INCLEAN Magazine May-June 2018

DELIVERING SUSTAINABLE HYGIENE INFORMATION

www.incleanmag.com.au

Volume 31 Issue 3 May/June 2018

Cleaning Technology

Clean performance where the action is!

Scrubmaster B120 R – Delivers the Hako Dry Floor Trademark!

Airports, train stations, shopping centres: Right there where the action is. 4 models available with the choice of cleaning widths of 700mm up to 900mm. Comfort and ease of use. The Scrubmaster B120R is your scrubber to deliver the cleanest and driest of floors without compromising the pace of cleaning. Kinematic squeegee design - doesn‘t leave a drop of water on 90- degree turns or 179cm U turns, the original “one green button“ touch operation, BOOST function for heavy duty cleaning that can save up to 77% of water consumption, on board Battery Management System (BMS) - over 5+ hours runtime, with braking energy fed back to the battery, splash proof protected (IP44) electric motors for longer life.

New!

Scrubmaster B75 R

Scrubmaster B120 R

Comin!g Soon

Scrubmaster B175 R

For more information, visit us at www.hakoaustralia.com.au

Volume 31 Issue 3 May/June 2018

Contents 06

Industry

08

Contracting

10

Healthcare

22

Hygiene

28

Distribution

Events Calendar

CLEAN NZ May 9 - 10: New Zealand’s only dedicated cleaning and hygiene expo will be at ASB Showgrounds, Auckland. www.cleannzexpo.co.nz

p26

INTERCLEAN Amsterdam May 15 - 18: INTERCLEAN Amsterdam is set to bring together cleaning and hygiene experts, professionals and exhibitors from around the world. www.issainterclean.com

RIA Restoration Conference and Tradeshow June 6 - 8: Hosted by the Restoration Industry Association (RIA), the 2018 event will be held at the Novotel Twin Waters, Queensland. www.restorationindustry.org

ISSA Cleaning & Hygiene Expo Australia August 29 - 30: Following on from the success of last year’s inaugural event, the 2018 ISSA Cleaning & Hygiene Expo Australia will be at ICC Sydney in Darling Harbour. www.issacleaninghygieneexpo.com

Budapest Cleaning Show

p54

38

Carpet & Restoration

46

Technology

48

International

50

Management

56

Marketing

64

Products

October 5 - 6: The Budapest Cleaning Show is a trade show and educational congress run by the Hungarian Cleaning-Technology Association (MATISZ). www.budapestcleaningshow.hu/en/

Forum Pulire October 10 - 11: The Forum Pulire will take place at the UniCredit Pavilion in Milano, Italy. www.forumpulire.it/it/

ISSA Show North America October 29 – November 1: Dallas, Texas is the host city for the 2018 ISSA Show North America and ISSA Convention. www.issa.com

EDITOR’S LETTER

Just as much as cleaning is critical in a healthcare environment, so too is hand hygiene. Hand hygiene is a cleaning fundamental, yet despite all the papers and studies published on hand hygiene (understood to be a staggering 29,000 in the past 30 years) and its importance, compliance continues to be an issue.

In this issue, Dr Greg Whiteley argues some of the reasons why achieving hand hygiene compliance continues to be a complex challenge on page 26.

In addition, we look at how important it is for cleaners to understand the difference between cleaning, sanitising and disinfecting and how poor hygiene can compromise these processes. Broadlex Service’s Denis Boulais explains this further in his article on page 12.

Another focus for this issue is healthcare. Healthcare cleaning remains one of the most demanding sectors of the cleaning industry in terms of delivering truly hygienic outcomes.

Healthcare is about effective hygiene practices and now, more than ever, monitoring hygiene standards, which is directly connected to best practice cleaning methods.

Winc’s Caroline Astrand examines some of the latest innovations helping prevent healthcare associated infections, while Diversey’s Ivan Obreza explores some new technologies that are redefining the way we view powerful disinfection chemistry.

Floor cleaning is another area of cleaning to consider in a healthcare setting. Floor cleaning not only affects the general perception of cleanliness. Failure to clean floors thoroughly and efficiently can pose a risk to health and also waste resources. Truvox International’s Gordon McVean outlines the key factors for healthcare facility managers to consider (page 10).

Also in this issue Bridget Gardner introduces a new, simpler model for specifying and measuring cleaning standards (page 14) and we speak to former West Coast Eagles player, David Wirrpanda about his new business Wirrpanda Supplies, created to manufacture and deliver cleaning supplies as well as close a loop between education and the employment of Indigenous youth (page 30).

We also have highlights from Karcher’s national Dealer Conference held in Torquay (page 28) and Adelaide-based Unique Cleaning Supplies shares its plans for national expansion (page 36).

Happy reading!

Claire Hibbit Managing Editor

July/August INCLEAN 2018

NEXT ISSUE

FOCUSES: Human resources, Education Human resources is a critical and constant issue for cleaning contractors, property owners/managers, manufactures and distributors, in the pursuit to recruit and retain valuable staff. INCLEAN looks at the HR issues of recruitment and how good staff can impact a business’ performance and growth. Also ever present is the need for further education and training for companies to compete in the market and strengthen the industry as a whole. INCLEAN explores the platforms used to offer more comprehensive education programs.

Published: 5 July, 2018 Editorial deadline: 11 May, 2018 Advertising booking deadline: 6 June, 2018 Advertising material deadline: 12 June, 2018

INCLEAN is published by: The Intermedia Group Pty Ltd ABN 94 002 583 682 41 Bridge Road, Glebe NSW 2037, Australia Phone: 02 9660 2113 Fax: 02 9660 4419 MANAGING DIRECTOR: Simon Grover PUBLISHER: Simon Cooper MANAGING EDITOR Claire Hibbit Email: chibbit@intermedia.com.au Phone: 02 8586 6140 ASSISTANT EDITOR Lizzie Hunter Email: lhunter@intermedia.com.au Phone: 02 8586 6102 NATIONAL ADVERTISING MANAGER: Samantha Ewart Email: sewart@intermedia.com.au Phone: 02 8586 6106 PRODUCTION MANAGER: Jacqui Cooper GRAPHIC DESIGNER: Adrian Tipper HEAD OF CIRCULATION: Chris Blacklock Print Post Approved Publication No. PP: 255003/09765 AUSTRALIAN SUBSCRIPTION RATE 12 months (6 issues) - $66 (inc. GST) To subscribe call 1800 651 422 Email: subscriptions@intermedia.com.au DISCLAIMER This publication is published by The Intermedia Group Pty Ltd (the Publisher). Materials in this publication have been created by a variety of different entities and, to the extent permitted by law, the Publisher accepts no liability for materials created by others. All materials should be considered protected by Australian and international intellectual property laws. Unless you are authorised by law or the copyright owner to do so, you may not copy any of the materials.

The mention of a product or service, person or company in this publication does not indicate the Publisherís endorsement. The views expressed in this publication do not necessarily represent the opinion of the Publisher, its agents, company officers or employees. Any use of the information contained in this publication is at the sole risk of the person using that information. The user should make independent enquiries as to the accuracy of the information before relying on that information. All express or implied terms, conditions, warranties, statements, assurances and representations in relation to the Publisher, its publications and its services are expressly excluded save for those conditions and warranties which must be implied under the laws of any State of Australia or the provisions of Division 2 of Part V of the Trade Practices Act 1974 and any statutory modification or re-enactment thereof.

To the extent permitted by law, the Publisher will not be liable for any damages including special, exemplary, punitive or consequential damages (including but not limited to economic loss or loss of profit or revenue or loss of opportunity) or indirect loss or damage of any kind arising in contract, tort or otherwise, even if advised of the possibility of such loss of profits or damages.

While we use our best endeavours to ensure accuracy of the materials we create, to the extent permitted by law, the Publisher excludes all liability for loss resulting from any inaccuracies or false or misleading statements that may appear in this publication. Copyright © 2018 The Intermedia Group Pty Ltd.

advanced of design features mbination advanced design features

Vacuum Cleaner Range Overview ode button ency Eco-mode button advanced design features • Unique combination of advanced design features er technology TASKI whisper technology

ode button

Bye bye vento. HELLO TASKI AERO. • High-efficiency Eco-mode button

er technology

• Patented TASKI whisper technology

nced design features

utton

hnology

5

nt ate

5

1 2.

www.sealedair.com © 2017 Sealed Air Corporation. All Rights Reserved. 59416 en 03/17

Contact our friendly Customer Service:

whisper P

m

1800 647 779 aucustserv@diversey.com 1 2.

whisper P

m

whisper P

1 2.

nt ate

m

1 2.

nt ate

5

m

1 2.

whisper P

m

FOR INTERNAL USAGE ONLY

nt ate

5

Avoid patient distrubance WHISPER QUIET AERO Ideal for noise sensitive areas

5

INDUSTRY

SKG unveils new look SKG Cleaning has unveiled its new corporate branding.

SKG Cleaning managing director George Manoussakis said the look is part of the next stage of the company’s growth strategy.

“We wanted to take a fresh new image to the national market that stands out,” Manoussakis said.

Founded in 1977 by Steve and Kathy Manoussakis, SKG Cleaning has been providing cleaning services to a number of clients for more than 10 or 20 years in both the private and government sectors. “[The rebrand] demonstrates to customers that our process is simple, and that we offer a caring, compliant service.

“We’ve had some good growth which we would like to consolidate and create a foundation to get to the next level. More importantly, we want to show larger clients, who traditionally avoid SMEs, why they should engage us.

“NSW used to be the largest source of business for us, accounting for around 90 per cent. That has now shrunk to around 50 per cent. The other 50 per cent now comes from other states around the country.”

This year SKG Cleaning added state managers to its teams in Queensland and Victoria, taking the number of administration and management staff to 20. The number of cleaners the company employs on a full time basis jumped last year from around 50 to 400.

“That was mainly due to employing permanent staff instead of service providers,” added Manoussakis.

While specialising in commercial cleaning, Manoussakis says the business is looking to approach procurement companies this year to help win contracts. www.skg.net.au

Victorian cleaners to receive portable leave Victoria’s Minister for Industrial Relations, Natalie Hutchins, has introduced legislation that will make portable long service leave available to contract cleaners, security and community services workers.

According to United Voice, 74 per cent of security guards and 61 per cent of cleaners have not received long service entitlements because of contract changes in their industries.

Under the new laws, the workers will be entitled to long service leave after working for seven years in their industry, irrespective of the number of employers they work for over that time. It is estimated that 10,000 security guards and 20,000 cleaners will be eligible under the scheme.

6 INCLEAN May/June 2018

“Long service leave benefits should meet the needs of modern workplaces – that’s why we’re introducing new legislation to make it fairer for more Victorian workers,” said Minister for Industrial Relations, Natalie Hutchins.

The scheme will be managed by a statutory authority, and employers will pay a levy to finance the payment of entitlements.

The legislation is in response to a Parliamentary Committee that recommended a portable long service leave scheme, and follows the successful operation of portable long service leave in the construction industry for the last 30 years.

NSW, Queensland, and the ACT already have portability schemes in place for workers in selected industries.

INDUSTRY

ISSA appoints Oceania manager

New ISSA Oceania manager Lauren Micallef

Global cleaning association ISSA has appointed Lauren Micallef as its new Oceania manager.

Micallef takes over from Kim Taranto who joined the Oceania team at the time of its launch in Australia in November 2016.

Commenting on Micallef’s appointment, Dianna Steinbach, vice president international services, ISSA, said: “We are excited to welcome Lauren to the ISSA team and look forward to her valuable contribution toward the association’s continued growth and support of the Oceania professional cleaning industry.”

Micallef will be based in the Sydney office and work closely with Steinbach and Vernie Navarro, ISSA Oceania’s membership coordinator.

Outgoing Oceania manager Kim Taranto said: “I’m very passionate about ISSA and the foundation I have helped to build in this region. I’m happy to work with Lauren in the coming weeks to ensure she has all the information, guidance and tools to help her continue the growth of the association.”

ISSA has also appointed Carolyn Journeaux of Fame Group, to provide part-time project management for ISSA Oceania, specifically in the area of business programs and education development. Her focus will be expanding services and programs ISSA offers its members and the industry.

