June/July 2023

33

How happy are cleaning staff about using their robot assistants?

36

Editor Michelle Marshall

Features Writer Ann Laffeaty

Advertisement director

Chris Godman

Advertisement sales executive Laura Bell Circulation Marie Payne

Corte Lambruschini, Corso Buenos Aires, 8 V0 Piano, Interno 7 16129 Genova, Italy

Book your place at the European Cleaning & Hygiene Awards gala dinner

Tickets are now available for the European Cleaning & Hygiene Awards 2023 gala dinner.

Organised by ECJ, this year’s winners will be announced on October 5 during a night of celebration in The Round Room at The Mansion House in Dublin.

The European Cleaning & Hygiene Awards are a celebration of excellence in the professional cleaning industry. As the only pan-European awards for the sector, they provide the opportunity for businesses and individuals from across the continent to share their stories of success.

The winners for 2023 will be revealed during the gala dinner in Dublin on October 5, which promises to be a night full of entertainment and celebration. Over 300 people were at the Brussels event in 2022.

ECJ editor Michelle Marshall said: “Once again I and my fellow judges have been so impressed with the numbers and standard of entries for this year’s awards. We are very excited about bringing the industry together in Dublin this autumn to tell you all about our finalists and announce our winners.”

But even if you’re not a finalists in this year’s awards there are plenty of reasons why the event has become such a hot ticket:

Team building - This is not just an event for those nominated for an award - treating your staff to a night out at a high-profile industry dinner can make them

feel truly valued

Let us entertain you – This is not just an awards dinner, it’s an evening full of entertainment and music - with dancing until 2am in one of Europe’s most lively cities

Be inspired– Even if you’re not up for an award, this is your chance to take a look at what the rest of the industry is doing. You could get some real insight into best practice and come away with fresh ideas.

Networking – There will be industry VIPs, business owners and key decision makers there - eager to connect. At the end of the evening you’ll have some great new contacts.

It’s possible to book tables of 10 people, half tables or individual places.

On the night trophies will be presented in 10 categories:

• Best Use of Smart Solutions by Service Providers

• Investment in Training

• Excellence in Client-Contractor Partnerships

• Start-Up Business of the Year

• Sustainability - Best Practice

• Commitment to Diversity in the Workforce

• Best Initiative Raising the Profile of the Cleaning Sector

• Technological Innovation of the Year

• Leader of the Year

• Rising Star Michelle Marshall concluded: ”We would love as many people as possible to join us for what promises to be a truly memorable night.”

To find out more visit: www. echawards.com/attend

EVENTS

September 19-22

CMS

Berlin, Germany www.cms-berlin.de

October 5

EuropeanCleaning&HygieneAwards Dublin, Ireland www.echawards.com

October 16-19

ISSA North America

Las Vegas, USA www.issa.com

October 18-20

Interclean China

Chongqing, China www.intercleanshow.com/china

November 7-9

Hygienalia

Madrid, Spain www.hygienalia.com

May 14-17 2024

Interclean Amserdam

Amsterdam, Netherlands www.intercleanshow.com

October 21-24 2024

ISSA North America

Las Vegas, USA www.issa.com

March 18-20 2025

The Cleaning Show

London, UK cleaningshow.co.uk

November 10-13 2025

ISSA North America

Chicago, USA www.issa.com

October 5-8 2026

ISSA North America

Las Vegas, USA www.issa.com

To have your event included in the Events section, contact ECJ via email at: michelle@europeancleaningjournal.com

alla cena di

degli European

Awards.

Vous pouvez désormais réserver votre place au dîner de gala des European Cleaning & Hygiene Awards. Les gagnants seront annoncés à The Round Room à The Mansion House à Dublin le 5 octobre.

Sie können jetzt Ihren Platz beim Galadinner der European Cleaning & Hygiene Awards buchen. Die Gewinner werden am 5. Oktober im The Round Room im The Mansion House in Dublin bekannt gegeben.

Ora puoi prenotare il tuo posto

gala

Cleaning & Hygiene

I vincitori saranno annunciati alla Round Room della Mansion House di Dublino il 5 ottobre.

The Lancet study highlights importance of washing with soap

Nearly a third of the world’s population lack the facilities to wash their hands at home using soap and water, according to a new study.

However, promoting hand washing with soap could reduce the large endemic burden of respiratory disease.

The study, published in The Lancet and carried out by a global team of scientists, looks at how far hand hygiene can help to prevent acute respiratory infections (ARI). These are a leading cause of death globally.

Before the Covid-19 pandemic around 83 per cent of ARI deaths occurred in low-income and middle-income countries, according to scientists. Recent

estimates of annual ARI deaths as a direct result of inadequate hand hygiene range from 270,000 to 370,000.

Following extensive analysis, study authors conclude that interventions promoting hand washing with soap can reduce ARI morbidity by about 17 per cent. And they add that proper hand hygiene can help to mechanically remove pathogens from the hands while also rupturing bacteria and viruses.

No access

While hand hygiene is best facilitated by a water supply on premises, some 27 per cent of the population of low-income and middle-income countriesaround 1.8 billion people - have

no access to hand washing facilities at home.

Most governments promoted hand washing with soap during the pandemic in the same way as they did in previous outbreaks of avian and swine influenza, according to the study authors.

However, hand washing campaigns in normal times are rare, which is considered to be a missed opportunity since promoting hand washing with soap could reduce the incidence of respiratory disease, it is claimed.

Près du tiers des habitants du monde n’ont pas chez eux l’équipement pour se laver les mains à l’eau et au savon, indique une nouvelle étude.

Laut einer neuen Studie, mangelt es fast einem Drittel der Weltbevölkerung an Einrichtungen, um sich zuhause die Hände mit Wasser und Seife zu waschen.

A quanto emerge da un nuovo studio, circa un terzo della popolazione mondiale non ha la possibilità e le strutture per lavarsi le mani a casa con acqua e sapone.

Fast, efficient assembly with reduced components

Simply a better service experience.

Robust and durable 23L feminine hygiene unit provides significant product longevity.

Avoid unauthorised access with hidden keyless lock

Invisi-Touch® technology on the modesty flap protects against bacterial build-up

www.vectairsystems.com/femcare-simple emea.info@vectairsystems.com

Modesty flap ensures waste is hidden

Europe’s industry delegates come together for EFCI meetings

business community and associations,” said Fidanza. Our members had an opportunity to express the most pressing challenges in the industry such as public procurement provisions, sustainability and the attractiveness of the sector.

EFCI 2023 and beyond

were the topics of this year’s discussion among the members and the Board. EFCI members had an opportunity to present main developments and concerns in the industry at national level during the discussion.

From May 30-31, delegates representing the associations of the European cleaning industry convened in Brussels for EFCI’s General Meetings 2023. Director general Matteo Matarazzo tells us more.

President of EFCI Lorenzo Mattioli opened this year’s meeting with an overview of the past year and highlighted the importance of EFCI’s work for the industry. He stepped forward with a proposal to discuss the objectives, strategy and challenges to shape the year to come.

The approach of General Meetings 2023 was not solely focused on EFCI’s strategic development avenues, but rather looking from the overall perspective of how EU regulation impacts the industry. It was a great occasion to engage with policy makers and open the discussion at the European level.

EFCI was very grateful to MEP Carlo Fidanza, from the group of the European Conservatives and Reformists (ECR) for hosting the participants of the general assembly at the European Parliament on the first day of General Meetings 2023 for a great exchange on the political priorities for the cleaning industry. “We are open for a dialogue with the industry stakeholders. We acknowledge the need to address the many challenges the industry is going through due to growing reporting duties – gender pay gap, corporate due diligence, sustainability with a pragmatic approach and a wider involvement of

EFCI director general Matteo Matarazzo presented last year’s developments as well as the organisation’s plans for the year ahead. Special emphasis was placed on EFCI policy work and on the members’ network, which

We had the pleasure to welcome the head of unit of public procurement Jean-Yves Muylle from the European Commission on the second day of meetings to discuss the issues with the way public procurement provisions are set

rules impact on the provision of services compared to the purchase of goods or the realisation of public works. While the negative impact of the predominance of the price criterion is a common feature for all fields, the higher bearing of labour costs for the cleaning industry marks a distinctive trait that worsens the effect of price competition. This is why intervening on the common European provisions on public procurement to exclude specific clauses (like the ban on price revision) would harmonise national legislation, create more uniform market opportunities and make public procurement attractive again.

The EFCI general meetings concluded with a lively discussion on future plans and events for the year! Stay tuned! Join our event on daytime cleaning in Brussels!

Matteo Matarazzo, directeur général de l’EFCI, parle de la récente assemblée de cette organisation à Bruxelles. Ses travaux ont porté notamment sur la stratégie politique et le réseau des membres.

at national level, and how EU legislation should be revised to help face them.

“A dialogue with the industry is essential for public procurement to drive the market and foster innovation. We would like to avoid the impression so prevalent in our society that public procurement is a heavy admin procedure. On the contrary, public procurement should pave the way for all other procurement

models and approaches,” explained Muylle.

The exchange also offered the opportunity to present in an informal context the specificities of how public procurement

Matteo Matarazzo, der Director General des EFCI, berichtet über die Hauptversammlung, die kürzlich in Brüssel stattfand. Unter anderem wurden Richtlinienarbeit und das Mitgliedernetzwerk diskutiert.

The European cleaning industry has been debating the case for daytime cleaning for years. And while in some countries this organisational model has been widely applied, others are only getting familiar with it. Can this model become a widespread solution for the industry of tomorrow?

What do we mean exactly by ‘daytime’ cleaning? And what are its benefits and challenges? Join our event to hear best practices and lessons learnt from practical examples in Europe!

The event will gather speakers from the European Parliament, experts from the industry and other stakeholders, and present concrete cases of daytime cleaning arrangements in different sectors to shed light on a relevant, yet still little-known dimension of our industry.

The event will take place in Brussels on June 27th. More information on how to attend can be found at www.efci.eu/ activities/#efcis-conferences

Il direttore generale di EFCI Matteo Matarazzo ci aggiorna sull’assemblea geneale che si è tenuta di recente a Bruxelles. Fra gli argomenti delle discussioni c’erano le iniziative politiche e il network dei soci.

• EFCI Members and MEP Carlo Fidanza at the European Parliament

EFCI will continue to leverage to ensure the voice of the industry is heard in Brussels. Public procurement, daytime cleaning and also an overview of national government regulations

• EFCI president Lorenzo Mattioli and Jean-Yves Muylle from the European Commission

The

A.I.S.E. since 1952 - the history of a sustainable industry

losing focus on core values such as sustainable cleaning performance, safety and safe use, bringing benefits of hygiene and well-being to citizens and societies, and an innovative and thriving industry.

This year A.I.S.E. celebrates the strength of its network and achievements over 70 years of cooperation through the European association. Aisling O’Kane writes for ECJ about the organisation’s history.

In 70 years since its establishment in 1952, A.I.S.E. has grown from a handful of associations collaborating to secure the availability of materials post-war, into a pan-European organisation representing over 900 companies across over 30 markets. A.I.S.E. owes its existence to a few visionary individuals committed to developing trade and free movement in post-war Europethrough an industry organisation that would speak with one common voice for the European soap and detergents industry. Over the seven decades that followed, the whole process of cleaning and washing has been transformed, in response to people’s habits and expectations. The products themselves are barely recognisable compared to those used just two generations ago, and work that once required many hours and significant ‘elbow grease’ is now achieved in a fraction of the time.

During its early existence A.I.S.E. focuses on rebuilding trade in a post-war environment with many and economic issues. As the decades unfold, so its role expands in line with evolving societal priorities and expectations. All without

From securing trade to supporting human and environmental safety

As the association becomes established in the 70s and 80s, so the focus of its work gradually shifts from trade and ingredient availability to safety for humans and the environment. The decades that follow are marked by wide innovation and scientific studies that explore the use of a variety of substances in cleaning and maintenance products.

Always guided by a science and evidence-based approach, A.I.S.E. has taken a lead in introducing a range of voluntary safety initiatives ahead of legislation for both the professional and the consumer market, with guidance on minimising environmental impact, low temperature washing enabled through the innovation of enzymes, the safety of users and professional workers, the sustainable use of products. Highly concentrated products optimise resources from manufacturing to use - delivering huge environmental savings through concentrated products, more efficient use of resources and transport savings. This is a key strength of the professional cleaning products industry.

These industry-led initiatives will go on to shape EU legislation that will become standards across the sector. The sector pioneers the use of life cycle analysis (LCA) as the basis of all decision making and we begin to consider the impact across the

Cela fait 70 ans, soit en 1952, qu’a été fondée l’AISE (Association internationale de l’Industrie du Savon, des Détergents et des Produits d’entretien), qui de poignée d’organisations travaillant à assurer la disponibilité en matières premières au lendemain de la 2ème guerre mondiale est devenue aujourd’hui une organisation paneuropéenne représentant plus de 900 entreprises opérant sur une trentaine de marchés.

whole value chain and develops groundbreaking projects on human and environmental risk assessment, which predate the EU’s REACH legislation by several years and demonstrates our industry’s determination to tackle difficult challenges and work to manage substances responsibly.

Driving sustainability and circularity

A.I.S.E. is one of the first associations to emphasise the important role of users in taking voluntary action to drive sustainable washing and cleaning. Our sector has always placed significant focus on the sustainability of its products and industry, going beyond its established environmental work to include the broader pillars of sustainability and consider the impact and opportunities the sector can deliver for Europe’s citizens and economy. A.I.S.E. recognises the importance of cooperation in achieving a truly sustainable European society. Its flagship Charter for Sustainable Cleaning, launched in 2004, is ground-breaking in its scope and ambition, and continues to demonstrate measurable progress towards global objectives such as a carbon neutral Europe in 2050. The Charter sets a clear vision for the sector and reassures policy makers of the industry’s commitment to deliver.

Stakeholder outreach

From its inception A.I.S.E. has been politically engaged, working alongside scientists, policy makers and partners to find solutions to common challenges and shape the regulatory landscape. Currently, much of the key legislation regulating our sector is being overhauled as a part of the

In den 70 Jahren seit seiner Gründung im Jahr 1952 ist der A.I.S.E. von einer Handvoll Verbänden, die nach dem Krieg zusammenarbeiteten, um die Materialverfügbarkeit sicherzustellen, zu einer europaweiten Organisation gewachsen, die mehr als 900 Unternehmen in mehr als 30 Märkten repräsentiert.

European Commission’s Chemicals Strategy for Sustainability (CSS). The most significant shift in chemicals policy in almost 20 years, it includes revision of CLP, REACH and the Detergent Regulation and will set the stage for years to come.

