseFlow tunnels can process 7,000 pounds per hour or more and can be incorporated in an automated wash system by including Milnor’s extraction devices, pass-through dryers, additional materialhandling equipment, Mildata® computer network, and Mentor® controls.

www.milnor.com | 504-712-7656

G.A. Braun

Braun Medicare Top Side Loader washer-extractors are designed for laundries requiring a highly efficient hygienic processing environment. They are available in split two-pocket and three-pocket models, and capacities of 200, 400, 600 and 800 pounds.

In the contamination-free environment, soiled laundry loads from one side; clean laundry unloads from the other.

A full wall barrier and patented Mediflow negative air flow system prevent cross contamination of goods during the process. The cylinder’s smooth finish helps to minimize degradation of the items processed and significantly reduces the production of lint.

Medicare TSL machines offer the same competitive advantages and functionality as Braun’s standard models, including gravity-assist loading and unloading, neutron suspension and easy-to-use touchscreen controls.

Other notable features include:

• Automated Door—Unlike others that have several doors, the single door on the Braun TSL ergonomically reduces operator repetitive motions resulting in a significant reduction of potential injuries.

• Rinse Reuse Option— Available to install Braun TSLs to a split trench system allowing for optimal water conservation.

• Automatic Safety and Auto Load Rebalance Technology—Optical sensors will instruct the machine to automatically shut down if they are overloaded and automatically balance loads prior to moving into the extraction phase to evenly distribute wet goods against the cylinder, eliminating the need for artificial counterbalances.

• Chemical Integration Boxes (standard)— Provides an input and output module for chemical companies to tie into Braun machines without having access to the control box. This helps to avoid interference with machine controls and any related machine downtime as a result of interference.

www.gabraun.com | 800-432-7286

Monarch Brands

Alongside a selection of Bar Mops for every budget, Monarch Brands supplies microfiber mops and cloths to laundries across the United States. Traditionally, its lines focus on premium-quality microfiber in various weights and sizes. However, COVID-19 has reinforced two emerging trends in microfiber.

1. The need for antimicrobial microfiber to combat the elevated threat of viruses and bacteria. SilverSure, a microfiber cloth treated with SILVADUR® by DuPont®, will be in stock by mid-July. The patented technology uses silver ions to eradicate the presence of

microbes on the surface of the cloth. Cloths stay fresh longer and are 99.5% effective even after 50 washes. Microfiber cloths will be available in green, blue, yellow and gray.

2. The need for inexpensive, effective microfiber lines for use in highly hazardous and high-touch environments. SmartRags® (pictured) are seamless 12-inch by 12-inch color-coded microfiber cloths that come in 50-pack dispenser boxes. SmartPads, also a 50-pack mop dispenser box, are currently in development. SmartPads feature real woven microfiber for the price of a non-woven pad. Made from 80% polyester/20% polyamide, 18-inch microfiber mop pads fit on commercial Velcro® frames. Smartpads are color-coded,

priced like disposable nonwoven, and can be washed up to 50 times.

Monarch Brands is committed to arming its customers with all the tools to eradicate every virus and bacteria that threaten society. Follow them as they launch new antimicrobial products and new microfiber technologies. Visit the site to sign up for news and information.

www.monarchbrands.com | 215-482-6100

Lavatec Laundry Technology

A global leader in the manufacturing of integrated, endto-end equipment and components for commercial laundry operations of all sizes, Lavatec Laundry Technology adopted a simple approach to engineering that he driven its success for nearly 40 years.

The company designs and builds laundry equipment that is intuitive to run, easy to maintain, and built to generate a fast return on investment. Many LAVATEC customers have found that with regular maintenance, their equipment often performs for 20 years or longer.

Maxi-Movers/Chem-Tainer Industries

Maxi-Movers, a division of Chem-Tainer Industries, manufactures Bulk Delivery Trucks, Shelved Exchange Trucks, Tilt Trucks and Bushel Carts.

Founded in 1961, Chem-Tainer Industries was among the country’s first adopters and developers of rotationally molded industrial plastics and the longest serving manufacturer of plastic chemical storage tanks. In 1972, Chem-Tainer manufactured the nation’s first line of plastic transportation solutions to the textile processing industry.

More durable than the canvas units and less costly than the metal or fiberglass options, Maxi-Movers spawned a new industry and revolutionized the industries they served. Its 10 factories nationwide reduce delivery times and costs.