Journeaux has had experience helping associations in the FM and cleaning contract industries, as well as other sectors. ISSA said it plans to hire an additional membership support person in the coming months to meet the growing demand of its expanding Oceania membership. www.issa.com

Take a walk on the clean side with the new Viper AS5160T

The Viper AS5160T is a highly productive walk-behind scrubber dryer with battery endurance and tank capacity to clean for hours. Being easy and comfortable to use with its ergonomic design, this robust machine is ready for an in-depth performance on indoor surfaces. Ideal for cleaning in hotels and restaurants, bus and train stations, factories, supermarkets, shopping malls, hospitals, schools, and other institutions. Contact your local dealer or call 1300 556 710 to find out more.

Viper Cleaning www.vipercleaning.com www.incleanmag.com.au 7

CONTRACTING

At your service

Chirag Vyas

Hard work has paid off for Chirag Vyas, an Indian immigrant to Australia who has impressed commercial clients with a combination of trust and a commitment to first-class cleaning services. Cameron Cooper reports.

When Chirag Vyas arrived in Australia 15 years ago, he could not speak English, his qualifications in chemistry could not be immediately applied to the workforce and doubters were suggesting he could not succeed in his new country. What a difference time and a lot of dedication makes.

Today, Vyas is a respected figure in the Queensland cleaning industry and has forged a fine career with City Property Services, a fast-growing cleaning business based in Brisbane. Late last year, in recognition of his efforts, Vyas won the individual prize for Environmental Sustainability, ecoClean Excellence at the BSCAA Queensland AustralianSuper Excellence Awards.

“I never expected that in all my life,” he says. “At the end of the day it’s all about doing the hard work and achieving your goals.”

Family affair City Property Services, a family business, provides commercial cleaning services for major events and stadiums, in addition to hospitality, government and mining facilities.

While most of its work is in South East Queensland, the company also handles jobs in cities ranging from Cairns in the north, Sydney in the south and Perth in the west.

As operations manager, Vyas has been an integral part of City Property Services’ success, working with the business’s managing directors, Mark and Emmett Roche, to build up a client list that includes the Sleeman Sports Complex, Brisbane Racing Club, the Gold Coast Turf Club, RSL clubs and Brisbane Powerhouse.

“It’s a family business, but I’m like a part of the family as well,” Vyas says.

With about 15 fulltime employees and 90 cleaners, the company has been an integral part of Vyas’s life since he immigrated to Australia from India in 2003.

8 INCLEAN May/June 2018

“When I came from India, I couldn’t speak English, not a word,” Vyas recalls. However, with the Roche family making a pledge to him that “If you look after us, we’ll look after you”, he has gone from strength to strength in his adopted country.

This element of trust has extended to Vyas’s interaction with his commercial clients. His focus is on meeting their every need and treating them with respect. “Once clients are happy, word of mouth will ensure business will come.”

The upshot is that City Property Services has not required salespeople for the past four years.

Satisfaction guaranteed

In his role, Vyas has adopted a simple approach – “Put your head down and keep working.” It is a message he regularly conveys to his cleaning staff as part of their education about the cleaning industry. The other non-negotiable is for all staff members to concentrate on outstanding client service.

“It’s important “People want service,” he says. “And people want their venues or sites to be to educate and clean. So it’s important to educate and train our cleaners because not everyone train our cleaners is a professional cleaner in this industry. because not They may be students who have come to this country or they may be cleaning as a everyone is a second job.”

In driving home the imperative of doing professional cleaner a great job every time, Vyas likes to tell the in this industry. They tale of a members’ lounge at an airport. Even if the CEO of the airline is missing for a day, may be students he says, planes will take off and land and schedules will be met. Customers will not be who have come to affected or care that the boss is absent. this country or they “But if one bin is not emptied in the airport lounge, people will jump up and may be cleaning as a down about that bin and ask why it hasn’t been emptied. It shows how important our second job.” job is as cleaners.”

CONTRACTING

What does he expect of his team? He wants them to be proud of their work. He wants them to be consistent. And he wants them to have a great attitude.

“I can train someone, but I can’t change people’s attitudes.”

For others in the industry, Vyas has some worthy advice.

First, make being organised a priority and focus on the scheduling of jobs.

Second, remain flexible and, if an important job comes out of the blue, make sure it is done. Third, remember that you must work hard to get the best results. And, most of all, if there is a problem with a job, address it immediately. “If someone has an issue, sort it out now – there’s no tomorrow,” Vyas says.

Green edge Vyas studied applied chemistry in India before immigrating to Australia and has since completed an environmental management course at Griffith University. The combination has helped inform the use of appropriate chemicals that are as environmentally friendly as possible.

City Property Services has ecoClean Environmental Certification and has adopted a policy that stresses the need to “rethink, reduce, reuse, re-educate and recycle”. Vyas believes an attention to health and hygiene has stood the company in good stead when pitching for jobs with major organisations. It will also be crucial as City Property Services embarks on a campaign to gain new clients in the hospital and healthcare space.

“It’s going to take time, but I think we’ll get there. I am so passionate that when I drive around I tell my wife, ‘One day I’ll be cleaning this building’.”

Such an attitude helped Vyas and the team win the cleaning contract at the Sleeman Sports Complex, one of the key sites in the 1982 Brisbane Commonwealth Games and which still hosts major swimming and cycling events.

While critics initially suggested the Sleeman contract would be too big for City Property Services, Vyas has proved them wrong while ensuring that the business maintains an equilibrium between growth and the level of investment that is required in staff and equipment to take on such big contracts. “There should be a balance,” he says. “Slow and steady wins the race.”

Bright future As City Property Services looks to the future, it will target new clients in hospitals, healthcare and schools while also building on its reputation as a reputable cleaner for major events and stadiums.

Vyas is keen to play his part in the growth story, continuing to build a rapport with his clients and ensuring he and the cleaning team live up to their promises.

“When I say something to clients, they know I’m not saying it just for the sake of it,” Vyas explains. “You have to be honest.

And you have to help others before they start to help you.”

His journey with City Property Services is proof of that. www.citypropertyservices.co

BREATHE EASY. The system that works better.

Outstanding air freshening performance that allows your customers to breathe easy.

Connect with us on

Scent Aire Breeze Kit BCSB288KITMM

02 9584 8644 | info@pallmall.com.au www.pallmall.com.au

HEALTHCARE

The floor hygiene factors What’s the prescription for hygienically clean flooring? Gordon McVean, international sales and marketing director of Truvox International, outlines the key factors for healthcare facilities managers to consider.

Hygiene and infection control has visitors from trailing cables during daytime cleaning – and noise probably never had higher priority disturbance while cleaning at any time of day or night. in the health care sector. The public Cordless equipment can provide reassurance on both fronts, and patients too share clinicians’ while providing added flexibility and minimising interruptions concerns about the spread of flu, for the cleaning team. tummy and super-bugs.

Their needs must be considered too. Machines and equipment Everybody wants and expects should be easy to operate and handle, and minimise repetitive to see scrupulous cleanliness and motions and musculoskeletal strains. hand hygiene practice. But what A final factor to mention is the cleanability of the machine itself, about floors? its brushes or pads, solution and soil tanks, and attachments.

Floor cleaning not only affects the general perception of Healthcare settings and priorities vary, but experience teaches cleanliness. Failure to clean floors us that scrubber dryers often play a central thoroughly and efficiently can pose a risk role in hygienic cleaning strategies. to health and also waste resources.

The ability to wash, mop, scrub and dry “Floor cleaning not Hospitals, clinics and care homes may use in one pass makes for high efficiency and a mix of cleaning methods and machines, output. Constant application of only-clean only affects the such as rotary polishers, scrubber dryers solution and removal of soils is crucial. A and vacuums, while mopping persists in modern model should also minimise water general perception some cases, even if only in confined areas, and chemical consumption, leaving floors of cleanliness. such as toilets and washrooms. dry in minutes.

Though the stakes may be higher than in Versatility for tackling different floor Failure to clean other sectors, the managers of healthcare types – from hard to entrance matting and facilities need to deliver consistently costlow-pile carpets – is highly valued. floors thoroughly effective cleaning. So what are the key Less widely appreciated perhaps, but a and efficiently can factors when prescribing a hygienic and major technical advantage, is cylindrical efficient cleaning regime for floors? brush technology. Contra-rotating brushes pose a risk to health Versatility is important, especially where exert sufficient pressure to remove embedded cleaning teams are responsible for a variety grime from the grout lines of tiled floors and also waste of floor types from entrances to birthing and other crevices. They also overcome the resources.” suites, waiting areas to wards, canteens to difficulties of cleaning safety flooring without operating theatres. potentially harmful chemical disinfectants.

Hard floors may predominate, given they A cordless machine can deliver these gains should be easier to keep clean, but they pose a slip risk when without compromising productivity. Modern gel batteries provide wet that mopping only exacerbates. sufficient power for around 50 minutes’ non-stop operation, It also fails the hygiene test. This method fails to remove soils while swopping to a back-up battery should be simple and rapid. effectively and re-circulates those that are picked up by the mopWhen it comes to disinfecting the machine itself, it is advisable head and mixed with the cleaning solution. to avoid brushes made from natural fibres. A synthetic material, New surfaces, coatings and materials adopted over recent years such as polypropylene, can be sanitised far more reliably. Colourhave brought benefits, such as anti-slip properties. But they can coding of brushes helps prevent cross-contamination between be trickier to clean properly. areas with different levels of risk, as well as matching the brush That challenge is compounded by strict infection control rules, design to the type of surface. which favour natural detergents and taurine-based products.

These are among the main factors for ensuring that floor To remove soiling completely, the surface must be agitated cleaning plays its part in supporting the highest standards of vigorously without accelerating wear. hygiene in healthcare settings. www.truvox.com Other factors to consider are the trip risk to staff, patients and 10 INCLEAN May/June 2018

i-land XXL

Your Cleaning Hub.

Discover the i-Land. The only all inclusive cleaning cart in the industry that fits a scrubber dryer like the i-mop. The i-Team range is designed with the cleaner in mind, in order to simplify the entire cleaning process and bring a level of satisfaction to the cleaner.

Ideal for long days, huge buildings and on-site projects, the i-Land I-SUIT isI-SUIT an all-in-one solution which makes sure your cleaners have everything I-SCRUB

I-VAC

they need in one accessible and convenient trolley from pre-treatment buckets, equipment slots and tablet brackets. No more unproductive travelling time for a more efficient and practical way to clean.

I-MOP

I-SUIT

i-land

Call us for an obligation free demo | 1800 177 399 | imop@abcopro.com.au www.i-teamaustralia.com.au | The exclusive Australian i-team Partner

HEALTHCARE

C. diff Spore Disinfection:

Balancing efficacy with safety Chlorine bleach has long been the standard chemical for Clostridium difficile disinfection.

Unfortunately, whilst efficacious, bleach is also corrosive. New technologies are emerging that do not sacrifice safety for efficacy and are redefining the way we view powerful disinfection chemistry, explains Diversey Australia’s senior clinical advisor Ivan Obreza*.

Accelerated hydrogen peroxide is Clostridium difficile (C. diff) is a resistant superbug linked the active ingredient in Sporicide with hospital acquired complications including infection Plus™, a registered sporicidal and mortality. The C. diff bacterium proliferates in the disinfectant with efficacy claims against a range of pathogens gastrointestinal tract after antibiotic therapy and forms spores including C. diff spores. Accelerated hydrogen peroxide that are shed and spread via the faecal-oral route. offers a proven balance of efficacy and safety while delivering The spores find their way to the affected patient’s fingertips, sustainability and outstanding cleaning capability5. bedrails and nearby surfaces. They are resistant to most The active ingredient in Sporicide Plus™ breaks down after disinfectants and may persist for many months. They are use, leaving no residual active for C. diff to interact with. This transferred by the hands of others to different rooms. Once is important because prolonged exposure acquired and ingested by a susceptible to low levels of disinfectant residue are individual, the spores germinate. The thought to be necessary for organisms to infection may progress through infectious “More frequent develop resistance4. diarrhoea to toxic megacolon and the Reducing hospital acquired complications cycle repeats¹. disinfection at relies on budgetary input from cost High-touch surfaces in the patient zone the point of care centres including environmental cleaning, contribute to infection risk²,³. It follows that more frequent disinfection at the hand hygiene, perioperative asepsis and is important if point of care is important if we are to antimicrobial stewardship. Safety has a lower hospital acquired complication price, and new disinfection technologies will we are to lower rates and optimise patient outcomes. But challenge some of those budgets, especially hospital acquired traditional disinfectant chemistry may be in the environmental services space. But too overpowering to use at the bedside, such challenges become insignificant when complication rates especially with a patient in situ. compared to the human and financial costs The presence of bacterial spores associated with adverse patient events. and optimise patient adds a layer of complexity to bedside The Australian national guidelines for outcomes.” disinfection, especially while patients infection prevention suggest that either are present. Killing spores demands a bleach or a TGA-registered hospital proven, fast-acting sporicidal disinfectant. grade disinfectant with specific claims for Unfortunately, traditional chemistries are notable for their that organism be used for C. diff. Bleach certainly has a place toxicity and odour. Modern healthcare delivery, where patient in healthcare. However, non-corrosive options may be more safety and risk mitigation is paramount, may be best served by a appropriate for high-touch surfaces at the point of care, especially if discreet chemical approach with no odour. the patient is in the room.