We are honoured to hold a seat at the Commission’s High-Level Roundtable on the implementation of the CSS and support its aim to prioritise human health, the environment and the competitiveness of EU industry. An added-value network

Our network has expanded steadily over seven decades. It includes corporate members - SMEs and multinational companies, and national associations representing companies of all sizes that are well-connected and active locally. Together with associate members in the value chain, the A.I.S.E. network benefits from valuable insights and added value, also from extensive partnership up and down the value chain for common advocacy on a whole host of relevant topics.

As A.I.S.E. looks ahead to the next 70 years, it can be confident that detergents and cleaning products will continue to play a key role in upholding health and hygiene. Our network of national associations and multinationals will continue to be our greatest asset, operating across the 27 EU markets and beyond. The network provides unrivalled insights into the needs and evolutions within our sector, and A.I.S.E will remain a knowledge hub for hygiene and sustainability in the years to come.

www.aise.eu

Nei 70 anni da quando è stata fondata nel 1952, la A.I.S.E. è cresciuta da una manciata di associazioni che collaboravano per assicurare la disponibilità dei materiali nel dopoguerra fino a diventare una organizzazione paneuropa che rappresenta oltre 900 imprese in oltre 30 mercati.

Hygiene solutions your business can trust

Deliver a high standard of hygiene to help you stay on top of operations

For better employee well-being and confidence, we help you provide a healthy, safe and hygienic workplace with sophisticated and effective hygiene and cleaning solutions and innovative digital services for washrooms and beyond

Learn more at: tork co uk tork.ie tork.de

Helping California’s most vulnerable frontline workers

Luis Sandoval is executive director of the Building Skills Partnership in California, USA. She tells us about the organisation’s work in helping improve the lives of property service employees in low-wage industries.

In the face of continual social inequality, stagnating wages, and an economic recovery from a global pandemic, many workers in America are finding it difficult to get ahead. Building Skills Partnership; a nonprofit organisation serving thousands of workers from low-wage industries throughout California, in partnership with Service Employees International Union - United Service Workers West (SEIU-USWW) provides opportunities to fully address the unique barriers janitorial workers and their families face in realising the benefits of social, civic, and economic integration.

For thousands of janitors in low-wage industries across California, the pandemic has exacerbated challenges for an already vulnerable workforce. Mostly immigrants with limited English-proficiency, they have lacked access to formal education - janitors often face multiple challenges such as financial insecurity and limited opportunities for career mobility. Since janitors do most of their work after hours or when business or entertainment spaces are not in use, they often go unseen, and the cleaning profession compounds that systemic invisibility.

“Now more than ever, we must invest in worker training and labour-protection solutions that address public health, worker retention, and career mobility,” says David Huerta, president of SEIU-USWW.

Equitable future

In partnership with SEIUUSWW, Building Skills Partnership continues to strive to create an equitable future for working families to build a better life, with union leadership thinking about Building Skills Partnership programmes to help meet the

needs of janitorial workers in their lives and communities.

Building Skills Partnership was founded with the vision of creating an equitable playing field for California’s working families to succeed in their careers and educational endeavours. Born out of the Justice for Janitors movement that helped thousands of immigrant janitors achieve a more just way of living and working, today it represents a partnership between over 90 janitorial employers, over 60 commercial building owners, SEIU-USWW and the wider community.

Public health necessity

“In the last US recession, many building owners cut janitorial services, but cleaning services can no longer be considered optional or a luxury - cleaning services are a public health necessity. Now is the time to pave the way for safer workspaces and a more highly skilled workforce,” says Huerta.

Building Skills Partnership reaches 5,500 workers annually through career and education programmes that enable janitors and airport workers’ personal and professional success, providing opportunities to fully address the unique barriers immigrant workers and their families face in realising the benefits of social, civic, and economic inclusion.

Building Skills Partnership’s innovative training programmes address the needs from frontline property service workers, industry and labour for skill training. We have worked closely with SEIU-USWW, employers and building owners to develop various programmes to train thousands of workers, helping to create upskilling and create pathways to progress.

The organisation offers programmes for janitors at leading worksites across California, including major tech companies in Silicon Valley and the Bay Area; and leading entertainment offices and commercial buildings in Los Angeles, Orange County, and San Diego. The janitors Building

Skills Partnership serves are at some of the most dynamic companies in the US, though low wages and inequality still exist in the janitorial industry.

For the work I do now, I see through my own lens of experiences. This work is personal, since both my parents and I have worked as janitors at one point. I understand the challenges, but also the resilience and opportunities to engage communities who are often disenfranchised and marginalised.

To help janitorial workers and their families obtain a better quality of life, Building Skills Partnership programmes are designed to develop high-road industry-driven partnerships that provide equity, sustainability, and job quality through skills strategies.

Among the janitors it serves, 97 per cent are immigrants from Latin America, 70 per cent lack basic English proficiency, and 50 per cent are over 50 years old. An average annual salary of $32,000 (€29,500) makes it hard for workers to climb out of poverty.

A typical janitor begins their journey to work at 4:30 pm on public transportation, works from 6:00 pm to 2:00 am, sleeps from 3:30 am to 6:30 am, then cares for children, tends to the house and/or works their second job to make ends meet. They clean the buildings of some of the most advanced companies in the state.

Commute long hours

Due to the skyrocketing cost of living in California and the nearby business districts, many janitors commute long hours on public transportation from affordable neighbourhoods.

Janitors who own cars often resort to sleeping in them during the week to save time and fuel, while spouses or extended family care for children. Cultural and language barriers, low digital literacy and immigration status prevent many families from accessing support and health resources.

Building Skills Partnership programmes include infectious

disease certification, environmentally sustainable cleaning programme, financial capabilities courses, English as a second language (ESL), digital literacy, citizenship & civic engagement, health and wellness, parenting engagement, higher education scholarships, and more.

Training addresses needs

To bring industry employers, workers, and partners together, we develop curriculum and trains thousands of workers statewide, which also enabled the organisation to quickly address workers’ needs in 2020 during Covid-19 and help janitors to safely conduct cleaning practices - supporting them and the business communities they serve.

Through a sector approach, Building Skills Partnership brings together stakeholders connected to the property service industry to address the skills shortages while developing a pipeline of skilled workers to meet future demands. By partnering with employers and labour, we are able to improve worker training, career pathways, industry growth, and facilitate the advancement of workers at all skill levels.

The organisation also partners with industry employers who support the professionalisation of a certified workforce through an industry career pathway. Together, they offer partnerships that facilitate progression to support employee training, upskilling and certification.

Building Skills Partnership has been working to address racial and social inequities for property service workers since its founding in 2007. The organisation collaborates with workers and partners to promote workforce development and immigrant inclusion strategies, and works to replicate its successful industry driven partnership model for the benefit of workers.

Through its Citizenship & Civic Engagement programme, the body emboldens vulnerable immigrant workers to raise their

Continued page 12

Helping California’s most vulnerable frontline workers (continued from page 11)

voices and advance social and racial equity for themselves and their communities.

Sustainable practice

It also works to achieve climate and racial justice through its Green Janitor Education Program (GJEP), a 30-hour certification that focuses on energy efficiency, recycling, waste management, water conservation, and other sustainable cleaning practices. GJEP enables large US commercial office buildings to meet green performance standards while providing skills training and upward career ladder opportunities for workers. Furthermore, it helps janitors understand the health benefits of green maintenance for their

building tenants and themselves, as well as their families and communities at home.

In the coming years, Building Skills Partnership will be expanding its workforce development, immigrant inclusion, and community advancement programmes to also serve more passenger service workers at LAX (Los Angeles), one of the largest international airports in the world.

Workers from these communities are composed of a diverse demographic including Asian Americans, Black, and other people of colour.

By extending its programmes to serve workers beyond Latinx immigrants, we will impact

more working families and build fair systems that advance racial equity, diversity, and inclusion for all.

Workers of colour and immigrant workers have been disproportionately looked down upon by society while working hard on the front lines to help keep the public safe, clean, and moving forward. Building Skills Partnership is working to change the narrative for society to have a new understanding and appreciation of the work these types of employees do every single day, no matter what.

Inclusion for all

Some successful outcomes of programmes so far include:

• Thousands of janitorial workers trained in Infectious Disease

Certification

• Health and wellness programmes positively impact workers

• Full-time janitor and single mum improves her family’s quality of life

• Higher education scholarship recipient graduated from UC Berkeley

• Hundreds of immigrant workers have naturalised and become US Citizens

• Helped numerous workers to gain financial literacy

• Supported workers and their family members to gain digital literacy skills.

To find out more visit: www. buildingskills.org

Devant des inégalités

des salaires figés et une lente reprise depuis la pandémie, nombreux sont les travailleurs états-uniens qui peinent à progresser. Building Skills Partnership, une organisation à but non lucratif au service de travailleurs à bas salaires à travers la Californie, offre à des salariés des services d’immeuble et à leurs familles des possibilités de progrès vers la réalisation des avantages de l’insertion sociale, civile et économique.

Angesichts fortwährender sozialer Ungleichheit, stagnierender Löhne und der Erholung von einer globalen Pandemie finden es viele Arbeitnehmer in den USA schwer voranzukommen. Building Skills Partnership – eine gemeinnützige Organisation, die Tausende von Arbeitnehmern in Niedriglohnbranchen in Kalifornien betreut – schafft Möglichkeiten, die Hindernisse anzugehen, mit denen sich Hauspersonal und ihre Familien konfrontiert sehen, die Vorteile der sozialen, staatsbürgerlichen und wirtschaftlichen Integration zu verwirklichen.

Di fronte alla continua ineguaglianza sociale, ai salari stagnanti e alla ripresa dalla pandemia globale, numerosi lavoratori in America hanno difficoltà ad andare avanti. La Building Skills Partnership, una organizzazione senza fini di lucro al servizio di migliaia di lavoratori provenienti da industrie a basso salario in tutta la California, fornisce opportunità per affrontare le barriere che gli addetti alle pulizie e le loro famiglie devono affrontare nel realizzare i benefici dell’integrazione sociale, civica ed economica.

économiques persistantes,

“It really doesn’t have to smell like lemons to be clean,” Mats Marklund, CEO of Swatab points out in Swedish online cleaning newsletter, Cleannet.

An argument that may seem obvious for people in the industry, but nevertheless calls for both instruction and a change of attitude within Swedish municipalities and society as a whole.

Even though municipalities have made efforts to clean without detergents, cleaning and washing account for approximately 70 to 80 per cent of their chemical use and according to Marklund they’ll have to take a closer look at that, especially if they want to become chemical-free. Marklund acknowledges these bodies have paid attention to and, to a certain degree, dealt with the problems related to chemical use in cleaning. But it isn’t enough.

“Local authorities are now aware

of environmental issues and sustainability and have become great at buying cleaning solutions without chemicals and toxic substances. The change I want to see is making laundries chemicalfree as well. Not until then can they say they run a sustainable sector,” Marklund says.

He adds: “If cloths are washed with detergents and fabric softeners and later used to clean a table or other surfaces, for example, they’re still spreading chemicals.”

Marklund also points a finger at the general notion in society that something is only clean if it smells nice, which often leads to an extra drop of detergent here and there.

Quitting detergents in laundries, in addition to those in cleaning, is an important piece in the puzzle to become a more sustainable sector. Thinking of alternatives all together is another. But municipal decision makers are often reluc-

Laundry’s role in sustainability

tant to make large investments in this area, Marklund argues.

Last year the requirements towards environmental awareness changed. Previously, municipalities in Sweden were urged to bear the environment in mind – now they have to take the environment into account in public procurement. So, they shouldn’t feel bound by framework agreements made with manufacturers and suppliers of certain detergents any longer, Marklund notes and lists a number of other things to be gained from quitting chemicals besides the positive impact on the environment.

It would reduce allergic reactions

and headaches among employees and other people in facilities of the local care sector. And this, in turn, would reduce sick days in the sector with an obvious financial benefit as a result. And if the manufacturing of detergents were to be discontinued all together, less money would be spent on transportation and logistics.

Not surprisingly, Mats Marklund’s own company offers an alternative solution. But it doesn’t change the fact he has a point. Companies should continue to develop sustainable solutions and public bodies have a willingness to invest in them for the long-term benefits.

Dans son reportage de Suède, Lotte Printz explique que les municipalités y sont vivement encouragées à tenir compte des exigences du blanchissage dans leurs efforts visant à des opérations plus durables.

Die ECJ-Korrespondentin Lotte Printz berichtet aus Schweden, wo Kommunen angehalten werden, in ihrem Bestreben um eine nachhaltigere Betrieb die Wäschereien nicht zu vergessen.

Dalla Svezia, la corrispondente di ECJ Lotte Printz ci informa su come le amministrazioni comunali svedesi sono state sollecitate a non dimenticare le lavanderie nel loro impegno verso un metodo di operare più sostenibile.

A Swedish CEO is urging public bodies not to forget laundry in their initiatives, reports Lotte Printz.

Sustainability is in the small things

ECJ Dutch correspondent John Griep tells us about an inspirational speaker at a recent VSR event.

Sometimes you have good intentions, and yet there’s still commentary on your actions. That means climate activists can never quite get it right –after all, they also drive a car sometimes, get on an aeroplane or eat the occasional hamburger. Something similar happened to us during our VSR Spring Event.

In an old building in the middle of the meadows in Lopikerkapel – a village somewhere in the western Netherlands – VSR members gathered for the event. The theme was sustainable and social enterprise. We at VSR may not be climate activists, but we are convinced of the need for change.

It was a beautiful location, there in Lopikerkapel, although keynote speaker Alycia Biekram viewed it differently. And she made that known at the beginning of her speech. This was because she could not reach the location from her home in The Hague by public transport. In other words, not sustainable.

Biekram works at Facilicom, one of the larger facility management service providers in the Netherlands. She has two passions: facility management and making an impact with sustainable and social business. Sustainable business, she said, is in the little things – like choosing an event venue.

Dreaming big while focusing on small goals at the same time is the secret, she says. Biekram confronted her audience by pointing out personal responsibility: “Everyone is a link. Don’t look at politics or the company you work for, but what are you doing as a person? What are you doing that will make it a little better tomorrow?”

For example, the sustain-

La récente manifestation de printemps de l’organisation VSR a été consacrée à l’entreprise durable et socialement responsable, rapporte John Griep dans son reportage des Pays-Bas.

ability expert prefers to travel by public transport (except to Lopikerkapel) and uses erasable cards rather than paper ones as reminders during her presentations. This doesn’t mean she’s perfect, she believes, as long as the intention is to improve.

According to Biekram, it is time for change. “In doing so, be positive, enthusiastic and critical,” she urged. “We all need each other. We need cleaning companies and they need suppliers. And we also need the planet, nature and our social capital – people.”

The big picture

Look at the whole thing –that’s her motto. Because you can choose a product that is very circular, but what good does it do you if there’s a high CO2 footprint afterwards? What matters is the whole picture: what does the production process look like? How is the transport organised? Does a product retain its value (how long does a machine last for)? And also: can employees make ends meet? Can people express their opinion?