Girbau Industrial

Girbau Industrial provides commercial and industrial laundry solutions backed by industry-leading warranties and local distributor expertise.

One of eight brands of Girbau North America in Oshkosh, Wis., Girbau Industrial provides commercial and industrial laundry products to North American clients, including large-capacity washer-extractors and drying tumblers, high-volume flatwork ironers, continuous batch tunnel washing systems, presses, feeders, folders, stackers, conveyor systems, and related system machinery.

Backed by industry-leading warranties, Girbau Industrial products are engineered to reduce energy and labor costs while improving quality, productivity and ease-of-use.

Girbau Industrial laundry solutions are in place at mid- and large-volume laundries across the continent, including hotels, casinos, hospitals and commercial laundries. With each project, Girbau Industrial delivers local service and support, offering laundry solutions to match each facility’s unique labor, production, efficiency and quality goals.

Together with local Girbau Industrial distributors, the Girbau Industrial team works with every customer to provide equipment sizing and laundry design, installation, employee training and service after the sale.

www.girbauindustrial.com | 800-256-1073

0 2 0

Case in point is a trio of large-capacity, front-loading washer extractors representing the LX series.

The Open Pocket LX425 (275 pounds), LX445 (450 pounds) and LX460 (600 pounds) offer multiple benefits to take advantage of. It starts with a computerized system that provides touch-screen management to control time and temperature, level, dosing, drum speed, reversing, and cool-down aspects. An optional feature allows operation as an automated system, or to adjust and control it manually.

The single inverter-controlled drive motor applies reserve power during wash and spin cycles for the lowest energy consumption at any speed. So when combined with high extraction rates, costs can be lowered even more with the reduced drying times experienced. The LX series is available with LAVATEC’s Ride-On Shuttle, giving operators the ability to control washers, dryers and the rail system from a safety-enabled technology cockpit.

www.LLTUSA.com | 203-632-8777

Ellis Corp.

What happens when your local wastewater regulator sends you a Notice of Violation for exceeding local discharge limitations?

• You are out of compliance?

• There is no room to install a fullscale system in your plant?

• Slightly over the discharge limitation on several occasions?

• Don’t have the funding to pay for a full-scale system?

• You need to do something quickly!

• Ellis may have the solution for you!

Ellis is offering an all-in-one water solution to separate solids from wastewater to remove TSS, FOG, and other insoluble pollutants into a dewatered solid for landfill disposal.

The new EcoSieve can bring you back into compliance. System benefits include:

• Continuous filtration with self-cleaning technology.

• Small footprint with high flow throughput.

• Eliminates vibratory screens and filter presses with a single machine.

• Multiple filtration materials and porosities available to reject the maximum amount of solids.

• Single, skid-mounted solution that comes pre-wired.

• Options for fully automated influent, effluent and solids collection.

• Control system can be fully integrated into plant’s existing system.

• Average FOG removal of 43% up to 90%.

• Average TSS removal of 30% at 4,600 mg/L concentration.

• Average FOG in dewatered solids concentration of 6.0% up to 11.0%.

www.elliscorp.com | 800-611-6806

www.maxi-movers.com | 800-275-2436

Norchem Corp.

In over four decades of service, NORCHEM established itself as a leader in environmentally friendly cleaning solutions and cutting-edge water filtration and recycling systems. As the country and the world deals with the impact of COVID-19, NORCHEM wants to make sure laundries maintain not only the hygienically clean status of processed textiles, but also a hygienic environment for their staff.

NORCHEM remains committed to supporting the industry through this pandemic and has launched a new product line of hygienic and all-purpose ready to use products: Klenz Hand Sanitizer, Klenz Hand Soap and MicroKlean All-Purpose Cleaner. These products are being made available to clients nationwide, but the company also decided to make a commitment to help those most affected by a shortage of cleaning supplies.

Metro Dry Cleaning and Laundry Equipment

Metro Dry Cleaning and Laundry Equipment started serving the industry in 2019 in the Tri-State area.

Owners Phil Frank and Vincent Gebbia have a combined 88 years of experience in all phases of the dry-cleaning and laundry industry.

The company distributes a variety of laundry equipment, including washer-extractors, boilers, presses, finishing products and more.

Metro Dry Cleaning and Laundry Equipment offers equipment from RealStar USA, Unity Laundry Systems, Speed Queen, Unipress, Fulton Boilers, HI-Steam and Trevil.