Choosing the right sporicidal product is a critical step in the Sporicide Plus is available from Diversey. disinfection of rooms occupied by individuals with C. diff. The disinfectant must be effective against key pathogens of concern, Ivan Obreza is the Infection Prevention Consultant and Senior get the job done within realistic contact times, and not sacrifice Clinical Advisor for Diversey Australia. www.vericlean.com.au the safety of patients, visitors, staff or surfaces4.

References: 1. Gilbert L, Clostridium difficile Infection Laboratory Case Definition.

Australian Government Department of Health, Feb 2016.

2. Otter JA, Yezli S, Salkeld JAG, et al. Evidence that contaminated surfaces contribute to the transmission of hospital pathogens and an overview of strategies to address contaminated surfaces in hospital settings. American Journal of Infection Control, 2013; 41: S6-S11.

3. Mitchell BG, Dancer SJ, Anderson M, et al. Risk of organism acquisition from prior room occupants: A systematic review and meta-analysis. Journal of Hospital Infection, 2015; 91: 211-217.

12 INCLEAN May/June 2018

4. Rutala WA & Weber DJ, Selection of the Ideal Disinfectant.

Infection Control and Hospital Epidemiology, 2014; 35: 855-865 5. Boyce JM et al. Prospective cluster controlled crossover trial to compare the impact of an improved hydrogen peroxide disinfectant and a quaternary ammonium-based disinfectant on surface contamination and healthcare outcomes. American Journal of Infection Control, 2017; 45: 1006-1010 In clean conditions NHMRC, Australian Guidelines for the Prevention & Control of Infection in Healthcare, 2010; 74

HEALTHCARE

Introducing CAL: Cleaning Activity Levels Bridget Gardner* introduces a new, simpler model for specifying and measuring cleaning standards.

Since I began writing cleaning specifications 10 years ago I have tried to find simpler ways to present cleaning requirements, without compromising on accountability. I must have reviewed hundreds of cleaning guidelines, international standards and service specifications in this quest.

Many such documents are more than 50 pages long and you need a law degree to understand them. As English is a second language for many cleaners, I wanted to develop a less complicated way to communicate cleaning duties and measure performance standards.

One night, at 2am to be precise, I awoke with a question, why do cleaning standards always focus on the type of soil to be removed? Shouldn’t a just-cleaned desk look the same regardless of whether it once held a coffee spill, dust or a paper clip? What if I just listed the surface elements, defined the degree of effort or level of activity that cleaners were to carry out on it, then described the outcome by way it will be measured?

I grabbed a notebook and drew a diagram I called ‘Cleaning Activity Levels’ – affectionately known as CAL. Let me explain how it works and how it could radically improve the way cleaning standards are specified and measured.

Current limitations Cleaning standards usually contain a long list of cleaning duties, surfaces and frequencies, such as ‘clean toilets daily’ or ‘dust desks weekly’. Cleaning performance is measured against the type of soil to be removed from each surface once the task is completed: i.e. the desk shall be free of dust, debris, spillages and smears.

To make sure nothing is missed, specifications can become wordy, prescriptive and result in impossible schedules. This causes arguments over minor omissions and undermines the cleaning operator’s skill and autonomy to assess their daily priorities.

Performance-based cleaning contracts, conversely, are usually non-prescriptive and may even leave scheduling to the expertise of the cleaning company. Standards are based on cleanliness ratings, carried out via visual auditing. This approach can also be fraught with subjective and differing expectations about acceptable levels of clean.

Hospitals have complex requirements and high standards of cleanliness to meet. For example, the 52 page Cleaning Standards for Victorian Health Facilities, 2011, covers five aspects that must be cross-referenced: 1. Building areas/elements/surface materials 2. Risk categories and priority areas 3. Cleaning outcomes defined via soil types to remove 4. Frequencies and timeframes 5. Auditing and scoring methodologies With all these approaches, the degree of cleanliness is being visually measured by rating what has been missed, not what has been done. This is neither consistent nor objective and it sets the cleaner up for failure.

14 INCLEAN May/June 2018

A new approach Underpinning the CAL model are three core principles: 1. A surface cannot be accurately defined or measured as ‘partially clean’. It is either clean or unclean.

2. The cleaning outcome is determined by the cleaning process: the method, the degree of effort and the frequency.

3. Cleaning standards must be defined by how cleanliness is to be measured.

The following diagram illustrates how the CAL model is applied to cleaning specifications:

Cleaning Standards Cleaning Outcomes

Clean HTP’s Spot clean

Measuring Methods

Full clean

Building Elements

Deep clean

Frequencies Restore

Cleaning Scope CAL has adopted common cleaning terms to describe the level of cleaning activity. The cleaning standards then describe the required outcome, and the most accurate, relevant and viable methods of measuring performance, per level. This is shown in the upper part of the CAL diagram and listed in the table to the right.

Applying CAL to cleaning standards CAL dramatically simplifies the way cleaning specifications are written, because the same outcome per level of activity can be applied to all surfaces, soft or hard. For example, if the cleaner is required to spot clean a carpet to remove ‘isolated, recent, highly visible and easily removable marks, debris and spillages’, then it is their responsibility to identify the recent spots and to decide how best to remove them. This could be vacuuming up a piece of lint and/or damp blotting a coffee spill.

The CAL model can also be used to structure the organisations requirements per specific building area, surface type (‘elements’), materials, risk priorities, hygiene, safety and sustainability initiatives.

In the lower half of the diagram, CAL is applied to the scope of works or work schedules. For each area/building element, the required cleaning levels and how frequently they are carried out, can be specified in a simple matrix. This can be varied according to the level of risk, usage, and of course, budget.

HEALTHCARE

Activity Level

Cleaning Outcomes

Measuring Method

Clean high-touch points (HTPs)

All surfaces that are identified as being frequently touched and at risk of contaminating hands or food, have low levels of organic and microbial soils (Note: the methods can be further quantified per risk profile)

• ATP bioluminescence • Swab cultures • Fluorescent marking

Spot clean

Recent, highly visible and easily removable marks, debris and spillages have been removed from the surface

• Direct observation • Before and after photos

Full clean

All visible surface soil, wet or dry, has been cleaned from the whole surface area.

• Fluorescent marking • Direct observation

Deep clean

All ingrained soil, marks and stains, have been thoroughly cleaned from within the surface fabric, crevices and grouting

• Direct observation • Before and after photos

Restore

The lustre and/or integrity of the surface has been fully and evenly restored

• Direct observation • Before and after photos

Benefits One of the key benefits of CAL is that it respects and improves the cleaner’s skill, which could help to drive a renewed interest in training qualifications.

It is also very easy to apply efficiencies and to integrate it with maintenance information systems (MIS).

The CAL model has the potential to: • Simplify the way we communicate cleaning duties, • Provide a consistent and objective auditing framework, • Focus the cleaner’s efforts more efficiently, and • Give cleaners more autonomy and better cleaning skills Fresh Green Clean would be interested in talking with organisations willing to pilot this completely innovative approach to setting cleaning standards. * Bridget Gardner is director of Fresh Green Clean.

Bridget will be presenting a paper on CAL at CleanNZ Expo.

Contact Bridget on bridget@freshgreenclean. com.au | au.linkedin.com/pub/bridgetgardner/15/597/9a5/ www.freshgreenclean.com.au

columbus THERMOPAD

THERMO-ACTIVE

CARPET CARE FAST DRYING ECONOMICAL DISTRIBUTED BY

HEALTHCARE

Changing the cleaner mentality in healthcare environments In recent years, there has been an increase in consensus within healthcare facilities that cleaning and disinfection continues to play a pivotal role in patient and staff safety. OCS Australia head of operations Darren Boyd shares his thoughts on the healthcare cleaning sector in Australia with INCLEAN’s assistant editor Lizzie Hunter.

How do you view cleaning in the healthcare sector?

Cleaning is a vital component of a healthcare facility, given the nature of that environment where it is important to ensure there are no hygiene breakouts or cross contamination. Particularly in the aged care sector where cross contamination can be caused by simple things being overlooked and not cleaned properly on a regular basis, like failing to wipe down hand rails. Those sorts of simple failures can transmit viruses and disease very quickly and they have the potential to be quite lethal in those environments.

Does healthcare cleaning differ from regular commercial cleaning?

Cleaning in a healthcare environment is very different from commercial cleaning. Healthcare cleaners are often onsite throughout the day. In addition to carrying out periodic or prescribed cleaning; they deal with spot cleaning and have to react to things that can happen at any time. This can vary from general waste management to general cleaning to biomedical cleaning. So there’s a broad range of requirements and the cleaners are quite important to the day-to-day operations that go on in these facilities.

Q: What are some of the issues being faced in healthcare?

There is ongoing discussion regarding the stress on the broader healthcare system. We are seeing a greater demand for services, increase costs, as well as growth in the allied services environment, such as the aged care sector.

In has been well publicised that the public health network is under stress as Australia’s population continues to grow as well as the impact of the ageing demographic. This stress moves onto the aged care sector as Australia’s ageing population moves from the general healthcare environment and into complex healthcare and aged care. So there is certainly growth being felt that the cleaning market could take advantage of.

One of the most important things in aged care is getting cleaning companies to have a philosophy that involves being much more customer service focused. Rather than coming into work and viewing a task as a set area that needs to be cleaned, cleaners need to treat their work as a people environment.

The cleaning sector needs to change its approach in these difference scenarios to successfully navigate the opportunity the sectors presents.

18 INCLEAN May/June 2018

Q: What are your predictions of the future of healthcare and aged care cleaning?

I think we’re going to see more innovation in this space, in terms of equipment and technology such as robotics. There’s also a big push into using more environmentally friendly products that can actually ‘clean’. In the past, some of the cleaning products were considered to be environmentally friendly but they didn’t necessarily clean effectively.

In terms of engagement with patients and residents, the innovation there is going to be much more around hand-held technologies and ensuring that we’re cleaning regularly and keeping solid records to help people understand just how frequently spaces, furniture and equipment is cleaned.

One of the regular complaints you’ll receive in a hospital or aged care facility will come from either the resident or the patient’s family saying they never see the cleaner or the room is always dirty. What they don’t see is how regularly cleaning is actually carried out. I think we’ll start to see more innovation that makes cleaning more transparent to the end user.

From our perspective at OCS, we’re trying to align our customer service type model around what we actually do, so that we when we do approach the healthcare sector, we do so using the right model.

Healthcare cleaning isn’t a sector OCS Australia is heavily involved in at the moment but it’s a strong sector us in other parts of the world, including in the UK and we want to replicate that here.

Q: How is technology playing a role in healthcare cleaning?

Technology brings better outcomes in terms of an overall solution to cleaning but there’s also better productivity, improved manual handling and reduced costs. There’s a whole raft of positive benefits in the sense of equipment. But the other side to that is the availability of data we have now which is creating much more transparency around what’s taking place on sites. Technology is providing more opportunity to become much more engaged not only with the customer but with the customer’s customer.

Q: Do you think how people view cleaning is changing in Australia?

I think how people view cleaning is changing, but there is a fair way to go. The challenge is that, like a lot of industries such as cleaning, it’s often seen as a low skill, entry point or for people from different cultural backgrounds that have just entered the country and we need to ensure the people and the services provided are valued. There’s a lot more we can do to upskill cleaners, especially in regards to how they engage with stakeholders to create more of a customer service type environment. The healthcare sector is definitely growing which presents opportunities, not only from a cleaning point of view, but for anyone involved in the facility management market. www.ocsservices.com

HEALTHCARE

Regents Garden Group’s Aubin Grove entry area

The architecture throughout Regents Garden Group’s Aubin Grove site focuses on bringing the outside in

Cleaning with care Kim Kamarudin tours Regents Garden Group’s Aubin Grove facility in Perth with Regents Garden Group support and development manager, Helen Feld.