A few examples of some goals you could set yourself (and which, according to the speaker, are “not mega-ambitious”): zero kg of residual waste, 100 per cent of your employees can make ends meet, CO2 emissions reduced by 60 per cent, and no use of primary raw materials. How we treat each other as entrepreneurs – and sometimes competitors – also plays a role.

“We must share the enthusiasm. That means faming each other instead of shaming. Emphasise what is being done, which then makes a connection, and then it happens,” Biekram said.

I have nothing to add to that.

Die vor Kurzem stattgefundene Frühlingsveranstaltung von VSR stand unter dem Thema nachhaltiges und soziales Unternehmen, berichtet John Griep aus den Niederlanden.

Dall’Olanda, il corrispondente John Griep ci informa che i temi dell’evento primaverile avvenuto di recente dell’associazione VSR erano sostenibilità e impresa sociale.

The challenge of price increases

Although at the beginning of the year it seemed that inflation had momentarily slowed down, in Italy there were some sectors which could not benefit from this decrease in the upward trend.

In fact, according to a note issued by Istat (National Institute of Statistics), while inflation decreased by 10 per cent mainly thanks to the reduction in utility bills, the consumer’s shopping basket often shows prices up by 12 per cent. This is caused by many categories of products that continue to increase in price. This certainly includes medicines as well as household detergents and services.

It is important to point out that the prices of services for household cleaning and maintenance have increased from +2.5 per cent to +6.8 per cent (in 2022 compared to the previous year). This is even more true for detergents in general (domestic and industrial).

Without doubt the recovery of the economic and productive situation after the pandemic has led to a series of situations that resulted in some unbalances. Among these, the most evident was the limited availability of some raw materials which consequently led to a significant increase in prices.

Furthermore, there were a number of delays in transport, the issue of high energy prices and, it is legitimate to think, some speculation at global level. Last but not least, there is the issue of packaging whose production has suffered from an increase in the price of raw materials. This had an effect on bottles and tanks intended to contain products for industrial and domestic cleaning and sanitisation.

Going back to the issue of raw materials, many of the materials supplied by European companies are being bought by producers who used to buy them in China. The increase in demand has thus led to a further price increase. The lack of raw materials has also led to re-formulation of some products - while always respecting sustainability and efficacy.

It is pointless to state it is the consumer who pays the price for this situation, forced to pay for these products to avoid getting by without them.

In this serious situation of uncertainty, companies in the industrial cleaning sector can only observe the evolution of the market. However, it is a certain fact that, the average increase in consumer prices last year was 8.1 per cent compared to 1.9 per cent in the previous year.

According to Federchimica, despite this situation from January to August last year, the domestic cleaning sector (€3.8 billion turnover), continued in moderately positive growth (+1.2 per cent in value). Within this sector, disinfectants (14.3 per cent) and cleaning additives showed an increase of 2.3 per cent. Maintenance products also increased by 1.1 per cent, detergents recorded a certain stability (+0.1 per cent) while the segment called ‘others’ showed a negative trend (-7 per cent), due to the exponential growth in sales of disinfectants which had benefited from a significant growth during the pandemic but now suffered a slowdown.

Concerns remain for the future and for the decrease in the purchasing power of households in a situation that has not yet showed a slowdown in costs for the sector’s businesses.

In ihrem Bericht aus Italien betrachtet Anna Garbagna, wie sich die Preiserhöhungen bei Energie und Materialien auf die Reinigungsbranche auswirken.

Dall’Italia, la corrispondente Anna Garbagna analizza come l’aumento dei prezzi di energia elettrica e materiali stiano avendo un impatto sul settore del cleaning.

In Italy, Anna Garbagna on how general increases in costs are impacting on cleaning products.

Anna Garbagna, notre correspondante en Italie, contemple les effets de la hausse de l’énergie et des produits de base sur le secteur de la propreté.

Survey reveals cautious mood

German correspondent Katja Scholz brings news of the latest BIV survey of its members.

The Federal Association of Contract Cleaners (BIV) has been carrying out a spring business survey for five years now. This is where BIV member companies offer a picture of the mood in the sector and give their views on market forecasts, sales expectations and current issues. This year’s survey again took place against the backdrop of the war in Ukraine but discussions concerning the four-day week and confidence in politicians have also played a part. From the end of March to the middle of April, 400 member companies took part.

The positive outcome is that the mood has lightened compared with the 2022 autumn survey. Six months ago, the economic consequences of the Russian invasion of Ukraine combined with the global pandemic-related materials shortages and supply chain bottlenecks, along with price inflation, were still creating a noticeably gloomy mood. But how did it look in this spring?

Positive business outcomes were predicted by 40.5 per cent of the companies questioned, compared to only 31.3 per cent in the autumn, 37.3 per cent currently expect an unchanged business environment – while 22 per cent view the current year with negative expectations.

The reason for this lies largely in the still challenging recruitment environment. “The companies in our sector have a hugely important role with regard to integration in the employment market. Hence 20 per cent of the companies surveyed have managed, since the start of the war, to give (temporary) employment to refugees from Ukraine. It is, on the other hand, a sobering fact that almost three times as many - more than 60 per cent - have been unable to do so, in spite of their best efforts. The reason given for this is more often

than not bureaucracy,” explains BIV federal guild master Thomas Dietrich. “The fact the integration achievements in our sector are very high and that we stand for diversity and tolerance is evidenced by the fact just under 40 per cent of employees in our sector who are paying social security contributions still have no German passport.”

Along with the precarious recruitment situation, the survey also shows language barriers, lack of accommodation and childcare facilities account for the mediocre business forecasts.

The mood of the sector is equally sceptical with regard to the four-day working week, currently much discussed in Germany. In answer to the question as to whether this could be an important element in the recruitment of employees, on a scale of 1=unlikely to 10=very likely, the overall answer of 4.6 lies exactly in the middle.

The general attitude to free collective bargaining is equally problematic. In answer to the question as to whether companies still trust federal politicians to stay out of the upcoming round of talks on the legal minimum wage, the average response was 2.7 on a scale of 1=no trust, 10=complete trust. Last year’s increase in the legal minimum wage to €12 per hour gave rise to considerable criticism from employers to the effect this marked an end to it.

In 2022 the contract cleaning trade had already raised both its mandatory sector minimum wages to €13 and €16.20 in early collective bargaining with the IG BAU (construction workers’ union). On January 1 2024, these wages will rise to €13.5 and €16.70. “The significant difference between this and the statutory minimum wage will be preserved in the future,” said Dietrich.

Rapportant d’Allemagne, Katja Scholz donne des précisions sur le sondage de printemps effectué par l’association de la propreté BIV parmi les milieux d’affaires pour connaître les sentiments actuels du secteur.

Aus Deutschland berichtet Katja Scholz über die Frühlings-Konjunkturumfrage des Bundesinnungsverband des Gebäudereiniger-Handwerks (BIV), mit dem die allgemeine Stimmung in der Branche abgeschätzt wird.

Dalla Germania, la corrispondente Katja Scholz ci aggiorna sul sondaggio primaverile delle imprese dell’associazione di pulizie in appalto BIV che misura l’umore generale del settore.

A right royal clean-up!

UK correspondent Lynn Webster reports on the recent coronation of King Charles III.

Here in the UK, we are renowned for our pageantry and many say nobody puts on a show as good. We recently witnessed the very best of such historical moments; the first coronation in seven decades, an event never seen in the lifetime of most adults in the UK.

Many tens of thousands flooded into the capital to share in the King’s coronation spectacle. Although at a cost estimated to be £100 billion, in return we gained so much in not only prestige but in business terms from the revenue it brought to the hospitality trade and to retail. And of course the income generated by the increase in tourism.

Many hours of global television broadcasting shared the build-up and the weekend event. The challenge would be “did anyone see even the smallest amount of debris or litter?”

There were hundreds (if not thousands) of portable loos and accessible facilities; welfare and first aid booths; water stations and a multitude of mobile food and beverage outlets. And the thousands who had camped out in the royal parks and lined the parade route over many days and nights to gain their premium viewing spot.

There was a pristine finish, a credit to those tasked with making all the surrounding areas pristine during the whole ceremony. There was not a crisp packet, a coffee cup nor a discarded drinks bottle in sight.

However we then must consider, was the environmental impact fully appreciated? And has the event met its sustainability targets?

The focus was to promote three areas of consideration:

Food and drink - the promotion of not overbuying, which inevitably leads to excess food

waste. Using reusable food packaging such as resealable food boxes, discouraging the use of unrecyclable cling film and avoiding single-use cutlery and drinks containers.

Decorations - naturally there was a great deal of memorabilia so discouraging the use of single-use materials and the creation of avoidable waste. Balloons were actively discouraged as a source of unrecyclable plastic which also poses a hazard to wildlife.

The Big Clean-Up - the massive clean-up operation to return the city to normal.

Once again, the cleaning industry excelled with logistical planning and exemplary skills that just like magic waved an imaginary fairy wand.

Tonnes of waste and discarded memorabilia had to be removed - flags, bunting, sun hats (or rain hats) and other paraphernalia. And like the remnants of Glastonbury, numerous tents, camping chairs and personal possessions lay abandoned. All exacerbated by the impact of the inclement weather which left it with the appearance of a very large soggy mess.

With this was the removal of the sand distributed on the paths and roads along the procession route down the Mall and from Whitehall in Westminster to protect the horses from slipping on the tarmac roads. Street cleaning was assisted with in-cab mobile technology mobile waste management software which enabled crews to be managed efficiently; dynamically directed to the areas requiring their attention with real time information.

Barriers were finally dismantled and so the city returned once more to normality thanks to an army of cleaning teams.

Labour shortages hit hard

For some months now, there has been much talk of a ‘great resignation’ of workers and, more recently, of a growing tendency for workers to just leave their job one day and not come back. These two phenomena – mass resignation and post relinquishment – are hitting the cleaning sector particularly hard.

As the unemployment rate in France has fallen with the ending of the pandemic, cleaning companies - and particularly those involved in industrial work - have been badly hurt by what they’re calling ‘la grande demission’, or mass resignation. To deal with this, the French cleaning federation (FEP) has published a ‘livre bleu describing the main problems they have to deal with. Foremost among them is the issue of recruitment.

The cleaning sector, which normally employs some 560,000 people, is currently faced with a shortage equivalent to a tenth of that number. Indeed, it requires about 53,000 new workers under permanent employment contracts in order to operate normally. And it fears being short of some 10,000 temporary cleaners to fill the gaps caused by staff taking holiday. The situation is such that some cleaning companies are refusing new work. Nothing entirely new

This severe shortage of manpower had already made itself felt some three or four years ago, before the pandemic. At that time, the cleaning trades were already experiencing recruitment difficulties, but things have become worse since the Covid crisis. Philippe Jouanny, president of FEP, reported the cleaning sector is experiencing job resignations

Le

and relinquishments in numbers never seen before. One explanation was that, due to the sharp rises in fuel, many cleaners considered it no longer paid to go to work, especially when most of them have two return journeys to make every day, one in the early morning and one late in the evening.

These resignations are felt at every company level, even management. Worst of all, the cleaning training centres have seen their intake fall sharply. At this time, they should be having 500 more trainees than they currently do. Low wages are obviously a major reason for this lack of interest, even though they have increased by six per cent this year and the transport allowance has also been raised.

But the working conditions of cleaners are also a major hindrance to attracting more people. Despite all the efforts by the federation to improve this situation, client companies are still insisting cleaning work is done outside office hours. Cleaners have therefore to come early in the morning and late in the evening, their working days thus being cut in two and made more costly in time and money owing to the two return journeys they have to make.

FEP is trying hard to persuade public purchasers of cleaning services to lead by example but has failed to get results so far, despite the commitments taken by the government in that area some months ago. Paradoxically, more and more cleaners should be deployed in the face of growing requirements for workplace hygiene, but with the shortage of labour that will have to be revised downwards.

particulier par le phénomène de la « grande démission ». Christian Bouzols nous en dit plus.

Die französische Reinigungsbranche sieht sich mit ernstem Arbeitskräftemangel konfrontiert. Schuld daran sind Phänomene wie die große Kündigungswelle. Christian Bouzols berichtet darüber.

In Francia, il settore del cleaning professionale sta affrontando una grave carenza di personale a causa di fenomeni tipo la “grande rassegnazione”. Ce ne parla il corrispondente Christian Bouzols.

The trend known as the ‘great resignation’ is hitting the cleaning sector, says Christian Bouzols in France.

secteur français de la propreté se heurte à de fortes pénuries de main-d’œuvre, marquées en

Au Royaume-Uni, Lynn Webster fait rapport sur le récent couronnement du roi Charles III et sur l’immense opération de nettoiement qui a suivi cette manifestation à Londres.

Lynn Webster berichtet aus dem Vereinigten Königreich über die kürzlich stattgefundene Krönung von König Charles III und die riesige Reinigungsaktion im Zusammenhang mit diesem Ereignis in London.

Dal Regno Unito, la corrispondente Lynn Webster ci fa un resoconto sulla recente incoronazione di King Charles III e la massiccia operazione di pulizia legata all’evento a Londra.

ONE SYSTEM FOR EVERY SURFACE IS NOW COMPLETE

Floors Surfaces Glass attach the range

Getting anywhere, with any tool

With Lampo you attach the full range of cleaning tools instantly

With Lampo, you have a complete range of professional cleaning tools at your disposal: the Jack adapter allows you to use the same handle with dusters, web brushes, glass line tools and floor frames. In addition, the Plug device allows you to release the frames directly on the trolley, without any contact with contaminated surfaces.

The robot co-operative

How happy are cleaning staff about using robot assistants?

to pick the right programme and press a few buttons.”

ECJ

looks at the humanrobot relationship and asks manufacturers and cleaning companies how they can help to improve it.

THE ROBOTS ARE COMING. And human cleaners are increasingly having to learn to work alongside them. But do they appreciate the labour-saving potential that cleaning robots provide? Or do some feel resentful, wary - even threatened by these new machines?

Staff members need to be fully instructed and involved in the implementation of robots, says Gausium’s global business development director Peter Kwestro.

“Humans generally resist changes they do not understand. They need to be made to realise that cleaning robots represent no threat to their jobs and can help them work smarter, not harder. Most users feel comfortable working with robots if their introduction is properly implemented.”

He says cleaners quickly come to understand the value of robots once they see how they can reduce their workload, relieve them of repetitive tasks, reduce stress and help to prevent repetitive strain injuries.

“They also appreciate the consistent cleaning results, ease of operation and the increased prestige they receive from building users,” he said. “Their promotion to ‘robotics operator’ gives them a higher status and increases their sense of responsibility and involvement since they are working with a tool that is priced like a small car.”