Together

Much like their commitment to a sustainable future, NORCHEM recognizes this time as an opportunity to come together and do everything they can to be a productive community member while also serving laundries across the country.

“This wasn’t made as a revenue-generating activity. That wasn’t the principle,” says Michael Soussa, director of sales.

“The principle is to help bring confidence to the community, to help the economy reopen. Our goal is to aid in providing a safe environment for workers, to bring the economy back to where it needs to be.”

www.norchemcorp.com | 800-442-4360

www.metrodrycleaningandlaundryequipment.com | 516-931-1951

with community leaders NORCHEM partnered with juvenile halls, social services facilities and law enforcement to provide access to our products so the community can directly benefit from them.

R&B Wire Products

R&B Wire Products has launched a new line of antimicrobial poly trucks, adding to its extensive family of antimicrobial material-handling products. Infused with a proprietary broad-spectrum antimicrobial additive, the new poly trucks are designed to inhibit the growth of microbes on the poly surface, providing the cleanest surface and trucks possible.

This upgraded option is available on all sizes and models of R&B poly trucks, in blue, green and white.

The new line is being added to R&B’s already expansive line of antimicrobial products, including wire laundry carts, vinyl basket trucks, privacy screens, hampers, hamper bags, covers and liners.

“Incorporating the antimicrobial additive into the material of these products provides an unprecedented level of cleanliness, not just in the short term, but for the lives of the products themselves,” says Frank Rowe, vice president of sales.

“Another key advantage of our antimicrobial line of trucks, both the poly and the vinyl, is the optional Asset Protection air-cushion bumper feature. The bumpers on these trucks help protect walls, doors, door frames and equipment from preventable damage, keeping facilities looking their best while minimizing repair and maintenance costs.”

“With the heightened focus on sterilization in the marketplace at this time, we felt it was necessary to expand our offering of microbe-inhibiting products,” says Chief Operating Officer Jeff Gervais.

www.rbwire.com/antimicrobial | 800-634-0555

Royal Basket Trucks

Royal Basket Trucks offers Royal Turnabouts with Shelf Dividers and Covers. The turnabout truck comes standard with two movable white shelves. It has a full front cut out for complete accessibility and a tapered floor design with larger drain slots for more efficient drainage.

It is constructed of a heavy-duty polyethylene tub mounted to a powder coated steel base. The 6-inch bulk poly casters allow maneuvering both light and heavy loads easily.

It is also available with removable dividers that can be used for sorting and ease in stacking.

The special three-piece nylon cover gives easy access to the contents in the cart, while helping to secure the contents on the shelves during transportation.

Founded in 1982, Royal Basket Trucks® Inc., a USA-based company, is the manufacturer of carts and containers for collecting, sorting, storing and transporting. The company offers a wide range of products and services designed to maximize material handling efficiencies in laundry and other industries.

Royal Basket Trucks® uses a unique and extremely efficient lean manufacturing process to build world-class products to order and ship with very short lead times, offering flexibility for slight modification in dimensions, caster changes, color and branding.

Royal Basket® can also engineer fully custom cart solutions with the goal that every customer should have the right cart for their environment and application.

www.royal-basket.com | 800-426-6447

PANEL OF EXPERTS

Textile tests for realistic linen comparisons

collected through internal wash testing.

P

urchasing the correct linen for your facility is one of the biggest decisions you will make. There is much more to a linen decision than just the price.

Before you start sourcing out your linen supplier, you should know about your current linen usage. At a minimum you should know how many turns you are currently getting out of your linen. If, for example, you inject 10 sheets for every 100 sheets you ship out, then you are getting 10 turns out of your sheets (that would be extremely low, but easy math for the example).

It is also good to analyze your current rag outs before you consider what type of linen you are going to purchase.

If you see a large amount of rags due to staining, then you may not want to go with a higher priced product that may have a longer wear life since stains are your ragout issue. The same could also be said that if you see that you are ragging quite a bit of linen due to wear, then you may want to go with a more durable product.

I have three categories I like to measure linen by.

Price. I don’t use the cost of the

item for this measurement, I use the times you must turn it in your system to pay for it and how many turns you can realistically get out of it. Purchasing a cheap product that doesn’t last very long will usually cost you more in the long run. Buying an expensive product that you place in a high-loss area also doesn’t work out in the long run.

Weight. We like to get samples of any linen we are considering purchasing and perform at least six test washes of the item. We weigh it before the first wash and after each test wash. All items

usually start out the same weight, but some may be as much as 15% lighter after a few washes.