If looking for an aged care facility that is modern, wellspace for our resident records to be accessed by visiting GPs and maintained and feels more like a hotel when you walk through allied health professionals like speech pathologists and podiatrists. the door, then visit Regents Garden Group’s Aubin Grove Each of these areas is cleaned regularly as part of the facility, less than 30 minutes south of Perth. general cleaning schedule. Walking around the facility, Feld Long gone are the class B hospital facilities of old and the concept acknowledged each person we passed, stopping to chat with of five-star care is increasing in demand, according to Regents residents and staff alike. It’s details like this, residents and family Garden Group support and development manager Helen Feld. members expect and appreciate.

“With people living longer, expectations regarding the level “The Group’s in-house cleaning regime has been established of care and service has increased,” Feld explained. “One of our and maintained as the optimum method to conduct routine and core values is that everybody is special and deserves exceptional as-required cleaning,” she stated. care. Our Aubin Grove facility offers extra amenities services “Our cleaning staff are well-trained and do a great job. Each which include access to aroma therapists, wing is like a neighbourhood. The corridors a newspaper every day and a chocolate on in each wing are a unique feature and “Our cleaning staff your pillow every night. another example of how the architecture “It’s part of our five-star hotel-type brings the outside in. The natural light adds are well-trained experience and residents pay an extra to the atmosphere and the use of plants and do a great job. daily fee for these services. Whether or means it looks like a real street. not a resident has opted for extra services, “Each resident has their own mailbox Each wing is like a the care of residents and cleaning of our and entry area to personalise, so they feel premises is never compromised. We provide neighbourhood. The at home. Utility rooms in each wing house all residents with five-star service.” the clean linen, bed pans and other items. corridors in each The Aubin Grove Residential Care site The bed pan cleaning machine is cleaned was completed in 2012 and has 102 beds. internally and externally every month. wing are a unique The facility boasts five wings, one of which “Each wing has its own spacious dining is specifically for dementia residents. room, food servery and cleaning area. All feature and an All cleaning is completed by in-house meals are prepared in the main kitchen, example of how the cleaning staff. Generally, each resident wing including catering for special dietary has a cleaning staff member who is also requirements and food allergies.” architecture brings assigned general areas to clean.

The kitchen and catering staff play Other facilities on site include a cinema their part in infection control by wearing the outside in.” room, a day spa area for meditation and protective wear whenever they are in the massage, where external therapists use kitchen and or food servery areas. rooms to treat residents. When it comes to special occasions The Aubin Grove site has a strict auditing policy, like each there is a banquet room with kitchenette, plus family rooms, Regents Garden site. Auditing is carried out by the buildings communal television areas, multifunction rooms, a computer manager with a rotating monthly focus on cleaning procedures, nook with free wifi and a men’s area for different projects. occupation health and safety procedures or maintenance cleaning.

There is a hairdressing salon and residents have access to a gym Each Regents Garden site undergoes regular clinical audits, to space for working with physiotherapists as well as for their own monitor infection control processes. exercise needs. There is also a purpose-built, centrally located Internal auditing is carried out on a monthly basis to ensure all 20 INCLEAN May/June 2018

HEALTHCARE

cleaning protocols are being adhered to, records are monitored and individual area inspections are carried out which include resident’s rooms.

“Our internal auditors have knowledge, experience and training to identify specific clinical, infection control, cleaning and OHS issues and to monitor practices,” stated Feld.

“Each area of our facility is audited regularly to ensure that processes and procedures are being adhered to. If, through the audit a gap is identified, we investigate why and put structures in place to make sure it doesn’t happen in future.

“As well as internal audits, the Australian Aged Care Quality Agency carry out regular audits to ensure we adhere to all the appropriate standards.

“Last year, the eastern states experienced a dreadful flu season.

With that in mind the AACQA and Department of Health are focusing heavily on infection control and encouraging staff to be immunised.

“Due to the vulnerability of an aged persons’ lowered immune system, respiratory status and other medical factors, they simply do not have the ability to fight infections like those who are younger. So, there is a big drive to encourage people who work in aged care to be immunised.

“We have engaged with this policy and closely monitor our staff and factor this in when creating the work schedules and rosters. We even offer to immunise our staff.

All the laundry needs for the Aubin Grove facility are carried

out on-site by a team of staff. All used laundry is kept separate from clean items and residents clothing is labelled when they move in. When laundry is collected it is washed, dried, sorted, folded and returned to residents. This well-oiled team also manages all of the bedding laundry.

Aubin Grove also has a full-time maintenance cleaning staff member who works alongside the facility maintenance manager, responsible for cleaning and maintaining external and internal fixtures and fittings, furniture maintenance and repairs. All cleaning chemicals used on-site are well secured and storage and handling policies are in place throughout the centre. www.regentsgarden.com.au A glimpse at one of the Regents Garden Group’s Aubin Grove dining areas and lounge room area

A true partnership you can trust: • Market leader for innovative cleaning and hygiene solutions

• In-House Research & Development, Regulatory and Marketing

• Extensive range of quality products

• Leading National Sales & Service Team

WH TB20083

Call today on 1800 635 746 to experience the True Blue difference True Blue Chemicals Unit 2, 1 Endea vour Road, Caringbah NSW 2229 Australia. Customer enquiries: 1800 635 746. www.truebluechemicals.com.au

HYGIENE

When sharing isn’t caring – the new inventions to stop infections Winc’s Caroline Astrand* examines some of the latest innovations helping prevent healthcare associated infections.

Have you ever walked into a hospital thinking your visit could actually make you sicker? You shouldn’t have to worry about your health in a hospital or, as you get older, in aged care homes.

However, healthcare associated infections (HAIs) are one of the most common patient safety issues today. In fact, more than 180,000 Australian patients suffer from these infections each year, consuming almost 2 million hospital bed days. The good news is, there’s a cure.

Infection prevention is a commonly used term, and high on the priority list for most healthcare and aged care providers. It involves everything from using the correct formula for cleaning to establishing hand hygiene procedures.

“Having the right tools available is the first step to solving the problem,” says Kirstie Hepburn, VP of Sales at Winc Australia and New Zealand.

Research shows microfibre is an effective way of reducing the levels of MRSA (a type of staph bacteria that is resistant to many antibiotics) and other bacteria on a range of clinical environments.

A study by The Healthcare Infection Society also showed that the performance of microfibre cloths remains high after repeated use, making them highly cost effective. Microfibre is stated to remove 93 per cent bacteria with water only, enabling the reduction of harsh chemicals and water costs.

Winc recommends using these with special microfibre workstations that are ergonomically set up to reduce unnecessary bending and twisting – preventing employee fatigue and back injuries.

“Quality of care is important but we’re also helping to ensure the quality of work,” Sean Matthews, head of care at Winc says.

22 INCLEAN May/June 2018

“Having the right tools available is the first step to solving the problem.”

“It’s not just about reducing cost for these organisations, it’s about making sure that we keep their people and patients happy by giving them safe and efficient tools so that they can work smarter.”

Another important part of infection prevention lies in the hands of the personnel. Hand hygiene is crucial to manage infectious diseases, but use of certain disinfectants can make this difficult for staff to follow. The World Health Organisation (WHO) concluded the number one issue with hand hygiene compliance is skin dryness and irritation resulting in painful hands. This isn’t surprising as health care workers wash their hands up to 160 times a day.

“Preventing infections doesn’t have to be difficult, changing just a few products and procedures can really improve the way the facility works,” Matthews says, “Healthcare workers and consumers are becoming more educated on the harm being done by putting toxic chemicals on their skin. That’s led to a demand for us to source better products that really fit people’s needs – whether they work in the care sector or not.” *Caroline Astrand is a communications specialist at Winc Australia www.winc.com.au

SEBO XP2 Upright- Limited Offer BEST for staff, BEST for carpet, BEST value for money!

SEBO XP2 Upright Vacuum Cleaner 37cm/15" working width with automatic brush height adjustment, highly efficient filtration system and service friendly design combine to give an outstanding cleaning performance on any type of floor and for any sized commercial premise.

Made in Germany and recommended by Flooring Manufacturers world-wide.

PLUS access to SEBO's 24/7 Customer Support Service.

9548AU

To discover more about the SEBO Professional Floorcare Range or to request a quotation Offer subject to stock availability.

Ph: 1300 697 326 or visit www.sebo.com.au

HYGIENE

Hand hygiene:

A cleaning fundamental Dr Denis Boulais* goes back to basics and shares some important hand washing tips.

“It is important cleaners understand the difference between cleaning, sanitising and disinfecting and how poor hygiene can compromise these processes.”

With this issue of INCLEAN magazine focused on healthcare and hygiene – an article on the fundamental cleaning element of hand washing seemed quite fitting.

Hand washing programs in workplace settings have resulted in reduced sick days, according to some studies. Hand washing programs in the community have resulted in cold and flu reductions of up to 21 per cent, and gastrointestinal illness by as much as 58 per cent.

It is important cleaners understand the difference between cleaning, sanitising and disinfecting and how poor hygiene can compromise these processes.

Cleaning removes germs, dirt and other impurities from surfaces by using detergent (such as soap) and water to physically remove germs. It doesn’t necessarily kill the germs but lowers their numbers on the surface.

The terms ‘disinfectant’ and ‘sanitiser’ are regularly used interchangeably. Disinfection kills germs via the use of chemicals on surfaces. Disinfection doesn’t necessarily remove germs, but killing them certainly reduces their numbers.

Sanitising significantly lowers germs on surfaces to a safe level with a fast kill.

In practicality the food industry may benefit primarily from sanitisers. For example; when cleaning dishes it is important to get an effective kill of germs fast so dishes can be reused as soon as required.

The medical industry, however, may prefer disinfectants because they aim to kill specific germs specified on their label.

Both the food and hospital industries are prime examples of where correct hand washing and good hygiene can reduce the spread of germs.

Poor hand hygiene can comprise the level of cleaning we are aiming to achieve. For example, in handling rubbish a cleaner may come into contact with items such as tissues noting the flu virus can infect a person for up to eight hours after being deposited on a surface.

24 INCLEAN May/June 2018

It is always important cleaners are trained to never put their hands where they cannot see them when handling rubbish and wash hands as required.

There are a number of reasons cleaners may not follow a strict regime of washing their hands which include: • Workload: If busy a cleaner may be less likely to hand wash.

• Time: There may not be enough time to wash hands fully and properly.

• Appearance: Hands may not appear dirty – but germs are too small to be seen.

• Presence: A sink may be hard to get to – such as in a messy cleaning room. Hence it is important cleaners are trained that hand washing is a priority for their own health benefits and that of the client.

Handwashing Soap acts as a detergent with one side of its molecule liking water (hydrophilic) and the other side of its molecule liking oil (hydrophobic). Cell membranes are also made up of a dual sided hydrophilic and hydrophobic molecule. As such, soap solvates the hydrophobic parts of a cell membrane and hence kills the bacteria by dissolving the membrane. Furthermore, the hydrophilic part of the molecule then causes it to be easily washed away.

Soap isn’t as effective against viruses because viral membranes are more protein based than lipid based and hence the viral membrane isn’t as easily dissolved. That said, however, a soapy environment can still adversely affect protein structure and inactivate a virus. Of course, alcohol-based hand sanitisers and antibacterial soaps are likely to be more effective than soap.

It is normal to have germs living on the skin. While soap and water do a good job of removing germs from the hands it is important to ensure hands are properly dried. It is more likely that wet hands will spread germs more than dry ones. It takes around 20-30 seconds to dry the hands well with paper cloth towels and 30-45 seconds under an air dryer.

HYGIENE

There are three important tips associated with washing hands: 1. Don’t scrub hands as it can damage the skin and potentially provide small cuts for germs to enter.

2. Try to keep your fingernails short as bacteria like the area under the nails and longer nails are harder to keep clean.

3. Don’t be in a hurry as it takes around a minute to properly wash and dry the hands.

Alcohol-based cleansers kill germs by denaturing (changing the shape) of proteins essential to the survival of viruses and bacteria. Most cleansers have a high level of alcohol (around 60 per cent) mixed in with skin conditioners as alcohol itself would dry out the skin. Research has shown alcohol-based cleansers have reduced germ counts on hands better than soap.

Alcohol, however, does not kill everything such as bacterial spores and non-enveloped viruses. A non-enveloped virus is very virulent, can damage host cells significantly and is more resistant to harsh environments than an enveloped virus with its membrane of lipids and protein.