An initial degree of time investment is always required, he admits. “Just like any other new colleague, a robot needs to be shown around the building on its first day,” he said. “Once this mapping process has been completed the cleaner simply needs

Checking on a robot is no more onerous than keeping tabs on any other cleaning machine, he claims. “The cleaner simply needs to make sure that the filters, squeegees, brushes and pads are sufficiently clean and not worn out.” And the job of the robots – far from replacing humans –is to act as co-assistants and create more interesting work for the cleaner. “The aim is to make the cleaner more productive and efficient without increasing their workload or stress levels,” said Kwestro.

Gausium aims to make its “co-assistants” as autonomous and smart as possible to allow cleaners to operate them easily in multiple languages, he said. “They should be able to start, pause and stop them and send them off to remove spills and stains on demand,” said Kwestro. “This is what makes them attractive to cleaners.”

And he feels there is no need to equip robots with ‘faces’ or provide them with banter to make them more acceptable to human operatives. “A robot should look like a cleaning machine - not a joke-telling humanoid device,” he said. “The fun factor of these types of robots wears thin pretty quickly. And a human-like robot can be disconcerting for young children and the elderly while also making cleaners feel that their jobs are not being taken seriously.”

Gausium robots are user-friendly, consistent and reliable due to the company’s GMind-X software and AI capabilities based on deep learning technology, according to Kwestro.

Most cleaners understand that robots can help to make their work easier, agrees Kärcher’s robotics product manager Alina Seitter. “It is important for the robot’s acceptance and integration into the team that its behaviour is understood and its operation intuitive and simple,” she said.

“Employees appreciate the fact that some of the more physically demanding tasks are being eliminated and that other,

more skilled jobs are being created in their place. The effort with which cleaning staff previously needed to carry out time-consuming floor cleaning is sharply reduced by robots, leaving them time for more complex tasks. And the job profile, reputation and motivation of the cleaner is enhanced by the fact they are working with state-of-the-art technology.”

She admits some cleaners have reservations about working with robots. “When the first scrubber dryer robots were launched, their route plans could only be created by service engineers with technical equipment and programming knowledge,” she said.

Skilled human cleaner

“It is important that today’s models can be configured without expertise or technical know-how. With the aid of improved sensors, higher data quality and modern operating concepts any user can now create, correct or combine routes without technical support.”

Many of today’s machines can take themselves off to the docking station, she adds. “Here the robots can autonomously charge their batteries, drain away the dirty water and fill up with fresh water,” she said. “In an ideal scenario, scrubber dryer robots can also clean extensively right up to the edge without the need for any additional manual work. And with the aid of high-performance software, sensors and the ability to move backwards autonomously, they can even free themselves unaided from impasses.”

Any coherent cleaning concept needs the know-how of a skilled human cleaner, she says. “A human will see a room, recognise the need for action, break it down into work steps and find solutions for unforeseen problems that cannot be standardised,” she said. “Machines will not be able to do this for the foreseeable future.”

Kärcher’s KIRA B 50 cleaning robot can be configured by any user and is said to offer intuitive menus, pictures and clear instructions. It can also make its own way to the docking station for battery recharg-

ing, says Seitter.

Sodexo, provider of cleaning services, has received positive feedback from frontline colleagues using robot assistants, says the company’s UK and Ireland head of cleaning Lauren Kyle. “Inevitably with any kind of change some people are hesitant at first. But as they recognise the value of using equipment that helps them in their role they generally welcome the robots.”

Staff members like the fact machines take on the more strenuous tasks such as vacuuming, she said. “People get used to robots quickly and adapt to a slightly different way of working.”

She understands why some cleaners might fear that robots will ultimately take over their jobs. “However, cleaning is a skilled profession that still requires humans to carry out most of the tasks involved – and many cleaners play a vital customer service role,” she points out.

Ease of use is key to making robots more attractive to human cleaners, she says. “No one wants to work with tools that aren’t right for the job, so an easy-tooperate functionality is the most important feature,” says Kyle.

Staff at Anabas are similarly positive about the deployment of robots across the company’s sites, says account manager Jean-Patrick Judson. “These machines take on monotonous tasks and reduce manual handling, which eases the strain on cleaners. They also allow them to focus on the finer details that make the biggest impact, such as cleaning high touchpoints to curb the spread of germs in the workplace.”

Upskilled operatives

Like other commentators he feels robots are unable to function without human input. “They will not replace our people, they are assistants,” he said. “Robots can only be active after initial programming via a series of sensors which requires analysis of the workspace. And cleaners are required to maintain these devices to ensure they are always fit for use, while management information and data analysis needs to be conducted by humans.”

Judson admits a certain level of training is required. “Operatives need to be upskilled to manage the technology - but this is true of any change in service provision,” he said. “The benefits of robots outweigh the time investment required for initial set up and training.”

The majority of cleaners prefer to focus on less repetitive tasks that bring added value to their employers, according to manufacturer Cleanfix’s senior sales executive Julien Rochat. “Floor cleaning is not the most interesting of jobs, and most cleaners are happy to have the help

of a robot,” he said. “Installation is not a problem because it takes place only once by an external person, after which the robot frees them from several hours’ work per day. The only task the cleaner then has is to replace the brushes and rubber blades and empty the filter.”

He believes most cleaners quickly accept the presence of a robot. “They might play with it at first to see how it works but within a few days they will show little interest.”

He feels that any attempt by the manufacturer to ‘humanise’ robots with faces and chat is unnecessary as far as cleaning staff are concerned. “A robot simply needs to be well designed and safe,” he said. “Cleaners very soon forget the robot is there. So its appearance is only important if it is likely to come into contact with the public in environments such as airports or railway stations. Here the robot should look friendly and attractive because it becomes a marketing tool that promotes the company.”

Rachat believes very few cleaners fear being replaced by robots. “The automation industry has shown us robots can be used for basic and repetitive work where humans don’t provide added value,” he said. “There will always be plenty of tasks that can’t be automated and in today’s challenging world it is crucial that companies remain competitive.”

He adds many companies are struggling to hire human cleaners. “The paradigm has shifted: we’re no longer thinking robots will take over the jobs of humans but that they will do the jobs humans no

longer want to do,” he said. Cleanfix manufacturers a range of autonomous scrubber dryers.

SoftBank Robotics general manager Stefano Bensi also feels the transition is generally quick and easy when cleaners begin working with robots. “Our own Whiz vacuum cleaner doesn’t require extensive training: the cleaner simply needs to teach it a route,” he said. “After this the teachand-repeat technology allows it to learn the space and enables it to protect itself, people and property.

Labour-saving potential

“Cleaning staff are then only responsible for the battery, bag, brush and filter replacement. And the amount of time autonomous machines can save cleaners more than makes up for the time needed to programme, check and empty them. In our experience, cleaners are overwhelmingly positive about the labour-saving potential of robots.”

He believes customers increasingly expect their facilities teams to help enhance the building occupier’s experience. “That puts pressure on cleaners to become more customer-facing and to demonstrate the difference they make,” he said. “Robots allow cleaning teams to come out of the shadows and focus on important, hightraffic areas while the technology performs mundane tasks such as vacuuming large floor surfaces.”

There is always the risk that cleaners will feel threatened by technology, he says. “However, this problem isn’t exclusive to the cleaning industry: as a society we

Continued page 24

Invest in the Future with a Proven Partner

Address labor challenges, drive efficiencies and maintain a high standard of cleaning with Tennant’s Robotic Cleaning Machines, designed to work safely and efficiently alongside employees.

For more information or to find out if robotic cleaning machines may be right for you, visit us at tennant.eu or call us at +32 3 217 94 11.

The Tennant Advantage

TENNANT CLEANING EXPERTISE

Delivering performance in Europe since 1955, Tennant Company knows the challenges of keeping facilities clean day in and day out. Today, tens of thousands of Tennant machines — from mechanised mops to autonomous floor scrubberdryers — are keeping floors clean.

MAKE CLEANING MORE EFFICIENT WITH ROBOTIC FLOOR CLEANING MACHINES

A successful robotic floor cleaning solution starts with a proven floor cleaning machine — we know what it takes to make industry-leading cleaning machines on field-tested technologies.

With our proven experience rapidly deploying robotic floor cleaning machines across large installed bases, we can get your robotic floor cleaning program up and running quickly. We continually work with your organization to optimize productivity as your cleaning operations mature with the technology.

Tennant autonomous floor cleaners provide an ideal solution to the labour efficiency challenge. These “co-bots” work alongside your employees to make cleaning more efficient, freeing employees to focus on more complex, strategic cleaning initiatives.

BUILT TO LAST IN HARSHEST ENVIRONMENTS

Tennant has built a legacy over 150 years on dependability, manufacturing durable machines to perform in the harshest environments. We stand by our machines and service our customers machines with second-to-none service. Our robust network of certified technicians help you protect your investment in your cleaning equipment, extending machine life and increasing your ROI.

ENHANCE SAFETY AND SUSTAINABILITY

Tennant is a leader in safe and sustainable cleaning innovation, pioneering advances like reducing energy consumption, CO2 emissions, and other negative environmental impacts.

ec-H2O NanoClean® technology from Tennant is a revolutionary technology that electrically converts water into an innovative, detergent-free solution that cleans effectively, saves money and reduces environmental impact.

PARTNER IN TRAINING AND ONBOARDING

Choosing an equipment partner who provides timely operator training and ongoing training on your new equipment is invaluable. Tennant Company has locations throughout the world, including Americas, China, Singapore, Australia and the EMEA region covering Germany, UK, France, Portugal, Spain, Italy, The Netherlands and Belgium.

are inundated with news stories about AI replacing humans and destroying jobs,” he points out.

“But for the foreseeable future it will simply not be possible for robots to replace cleaners. They represent a collaborative effort between human and machine and while Whiz runs autonomously, it requires a human to set it up and maintain it.”

Cleaners tend to be anxious when first starting to work with robots, says service provider Cleanology’s CEO Dominic Ponniah. “They worry the machine will take over their jobs and are fearful of breaking the robot and the cost implications that represents,” he said. “But once they are trained, their anxiety abates and they embrace the technology.”

Using a specialist machine helps to break the monotony of carrying out repetitive jobs, he says. “Cleaning large event spaces, factories and schools can be a challenge but these machines enable operatives to clean large spaces more quickly and thoroughly,” he said.

He believes any efforts made by manufacturers to humanise robots have little impact on their appeal. “When we have trialled machines with ‘voices’ our operatives have asked for the sound to be muted,” he said. “There is also a risk that customers may object to the additional noise on the premises.

L’ère des robots est arrivée. Et les nettoyeurs humains sont de plus ne plus obligés de collaborer avec eux. Mais il est possible qu’ils ne comprennent pas encore tous les avantages qu’ils présentent en termes d’économie de travail. Il est également possible qu’ils s’en méfient, voire, qu’ils y voient une menace. ECJ examine la relation entre les robots et les humains et interrogent des fabricants et entreprises de propreté sur les moyens d’améliorer cette relation.

“So instead of friendly faces and speech, machines should simply be easy to use and come with detailed instructions and training.”

Robots can only achieve 80 per cent of the cleaner’s work, he says. “Human cleaners have a greater eye for detail and scrubber dryer robots won’t go right to the edge of a floor area, which means a human will have to clean the edges manually,” he said. “And someone also needs to clean, maintain and operate the machines.”

Acceptance more widespread

Hako’s application technology trainer and consultant Klaus Serfezi agrees ease of use is more important than humanoid features on a robot. “Ease of use will reduce the learning curve for workers who are unfamiliar with robotics or automation,” he said. “The key to developing attractive robots is to prioritise safety, usability and collaboration and to only incorporate fun features where they are appropriate.”

He says cleaners appreciate the fact that robots relieve them of tedious and physically demanding tasks. “This allows them to focus on specialised jobs that require manual dexterity or attention to detail,” he said. “Often the cleaning robot is accepted as a good colleague and is even given a name.”

Die Roboter kommen. Und menschliche Reinigungskräfte müssen in zunehmendem Maße lernen, mit ihnen zusammenzuarbeiten. Aber schätzen sie das arbeitssparende Potenzial, das Reinigungsroboter bieten? Oder grollen manche, sind skeptisch – oder sehen sie sie vielleicht sogar als Bedrohung? Das ECJ betrachtet die Beziehung zwischen Menschen und Robotern und fragt Hersteller und Reinigungsunternehmen, wie sie diese Beziehung verbessern können.

Hako’s Scrubmaster B75i autonomous scrubber dryer has a 3D camera and LiDAR sensors to allow it to safely navigate defined areas. Its touchscreen operation is described as simple and intuitive to use and it provides up to 99 per cent cleaning coverage, according to Serfezi.

Working with technology represents a major change for some operatives, says Principle Cleaning commercial director Matt Kuwertz. ”Some are cautious and wonder how it will affect their jobs,” he said. “However, the more they use the technology and understand why it is being introduced, the more comfortable they become.”

Acceptance of robots is becoming more widespread, he says. “Many cleaners can now see how robots are making their duties more effective and how they can free up time, allowing them to focus on areas that a machine can’t fulfil.”

Some cleaners will inevitably fear being replaced by robots in the future, he says. “However, robots need human support and there are many tasks they cannot achieve,” he said. “And they can’t interact or form relationships like humans.”

He believes easy-to-use functions are key to making robots more attractive to human cleaners. “This helps to speed up their transition into the business,” he said.

However, he believes robots have not always been as easy to use as they are now – and this has sometimes caused problems for cleaners.

“Robots do occasionally rely on human intervention and when things out of the norm occur, it can be a pain-point for operatives because they see these unexpected delays as adding to their workload,” said Kuwertz. “And in the past many robots have not performed to the levels promised. As a result they have often ended up sitting unused in cleaning cupboards for months on end.

“But it genuinely feels as though we have now turned a corner. Battery technology is significantly better, performance is improving and there is now a real opportunity for us to use robots as part of a hybrid solution that creates added value for customers.”

I robot stanno arrivando e gli addetti alle pulizie umani devono sempre di più imparare a lavorare al loro fianco. Ma gli operatori umani apprezzano il potenziale risparmio di lavoro che i robot di pulizia forniscono? Oppure alcuni di loro sono risentiti, diffidenti o addirittura si sentono minacciati da loro? ECJ prende in esame la relazione essere umano/robot e chiede ai produttori e alle imprese di pulizia come possono fare per migliorarla.

INNOVATIVE. VERSATILE. ONE-OF-A-KIND.

Cleanliness doesn’t come out of nowhere. It comes from us. Solutions that are perfectly tailored to your cleaning requirements. karcher.com

Ultimate flexibility, ultimate freedom

Introducing the cordless multiple speed single disc machine from TASKI

Better for your business

Elimination of cable hazard Safety

Labour

Up to 9hrs saved per year (€750 savings over 5 years)

TCO

Up to 10% lower service costs

Energy

Up to 40% energy saving compared to comparable cable single discs

CO2

Up to 744 kg CO2 saved over 5 years vs. cable single discs

PRODUCTS: ROBOTICS TECHNOLOGY

Robot or not

• La Marvin de Wetrok est une nettoyeuse de plancher hybride pouvant fonctionner en mode manuel ou autonome.