Processing. All the different weights and blends of linen process differently. A thicker, heavier item will take longer to dry in your drier or force you to run your ironer slower. The higher the polyester percentage, the faster an item will dry. Once again, it is a good idea to test how fast your new item may dry.

Items that cost more to purchase but process faster can sometimes be the cheapest in the long run.

Textile specifications are a great starting point when comparing new textiles for purchase, but ultimately the most informative and realistic information of how a new textile will compare is

Conducting wash tests at the plant directly represents the processes the goods will see throughout their lifecycle. There are many factors that can contribute to variability in linen integrity of the same textile just at the facility alone, including washing and finishing equipment, wash formula structure, and chemicals.

It is important to understand how the linen holds up under specific conditions, as this can affect linen replacement costs and directly impact profitability.

Third-party testing can be beneficial when internal wash test results differ from the expected quality derived from vendor specifications.

The Ecolab Textile Care team supports our customers in compiling data of new textiles in such instances. Our team can perform extended wash-cycle testing on textiles, evaluating linen quality after exposure to a customer’s wash process.

We provide information on color integrity, shrinkage, weight loss, tensile strength and general observations (pilling, loose threads, feel of material). We have the capability to quantify some of the quality metrics with instruments that our customers may not have access to.

While this information can be extremely valuable, it only captures the wash process conditions and will not capture the external variables that onsite wash tests provide.

terly.

ï Pointed out leaks. Suggested revised action.

ï Offered a better product at a better price

strong C-suite relationships are most important.

ï

ï

Better priority benefits in time of need.

Customer referrals.

ï The supplier went above and beyond to help us locate products from other regions.

• I’ve leaned on suppliers to help answer customer questions and to provide them with product

ï Quality assurances.

ï Consolidating multiple inventory purchases quar-

ï Able to source products in an urgent manner.

ï Leniency on payments when money was tight; quicker delivery times when needed.

The supplier personnel respondents consider most important to have a stronger relationship with? Ninety percent say sales representatives. Next is delivery personnel at 52%, closely followed by office personnel at 50%.

Just over 26% of survey takers say

Interestingly, when asked if suppliers are trying to connect with laundry operations these days, almost 60% say no, while 29% say suppliers are. More than 11 don’t know.

Of those operators who say suppliers are connecting, ways they are include:

ï Most suppliers are calling or e-mailing just to check in or offer a new product.

ï Tons of webinars and e-mails. Re-evaluation of processes and sources.

ï We get regular updates from

our suppliers on availability of stock.

ï Willing to help.

ï E-mails with product availability.

“I feel if I can trust the supplier is straight with me, I can give my supervisors true and accurate information,” a respondent writes. “I can then use this information to guide my purchasing. Sometimes it’s ordering extra in anticipation of a disruption of service. Sometimes it’s a potential significant price increase in the near future due to an unforeseen event (trade war).”

While the Your Views survey

presents a snapshot of readers’ viewpoints at a particular moment, it should not be considered scientific. Due to rounding, percentages may not add up to 100%.

Subscribers to American Laundry News e-mails are invited to take the industry survey anonymously online each quarter. All managers and administrators of institutional/OPL, cooperative, commercial and industrial laundries are encouraged to participate, as a greater number of responses will help to better define operator opinions and identify industry trends.

(Image licensed by Ingram Image)

“When comparing sources of new textiles for purchase, what kind of test(s) do you recommend—wash, spec comparisons, third-party testing—and why?”

Commercial Laundry

David Griggs

Superior Linen Service, Muskogee, Okla.

Chemicals Supply

Lauren Hunker Ecolab, Eagan, Minn.

Continued from Page 4

went through the roof and most users were put on a quota system based on previous orders.

This supply-chain problem, combined with a number of nurses who were appalled at the amount of trash they were generating every day in disposable barrier isolation gowns, created the opportunity to make another pitch for the program.

The reusable barrier isolation gown project had been proposed by an outside supply chain consulting company during the previous year, but the proposal had not been given serious consideration.

My goal, and the goal of nursing, was to establish a pilot study for the gowns on a few select high-use areas to see if the product and the proposed packaging system was workable. We wanted to test the reaction of the end users to the product versus the disposables.