That’s why each environment needs to carefully assess its hand cleaning requirements. For example, many hospitals go back to soap and water cleansing during cold weather vomiting outbreaks that may be caused by non-enveloped more virulent viruses.

A hand wash poster developed by the World Health Organisation (WHO) is a good example of hand washing

Dr Denis Boulais is national risk manager at Broadlex Services

*

www.broadlex.com.au

FREE ONLINE TRAINING Safe Chemical Handling Course Do you or your staff need training in Safe Chemical Handling?

RapidClean now offers a Safe Chemical Handling course built by a registered training organisation. This course trains you & your staff to handle cleaning products safely, assists with employers meeting their obligations to train staff, meets health & aged care training compliance requirements & generates a certificate on completion which may assist in securing employment. All this & more in our FREE user friendly one hour online course.

START YOUR FREE COURSE TODAY AT WWW.RAPIDCLEAN.COM.AU

HYGIENE

Why hand hygiene compliance remains a complex challenge Whiteley Corporation’s executive chairman Dr Greg Whiteley argues some of the reasons why hand hygiene compliance is still so poor.

Did you know that in the last 30 years, there have been more than 29,000 published papers on the general subject of hand hygiene? That is a lot of writing, reading and arithmetic. So much research, so much peer review, so many studies…So why is hand hygiene compliance still so poor?

Even the regular observations on the poor compliance with hand hygiene guidelines has been exhaustively studied, written about and published. All it would seem to no avail.

As readers of this publication may remember, a recent study in Australia demonstrated the published compliance rates of greater than 80 per cent are in my opinion just rubbish. The data used to defend hand hygiene compliance is just a game of the ‘emperor’s new clothes’. It is only a matter of time before there is a general acknowledgement of the falsehood in the reporting system currently used by governments around Australia.

So why is it so hard to achieve compliance? There are of course many reasons. Perhaps the first reason is healthcare workers are too busy. Doctors are busy saving lives, and other healthcare workers are too busy caring for patients.

They are all too busy to wash their hands and prevent transmission of nosocomial pathogens, or to prevent another healthcare associated infection by stopping to wash their hands.

A second problem is the presence of gloves. Many people put on their gloves and imagine the gloves are some sort of ‘force field’ to prevent the bacteria or other microbes jumping on board their gloved hand.

Just another bit of lazy rubbish thinking and behaviour, because it is well evidenced that the bacteria are just as happy on an over-used glove, as on an unwashed hand.

26 INCLEAN May/June 2018

Gloves should be changed as frequently as people are meant to wash their hands.

Perhaps a third reason is the risk perception/ motivation around hand hygiene compliance is most frequently an inherent response learned as children at the time of toilet training.

You can’t see the germs, but you are taught to wash your hands because of the danger to your health from those unseen microbes. Dr Michael Whitby and his colleagues investigated the issue of inherent versus elective hand hygiene and risk perception. In a study of more than 750 healthcare workers, it was the inherent behaviour that was a better predictor of compliance with hand hygiene protocols. So non-compliance might be your mothers fault, due to insufficient training? That is a finding of which Freud would be proud!

So, the message of hand hygiene compliance will continue onward. The ridiculous data collection promoted for measurement will continue to show nothing. Sadly, patients will continue to be unnecessarily infected by the super bugs and all because we don’t wash our hands sufficiently often. Please pass me the alcohol gel, because I need some about now. www.whiteley.com.au

“Gloves should be changed as frequently as people are meant to wash their hands.”

VAX COMMERCIAL BAGGED BACKPACK VACCUUM CLEANER 4 Excellent pick up on carpets and floors 4 Large 5.0 ltr bag capacity 4 Ultra lightweight - only 4.8 kgs 4 18m high visibilty cable

vax.com.au

Advance

DISTRIBUTION

Kärcher Australia hosted its annual Dealer Conference in the seaside town of Torquay, Victoria on 26 March to 29 March.

Karcher Australia

celebrates record year Held at Peppers – The Sands Resort, more than 70 Kärcher team members and dealers gathered from around the country to attend the four-day event. International guests in attendance included Kärcher’s executive vice president global sales, Marc Van Ingelgem and global dealer development manager professional sales channels, Lillian Small.

Over the four days delegates were given exclusive insight into Kärcher’s 2018 strategies, from both a local and global perspective, key account direction, new product launches, digital innovations and marketing initiatives in the pipeline to support the company’s growing local dealer footprint.

Delegates were also provided with social activities and networking opportunities. The conference’s formal dinner featured guest speaker – solo world sailor Tony Mowbray.

Hamish Matheson, region president – Oceania, said 2017 was a year of significant change and success for Kärcher Australia, reporting a record year across both its professional and retail divisions.

28 INCLEAN May/June 2018

DISTRIBUTION

“2017 was a year of significant change and success for Karcher Australia, reporting a record year across both its professional and retail divisions.”

Lucas Paris, Kärcher Australia’s sales and marketing director – professional, said the conference set the bar even higher for Kärcher Australia, with Kärcher’s continued commitment to its dealers as the underlying message he hoped delegates would take away from the event.

“Kärcher Australia is growing at a rapid rate and it was great to see all of the internal and external partners excited about the opportunities being presented,” Paris said.

“The teams were there to share experiences from both the supply and services sides of their respective businesses and there’s no better way to do this than in a relaxed open forum where people are comfortable to exchange ideas.”

Product stations were set up throughout the venue to showcase Kärcher’s new and existing products. New products on show included the BV 5/1 BP battery operated backpack vacuum cleaner; T9/1 BP battery operated dry vacuum cleaner; BR 30/4 C BP pack battery operated compact scrubber drier; BRC 40/22 C compact carpet cleaner; SGV 8/5 steam vacuum cleaner; KM 85/50 R BP ride-on vacuum sweeper and the KM 120/250 R classic industrial ride-on vacuum sweeper.

“All products from Kärcher’s portfolio were on display from the well-known pressure washers, sweepers and scrubbers to the more niche but just as important engineered solutions of which Kärcher has seen tremendous growth in the past year,” Paris said.

“Overall it was a fantastic and rewarding event from a Kärcher perspective. We would like to thank all of those who attended.

Kärcher Australia is continuing to drive its dealer channel throughout 2018 and beyond.” www.kaercher.com/au www.incleanmag.com.au 29

DISTRIBUTION

Wirrpanda Supplies

kicks off

The Wirrpanda Supplies labels incorporate Indigenous artwork, Wirra Green seal of approval, generic name and numbering and an icon to make products easy to identify and use.

Wirrpanda Supplies, the brainchild of former West Coast Eagles AFL player David Wirrpanda, was created in late 2017 to manufacture and deliver cleaning supplies around the country, as well as close a loop between education and the employment of Indigenous youth. Kim Kamarudin reports.

The Australian cleaning supplies industry has a new player in the game. This player has a business model that will facilitate and support the education and training of young people and provide a clear pathway to employment.

Wirrpanda Supplies was created in late 2017 to manufacture and deliver cleaning supplies around the country as well as close a loop between education and the employment of indigenous youth.

The WA-based company is the brainchild of former West Coast Eagles AFL player, David Wirrpanda.

Since retiring from AFL, David Wirrpanda has worked closely with Indigenous young people and in 2005 he founded and became the director of the Wirrpanda Foundation (WF). One of the principal roles of the WF is to assist young people in the WA Children’s Court system by providing opportunities to learn new skills or a trade.

Wirrpanda Supplies is a joint-venture company between David Wirrpanda, as the major shareholder, and Chemform, a 40-yearold family-owned Australian company that delivers cleaning products and services across the country in numerous sectors.

Chemform national sales manager Peter Tzavellas shared, Chemform has always had a community focus.

“When we started offsetting our carbon emissions Indigenous communities were employed to plant trees,” Tzavellas said.

“When David approached us with this idea to close the gap between his not-for-profit foundation and employment of Indigenous Australians, it was a really good fit and a path that resonates with Chemform’s purpose. That’s how this joint venture started and we are really excited about this new business venture and the opportunities that come with it.”

The intention is to utilise the WF and create a direct pathway for young people to complete their training and transition directly into employment. WF is a Registered Training Organisation (RTO) that offers a range of training and employment programs like Bidi Waalitj. This is a new collaborative program between WF, West Coast Eagles and the WA Department of Jobs and Small Business.

30 INCLEAN May/June 2018

“Since transitioning from football to working with WF, I identified a market I wanted to assist with based around education, health and employment,” Wirrpanda said.

“The cleaning supplies market is something that interests me and creating a joint venture with Chemform, a private company with demonstrated runs on the board, provides me with an opportunity to add value.

“I pitched my idea as something that would be an extension to Chemform and it’s something I’m passionate and enthusiastic about. I wanted to bring not only my brand and what we do to the table but also to utilise the programs and aims of the WF. Effectively the WF is the pendulum for Wirrpanda Supplies and Chemform to employ indigenous people.

“Wirrpanda Supplies will be able to approach corporates with a complete package incorporating the supply of quality cleaning products and services around Australia and the fact we are actively seeking to employ Indigenous people.

“The final part of the loop is that for every contract secured and every product purchased, three per cent of the sales profit goes back to the WP’s employment programs. This means the WP won’t be heavily dependent on federal and state government funding in the future.”

Wirrpanda Supplies distributes a range of Wirrpanda cleaning chemical products, systems training Supplies director David and education. The cleaning supplies system Wirrpanda includes colour coding, generic names and numbering and Indigenous artwork on all the branding labels to make them unique, easy to identify and easy to use.

Manufactured on site in Western Australia, the Wirra Green products are quality assured, environmentally friendly, easy to use and safe to use. The company also provides client training and safety information, industry standard audit reporting, technical support and equipment installation and maintenance.

This joint venture is a unique relationship across the board and word of mouth is getting out there, explained Wirrpanda.

“For me it’s a great opportunity to have a foot in both camps, not-for-profit and a

DISTRIBUTION

company. Wirrpanda Supplies certify sustainable products? is a fair dinkum company and It can’t simply be about one “Wirrpanda Supplies is a fair we aim to be the benchmark in part of the business process, it this industry when it comes to needs to be holistic. dinkum company and we aim to supplying cleaning chemicals “Chemform proudly does be the benchmark in this industry that are safe for the environment what we say we do and and providing employment. this joint venture is part of when it comes to supplying “This is the exciting part the demonstration of that. of what we deliver, which is Similarly, with Wirrpanda cleaning chemicals that are the bigger picture of securing Supplies and its commitment to safe for the environment and contracts not simply based on indigenous employment. being an Indigenous chemical “This joint venture is a providing employment.” supply company but because we meeting of like-minded people can deliver a top-level product with a similar focus and and service. That’s the way the commitment to achieving model will work and why we are so excited about the potential outcomes on a broad scale.” of Wirrpanda Supplies.”

Wirrpanda envisions more than 50 staff working within the According to Tzavellas, Wirrpanda’s holistic approach and company to fulfil its mission. “Right now, it’s all about creating what the company is offering is a realistic and positive solution the building blocks and starting to implement a strong business for corporates and indigenous Australians. plan,” he shared.

“When it comes to sustainability and environmentally friendly “If you asked me 12 years ago where I thought the foundation products, some companies say they have these eco-friendly would be, nobody would have believed me. Today it has 53 products and that’s it,” Tzavellas explained. fulltime staff and a national footprint. Back then I set out to “What about the wider picture of operating a sustainable change attitudes and mindsets in the community and now we are business that offsets carbon emissions, works with or gives stepping into the corporate space to do that again.” www.wirrpandasupplies.com.au back to the community and obtaining third party approvals to

MEET THE

WORLD’S MOST ADVANCED CLEANING ROBOT

Clears Humps

Edge-to-edge Cleaning

4 Stage Water Filtration

Auto Charging

PERFORMANCE

Advanced Navigation

Dynamic Routing

It is no surprise that floor corners and edges are the most neglected areas when it comes to cleaning.

The ECOBOT Scrub75 is arguably the first ever cleaning robot to put a stop to incomplete cleaning once and for all. With our revolutionary Turnado technology and offset brush head design, no corner or edge will ever be lonely.

AUTONOMOUS INTELLIGENCE

User-friendly Interface

State-of-the-Art Systems

The best hardware is only as good as its brains. With state-of-the-art hardware and patented software programming in Simultaneous Localization and Mapping (SLAM), the ECOBOT Scrub75 is engineered by the best robotics engineers in the world to know precisely where it has cleaned and where it needs to clean.