• Kemaro a développé une balayeuse robotique capable de fonctionner pendant 5 heures sur une seule charge de batterie.

• Kärcher a équipé son robot de nettoyage des sols KIRA B 50 de capteurs et de scanners laser encore plus efficaces.

• L’autolaveuse robotique Scrubmaster B75i de Hako est dotée d’un système à cameras 3D et de capteurs LiDAR.

• Les autolaveuses autonomes RA660 Navi XL de Cleanfix peuvent être pilotées manuellement ou être connectées à une station d’accueil.

The Robomatic Marvin from Wetrok is a scrubber dryer that can be used either in autonomous or manual mode.

Thanks to the ‘teach and repeat’ function, no programming skills are required - the operator walks the floor area with the robot to teach it the route and the machine saves that information. So then Robomatic Marvin can clean that route autonomously - ‘repeat’while avoiding obstacles.

driving mode - based on Artificial Intelligence, LiDAR and 3D sensor – this machine saves time and up to 70 per cent of cleaning costs, says Kemaro.

The 35-litre waste hopper is designed for industrial use while the rechargeable battery enables a cleaning time of up to five hours. Built-in filters clean around three cubic metres of air per minute, extracting fine wood and metal dust as well as tyre abrasion.

kemaro.ch

Navigation

• Bei Marvin von Wetrok handelt es sich eine hybride Bodenreinigungsmaschine, d. h. sie kann entweder im manuellen oder autonomen Modus eingesetzt werden.

• Kemaro hat einen Reinigungsroboter entwickelt, der bis zu fünf Stunden mit einer Akkuladung reinigen kann.

• Kärcher hat seinen Bodenreinigungsroboter KIRA B 50 mit effizienteren Sensoren und Laserscannern ausgestattet.

• Die robotische Scheuersaugmaschine Scrubmaster B75i von Hako ist meinem 3D-Kamerasystem und LiDAR-Sensoren ausgestattet.

• Die autonome Scheuersaugmaschine RA660 Navi XL von Cleanfix kann entweder manuell gesteuert oder mit einer Dockingstation verbunden werden.

Wetrok says this method is applicable for all kinds of floor surface throughout a building, with one teach process per area. The machine cleans up to 1,400 square metres per hour which makes it suitable for buildings with medium-sized floor areas (gyms, museums, shopping centres, etc). Thanks to its compact design it can also work in narrow corridors. www.wetrok.com

Smart sweeper

• Marvin della Wetrok è una lavapavimenti ibrida che può essere utilizzata sia in modo manuale che autonomo.

• La Kemaro ha sviluppato una spazzatrice robotica in grado di pulire fino a cinque ore con una ricarica della batteria.

• Kärcher ha equipaggiato il suo robot per il lavaggio dei pavimenti KIRA B 50 con dei sensori più efficienti e degli scanner laser.

• La lavasciuga pavimenti robotica

Scrubmaster B75i della Hako è equipaggiata con un sistema di fotocamera 3D e sensori LiDAR.

• La lavasciuga pavimenti autonoma RA660 Navi XL prodotta dalla Cleanfix può essere controllata manualmente o collegata a una stazione di ricarica.

Touchscreen

Hako’s Scrubmaster B75i

Kärcher has equipped its cleaning robot KIRA B 50 with more efficient sensors and laser scanners in order to ensure reliable navigation. A docking station and lithium-ion battery enable the machine to be charged independently and automatically make it ready for use.

The company says the KIRA B 50 can be configured by practically any user thanks to the intuitive menu and user guidance. Pictures and clear instructions help the user to create and adapt routes on the large touch display, start autonomous cleaning or if required start manual mode. If a cleaning section is to be programmed, the user simply chooses a start point and follows the intended path with KIRA B 50 – the progress can be viewed at any time.

autonomous scrubber dryer is equipped with a 3D camera system and certified LiDAR sensors. This model is said to navigates safely and efficiently, achieving cleaning coverage of up to 99 per cent - it is easy to operate via touchscreen.

Available in two variants, either with a disc brush system or with a cylindrical brush including two side brooms, the machine has solution and recovery tanks with a capacity of 75 litres each. Battery life is up to three hours and it can clean up to 2,340 square metres an hour.

Integrated obstacle and fall detection as well as optical signals are designed to ensure safe operation. In autonomous mode the Scrubmaster B75i cleans the same path every time without the need for human intervention.

www.hako.com

Docking station

The K900 Smart is the flagship product from Kemaro, an autonomous sweeper designed for repetitive, physically demanding, dangerous and unhealthy manual cleaning processes.

The co-founders developed the entire solution - design, mechanics, electronics and AI software - to be suitable for production and logistics applications. The K900 can clean along or below production lines, walls and can detect and pick up coarse dirt and objects.

Thanks to its autonomous

Suitable for use in mediumsized and large areas, as well as in tight spaces, this model has a working width of 55 cm and maximum working speed of 3.6 km per hour. Thanks to the powerful lithium-ion battery it can clean up to 2,000 square metres per hour in autonomous mode.

The water volume, cleaning agent dosing unit and cleaning speed can be preset, whereby the cleaning solution is applied depending on the working speed.

www.karcher.com

The RA660 Navi XL autonomous scrubber dryer from Cleanfix can either be controlled manually or be connected to a docking station that automatically connects the battery and refills the water tank. The wastewater is also automatically drained into a floor drain. The combination of the docking station and a smart scheduling tool means cleaning plans can be made for different zones at any time.

Whenever the battery runs low or the water tank is empty, the robot automatically drives to the station to charge/refill. It will then go back to where it stopped and resume cleaning.

The new RA660 Navi XL Server is compatible with other AGVs/ AMRs using the same navigation technology. All these autonomous vehicles are then controlled by a single fleet manager.

www.cleanfix-robotics.com

Adding value

According to TASKI, its Ecobot 40 and Ecobot 50 robotic floor cleaning machines boast many innovative features. They offer five cleaning modes across open, narrow and spatially complex areas, without the need for human intervention.

Ecobot fully scans an area, or series of areas, presents a plan and suggested cleaning routes to its

human counterpart - who can adjust and adapt them based on their functional knowledge of the business and spaces. This leaves the cleaning team to focus on more complex tasks. The lithium batteries take two hours to change, then run for up to 18 hours, or 3,000 square metres per battery charge. The multi-camera set-up facilitates mapping and obstacle detection, while touch shield bumpers make for enhanced collision prevention. Cleaning routes are consistent, with responsive spot cleaning for soils and spills.

Transition between floor types is said to be smooth, and Ecobot can also use lifts to carry out multi-storey cleaning schedules. www.taski.com

Three new

LionsBot International has launched three new products - the R3 Vac, R3 Scrub Pro and the MagicTag, which the company says enables the new models to become ‘zero clicks’ and easy to use for every cleaner.

The MagicTag, says LionsBot, simplifies the traditional, multi-

• La machine autonome de nettoyage de planchers Ecobot de TASKI entreprend l’examen complet d’une zone à nettoyer, élabore un plan puis propose des voies de nettoyage.

• LionsBot a lancé deux nouvelles machines de nettoyage robotisées et une solution de configuration de haute technologie.

step set-up process into just one action, allowing anyone to operate the machine without extensive training. Simply push the machine to the vicinity of the MagicTag - it automatically remembers the cleaning area and starts work.

The R3 Vac is a vacuuming robot designed for offices, retail, community spaces and other indoor areas with high traffic. Equipped with side brushes that deliver up-to-the-edge cleaning, it features both microfibre and brush rollers to adapt to different surfaces.

At 655 mm tall, the vac is small enough to clean under tables. A full battery charge takes two hours and the machine will then run for three hours, covering 1,260 square metres per hour. The full suite of sensors enables it to see the world in 3D and it avoids glass surfaces and mirrors. Syncing with the MagicTag, the R3 automatically runs on schedule and returns back when it has finished.

The R3 Scrub Pro, meanwhile is a scrubber dryer robot designed for heavy-duty cleaning in warehouses, airports, supermarkets and healthcare applications. Despite its compact design it boasts tank capacity of 21 litres and a patent-pending Single-Pass Squeegee. A full battery charge takes two hours and the machine can then run for up to four hours at 1,800 square metres per hour.

www.lionsbot.com

• Die autonome Bodenreinigungsmaschine Ecobot von TASKI scannt einen Bereich, präsentiert einen Plan und schlägt Reinigungsrouten vor.

• LionsBot hat zwei neue Roboter-Reinigungsmaschinen und eine High-Tech-Einrichtungslösung auf den Markt gebracht.

•

• La lavapavimenti autonoma Ecobot della TASKI fa la scansione completa dell’area, presenta una piano e suggerisce i percorsi delle pulizie.

• LionsBot ha lanciato due nuove macchine per la pulizia robotizzata e una soluzione di installazione ad alta tecnologia.

THE PROFESSIONAL commercial cleaning industry is undergoing profound changes. Increasing pressure on margins, generally rising costs and wages, and the constantly worsening shortage of qualified cleaning staff are posing enormous challenges for numerous companies throughout Europe. These problems can cause or have already caused serious financial difficulties, especially for medium-sized companies. In addition, many customers now request digital and semi-autonomous solutions in their tenders.

New and innovative concepts are therefore imperative to meet these challenges. Robotics offers a promising approach to solving the problems. Autonomous and semi-autonomous cleaning devices can take over many of the tasks that are particularly strenuous and time-consuming for cleaning staff and thus provide valuable assistance. In this way, they not only contribute to upgrading the job profile of the cleaning specialist, but at the same time increase cost efficiency and thus margins for commercial cleaning companies. However, the cost of many of the robotic systems currently available is in the five-figure euro range and the systems require extensive and complicated initial set-up and maintenance.

Reliable, comprehensive cleaning

But what can such a solution look like in concrete terms? For a significant increase in efficiency, cleaning robots must offer two things: reliable, autonomous operation on the one hand and on the other integration into an overall digital system that enables holistic coordination, control and documentation of cleaning resources, ideally in such a clear and simple way that it is possible even without in-depth knowledge of digital systems.

Let’s deal with the first aspect first. It is obvious that a cleaning robot can only be used efficiently if the need for interaction with the cleaning staff is reduced to a minimum, ie, the robot actually works autonomously. The robot must therefore not only be able to be controlled remotely,

Time for real change

but also be able to orient itself independently in its environment. This means it must be able to map a room, recognise and avoid obstacles, and use programmed manoeuvres to get out of dead ends. When the work is done, it must be able to independently approach the charging station and recharge its batteries for the next work cycle – without the need to replace them and charge them separately. At the same time, autonomous operation places the highest demands on cleaning performance. The cleaning must be reliable, cover the entire area and be up to the edges so no subsequent reworking by cleaning staff is necessary if possible.

Man and machine

Initial concerns that the use of robots would lead to a reduction of staff in the cleaning industry have long since been disproved by practical experience. Instead, modern, future-oriented cleaning concepts require genuine interaction between man and machine, in which both parties make optimal use of their respective strengths. In such cases, we speak of so-called cobots, ie, collaborating robots that support skilled workers instead of replacing them. The skills and specific expertise of the cleaning staff are still needed – whether in abovefloor cleaning or in areas where a robot cannot or must not be used. Robots, on the other hand, play a supporting role: They take over the tasks that are particularly strenuous, monotonous and timeconsuming and thus currently represent one of the main cost drivers for cleaning companies in terms of staff deployment and intensity.

This is particularly well illustrated by the example of dry floor cleaning. The cleaning of large carpeted areas, for example in offices or hotels, has so far not only been extremely strenuous for the cleaning staff, but also very time-consuming, thus tying up a lot of personnel.

Autonomous vacuum robots can take over this work, reliably delivering good results and thus decisively relieving their

Labour shortages on the one hand, high pressure on costs and margins on the other. Faced with a wide range of challenges, the commercial cleaning industry needs new innovative approaches. One solution is the deployment of robots in a holistic cobotic system solution says autonomous vacuum cleaner specialist Dr Henning Hayn, general manager of Nexaro.

human colleagues. Robots with smaller dimensions are particularly promising, as their lighter weight allows them to clean close to the edge, reducing the need for manual rework. Another advantage of smaller robots - they can be used flexibly as a fleet and therefore in different rooms of a building that a single larger device could not reach independently as parts of the building may be separated by fire doors.

Upgrade of job profile

As a result, cleaning staff can focus on more demanding tasks for which there was previously little or no time. In our example this includes above-floor cleaning, such as cleaning desks and shelves in offices. In addition, staff benefit from the elimination of off-peak working hours – especially night work – as they can be taken over by the autonomously operating robots. A positive side effect of this relief in terms of the field of work and working hours is an upgrading of the job profile, which should lead to an increased demand for the profession of cleaning specialist in the medium term.

Continued page 34

ROBOTICS TECHNOLOGY

Time for real change (continued from page 33)

For the smooth integration of the robot into the daily work of the cleaning personnel, the easy operability of the device and the software are among the most important items in the specifications of a future-oriented and market-driven system solution. In our Nexaro cobotic system approach, we have even set ourselves the goal of ensuring that setting-up and maintenance of the device can be performed by the property manager or a cleaning specialist with an affinity for technology - without the need for an external service technician - in order to offer cleaning companies the greatest possible flexibility.

Safety and security

The requirements for the second aspect, namely the integration of the robot into an overall digital system, are similar to those for cleaning performance, because this system must not only take over control and coordination, but at the same time be able to document cleaning performance – both quantitatively and qualitatively. Which areas were cleaned? What was the cleaning performance? Were there any error messages due to obstacles or other problems? A detailed log of the clean-

ing services performed helps companies optimise their processes and also serves as proof to the customer. After all, sophisticated software can not only manage a fleet of cleaning robots, but also include staff scheduling and thus serve as a central tool for the entire organisation of the cleaning service.

All in all, these two aspects result in a further, third requirement: meeting the highest standards in terms of safety and security. On the one hand, this applies to navigation. Various sensors installed in the robot as well as precise laser navigation ensure reliable coordination and environmental detection and, thanks to functional redundancy, offer maximum safety, for example when working around stair edges or detecting obstacles. In addition, modern cleaning robots rely on laser or ultrasonic sensors for navigation, which are used not only to scan and map the premises in detail when the robot is first set up, but also to react to movable objects such as chairs during everyday work. The use of camerabased navigation, however, is prohibited for obvious reasons.

This brings us to another aspect, namely

data security. Whether in an exhibition hall or a hotel corridor, an office building or a logistics centre, data protection is one of the basic requirements of a coherent cleaning concept in every area of application. At Nexaro, we therefore rely on an integrated cellular connection instead of WLAN for communication with the robot in order to be able to ensure compliance with safety standards. The data is also hosted on secure servers in Germany, which are set up and maintained in accordance with the applicable data protection regulations. In addition, a laser-based navigation system developed in Germany is installed, so that no sensitive data can be tapped here either.