PART 2: PACKAGING, DISTRIBUTION, QUALITY CONTROL

The key to success was to develop a packaging system for the gowns that would work in the same manner as the existing disposable barrier isolation gowns. The only apparent change needed to be the reusable barrier gown. We wanted to keep the normal resistance to change to as low a level as possible.

The disposable barrier gowns were packaged in a bundle of 10 and then heat sealed in a plastic wrap. Some units used over-the-door caddies that held the gowns, various sizes of

gloves, caps and masks. Large users used small isolation carts similar to a toolbox where the same items were stored in drawers.

The system I had used at Aurora Healthcare would not work at the Carilion Clinic, so my management team went back to the drawing board.

In reviewing the distribution system in use, we discovered that the disposable barrier isolation gown packaging did not work well in the over-the-door caddie because once the plastic wrap was torn open, they tended to fall out of the caddie onto the floor.

After much thought, we tried a 14 by 16 zip-top bag. We needed to make some small adjustments to the fold to get 10 gowns into a bag. Once the bags were filled, we were able to squeeze out all the air and create a really nice-looking package.

The bag system worked extremely well in the over-the-door caddie, and the gowns did not fall out once the bag was opened. The 10 reusable barrier isolation gowns actually took less space than the 10 disposable barrier isolation gowns.

The distribution system in use for disposable isolation gowns was handled by the mini-distribution department and the offsite warehouse. When units needed an isolation cart or caddie, they called mini distribution and a fully stocked caddie or cart was delivered to the proper location.

Once the caddie or cart was on location, the nursing unit was responsible for replacing any supplies on the caddie or cart that ran low. Nursing units ordered replacement disposable isolation gowns from the offsite warehouse. Items for each unit were only delivered on a weekly basis. This meant that a number of cases

ANTIMICROBIALCARTS

of disposable isolation gowns needed to be stocked on each unit. During peak flu season, this became a real problem because storage on the nursing units was limited.

We designed a system where the reusable isolation gowns were stocked on the units in a predetermined quantity and were delivered by the linen room staff.

The linen room staff inventoried the gowns on a daily basis and restocked the area as needed. This new stocking method greatly reduced the amount of space required for the storage of isolation gowns and provided valuable space for other products.

I am a strong believer that if you are going to handle reusable barrier linen you must do it to the highest standards. Your presentation and quality must be above reproach. For this reason, an effective quality-control program is essential.

Because of my previous experience with this type of product, I knew that no matter how carefully I washed the barrier linen, some degradation of the barrier was unavoidable. I had learned that by limiting the amount of alkali, using a solvent-based detergent, and by eliminating all bleach and softener I could slow the loss of repellency.

But slowing it was not good enough. I

wanted to eliminate the loss or actually improve the barrier quality of the item.

I was able to achieve this by adding a small amount of a barrier retreatment product to the final rinse. Our Sutter testing not only showed that the loss was eliminated, but on some items the barrier actually improved during its lifetime.

There are basically three types of products on the market: a wax-based product, a fluoropolymer-based product and a mixture of the two. I personally do not recommend the use of any product that contains wax. The fluoropolymer adheres to the fibers only and therefore does not have an effect on the air permeability of the fabric. It also will not cause a yellowing of the fabric.

Because of the need to strictly control the wash chemistry in each reusable barrier isolation gown load, we chose not to try and wash the gowns through one of our tunnel washers. All reusable barrier isolation gowns were washed through our conventional washer-extractors.

Because of the light weight of each gown, we reduced the weight per load by 65 to 70% of stated capacity.

The next step was to ensure that a proper inspection of all gowns was conducted during each processing. We inspected and folded our gowns in our

R&B Wire Products is the first manufacturer to offer a complete line of antimicrobial carts and trucks.

Protect your facility and customers. Poly, vinyl and powder coated materials feature antimicrobial additives designed to combat microorganism growth.

See

Classified Advertising

PARTS FOR SALE

PARTS, PARTS, PARTS

Huge stock of parts for most laundry equipment & boilers. Also traps, valves and lubricants. Overnight delivery. Steiner-Atlantic, 800-333-8883 Fax: 305-751-8390 parts@steineratlantic.com www.steineratlantic.com

PARTS & SERVICE

In need of service and or parts for all your finishing equipment manufactured by BB&D, Lavatec, Washex, and Voss? Contact Michael @ 203-232-4004 or E-Mail me: mtenhave66@yahoo.com

®

Call Deana Griffin 888-235-2365 www.thegriffingroup.cc deana@thegriffingroup.cc

Sales Engineer for Equipment Manufacturer

CHICAGO America’s leading manufacturer of flatwork finishing equipment is seeking a Chicago-based regional sales engineer to work with our outstanding distributor and end customer network. Excellent opportunity for long term growth in our fourth generation company. Salary and benefits commensurate with prior sales success, willingness to learn and laundry industry experience. Travel from Chicago’s manufacturing headquarters included as part of job responsibilities to serve our customer base.