ENGINEERED SIMPLICITY

Corner Cleaning

Lifetime Firmware Updates

6 hours Li-ion Battery

First Year Full Warranty

Autonomous Mapping

Established Network of Technicians

Cloud Support

Experience The ECOBOT: www.clearlinkservices.com.au

Contact us:

info@clearlinkservices.com.au

There is nothing like cutting-edge technology made simple. Designed with the input from operators of cleaning service providers with more than 100 years combined experience, our user-friendly tablet interface caters to cleaning operators from diverse educational backgrounds of all levels and age-groups.

29-30

AUGUST

2018

INTERNATIONAL CONVENTION CENTRE SYDNEY

IT’S TIME 30% LARGER THAN 2017

Australia’s Only Dedicated Cleaning & Hygiene Event Capitalising on both its international and local resources, ISSA will deliver a prodigious program of commercial cleaning and hygiene technology and education. Not only will this event present the very latest in cutting-edge technology, it will offer an array of co-located conference and workshop streams.

Co-Located With

EXPO IS

80% SOLD OUT

TO SHINE NEW! Restoration & Textile Care Wing ISSA Certification & Training

REGISTER NOW 1300 789 845 or www.issacleaninghygieneexpo.com Platinum Sponsor

Gold Sponsor

Media Partners

Silver Sponsors

Organised By

DISTRIBUTION

Spillz

makes a splash New Zealand-based Spillz has hit the ground running in Australia since its move across the ditch last year. Scott Rozendaal tells INCLEAN assistant editor Lizzie Hunter

From left: Scott Rozendaal, Philippa Buckton, Barbara Buckton and Henk Pelster

Started in New Zealand in 2016, Spillz is a family-owned and operated start-up that is beginning to carve its mark on the Trans-Tasman market.

Founded by cousins Henk Pelster and Scott Rozendaal, Spillz launched in Australia last year and is the sole distributor of Kaivac Cleaning Solutions (previously imported by Intervac in Western Australia).

“I always wanted to start my own business,” explained Spillz managing director Scott Rozendaal. “So when the opportunity came up to distribute Kaivac across Australia and New Zealand I asked Henk – who was based in Europe at the time – if he wanted to join me in starting up a new business distributing Kaivac.”

The company is already operating on a national level in Australia, with distribution partners in Perth (Washroom Cleaning Solutions) and more recently in Melbourne (Oz Cleaning Supplies). The supplier is also currently in talks with partners in Adelaide and Brisbane.

“We want a key partner in each state. We don’t want a whole heap of different resellers. Our goal is to have one dedicated business in each state that we can support and count on to promote our product.”

Founded in 1997 by Bob Robinson in the US, Kaivac develops science-based hygienic cleaning systems that combine pressure 34 INCLEAN May/June 2018

washing, chemical injection, wet vacuuming and other tools into a single platform.

“Kaivac isn’t new; it was here before, but people didn’t know about it. There’s some reluctance in the cleaning industry to change [traditional] systems – so our goal now is to highlight the value in changing processes; why people should use our systems and what benefit it brings to them and the facility overall.”

The cleaning supplier’s New Zealand head office is located in Tauranga, NZ where it employs several part time staff. It also currently services from Auckland to Taupo.

“We believe there is potential for further growth in Wellington and Christchurch but because the country and Australia are such

“We don’t want to just sell cleaning equipment; we want to sell a solution.”

DISTRIBUTION

“We sense some reluctance in the industry to change older systems, so our goal is really to the highlight the value in changing processes.” large territories, logistically it’s quite a challenge, which is why we’re looking to partner with people.”

Spillz is primarily targeting large facilities such as stadiums, airports, universities, schools and shopping centres, which Rozendaal says are ideal for Kaivac’s touchless machines.

“We’ve been working with the likes of Sydney Cricket Ground, Allianz Stadium, Qudos Bank Arena and UNSW. Sydney Airport also now uses Kaivac equipment and Adelaide Airport deployed two of our largest machines in April.

“We’re still discovering how many uses our machines and products have. For example, not only can our touchless products be used to clean toilets, but they can be used in cleaning up crime scenes. But there is some hesitation from people when they see a product that can do so much. I think we need to focus

on showing value to clients in one area before we can show the product’s full potential.”

Healthcare is another market Spillz is looking to enter as it introduces more products to its line. Earlier this year Spillz launched an ATP testing rental service – Hygiena’s SystemSURE Plus luminometer.

“ATP testing – adenosine triphosphate (ATP), the universal unit of energy in all living cells – immediately determines if surfaces truly are clean,” said Rozendaal.

“We’re introducing a rental service to allow facility managers to do this sort of testing without having to fork out the thousands of dollars. With ATP testing, managers can make decisions based on fact. Hygiene and cleanliness are generally measured on a subjective basis. ATP makes it scientific.

“That’s the objective we want to push. We want to push what actually cleans and what actually does do the job.”

While Rozendaal admits Spillz’ expansion is ambitious, for now the company is focused on building its network of key partners in Australia and New Zealand.

“I come from an engineering background, not a sales background so I don’t agree with pushing a product people don’t need. It’s a matter of talking to people to find out what they need. We don’t want to just sell cleaning equipment; we want to sell a solution.” www.spillz.com.au www.spillz.co.nz

THE SMART SOLUTION FOR SMART BUSINESS

INCREASE EFFICIENCIES REDUCE LABOUR COSTS

With the power of QR codes, you can remotely manage teams of cleaning staff at multiple locations.

SmartCleaner is the complete software solution specifically designed for the commercial cleaning industry.

Increase Quality & Cleanliness of Facility

Manage Staff Remotely & Monitor Task Progression

Client Verified Savings of 10% Plus

Streamline Your Operations & Get Real-time Data

Benefits of QR Codes Prove Staff were on Site Low Cost Fast Setup GPS Tracking

To Learn More Visit Us At www.virtualmgr.com/au/smart-cleaner/

www.incleanmag.com.au 35

DISTRIBUTION

Unique Cleaning Supplies

plans national expansion South Australian Unique Cleaning Supplies has doubled its business in the past four years, with plans to become a national cleaning supplier. Lorraine Day spoke to owner Arthur Skrembos about the family-owned company’s success.

A South Australian family-owned business which began companies, hotels and restaurants. The business also sells and supplying consumables, including nappies and wipes, to services vacuum cleaners on behalf of Pacvac, Origin, Cleanstar, childcare centres from a backyard shed in 2003, moved to a Eurostar, Nilfisk and Sebo from their onsite workshop. showroom/warehouse in Hindmarsh in 2011, and has now taken As the Stepping Stone (SA) Childcare & Early Development over an additional warehouse a couple of doors away.

Centres expanded its facilities around Adelaide and outer Arthur and Fiona Skrembos, and their suburbs, Unique Cleaning Supplies’ son Theo, run Unique Cleaning Supplies business grew to meet its needs. The from two warehouses, and also employ childcare group now has 20 centres in “Our long term two sales representatives.

South Australia, with an additional five or According to Arthur Skrembos, Unique six to be completed within a year. aim is to supply Cleaning Supplies began as a commercial “We have doubled our business in the nationally cleaning company with 60 staff. past four years,” Skrembos said.

“We moved into supplies as well as His interest in the cleaning industry began throughout running the cleaning business, eventually when he was a teenager helping his parents moving away from cleaning to concentrate in a part-time cleaning business, where Australia. To meet on supplies.” he learnt how to use a Polyvac and other this expansion, we Unique Cleaning Supplies covers all cleaning equipment. of South Australia, regional and rural, According to Skrembos, Theo has a hope to build a focussing on supplying a wide range of mixed role at Unique Cleaning Supplies, quality cleaning products and equipment. having grown up in the business. large-scale multiIt is also the distributor for a variety of Being versatile, he is easily capable of purpose warehouse paper products including Livi, Rosche, serving and assisting customers select the ABC, Kimberley-Clark and Tork. In best products for their particular needs, designed for addition to its large range of paper as well as completing customer orders products and consumables, Unique which are sent all over South Australia and easier and faster Cleaning Supplies has an equally large interstate. distribution.” range of chemicals and cleaning products, “What I love most about this business and distribute for the likes of Clean Plus, personally is definitely the problem-solving Peerless JAL, AGAR, Tasman, Research aspect of the job. Whenever a customer Products, Citrus Resources, Actichem, Whiteley’s, Sonitron, comes in with a cleaning-related issue, I am able to draw on my Bosisto’s and Diversey. cleaning knowledge and experience to assist them. Interacting “We also send some supplies to Melbourne,” said Skrembos. with customers and meeting new people is truly one of the best “We stock the major brands of cleaning-related products from perks of the business.

Oates, Sabco, Edco, Nabclean and White Magic; and we import “Our long term aim is to supply nationally throughout Australia. some products, especially the consumables.”

To meet this expansion, we hope to build a large-scale multiUnique Cleaning Supplies’ main clients include childcare purpose warehouse designed for easier and faster distribution.” www.uniquecleaningsupplies.com.au centres, schools, shopping centres, commercial cleaning 36 INCLEAN May/June 2018

CARPET & RESTORATION

RIA Conference and Tradeshow

program announced

The inaugural RIA Conference and Tradeshow will bring together leading local and international restoration, carpet care and indoor air quality professionals.

The Restoration Industry Association (RIA) will host its inaugural RIA Conference and Tradeshow on the Sunshine Coast from 6 to 8 June.

The three-day event, taking place at Novotel Hotel & Resort Twin Waters, will feature educational sessions and panels, optional training courses and networking events for delegates.

The conference will conclude with the RIA Conference dinner.

Ross Riek, chairperson of the RIA Australasian council, said the conference’s line-up of international speakers will give attendees unique insights into industry trends on a global scale.

“Our market in Australia is traditionally a number of years behind the USA with industry trends. Therefore it gives a unique opportunity to feed back to our local market some of the trends being experienced in the US by having our RIA USA speakers and delegates mix and socialise with our local industry,” Riek said.

Ashley Easterby, director of the RIA Australasian council, said the inaugural event will also give delegates the chance to network with like-minded operators.

“With Australia and New Zealand being so spread out and cities so far apart, many small operators are missing the opportunity to meet and see the latest products, hear developments within the industry and miss the opportunity to meet and talk with liked minded operators to network and learn from each other,” Easterby said.

The education program will feature presentations from local and international leaders from the restoration, carpet cleaning and indoor air quality industries. Keynote speakers include Chris Schumacher, Gary Loiben and Chuck Violand.

Based in Canada, Chris Schumacher has led the design, installation, and analysis of monitoring projects both in the lab and in field locations around the globe. He currently works as a forensic and research engineer and is recognised as an expert in the fields of building monitoring and building materials, systems and enclosure testing. Schumacher has also led remediation and

Novotel Hotel & Resort Twin Waters

38 INCLEAN May/June 2018

research projects in all climate zones of North America and as far abroad as New Zealand.

“A leading educator in the construction, engineering and architecture industries is joining us as the restoration industry learns the knowledge of why and how things are constructed affect how restoration companies can return them to a preloss condition,” Easterby said.

US-based Chuck Violand founded Violand Management Associates in 1987 with the objective of helping owners of restoration and cleaning companies build profitable businesses for their long-term professional and personal success. He is also the past president of the RIA. Easterby said Violand will bring a unique skill set to the conference having worked for many years with managers of restoration companies to produce better business results.

Loiben has spent more than 30 years in the cleaning and restoration industry as a business owner, consultant, trainer and executive. During his tenure, Loiben has trained thousands of restoration and cleaning professionals in the principles of fire, odour and water damage restoration.

More than 20 vendors, including IICRC, Carpet Cleaners’ Warehouse, Encircle, MouldLab, Cleanstar, Coach8, Benefect, Decon Systems, Restore Solutions, Mobile Sips, Restoration Express, are set to exhibit at the trade show, which will also house a live demonstration stage. A number of exhibitors will also be giving away prizes for attendees. Training courses on offer during the event include RIA Building Sciences Course, IICRC Odour Course and RIA Water Loss Specialist Course.

Local expansion continues The RIA has continued to build its local profile since the launch of its Australian and NZ steering committee in October 2015.

In June 2017 the RIA approved the formation of an Australasian Council, giving its Australia and NZ counterparts a seat on the

CARPET & RESTORATION

board of directors and the opportunity to help influence the RIA on a global scale, with 11 members now on its local leadership team.

Globally, RIA represents more than 20,000 cleaning and restoration professionals from 1100 member firms specialising in textiles, environmental issues, and restoration.