Certified compliance

External inspection bodies certify the manufacturers’ compliance with the relevant standards and directives, thus guaranteeing cleaning companies the greatest possible security and reliability. The Machinery Directive is one of the most important international specifications. It regulates a uniform level of protection for accident prevention and its requirements must be met by robots in professional use.

Generally speaking, the safety and security requirements for a cleaning robot are similar to those for an aeroplane.

Last but not least, particularly sensitive areas can be additionally demarcated with magnetic strips so that the robot is stopped by a haptic boundary in addition to the software-based barrier - for example, if an area is secured with an alarm system and therefore may not be entered.

The future of robotics

If the robots meet the above criteria, they offer various advantages not only to cleaning companies and professionals, but also to customers, because the cleaning robots not only guarantee high cleaning quality but can also be deployed as often as required, either individually or as a fleet. Where previously cleaning was only carried out for visible

D’un côté il y a des pénuries de main-d’œuvre, et de l’autre il y de fortes pressions sur les coûts et les marges. Devant cet éventail de défis, le secteur de la propreté doit songer à des nouvelles approches. Une solution consiste à déployer des robots dans le cadre d’un système holistique associant robotique et propreté, affirme le Dr Henning Hayn, de la société Nexaro, un spécialiste des aspirateurs autonomes.

Arbeitskräftemängel auf der einen Seite, starker Druck auf Kosten und Gewinnspannen auf der anderen. Angesichts einer Vielzahl von Herausforderungen braucht die kommerzielle Reinigungsbranche neue innovative Ansätze. Eine Lösung ist der Einsatz von Robotern in einer holistischen CobotikSystemlösung, sagt Dr. Henning Hayn (Nexaro), Spezialist für autonome Staubsauger.

soiling, the robots can be used as often as desired without additional effort and enable a consistently high level of cleanliness. Experience has shown that this can even be verified based on the air quality, which in turn and in line with the holistic approach is controlled and documented in the associated software. Given these tangible benefits, the use of autonomous or semi-autonomous cleaning robots is already part of numer-

ous tenders.

But why are robots still relatively uncommon in the commercial cleaning industry? In my opinion, this is because the complexity and diversity of the above requirements could not be met in the past. In particular, the high acquisition, set-up and maintenance costs as well as the complexity of robotic systems have been too great an obstacle thus far. In the early days of robotics, it was often necessary for cleaning

staff or a technician to accompany the robot, making the use of robots both impractical and unprofitable. Thanks to major advances in development, this has now changed, paving the way for forward-looking approaches. At Nexaro, we are currently launching one of the first solutions that will profitably meet customer needs and revolutionise the professional cleaning industry.

nexaro.com

La carenza di forza lavoro da una parte e la forte pressione su costi e margini dall’altra. Con una vasta gamma di sfide da affrontare, il settore delle pulizie commerciali ha bisogno di nuovi approcci innovativi. Dr Henning Hayn, specialista in aspirapolveri autonomi della Nexaro afferma che una soluzione è quella di impiegare i robot in una soluzione olistica di sistema cobotico

The science of odour

Odour plays an important role in the cleaning products industry. Fragrances can be added to products to elicit specific associations and emotions, or to mask a malodour. Specific technologies have been designed to battle malodours such as tobacco and pet odours. Lieke van Genderen at Olfasense tells us more in the second of a twopart report written for ECJ. Read part one on page 35 of the April/ May edition.

The parameter of odour concentration is measured with the use of an olfactometer. The aim of this method, known as dynamic olfactometry, is to determine how often an odour can be diluted until the panellists are just able to detect the odour, ie, the detection threshold. This is expressed in an amount of European Odour Units, the OUE. A higher OUE means that an odour has a lower detection threshold and is thus stronger. By measuring before and after cleaning conditions, the odour reduction efficacy can be expressed as a percentage in OUE reduction.

volatile compounds into the gas chromatograph (GC) column. In the GC column, the volatile organic compounds are separated based on their interaction with the GC column and physicalchemical properties.

There are many parameters on which the panellists can evaluate an odour. The most common are the odour intensity, hedonic tone, odour character and odour concentration.

These first three parameters can all be determined by so-called ‘direct sniffing’. Panellists evaluate the odour samples undiluted and blindly, directly from Nalophan bags or other specific recipients. The odour intensity can be assessed for the overall odour of a sample, but also for specific odours. For example, when a cleaning product with a fragrance is used it is often interesting to ask the panellists for the fragrance and malodour intensities separately. Panellists should be trained in the usage of odour intensities scales with reference odours. Reference odours are also used to train panellists in the odour character description. For example, while the odour of cigarette smoke might be more easily described by most people, the subtle notes of a fragrance require more training. The hedonic tone shows the pleasantness of an odour. As this is a subjective impression, panellists cannot be trained in this parameter.

Important to note, is that the odour concentration looks at the overall odour. This means that when a fragrance is added to a cleaning product, the amount of OUE directly after cleaning might be higher than before cleaning, resulting in a negative odour removal efficacy while the odour might have become more pleasant. In cases with perfumed products, is it therefore important not to consider this method (dynamic olfactometry) but measure the malodour and fragrance intensities as well as the hedonic tone.

Instrumental odour analyses

Instrumental analyses are used when the chemical composition of a sample is of importance. This can be the case when there are concerns about health and safety. Chemical analyses are also used during new product development. After all, in order to create new techniques to remove specific odours one needs to know which chemical components are the relevant ones. Often used methods are GC-MS and GC-IMS.

The GC-MS method consists of gas chromatography (GC) and mass spectrometry (MS) analysis. Usually, the odour samples are collected in thermal desorption tubes for further analysis. Desorption of the volatile organic compounds present in the odour sample is done with high temperature (eg, 280-300°C), followed by a low temperature adsorbent trap (eg, 0-5°C) and another heating round (eg,, 300-350°C) to release the adsorbed

After going through the column, the volatile compounds arrive at the MS, whose measurements are transformed into a chromatogram. In the chromatogram, the volatile compounds are represented as peaks showing the intensity and time of detection of the signal. Based on the information of these peaks, the different volatile compounds can be chemically identified and quantified. A GC-MS analysis results in a list of identified chemical compounds and their chemical concentrations.

GC-IMS is often seen as an alternative method to GC-MS, it consists of gas chromatography and ion-mobility spectrometry. The GC-IMS provides less detailed information but is much faster and thereby allows for continuous sampling. Thanks to the relatively small size of the GC-IMS, it can be brought to a sampling location for direct measurements. The volatile compounds at the GCIMS inlet are separated by a GC column, after which they are ionised, drift into an electrical field and are separated based on their charge, mass and shape. After going through the drift region, the volatile compounds reach the detector which transforms the data in a so called ‘fingerprint’. The fingerprints of different samples can be compared, for example to monitor a room’s air over time.

Selection of the analysis method

As there are many different analysis options, it can be difficult to select the best analysis for specific research questions. For the cleaning product against cat urine odour, a study to make an odour claim on the packaging makes sense. In order to claim odour reduction, a sensory odour analysis is required. One option would be to work with odour concentration analyses for the untreated condition,

the new product cleaned condition and the reference product cleaned condition. By comparing the odour concentrations of these different scenarios, it is possible to calculate the odour reduction percentage which can be achieved by using the anti odour product.

If one of the products is perfumed, using only odour concentration would not be sufficient. The odour concentration is about the strength of an odour, and adding a perfume can increase the amount of odour. The odour reduction percentage might then become negative, while the odour did become more pleasant. In such cases, it is important to either include the hedonic tone or to switch to odour intensity of the malodour and per-

L’odeur joue un rôle important dans l’industrie des produits de nettoyage. On peut y ajouter des fragrances de nature non seulement à masquer de mauvaises odeurs mais également à susciter des émotions spécifiques à travers des associations particulières. Des technologies ont été élaborées pour lutter contre les mauvaises odeurs, telles que celles émanant du tabac ou des animaux familiers. Lieke van Genderen, de la société Olfasenses, nous en dit plus.

fume odour separately.

To determine the efficacy of odour cleaning services, both sensory and instrumental analyses could be used.

The sensory analyses, such as odour intensity for malodours, hedonic tones and odour characters, can be used to show if there is a difference in the odour before and after cleaning. In cases with chemical spills, it can be very important to also assess the safety of the resulting odour. After cleaning, the indoor air should not exceed safety levels for specific chemicals. GC-MS can be used to detect and quantify a large range of chemicals. For some chemicals, such as formaldehyde, specific cartridges can be used to quickly quantify the amount.

Geruch spielt eine wichtige Rolle in der Reinigungsproduktbranche. Duftstoffe können zu Produkten hinzugefügt werden, um bestimmte Assoziationen und Gefühle hervorzurufen oder um unangenehme Gerüche zu überdecken. Es wurden bestimmte Technologien entwickelt, um unangenehme Gerüche wie etwa Tabak- und Haustiergerüche zu bekämpfen. Lieke van Genderen (Olfasense) erzählt uns mehr.

Conclusion

Typical odour studies in the cleaning product industry focus on quantification of the odour reduction efficacy of products and services. Sampling methods are highly individual and are based on the specific product or service. The evaluation methods also depend on the research questions. In order to create a new antiodour technology, insight in the chemical composition of specific malodour can be needed. This can be done with the use of instrumental analyses, such as GC-MS and GC-IMS. In order to make a claim about the efficacy of a finished product or service in terms of the perceived odour, sensory odour analyses are needed.

www.olfasense.com

Gli odori hanno un ruolo importante nell’industria dei prodotti di pulizia. Le fragranze possono essere aggiunte ai prodotti per provocare associazioni ed emozioni, oppure per mascherare i cattivi odori. Specifiche tecnologie sono state progettate per combattere i cattivi odori quali ad esempio quelli del tabacco e degli animali domestici. Ce ne parla Lieke van Genderen della Olfasense.

world

Pulire 2023 trade fairFimap‘s innovations are all about the environment

discover more

Fimap brings a host of innovative new solutions to the Pulire trade fair (Milan, 9-11 May 2023) from its two most important production sectors - scrubbing machines and sweepers - united by a single common denominator: the environment.

skilled jobs, enabling the company to offer a higher-quality service.

With regard to the floor sweeper sector, an increased focus on environmental issues can also be observed, with the use of recycled plastics, lithium batteries and the new Safe Air multi-stage air filtering technology.

FSW5, A WALK-BEHIND SWEEPING MACHINE

Two models were presented at the event. The smallest of these is the FSW5 walk-behind sweeping machine, an updated version of the historical FS50 model, with new design features that bring a host of advantages for the user.

With regard to scrubbing machines, Fimap is introducing a new model, the EMx, a revolutionary technology, AQUÆ®, and the CB-1 collaborative robot.

EMx, A WALK-BEHIND FLOOR SCRUBBING MACHINE

The EMx is a compact walk-behind scrubbing machine, designed for a significant portion of the market, for use in a number of sectors. Presented as a symbol of the company’s new successes on the journey towards sustainable cleaning, it can be equipped with all the green solutions introduced by Fimap to date, including the latest recycled plastic tanks, lithium batteries, Hepa filter, the brand-new AQUÆ® technology and FFM for constant monitoring and control of consumption.

how extensively detergent use affects the environment - from production to use and disposal - Fimap has developed a technology that converts water into a sanitiser. By means of the process of electrolysis, simple softened tap water is transformed into a solution containing hypochlorous acid, known for its bactericidal properties. This therefore enables the use of chemicals in maintenance cleaning - that is to say, in most daily applications - to be avoided. The sanitising efficacy of the solution is documented, verified by laboratory tests. Both the considerable environmental benefits and the advantages in terms of cost and safety are undeniable.

CB-1, AUTONOMOUS SCRUBBING MACHINE

At the event, one area of the exhibition space was dedicated exclusively to the CB-1 collaborative robot. The CB-1 features an advanced sensor system that takes security to the very highest level, increasing the accuracy of room mapping.

It is more comfortable to use, but above all easier to maintain due to the fact that the body of the machine can be fully opened, guaranteeing total accessibility to all components, with no need for tools. Inside, the multi-stage Safe Air filtering system also cleans the air of fine dust, courtesy of the Hepa filter. Finally, the new compact design enables the amount of packaging to be reduced, thus optimising transport.

Available not only for the EMx but for the entire range of scrubbing machines, AQUÆ® is Fimap’s solution for cleaning floors without the use of detergents. In light of

CB-1 is an autonomous scrubbing machine designed to save time and increase productivity in routine floor cleaning operations. While it carries out the most simple, time-consuming and repetitive tasks, specialised staff can devote their time to more

FSR7, RIDE-ON SWEEPING MACHINE

With the FSR7, the Performance concept that has only been applied to scrubbing machines to date makes its début in the floor sweeper sector. In addition to the new design, this also introduces more advanced technology, which increases control over cleaning operations and performance and assists users, facilitating their work. It features a wide range of optional extras which enable the machine to adapt to any situation, such as the left side brush which increases productivity, the front skirt, which makes it suitable for very dusty environments, and the double container inside the debris hopper which facilitates emptying.

increases productivity as it is less prone to clogging, and is easy to clean and maintain. The FSR7 is equipped as standard with the brand-new Force technology,

area. To further optimise cleaning operations, an on-board vacuum cleaner with Hepa bag filter and three-stage suction motor is also available. If piles of dirt are found in corners, these can be removed using the vacuum wand, without even getting off the machine.

which ensures that the brush adheres to the floor at all times regardless of how uneven the surface may be, making every cleaning operation effective right from the start, with no need to waste time on going back over the

All the equipment introduced on the machines is the result of an approach to innovation that is exclusively dedicated to revolutionising professional cleaning, with an increasingly efficient, high-performance product offering which reflects the demand for a more sustainable future.

Like the FSW5, the FSR7 is also equipped with the Safe Air multi-stage filtering system: there are three filtering stages, and during each, the air is cleaned to remove increasingly small dust particles, finishing with the Hepa filter that retains particles as small as 0.3 µm.

Of the available filters, the Tetratex¨ version is made with a membrane that is very effective at trapping all types of dust; this filter

FOR PERFECT CLEANING ON UNEVEN FLOORS

MULTI-STAGE FILTERING, TO DELIVER CLEAN AIR BACK INTO THE ROOM LI-ION BATTERIES

CLEANING AND HYGIENE are crucial in any industry to ensure that the staff, customers and the product remain safe. But there are extra considerations to address in the food preparation sector where the end product is ultimately ingested. So, what complicates the task; what are the risks involved and how can these be mitigated?

Expectations regarding cleanliness and hygiene are particularly high in the food environment, says Kärcher’s senior cleaning solutions consultant Gundula Braun.

“There will be local regulations and guidelines to follow and these might need to be recorded either digitally or in writing,” she said. “Staff members will also need to be trained in such procedures.