Belden belden@chidry.com

Pellerin Milnor Corp. P.O. Box 400, Kenner, LA 70063 504-467-9591, Fax: 504-468-3094 www.milnor.com

Pellerin Milnor Corp.

P.O. Box 400, Kenner, LA 70063 504-467-9591, Fax: 504-468-3094 www.milnor.com

Pellerin Milnor Corp.

P.O. Box 400, Kenner, LA 70063 504-467-9591, Fax: 504-468-3094 www.milnor.com

Pellerin Milnor Corp.

P.O. Box 400, Kenner, LA 70063 504-467-9591, Fax: 504-468-3094 www.milnor.com

EDRO Corp. provides laundry equipment for Navy hospital ship

EAST BERLIN, Conn. — The Military Sealift Command hospital ship USNS Comfort arrived at New York City Harbor’s Pier 90 on March 30 to give surge capacity to New York City’s overwhelmed hospital system as it reeled under pressure from the global coronavirus pandemic.

But one area of military vessels that people never give a lot of thought to, if any, is the all-important laundry room to clean bed linens and personal protective equipment (PPE) equipment such as scrubs, facemasks, etc.

EDRO Corp. says it is proud that driving the beating heart of the Comfort’s laundry room are four 150-pound and two 60-pound washer-extractors, partnered with five 110-pound and two 75-pound tumbler dryers it manufactured.

“All of EDRO’s employees are extremely proud and honored to be associated with the nation’s efforts to help those with critical needs at this time,” says EDRO’s Managing Director Scott Kirejczyk.

“As a tier-one laundry equipment supplier to the United States Defense Department, several of our ‘Battleship Quality’ washer-extractors are currently onboard the USNS Comfort assisting the staff in maintaining a hygienically clean environment.

“EDRO has been proudly supporting our military forces for three generations, and as a family-owned business, our thoughts and prayers go out to all of those families affected by this tragic health crisis.”

The Comfort is a converted supertanker used by the U.S. Navy as a floating medical facility to provide humanitarian assistance and disaster relief. It can sustain up to 2,000 people—crew and patients.

Fortunately, stay-at-home orders and mass social-distancing practices blunted the virus, and the numbers of intensive care patients never reached the anticipated high-point capacity rendering the Comfort underutilized. It hoisted anchor April 30 to return to Norfolk, Virginia, for maintenance, restocking and possible deployment on another coronavirus mission.

Girbau North America announces 2019 Canadian Distributor of the Year

OSHKOSH, Wis. — Girbau North America, a provider of commercial, industrial and vended laundry solutions, recently

recognized Sparkle Solutions in Concord, Ontario, for outstanding sales and service within the Canadian market.

Sparkle Solutions, managed by Ray Helwig, serves onpremises, multi-housing and vended laundry markets within its Canadian territory of Ontario. This is the third year

Sparkle Solutions has been named Girbau North America’s Canadian Distributor of the Year for excellence in vended and on-premises laundry distribution.

To achieve this honor, Sparkle Solutions works closely with laundries throughout its territory to cut utility costs and maximize profit through expertise on energy conservation, equipment and technical services.

“The Sparkle Solutions team is extremely versed in all aspects of vended, multi-housing and on-premises laundry development, productivity and efficiency,” says Joel Jorgensen, vice president of sales for Girbau North America. “They are perpetual performers because of their dedication to customers and service after the sale.”

Girbau North America is the largest of 16 subsidiaries of Girbau Global Laundry Solutions based in Vic, Spain.

Apparel Services Network adds new independent affiliate members

IRVINE, Calif. — Apparel Services Network (ASN), a network of independent industrial laundry operators with image apparel national account service programs, reports it has expanded its Affiliate Member program with the inclu-

sion of Triple D Uniform & Linen and CITY.

Triple D Uniform & Linen, based in Houston, offers uniform rentals, floor mats and corporate apparel.

CITY has been an industrial laundry provider based in Oelwein, Iowa, since 1906.

ASN says these member company additions will help network customers by offering extended national account coverage and more choices.