“RIA has moved from a steering committee to a fully-fledged Australasian council with a seat on the international board of directors,” Easterby said.

“Locally, RIA, has now expanded its committees to include membership, vendors, education and conference.

As membership has grown so too has the opportunity for members to get involved with the direction the association takes here in Australasia.”

Riek said RIA is uniting the local industry locally through establishing common initiatives and programs.

“Our 11-member leadership team made up of small medium and large industry leaders are working together to help lift the profile of the restoration industry in Australia and NZ.” Setting its sights on further growth, the local RIA arm is aiming for the RIA Conference and Tradeshow to become the leading event in the restoration industry.

“Our aim is to increase the profile of the restoration industry in Australia and NZ so our clients see the unique skills and benefits of engaging professional restorers to handle day to day and complex projects,” Riek said.

Novotel Hotel & Resort Twin Waters

“Our aim is to increase the profile of the restoration industry in Australia and New Zealand.”

www.restorationindustry.org

YOUR TRUSTED PARTNER

Alorair Australia – Your Restoration Equipment Specialist Every facility manager’s, building owner, to your carpet cleaner’s ideal equipment in a water damage event.

Patent technology Innovative design Guarantee Product Stackable Unit Service Centre in Australia Great price

Telephone: 1300 654 684

email: info@alorair.com.au

address: 6/413 Dorset Rd Bayswater 3153

www.incleanmag.com.au 39

CARPET & RESTORATION

The role of indoor environmental professionals within healthcare Greencap senior consultant Ian Crew* examines the role of indoor environmental professionals (IEP) within healthcare facilities.

What is an IEP? The term IEP is often used in the USA (less so in Australia) to describe a professional who assesses building-related microbial and associated impacts.

The phrase was originally coined by the Institute of Inspection, Cleaning and Restoration Certification (IICRC) in December 2003 in the ‘Standard and Reference Guide for Professional Mold Remediation, Standard S520’.

The IICRC has confirmed the definition of an IEP is a generic industry term for: “an individual who is qualified by knowledge, skill, education, training, certification, and experience to perform an assessment of the microbial ecology of structures, systems, and contents at a job site, create a sampling strategy, sample the indoor environment and submit to an appropriate laboratory and interpret laboratory data … for the purpose of establishing a scope of work and verifying the return to a normal microbial ecology …”1

Who is an IEP? IEPs come from many backgrounds and professional disciplines such as occupational (industrial) hygiene, building biology, engineering, indoor air quality and health and safety.

In order to protect the term ‘IEP’ against use in certification programs that fail to adequately measure competence, experience and education, the IICRC has stated there is no single designation, license, or certification that qualifies an IEP. The qualifications required for an IEP are often gained through years of formal study at the university level, specific training related to mould and the indoor environment, and years of on-the-job work experience, or a combination of these factors.2 Together with experience, a critical aspect of using the services of an IEP on a project is their independence from the remediation / cleaning contractor. The IEP must provide unbiased, independent third party advice and in no way should have ownership or affiliation with the remediation / cleaning contractor used in the project.

What does an IEP do?

The American Industrial Hygiene Association (AIHA) has identified eight technical areas in which IEPs should have knowledge in: 1. Exposure assessment 2. Indoor environmental quality 3. Microbial assessment and remediation 4. Microbiology/mycology 5. Heating, ventilating, and air conditioning (HVAC) 6. Building science 7. Legal/communication 8. Health effects It is rare for an IEP to have expert knowledge across all eight areas; as such an experienced IEP is often a member of a multidisciplinary team or has access to suitably qualified experts 40 INCLEAN May/June 2018

who can complement their own expertise. A multi-disciplinary approach is considered by IICRC as “… especially important for complex microbial assessments and remediation projects”.3 The IICRC state that an IEP must be considered: • Where there is microbial contamination that could cause harm to occupant health; • Where high risk occupants are present (e.g. healthcare, elderly care or childcare facilities); or • Where public health issues exist.

• IEPs generally perform the following three tasks (or a variation thereof): • Initial investigations to determine the nature and extent of microbial contamination in order to develop an independent scope of remedial works.

• Interim assessments during the remedial process in order to provide ongoing advice into the refinement of a scope of works due to site or project complexities.

• Independent Post Remediation Verification (PRV) of remedial works.

• The IEP should undertake these assessments using a combination of tools and techniques, for example: • Visual inspection (generally non-destructive) using the naked eye and photographic means including borescope inspection cameras for the hard to inspect areas.

• Real-time measurements including airborne particulate, airborne moisture and building material moisture levels.

• Representative airborne and surface samples for microbial contaminants (mould and bacteria).

The experience of the IEP and information provided by the owner/occupier/manager of the site will dictate the complexity of the assessment required. Many variations of assessments exist within the IEP market place. For example some IEPs only collect viable mould samples (agar plates used for culturing mould which is indicative of the reproduction level of mould) without sampling for total moulds, for example the combination for viable and non-viable mould (living and dead moulds). Studies have shown that human health can be affected by both living and dead mould and therefore reliance on viable mould sampling could fail to characterise the full extent of mould impacts.

Examples of IEP work within healthcare facilities IEPs can be used in many different types of projects within health facilities including, but not limited to: • Heating ventilation and air-conditioning (HVAC) system assessments: To determine hygiene levels within plant and

ductwork, which items and areas need cleaning and by what techniques. Post remediation validation (PRV) of such plant and systems prior to recommissioning is recommended.

Guidance can also be given with regard to ongoing inspection and maintenance requirements in accordance with locals and national standards/guidelines.

CARPET & RESTORATION

Heating ventilation and air-conditioning (HVAC) system assessments

• High risk manufactured water systems legionella assessments: Assessment generally comprise of a combination

High risk manufactured water systems legionella assessment

• Indoor air quality assessments for clean rooms:

of inspection (plant and systems) and desktop study (maintenance records and laboratory results) in order to determine compliancy with local and national standards/guidelines.

• Real-time particulate assessments: Assessments are generally undertaken in order to ensure containment breaches between building work areas and the operational areas of healthcare facilities are identified straightaway. Careful consideration is required to determine which particulate fractions are required to be measured (dependent on what contaminated materials are being removed if any), the location of the real-time monitors and what trigger thresholds are set.

Assessments are generally undertaken after the completion of detailed cleaning of clean rooms e.g. theatres and pharmacies and their HVAC systems, following building works, in order to verify cleaning has been to appropriate standards. Verification works are conducted in accordance with facility requirements and/or local health department guidelines.

• Water damage building (WDB) assessments: Assessments are generally undertaken after the discovery of water/ moisture intrusion which has occurred within buildings and as a result microbial growth (mould and / or bacteria) has potentially occurred. The assessment should determine the extent and nature of microbial impacts, develop a remedial scope works in accordance with industry best practice and verify that these works have been conducted adequately.

Real-time particulate assessments

The following are the general remediation principles that should be employed during such a project: • Determination of microbial impacts • Make safe works and an assessment on the suitability of ongoing occupancy • Rectification of water/moisture ingress • Containment or other suitable engineer control • Determination on what materials can be restored • Removal of visible mould impacts • Cleaning • Structural drying • Post remediation verification.

Ian Crew is a senior consultant in Greencap’s Adelaide office, with more than 15 years’ experience as an Indoor Environmental Consultant in Australia and the UK with the current focus on flood impact/water damage, microbial contamination and occupational hygiene assessments.

*

Indoor air quality assessments for clean rooms

1. Institute of Inspection, Cleaning and Restoration Certification S500-2015 Standard and Reference Guide for Professional Water Damage Restoration - Third Edition December 2015 2. http://www.iicrc.org/wp-content/uploads/2008/08/HistoricAgreement-in-the-Mold-Remediation-Industry.pdf 3. http://www.robsonforensic.com/articles/the-role-of-the-indoorenvironmental-professional-in-mold-remediation-exper Water damage building (WDB) assessments

www.incleanmag.com.au 41

A new and different stand-on scrubber NEW T350

NEW T350

• Extraordinary durability and reliability • Category leading productivity

Smart-Fill™

REDUCE COST TO CLEAN

ENHANCE FACILITY IMAGE

• Over 100 quality and reliability tests performed by Tennant • 25 customers in-field testing sites • 50 weeks of in-field testing in real-life application

IMPROVE HEALTH AND SAFETY

MINIMISE ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT

demo@tennantco.com tennantco.com.au

1800 266 843

CARPET & RESTORATION

Coach8 was launched in February 2018 in Austin, Texas US

Coach8 gains momentum in Australia Coach8 founder Scott McFadzen shares plans for the newly launched Mackay-based training school.

Queensland-based IICRC approved School Coach8 is preparing to launch a new facility in its home market of Mackay, as the training school continues to gain momentum in the industry.

Started by Scott McFadzen, owner of Mackay Carpet Care and Restoration Services, in February 2018, Coach8 is a national training school located in Mackay, offering IICRC certification and training for the cleaning and restoration industry.

Coach8 currently offers five courses at its Mackay-based facility as well as private on-site training. Courses include; Water Damage Restoration Technician (WRT); Applied Microbial Remediation Technician (AMRT); Fire and Smoke Restoration Technician (FSRT); Floor Care (Hard Surfaces) Technician (FCT); Leather Repair and Recolouring.

More advanced, specialist drying and containment courses are set to be added to the facility’s program later this year, along with private leather cleaning training.

In NZ, Coach8 recently partnered with The Restoration Group, with its first IICRC WRT course in NZ to be held in June in Auckland.

“It is fantastic news for us as [The Restoration Group] will be the host and provide the support we need in their marketplace.

Our first course will be available in June, being WRT and AMRT in August. As soon as our specialist courses are released, they will be available in NZ too.”

According to McFadzen, Coach8’s advantage in the market is that he, along with Coach8’s six instructors are still actively working in the restoration market.

“Unlike other training facilities in Australia, myself and our instructors are still actively out in the field, sharing our knowledge with the rest of the industry.”

In addition to growing its staff and course programs, an interactive training facility is currently being built in Mackay, which will be operational later this year.

“We’re looking to put a few more instructors on for some more advanced courses that we have coming up later this year. We’ll have some exciting things to announce from June.

“The industry has been very supportive of us so far and so many people have told us that they are eager to train with us, which has been exciting, so we’re really keen to get started.” www.coach8.com.au

From left: Kevin Pearson, Chair-Elect; Scott McFadzen and Craig Kersemeier; First Vice President

www.incleanmag.com.au 43

CARPET & RESTORATION

Report writing know-how Report writing is an essential component of business, however it can expose you and your business to potential risks if not composed correctly. Paul Pritchard* shares some writing guidelines to consider.

There are a number of situations that arise during the course of your business life which will require you to provide a written report or written response regarding a claim against you or a third party, perhaps even one of your competitors.

Examples of this include: • Requests by members of the public or insurance companies to comment on or advise in respect of the workmanship or potential liability of one of your competitors; • Reports requested by customers, manufacturers, suppliers and retailers or their insurers on work carried out by you or others; • Responding to claims made against you by customers, insurers or others.

In these situations there is a real danger that by responding in writing, you are exposing yourself to legal liability in respect of your own workmanship, or in respect of opinions expressed by you (ostensibly “expert opinions”) on the workmanship of others, or the quality of a particular product or service, or the cause of a particular problem or damage.

Often requests for responses/reports in writing are put in such a way that you are led to believe that there is no serious implications from providing such letters. It is also often suggested that providing the report will be purely confidential.

It is easy to respond spontaneously to such requests without giving proper consideration to the potential consequences of the words you are writing to yourself or others.

It is easy to stray from your own area of expertise and to suddenly be giving opinions on matters which you have neither the knowledge, nor experience or legal right to be commenting on.

The reality is: • Whenever you provide a report on the workmanship/quality of services or products, someone is going to be pleased with your views and somebody else will be unhappy. For example, the customer may be happy but the supplier may not be or vice versa. Unless your expert opinion is backed up by the necessary understanding of all of the facts and technical issues, you may be exposed to liability. Such liability may extend to damages and costs resulting from reliance on your report.

44 INCLEAN May/June 2018

• Whenever you provide a report on your own workmanship and its quality, there is potential liability. Very often, because of not understanding the nature and extent of your potential liability, you expose yourself unnecessarily to potential claims.

For these reasons, the following guidelines should always be applied in considering requests to provide reports or respond in writing: 1. Always give careful consideration to the consequences before agreeing to provide reports or written responses; 2. Be especially careful about providing opinions on the workmanship/products of competitors; 3. Be conscious of your own limitations in terms of technical knowledge, product knowledge and experience and the ability to properly investigate and present written material; 4. Never comment on matters outside of your expertise; eg being a carpet cleaner does not necessarily make you an expert on carpet manufacturing/construction or textile fabrics.