“Then there are many different types of surfaces in areas where food is prepared along with various types of stubborn dirt. And grease and food residues need to be systematically removed from the storage rooms and refrigeration facilities as well as the kitchen in accordance with HACCP guidelines to eliminate breeding grounds for microorganisms.”

All machinery used in the kitchen needs to be carefully cleaned and disinfected, she says. “Care needs to be taken that no product, tool or machine is allowed to contribute to cross-contamination or food tainting,” said Braun. “The key to preventing these types of occurrences comes down to correct cleaning procedures carried out by well-trained and well-informed staff.”

Purpose-designed

All machines and tools should be purpose-designed for use in this environment, she adds. “For example, the hoses and wheels of high-pressure cleaners need to be certified as food-safe while scrubber dryers should be HACCP-certified,” she said.

Fellow Kärcher senior cleaning solutions consultant Christoph Scheiwiller recommends the use of alkaline products for removing oils, grease and protein from kitchen surfaces. “Acidic agents are best for removing mineral soiling such as lime-

What makes kitchens special?

scale from washbasins,” he said.

Any contamination of food products due to improper cleaning could have disastrous results, he said. “The restaurant would face poor reviews which could lead to a loss of reputation or even a lawsuit,” he said. “And the manufacturer of the product or equipment could also be sued, again leading to bad reviews and a loss of reputation. Staff training, retraining and active monitoring of proper cleaning procedures are essential to prevent this from happening.”

Monitoring essential

Cleaning schedules should be prominently displayed in each area to be cleaned, he said. “Completed tasks must then be accurately logged and clearly documented with a signature to allow monitoring.”

Steam cleaners work well for floor and surface cleaning in the kitchen, he says. “These machines require no chemicals and the steam penetrates those crevices that a brush or textile would struggle to reach,” he said. “In this way, ribbed surfaces and the edges of dishwashing machines can be cleaned hygienically and thoroughly.”

Food-safe cleaning and sanitisation are critical to preventing cross-contamination and foodborne illness in the food sector, said Essity’s segment director Dotti Haynes. “Care needs to be taken to avoid creating hazards that could negatively impact on food safety or the health and wellbeing of staff or customers,” she said.

“And cleaning materials should be colour-coded to minimise the risks of allergen cross-contamination.”

Proper hand hygiene is the first line of defence against foodborne risks – but it cannot be taken for granted, she says. “It requires frequent training and education and it is also important to ensure that all hand washing stations are suitably positioned and kept well stocked with soap and paper hand towels.”

Foodborne illnesses cause numerous hospitalisations and deaths globally every year, she says. “Restaurant owners need

What are the specific cleaning and hygiene issues that need to be addressed in food preparation environments? ECJ finds about the particular challenges this area poses.

to avoid incidences or accusations of foodborne illness since a single lawsuit could have serious consequences such as poor brand image, high legal costs and reduced customer loyalty,” said Haynes.

The fact that hygiene can have a direct impact on the bottom line of restaurants and cafes makes the food preparation area a special case, she says. “Good hygiene routines will help you to ensure food safety and provide the best and safest experience possible for your guests and staff.” The Tork Clean Care programme helps business owners to set up processes and train their staff on how to maintain high levels of personal hygiene and optimum surface cleaning.

Staff members play a critical role in ensuring that food preparation areas are kept clean and free from contamination, says MD and co-founder of Biovate Hygienics Nick Winstone.

“They need to use appropriate products that are safe and effective for the specific task in hand,” he said. “They should also pay close attention to the regular cleaning of high-risk areas such as food contact surfaces, utensils and equipment as well as high-touch areas such as door handles and light switches.

“And they should wash their hands frequently and wear appropriate protective gear such as gloves and aprons to prevent the spread of contaminants.”

He says it is important to train cleaning operatives on proper procedures and provide them with the necessary tools

Continued page 42

HYGIENE IN FOOD PREPARATION

What makes kitchens special? (continued from page 41)

and equipment for the job. “Colour-coded cleaning tools are a proven method of preventing cross-contamination,” he said.

Bad smells are another issue in the kitchen, he says. “Odours emanating from grease traps, pipes, drains, urinals and refuse areas can all be eliminated by treating them with bacteria-based products that digest the source of odours in these areas,” according to Winstone.

“And sustainability is now high on the agenda for businesses across most sectors, so it’s important that kitchens look closely at their environmental footprint when cleaning.” Biovate Hygienics manufactures a range of biological cleaning products that come in plasticfree packaging.

Food poisoning

Outbreaks of food poisoning or a poor hygiene inspection could be extremely serious for any food establishment, says GOJO’s UK & Ireland managing director Chris Wakefield. “Not only is food poisoning unpleasant for the diner, it can also be very costly when you take into account the potential fines, compensation and perhaps even the forced closure of the restaurant,” he said. “Widespread outbreaks create headline news while unhappy consumers will quickly air their grievances on social media – and this can further damage a business’ reputation.

“And the resulting negative backlash may lead to a further loss of revenue from existing and potential new customers.”

Cleaning and hygiene products used in the food preparation environment should have a high antimicrobial efficacy against yeast, bacteria and viruses, says Wakefield. And they should not affect the taste or smell of the food.

“Time is short in the kitchen which means operatives will spend little time cleaning their hands and surfaces,” he said. “So it is essential to select products that are ready-to-use, reach their stated efficacy levels swiftly and that also dry quickly.”

Germs can be easily transmitted in the food environment which means the risk of foodborne illnesses must be carefully managed, he says. “Ready-to-use products with a high antimicrobial efficacy

On ne peut se passer ni de la propreté, ni de l’hygiène dès lors que l’on veut garantir la sécurité du personnel, du client et du produit. Cependant, des considérations supplémentaires s’imposent dans le secteur alimentaire où le produit final va être ingéré. Quels sont donc les facteurs qui compliquent la tâche, quels en sont les risques et comment peut-on les atténuer ?

can help to prevent food from becoming contaminated,” he said.

“Wipes and sprays should ideally have a no-rinse formula which means all products should have passed the food tainting test to ensure the products do not alter the food’s smell or taste.”

Hand hygiene is also crucial in the kitchen, he says. “Hand washing facilities must be accessible and the dispensers should be easy to use,” said Wakefield. “And the high frequency with which staff may have to use soap or a hygienic hand rub means that the formulations must be gentle on the skin.”

Surface sanitising sprays and wipes can be incorporated into daily activities alongside thorough hand hygiene and cleaning routines, says Wakefield. Purell Hand and Surface Antimicrobial Wipes for use on hands and surfaces are said to be bactericidal, fungicidal and virucidal and come in a ready-to-use format with no rinsing required.

Services provider Cleanology’s CEO Dominic Ponniah agrees with other commentators that hygiene in the kitchen is crucial. “As commercial cleaners our job is to ensure chefs and kitchen staff are provided with the cleanest environment possible when they arrive to work,” he said. “And this applies both to visible areas and those sneaky spots where the dirt and germs tend to hide.”

Thorough cleaning is only possible if every area is accessible, he says. “To ensure operatives can reach into every corner and crevasse it helps if all kitchen units and equipment are on wheels,” he said.

Poor hygiene in the food preparation area can result in a range of negative outcomes, according to Ponniah. “But from the Michelin-starred restaurant to the smallest local café, the most basic requirement is to protect customers from sickness – and cleaning plays an important role here,” he said.

Regular deep cleaning

“And perhaps the greatest difference between kitchen cleaning and other commercial contracts is the need for regular deep cleaning. In fact, we recommend a deep clean every day.”

He believes kitchen cleaning requires a

Reinigen und Hygiene sind in jeder Branche wichtig, um die Sicherheit von Mitarbeitern, Kunden und Produkten sicherzustellen. In der lebensmittelverarbeitenden Branche sind jedoch zusätzliche Erwägungen erforderlich, da deren Endprodukte letztendlich als Nahrung aufgenommen werden. Wodurch wird die Aufgabe verkompliziert, welche Risiken gibt es, und wie können sie gemildert werden?

focus on technological innovation, clear channels of communication and close attention to both public-facing environments and back-of-house areas.

“Once these basics are in place staff members feel confident, clear on what is required and supported,” he said. “And we then know that we have given them the tools to do the best job possible.”

Scrupulous records

Cleanology provides Hospitality Hero training to help operatives communicate with client teams and visitors on site.

The cleaning standards of a kitchen can make or break any food establishment, says Ponniah. “Cleanliness has a direct impact on food sanitation and compliance with legislation,” he says. “It also plays a major role in the awarding of food hygiene ratings, which can attract customers or deter them depending on the outcome. And in large cities where pests pose a challenge, an ineffective cleaning regime can signal disaster – even a high-profile restaurant could be closed down for want of a regular deep-clean.”

He says scrupulous records also need to be kept in a kitchen. “A thorough cleaning schedule should be set and this should be adhered to,” he said. “Technology can play a part here, with tablets and intelligent software being employed to monitor cleanliness, flag up potential issues and schedule reminders for periodic deep cleans.

“And strong links should be forged between the cleaning staff and the kitchen team while all staff members need to be well trained, well managed and committed to working to common standards.”

Hospitality venues are often fast-paced workplaces where lines of communication can quickly become strained, he adds. “To ensure that everything runs smoothly the cleaning staff need to be accountable,” he says. “All staff should log in and out and record their work steps digitally so that the client can easily see what has been done.

“Exchanging data via mobile technology offers real-time feedback on any needs on site. And daily communication helps to foster trust and provides staff with clear expectations regarding minimum standards and compliance.”

La pulizia e l’igiene sono cruciali in ogni settore per assicurarsi che il personale, i clienti e il prodotto rimangano al sicuro. Ma ci sono ulteriori considerazioni da affrontare nel settore della preparazione alimentare dove il prodotto finale viene in ultima analisi ingerito. Quindi, cosa complica il compito, quali sono i rischi connessi e come possono essere ridotti?

Immediate

Designed to provide kitchen staff with immediate access to paper towels is the Tork Performance Washstation dispenser from Essity.

This high-capacity unit has an eye-catching design which makes it easy for staff to locate in the kitchen. The splash-proof hood protects the product before use and the design aims to prevent water from pooling.

PRODUCTS: HYGIENE IN FOOD PREPARATION

Simple handling

versey is a time-saving, alkaline foaming agent that reduces the need for pre-rinsing, delivering a combined two-in-one detergent/disinfectant step engineered to meet specific industry demands. And it can be applied using existing equipment.

• Destinée à donner aux personnels de cuisine un accès immédiat à des serviettes en papier, Essity propose la Tork Performance Washstation.

• Avec la lance à mousse perfectionnée DUO Advanced, Kärcher a introduit un nouvel accessoire sur ses nettoyeurs haute pression.

For simplified handling and faster high-pressure cleaning Kärcher offers the DUO Advanced cup foam lance. This not only applies foam, but also allows changeover to the highpressure jet without having to change the spray lance.

The company says this significantly reduces cleaning time and downtime while unlocking additional production time, and enables sustainability targets to be met without impact on cleaning performance.

www.diversey.com

• Sous l’appellation DiverClean Sonic, Diversey propose une mousse alcaline à double effet de détergent et désinfectant.

• Hydrobox est un nettoyeur compact haute pression en acier inox proposé par Tecnovap.

• Die Tork Performance Waschstation von Essity wurde konzipiert, um Küchenpersonal sofortigen Zugang zu Papierhandtüchern zu bieten.

The Tork Performance Washstation dispenser has a capacity of up to 250 metres and the wipers are extracted one at a time. This helps to reduce consumption and optimise hygiene. A clear backplate allows for easy mounting and the unit can withstand high temperature spray-downs without needing to be covered or removed from the wall. This helps to save valuable time in a busy kitchen.

The FSC-certified refills can be used both for wiping the hands and kitchen surfaces.

The Tork Reflex Single Sheet Centrefeed system encloses the roll to protect it from dirt and damp. The wall-mounted unit has a rotating nozzle which allows the paper to be pulled out swiftly from any angle.

www.tork.co.uk

The lance bottle holds two litres, meaning even large areas can be foamed without having to top up on cleaning agent. There is a controller on the lance head which controls the channel at the touch of a button to enable the changeover between highpressure jet and foam.

Foam can be dosed in three stages – the adjustment of the spray angle also guarantees a precise foam jet during application, making for targeted work even across longer distances.

www.karcher.com

Open plant

Open Plant Cleaning (OPC) is crucial in maintaining consistent hygiene standards and ensuring that food safety isn’t compromised by microbial contaminants which can seriously impact brand equity.

The DiverClean Sonic from Di-

Hot and cold

Tecnovap’s Hydrobox is an electric high-pressure cleaner that can work indoors using hot or cold water. Claimed to be cost effective as it uses only two or four litres of water per minute, this model reaches pressure up to 150 bar.

Featuring a compact design in stainless steel, Hydrobox has a connection for water mains, analogue gauge for pressure regulation and an electronic control panel that can set the water temperature from 20° to 90°C. It also signals when boiler cleaning is necessary, helping to prevent scale deposits.

www.tecnovap.it

• Die Becher-Schaumlanze DUO Advanced ist ein neues Zubehör von Kärcher für seine Hochdruckreiniger.

• DiverClean Sonic von Diversey ist ein alkalisches, schäumendes 2-in-1 Reinigungs-/ Desinfektionsmittel.

• Bei Hydrobox handelt es sich um einen kompakten Hochdruckreiniger aus Edelstahl von Tecnovap.

• L’unità Tork Performance Washstation della Essity è programmata per fornire al personale delle cucine l’accesso immediato agli asciugamani di carta.

• La lancia schiuma DUO Advanced è un nuovo accessorio della Kärcher per le sue idropulitrici ad alta pressione.

• DiverClean Sonic della Diversey è una schiuma alcalina due-in-uno detergente/disinfettante.

• Hydrobox è una idropulitrice compatta in acciaio inossidabile prodotta dalla Tecnovap.

Europe’s demographic conundrum

A demographic time bomb is ticking down across Europe. Longer life expectancy and falling birth rates are projected to cause widespread labour shortages in the not too distant future, with dire outcomes for the region’s economies, reports Hartley Milner.

THRUST DEFIANTLY skywards, a protester’s placard evokes a bloody episode from France’s past. It depicts President Emmanuel Macron as the French monarch Louis XVI with the slogan “Devrions-nous lui couper la tête? Oui –peut-être” (Should we cut off his head? Yes – maybe).

There may be no actual gruesome intent in the effigy’s parading through the Parisian streets, but neither is there any confusing the symbolism, especially since its destination is Place de la Bastille, an icon of the French Revolution. It was here that many a hapless ‘enemy of the people’ was very publicly parted from their head, courtesy of Madame la Guillotine.

The square where the infamous Bastille

prison once stood remains a rallying point for aggrieved citizens, and on this day it is hosting tens of thousands of marchers demonstrating against Macron’s hugely unpopular pension reforms. These will see the legal retirement age hiked from 62 to 64 by 2030 and people having to work for 43 years - up from 42 - to receive the full pension.