ASN says its mission aligns with its Affiliate Member companies’ core values. ASN is concerned with customer loyalty and satisfaction earned by exceeding expectations through inspired people committed to the pursuit of excellence, and relationships based on trust, honesty and integrity.

Girbau Industrial names Lavatec 2019 Business Partner of the Year

OSHKOSH, Wis.— Girbau Industrial recently recognized Lavatec Laundry Technology in Beacon Falls, Connecticut, with the 2019 Girbau Industrial Business Partner of the Year award for contributing to outstanding sales of Girbau Industrial® laundry products.

Lavatec is a global manufacturer of industrial washing, drying and goods transportation solutions. In 2014, Lavatec USA and Girbau Global Laundry Solutions entered into a collaboration agreement that allowed both companies to take advantage of the manufacturing capabilities and product offerings of their counterpart.

The agreement allows both companies to complete their product range with products manufactured by the other. Since then, they have worked together on many industrial laundry projects.

“In 2019, our partnership with Lavatec contributed to a fantastic year for Girbau Industrial,” says Girbau North America Vice President of Sales Joel Jorgensen. “We are grateful for this partnership and for Lavatec’s support and loyalty. Together we are both better.”

One of eight brands of Girbau North America, Girbau Industrial provides industrial laundry products to North American clients, including large-capacity washer-extractors and drying tumblers, high-volume flatwork ironers, continuous batch tunnel washing systems, presses, feeders, folders, stackers conveyor systems, and related system machinery.

that they had become accustomed to with the disposable barrier gowns.

tear in a moist environment) than with the disposable barrier isolation gown.

surgical pack room. Each gown was inspected for holes or tears. Each gown was checked to make sure all the ties were there and were the appropriate length.

Once the gown had been inspected, it was marked on the quality-control grid with a number or letter that was assigned to only one employee. This marking allowed us to track a quality-control problem back to a specific employee.

Having the ability to track quality-control problems back to a specific employee is a key element in an effective quality-control program.

We also built in a random inspection of several bags of gowns by our quality-control supervisor. This allowed us to check the finished work for problems and adjust our training program or take appropriate disciplinary action.

PART 3: TRAINING, ROLL OUT, END RESULTS

We had two major fears as we were getting ready to start our program. We wanted to make sure we got the reusable barrier gowns returned to the laundry for reprocessing, and we wanted to make sure that the nurses were properly trained on how to tie the gowns so they could get out of them using a similar technique

Working with a key nurse advocate (a nursing unit director) and the hospital training department, we developed an in-service program for the new reusable barrier gowns. The education piece included information about the environmental impact of switching from the disposable barrier gowns to the new reusable barrier gowns.

It also explained the quality-control system built into the process at the laundry. It detailed out the expected cost savings associated with moving to the new reusable barrier gowns. Finally, it addressed the best way to secure the gown at the neck to maintain proper gowning technique.

We started out with a 60-day trial on four units to determine the acceptance of the staff to the new reusable barrier isolation gown. We surveyed the staff at the end of both 30 and 60 days. The staff was pleasantly surprised by the gown and made the following comments:

• The reusable barrier gowns had greater drapability and were easier to put on than the disposable barrier gowns.

• The reusable barrier gowns were more comfortable to wear.

• The staff felt like they were safer (less chance of a

• The reusable barrier isolation gown packaging worked better in the over-the-door caddies than the disposable barrier isolation gowns.

• The reusable barrier isolation gowns required less back-up storage space on the unit than the disposable barrier isolation gowns.

• The nurses appreciated the positive environmental impact of the reusable barrier isolation gowns.

The initial study resulted in a full product approval from the infection control committee and the nursing product standardization committee. We developed a gradual roll out of the program, adding four more units every six weeks until the entire system was using the reusable barrier isolation gowns.

When we first started the program we were producing 1,500 reusable barrier isolation gowns per month for one or two departments. We went to averaging 87,000 gowns per month. The additional business and revenue were great for the laundry, and we reduced the cost of isolation gowns for the system by $300,000 per year.

Eric Frederick served 44 years in laundry management before retiring and remains active in the industry as a laundry operations consultant. You can contact him by e-mail at elfrederick@cox.net, or by phone at 540-520-6288.

ALN

EDRO Corp. supplied washer-extractors and tumbler dryers for the hospital ship USNS Comfort, which offered COVID-19 support in New York. (Photo: U.S. Navy)