Waves of protests and strikes have taken place across the country following the president’s decision to use his constitutional powers to ram through the landmark pensions legislation earlier this year. The manoeuvre sidestepped France’s lower house of parliament where he no longer has a majority, triggering accusations he was “acting like an autocrat”.

Macron said the changes were necessary to save the French pension system from collapse and that he would not be deflected, despite putting his own head on the block (albeit in an electoral sense). “Stay the course. That’s my motto,” he said, shrugging off questions about his

tumbling personal approval ratings.

And Macron has a point. The cost of French pensions in terms of public spending as a percentage of GDP is among the highest in the world, at 14 per cent. France is seen as something of a retirement utopia, having among the most generous benefits for its seniors, according to the Organisation for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD). The downside is that due to its rapidly ageing population, where 26 per cent of people are over 60, the pension system is forecast to run an annual deficit of €13.5 billion by 2030.

Looming pensions crisis

France has lagged behind in confronting its looming pensions funding crisis compared to most of its European neighbours, many of which have already raised the retirement age to 65 or above. In the UK it is 66, in Italy 67 and in Germany it will be 67 by 2029.

Europe’s average pensions deficit

Europe’s demographic conundrum (continued)

is around 2.5 per cent of GDP and is projected to rise to four per cent over the next three decades. So ongoing action on pensions across the continent will be inevitable, UK economist John Gowers told ECJ. “As people are leading longer and healthier lives, they will have to work for longer to pay for their retirement,” he said. “However, we cannot simply continue to perpetuate the qualifying age spiral. It would be a painful nettle to grasp, but people may have to accept paying higher contributions or taxes during their working lives in order to keep both public and private pension systems sustainable over the long term.”

Influx of economic migrants

Would that not stoke further unrest, especially among beleaguered millennials, who are already grousing about having to fund the retirement of asset-rich baby boomers? “Well, we haven’t seen resentment elsewhere on the same scale as in France, where the state pension is something of a sacred cow, so no, I don’t think so … not if the reasons for reform are clearly explained,” Gowers said.

Europe’s demographic conundrum is not solely about its ageing population. Over the past few decades, the continent has seen a toxic twinning of spiralling longevity with plummeting fertility rates, the number of live births per 1,000 women. It now has the oldest and one of the fastest declining populations. In 2022, the median age was 44.4 … 12 years older than the rest of the world. Worst scenarios show the population crashing from 748.9 million at present to 401.2 million by 2100.

In the European Union (EU), following two years of decline due to the Covid pandemic, the population started recovering and was estimated to be 451 million at the start of this year. The growth is largely attributed to the mass influx of economic migrants and refugees fleeing Russia’s invasion of Ukraine. Now, the latest report from Eurostat forecasts the EU’s population will continue to grow, peaking at 453 million in 2026, but then shrink by at least six per cent to 420 million by the end of the century.

Critically for labour supply markets, the EU statistics office also says the pool of people aged below 20 and those already

Le ralentissement démographique est assimilable à une bombe à retardement affectant l’Europe entière. En effet, comme le rapporte Hartley Milner, l’allongement de l’espérance de vie, la baisse de la natalité et de fortes pénuries de main-d’œuvre, à prévoir dans un avenir assez proche, auront de graves répercussions sur les économies de la région.

of working age will fall sharply, while the number aged 65 or over will continue to trend upwards. The average fertility rate in 2022 was 1.49 per woman, which is significantly below the value of 2.1 required to maintain a stable population. No European country attained this threshold last year.

But the European Commission has a plan. The Commission has created a tool to free EU states from what it calls the ‘talent development trap’ caused by fewer workers and ageing populations. Specific support will be given to countries losing their graduates to the ‘brain drain’. The Talent Booster Mechanism was launched in January to “train, retain and attract the people, skills and competences” needed to confront the impacts of demographic transition. Actions include:

• Help for regions with “higher rates of departure” of their young people to adapt and invest in talent development;

• Technical support to help member states address the decline in their working-age population, lack of skills and to respond to local market needs;

• An initiative led by “shrinking” cities to trial solutions to the challenges of developing, retaining and attracting skilled workers;

• Programmes and investment to promote innovation and opportunities to create high-skill jobs.

Measures for women

So what should change look like on the ground? Gowers said: “It will take a broad mix of measures. Key among these must be greater inclusivity in the workplace. Many European countries need to do more to close their gender gap. We still see significant numbers of women working only part time, if at all. In Italy, for example, more than 45 per cent of working-age women were economically inactive in 2022. Women still encounter too many barriers to entering work or returning to work, such as the ‘motherhood penalty’ where they are less likely to have the same opportunities following maternity leave as their male colleagues.

“Even in this enlightened age, women who have had children are still viewed in some regions of Europe as not being truly committed to their career or employer. So

Eine demografische Zeitbombe tickt in ganz Europa. Laut Prognosen werden höhere Lebenserwartung und sinkende Geburtsraten in der nicht allzu fernen Zukunft weitverbreitete Arbeitskräftemängel verursachen, was schlimme Auswirkungen auf die Volkswirtschaften der Regionen haben wird, berichtet Hartley Milner.

if we are to increase female representation in labour markets we will have to make employment far more welcoming. They will certainly come if we make childcare more readily available and affordable, improve their prospects for promotion and close the gender pay gap, and the pension gap when women temporarily leave work for caring reasons.”

Gowers also spotlighted barriers holding back people with disabilities from entering full-time work. He said employers would be happier to recruit workers with mobility challenges if they were given more help with issues such as adapting their premises and equipment, providing special aids, flexible working and travel to and from work, and for work. Across the EU, just 51 per cent of people with disabilities have a job compared to 75 per cent of able-bodied people, according to the European Commission.

More tolerant immigration

If the EU cannot regulate its own population, it will have to implement more tolerant immigration policies. Gowers said: “We are seeing increasing numbers of people with good educational backgrounds wanting to live and work in the region. The EU has legitimate security concerns around issues like illegal migration, terrorism and human trafficking. However, rather than resenting migration as appears to be the case in some countries, the EU should more fully exploit the trend to meet the challenges of its declining working-age population and to stay competitive in the world. At the same time, it will, of course, need to toughen up its regulatory regimes.”

Could the rise of artificial intelligence (AI) be Europe’s saviour? “Automation has been replacing humans in repetitive and unskilled jobs for decades … and still we have labour shortages,” Gowers said. “Now, we have technologies like AI and machine learning that have the potential to replace humans altogether in swathes of more sophisticated roles hitherto beyond the capacity of machines. Some ‘experts’ say many millions of jobs will be replaced worldwide, others that these technologies will create millions of jobs. But it’s all just speculation.

“All I can say with any certainty is we should be careful what we wish for.”

Una bomba a orologeria “demografica” è pronta a esplodere in tutta Europa. Si prevede che l’aspettativa di vita più lunga e il calo del tasso di natività causino una carenza di manodopera diffusa in un futuro non troppo lontano con risultati disastrosi per le economie degli stati, come ci informa Hartley Milner.

COLLABORATION IS ONE of those terms that can be in danger of becoming watered down through overuse. If everyone says that they take a collaborative approach to work, what does that really mean?

In truth, genuine collaboration takes a great deal of strategy and effort and leads to great results. After all, you get as much back as you put in.

Collaboration has been at the heart of our business for more than a decade. We were the first facilities management company to be certified to BS 11000, the British standard for collaborative relationships, and the first facilities management company in the world to be awarded ISO 44001, the international standard for collaborative business relationship management systems.

EMCOR UK is also a founding partner of the Institute for Collaborative Working as we look to support collaborative working across all UK business sectors.

What does it look like?

Collaborative business-to-business ventures are built around establishing strong relationships at all levels and by connecting people through a common purpose. Collaborative excellence is based on developing a solid platform of trust, integrity, openness, honesty, responsiveness, fairness, and commitment.

Successful collaboration involves organisational cultural alignment, joint business planning and goal setting, the sharing of risk and reward, establishing innovation and value creation processes and measures, sharing knowledge, and tirelessly working together to achieve a shared vision with defined outputs.

There are numerous benefits to a collaborative approach, including:

• Creating a neutral platform for mutual benefit with business partners

• Defining roles and responsibilities to improve decision-making processes

• Sharing costs, risks, resources and responsibilities

• Providing staff with wider

The spirit of collaboration

training opportunities

• Building better relationships that lead to improved results.

The nature of the FM industry means that we are very well positioned to collaborate across a wide number of teams. In particular, cleaning teams have a vital role to play.

Collaboration in cleaning

Cleaning touches on all locations and additional services of a site, such as catering, grounds and security. Cleaners have visibility of those services and interact with all of those other teams.

They also have regular contact with building users, especially now that more cleaning is being done during the day to give visual reassurance to occupants.

In TFM models, client sites can often include hundreds of buildings, some of them quite small. Cleaners are sometimes the only regular presence so can feed back, when relevant, about issues they might have noticed, such as a maintenance repair.

As such, cleaners lend themselves to being a focal point. Strategic collaboration is not simply a nice-to-have – as FM providers, we are doing our clients a disservice if we don’t prioritise and embed collaboration.

The art of the possible

A key building block towards successful collaboration is empowering staff through training opportunities and personal development. Upskilling cleaning staff can truly enhance a service offering, leading to increased efficiencies and reduced costs. For example, say a cleaner notices an overflowing toilet. With the right training, that cleaner can fix the problem themselves rather than waiting for another member of the team. On large sites with multiple buildings, that job could take days for maintenance to address.

Cleaners can also be trained in other handyman services; to support security officers with certain tasks; to act as fire marshals; to provide first aid; or can be

Collaborative business-tobusiness ventures are built around establishing strong relationships at all levels and by connecting people through a common purpose. David Parker at EMCOR discusses why cleaning as a service lends itself to a collaborative approach and offers advice on what that entails.

supported with soft skill development to provide customer service.

This creates business resilience and enables a company to run more smoothly. For cleaners, it makes the role a much more desirable career as it expands their skills.

We create a personal development plan for all our cleaning staff. Not all necessarily want to go down the avenue of broadening their skills beyond cleaning, but plenty do have that aspiration and it’s important for an employer to support that as best as possible.

In addition to adding resilience for clients, providing a clear career path for cleaners helps with staff attraction and retention. Stable teams operate better to the benefit of clients and the employer. We’ve found that when you give cleaners the tools and training to succeed, client satisfaction reaches new levels.

Digital tools

One of the tools that can be used to support collaboration is technology. We’re in the process of equipping all cleaning staff with a work mobile phone that comes with a scheduling app. Managers can schedule jobs and cleaning staff can easily view their schedule and mark jobs as complete in real time. They can also perform audits when needed and the data

Continued page 48

COLLABORATION

The spirit of collaboration (continued from page 47)

captured is readily available for any user to view.

An internal chat app is also on the phones that ensures cleaners are kept updated with company news, as some won’t have access to or regularly check emails.

Tech can also be utilised to support with training. It isn’t always easy to get everyone to a physical training session, so being able to deliver courses online helps to ensure that all staff have the same opportunities to learn.

Capitalising on pandemic support

It’s no secret cleaning was front and centre during the height of the pandemic. As a result, cleaning staff had the ears of senior business leaders as they advised on best practices for health and hygiene.

Though the worst of it has seemingly passed, Covid is still very much prevalent and a key consideration for businesses. Cleaners still have a very important role in keeping buildings safe and demonstrating that to occupants.

It’s up to us as service providers to ensure we retain the same level of support from our clients now and in the years ahead. We can achieve that through a collaborative approach which encompasses everything from shared report-

Les entreprises commerciales collaborative de type interentreprise reposent sur l’établissement de relations solides à tous les niveaux et sur la mise en rapport de gens visant un objectif commun. David Parker, de la société EMCOR, montre pourquoi la propreté en tant que service se prête à une approche collaborative et en illustre les implications pratiques.

ing to ongoing risk assessments of high touchpoint areas.

There’s a new appreciation of the skills that cleaners possess, so let’s use that to our advantage to develop stronger partnerships with our clients.

It might go without saying, but it’s essential to have consistent communication with all stakeholders for a collabora-

tive approach to become embedded and successful.

Engage your stakeholders

Take upskilling cleaners as an exampleclients may see the benefits but there can be nervousness around the competency of a cleaner to carry out a specific maintenance task. It’s recommended to train all staff in advance so they are fully prepared at the outset of a contract. It can also be very beneficial to provide examples from other clients of how cleaners have used their skills to good effect.

Once a contract is underway, consider bringing cleaners to monthly client meetings. They are the eyes and ears around a site, and who better to report back than the people carrying out the work? It’s also a great way to make cleaning teams feel part of the overall team.

Above all else, you want to explain the ‘why’ to your stakeholders. Tell them why you believe in a collaborative approach and why it will benefit them if they commit to it.

From our experience of pursuing a collaborative approach in our cleaning contracts, the benefits have been instantaneous and long-lasting. So, there is no time like the present to start devising your own collaboration strategy.

www.emcoruk.com

Bei partnerschaftlichen Business-to-BusinessProjekten stehen der Aufbau starker Beziehungen auf allen Ebenen und die Verbindung von Menschen durch das Streben nach einem gemeinsamen Ziel im Mittelpunkt. David Parker (EMCOR) erörtert, warum sich Reinigen als Dienstleistung für einen partnerschaftlichen Ansatz eignet und bietet Ratschläge, was dabei zu beachten ist.

Le iniziative collaborative business-to-business sono costruite intorno alla creazione di forti relazioni a tutti i livelli e anche connettendo le persone attraverso uno scopo comune. David Parker presso la EMCOR ci parla del motivo per cui le pulizie come servizio si prestano ad un approccio collaborativo e inoltre offre consigli su ciò che comporta.

Reader registration form

June/July 2023

To receive ECJ free of charge (subject to qualification), complete the form below.

Name ....................................................................

Job title ................................................................................

Company ...............................................................................

Address ................................................................................

Postal code ............................................................................

Country .................................................................................

Tel ........................................................................................

Fax ......................................................................................

E-mail ..................................................................................

Web site ................................................................................

Please sign here only if you wish to receive a regular copy of European Cleaning Journal (the publisher reserves the right to accept or refuse application).

Signature ......................................... Date................... Scan

Please tick just one box in each section. Your company’s main business activity:

q Factory & industrial premises

q Offices & commercial premises (including banks)

q Contract cleaning/cleaning services

q Distributors/wholesalers

q Health authorities/hospitals/ nursing homes

q Central and local government

q Hotels/catering/recreation (including leisure centres)

q Education establishments (including universities, schools & colleges)

q Other (please specify)

Number of company employees:

Are you personally responsible for purchasing or specifying machinery, materials, products, equipment or support services used in the cleaning and maintenance of non-domestic establishments? q Yes q No

q None of the above.