5. Should you decide to provide such a report, ensure a proper and thorough investigation of all relevant issues has been carried out before responding; 6. Always seek the comment of a suitably qualified third party on the contents of your report (supplier, experienced tradesperson, lawyer) before sending such letters. It is easy to get tunnel vision and overlook a critical factor or potential for liability to you.

You will have received requests from parties along the lines of “Can you just jot us a quick line confirming that …”

It is rarely that simple and such requests should always trigger the warning bells.

It is of concern that we have come across a number of so called “reports” which are superficial, poorly worded and in a number of cases, completely wrong in the conclusions which have been drawn. It is only a matter of time before someone is taken to task over the damage caused by such careless and unprofessional behaviour.

In most cases we are operating at the outer limits of our training and expertise. If in doubt, seek advice from people in the industry who are qualified to assist or professionals or alternatively, refer the request to such persons. In many cases, the person requesting the report should be prepared to pay for a proper investigation and report by a suitably qualified industry professional.

Paul Pritchard is immediate past president of the Carpet Cleaners Association of New Zealand (CCANZ)

*

www.carpetcleaners.org.nz

TECHNOLOGY

Training makes good teams great

In sport, as in business, you need to know you are putting your best team on the field every day, writes Mark Jones*.

Great coaches of great teams have something in common and something incredibly unique about them.

In common is the makeup of the team, today in professional sport most teams have a similar level of skill to be tapped into. And the same mix of idiosyncrasies to deal with on and off the field.

But what is unique about great coaches is the ability to unleash the talent and take it to the next level to achieve amazing things. In sport as in business you need to know you are putting your best team on the field everyday.

Recognise talent In every team there are the stars, those that make up the numbers and at times those that actively drag their feet. When managing remote teams we can get caught in the trap of putting all our time into those dragging their feet and forget to celebrate the star performers as the example and recognise their contribution.

We can go further and take the time to articulate the behaviours that we see in a star performer and codify this in Key Performance Indicators (KPIs), skills, experience and background that leads to better performance.

We can then take these qualities and build a profile that we recruit against for new employees. And use these similar measures to provide performance feedback to existing team members to help the whole team understand what the business needs from them to achieve recognition and reward.

Reward good behavior Rewarding the right behaviours has a two-fold effect. The star performers will welcome having their additional effort recognised. Be sure to acknowledge their extra effort in an appropriate way, not everyone will want their name up in lights. It pays to ensure you fit the degree of public recognition to what the employee will appreciate.

Providing some sort of public acknowledgement is valuable for other team members.

It helps them identify what is needed from them to obtain high performance 46 INCLEAN May/June 2018

TECHNOLOGY

standards. To avoid favouritism concerns be sure to acknowledge measures of performance that were used to identify the high achievement.

For example, with freshOps we help managers identify staff that are on site, on time more often versus those that are late. Or we can observe which staff are completing all duties, every time. By monitoring time on site exactly we can help ensure clients are getting full value from their account with us.

Be quick to weed out bad behavior There are those team members who drag their feet a little. The above monitoring can be used for identifying where time is not being used well on site and where coaching might help to refocus efforts.

These team members can get objective, constructive feedback to show where they can readily improve efforts to deliver work of a suitable standard.

Importantly, the use of accurate data and measures takes the individual relationship out of the picture and allows management to manage according to factual observations. This is empowering for coaches of teams and also allows all staff to focus on the areas of their work that deliver the best result.

Be the best coach you can be Being a great coach is not easy. You have to question your techniques, tools and approach constantly to give your team

the best leadership and direction you can. In today’s competitive environment you need to be retooling and retraining yourself too.

Use of technology in managing your mobile workforce, monitoring and reporting activity in the field and communicating with absolute accuracy to customers will all help deliver better work as your team improves over time.

Be in it to win, every time With business, as in sport, you must take the field to win each and every day.

You need to be able to monitor your team, their behaviours and decisions and provide objective feedback to help them improve steadily over time.

Identifying talent and rewarding the right behaviours based on the data you can see in your own management tools will help you train your team to win more often.

You want to make fans of your customers and training your team to excel will deliver that time and again.

Perhaps best of all it is becoming easier for management with the technology now available to help you run rings around your competition.

Mark Jones is a director of www. freshOps.com.au, an Australian-made, mobile workforce application and management portal built purely for cleaners by cleaners.

Questions or feedback welcome to mark@freshops.com.au.

*

INTRODUCING…

the work horses of the industry

sales@polivac.com.au 03 8378 0000

COLT

BRUMBY

MITCHELL range of professional cleaning machines offers quality performance at an economical price point.

BUILT TOUGH TO LAST in commercial cleaning environments.

COMING SOON TO YOUR LOCAL POLIVAC DEALER.

www.polivac.com.au www.incleanmag.com.au 47

INTERNATIONAL

ISSA and Trade Press launch new expo ISSA has partnered with the Trade Press Media Group to create a new trade show for the commercial cleaning industry, Clean Buildings Expo (CBE). This joint venture will make its debut in Baltimore on 26 to 27 March 2019.

Designed for end-users of cleaning products and equipment, CBE has been described as filling a need for education and product information in the Northeast and Mid-Atlantic states.

Show organisers anticipate around 1200 key decision-makers from healthcare, education, government, and hospitality facilities, as well as building service contractors, to attend the two-day event. The event will also include an educational conference with more than 25 informative sessions addressing operational best practices, staffing and management strategies, and cleaning technologies CBE will be co-located with the annual National Facilities Management & Technology (NFMT) Show Baltimore.

ISSA executive director John Barrett said: “ISSA’s strong relationship with cleaning equipment and technology suppliers and the success of our annual North America and other worldwide trade shows will encourage a wide variety of exhibitors to participate in this exciting new expo.”

Jeff Schenk, CEO and president of Trade Press Media Group, said: “There is an unserved need in the commercial cleaning industry in the Northeast/Mid-Atlantic area, and this event closes that gap.” www.cleanbuildingsexpo.com

BAR Group P/L Supplying Pressure Cleaners, Pumps & Generators to the cleaning industry since 2005

Hand sanitiser market to hit $1.755m by 2023

For all your pressure cleaner & equipment needs

DISTRIBUTORS OF BE Pressure, Comet, Cat Pumps, Elsea, Harben, PA

BAR GROUP P/L

15 Hudson Place Mulgrave NSW 2756 Ph: 02 45 772 144 Em: sales@bargroup.com.au

www.bargroup.net.au Sydney * Melbourne Queensland * Western Australia

48 INCLEAN May/June 2018

The global hand sanitiser market is expected to reach $1.755 million by 2023, according to a new report released by Allied Market Research.

The hand sanitiser market size was valued at $919 million in 2016, and is projected to reach $1,755 million by 2023, growing at a CAGR of 9.9 per cent from 2017 to 2023. North America was the largest contributor in 2016, accounting for around 35 per cent of the market share.

According to the report, factors that drive the growth of the global hand sanitiser market include change in lifestyle of people and increase in consumer inclination towards health. Moreover, rise in awareness about hand hygiene has significantly influenced the market. However, health hazardous associated with hand sanitizer are expected to hamper the market growth in the near future.

Gel hand sanitiser is expected to maintain dominance in the global hand sanitiser market during the forecast period, as it is easily available in the market and requires lesser time to effectively eradicate germs as compared to spray and other sanitisers. In North America and Europe garnered maximum share of the market in 2016. On the contrary, China accounted for the major share in Asia-Pacific in the same year.

Hospitals dominated the global hand sanitiser industry with more than twofifths share in 2016. Increase in demand for sanitization across various end-use industries, particularly food and beverages industry, is anticipated to drive the market growth during the analysis period.

The foam-based hand sanitiser is expected to grow at a CAGR of 11.3 per cent during the forecast period. Asia-Pacific is expected to grow at the highest CAGR of 12 per cent during the forecast period.

48 INCLEAN May/June 2018

INTERNATIONAL

Avidbots opens regional office in Hong Kong Avidbots has opened a regional sales and service office in Hong Kong as the company continues to expand its global footprint.

The office will support customers throughout the Asia Pacific region, with a focus on direct sales in the Hong Kong and Macau markets as well as support for market entry into mainland China.

“The Avidbots’ vision is to bring robots to everyday life to expand human potential,” said Faizan Sheikh, CEO of Avidbots. “We are excited to be able to directly service the Hong Kong, Macau, and China markets in order to help those markets leverage the power of robotics in support of their Smart Cities strategy.”

The Avidbots Neo is currently deployed on four continents, servicing some of the world’s leading shopping malls, airports, education facilities, healthcare centres, manufacturing sites, and other commercial spaces.

The company’s 40,000 sq ft headquarters is located in Kitchener, ON, Canada, with sales and service in the US, Canada, Japan, Singapore, Australia, France, Norway, and UAE. www.avidbots.com

California adopts new workplace safety rules for housekeepers California has adopted a new workplace safety and health regulation to prevent and reduce work-related injuries to housekeepers in the hotel and hospitality industry.

This is the first ergonomic standard in the nation written specifically to protect hotel housekeepers. The new standard was approved on 9 March by the Office of Administrative Law and will become effective 1 July.

“Hotel housekeepers have higher rates of acute and cumulative injuries compared to workers in other industries, and data shows those injuries have steadily increased,” said California Division of Occupational Safety and Health (Cal/OSHA) chief Juliann Sum. “This regulation requires employers to identify, evaluate and correct housekeepingrelated hazards with the involvement of housekeepers and their union representative.”

The new regulation requires employers in the hotel and lodging industry to establish, implement and maintain an effective Musculoskeletal Injury Prevention Program (MIPP). Hotel housekeepers frequently suffer musculoskeletal injuries from lifting mattresses, pulling linens, pushing heavy carts, and slipping, tripping or falling while cleaning bathrooms.

The MIPP must include the following: • Procedures to identify and evaluate housekeeping hazards through worksite evaluations that include housekeeper input • Procedures to investigate musculoskeletal injuries to housekeepers • Methods to correct identified hazards • Training of employees and supervisors on safe practices and controls, and a process for early reporting of injuries to the employer

You’ll see the reflection.

They’ll see only each other.

Create a spotless space for your guests to reflect.

The Scotch-Brite™ Clean & Shine Pad gives your floors a gleaming reflection with less time, effort and equipment.

3M.com/cleanandshine 3M and Scotch-Brite are trademarks of 3M. © 3M 2018. All rights reserved.

www.incleanmag.com.au 49

MANAGEMENT

Going global to promote the importance of cleaning products

Accord’s innovation and education manager Dr Jennifer Semple recaps the 2nd American Cleaning Institute (ACI) Annual Meeting & Industry Convention, where the theme of the conference was ‘Energising Better Cleaning’.

Leaders of the global cleaning products industry came together for a week of highlevel business interaction and networking at the 2nd American Cleaning Institute (ACI) Annual Meeting & Industry Convention at Grande Lakes in Orlando, Florida from 29 January to 3 February 2018. The theme of the convention was “Energising Better Cleaning”.

Accord executive director Bronwyn Capanna attended the event to participate in the meetings and a global panel presentation. Her presentation focused on Accord’s continued efforts to push for effective and internationally aligned regulation with no barriers to trade – in place of restrictive Australian-specific regulations that impose burdensome and costly red tape for our industry.

Bronwyn reiterated the importance of enhanced collaboration between international organisations; “Our future

50 INCLEAN May/June 2018

success lies in being a smart, responsible, responsive, progressive, and globally connected industry,” a sentiment that was echoed amongst the panel.

Further demonstrating this shared view on the importance of global connectivity, executives of the industry associations represented at the event also met to exchange key information on current international regulatory issues and the public affairs environment including topics on ingredient defence, ingredient disclosure, plastic microbeads, waste management, and recent research.

Outcomes of such meetings previously led to the formation of the International Network of Cleaning Products Associations (INCPA) as an informal coalition of trade associations from around the world that represent cleaning product formulators.

Australia participates via Accord, the peak industry body for hygiene, cosmetic and specialty products. Other members comprise the major formulated cleaning product industry associations of the USA, Canada, the EU, Japan, Brazil, India and Mexico.

INCPA’s goal is to promote global stewardship of industry products,

including through coordination and active engagement in targeted efforts to better understand and address chemical management issues of international or cross-regional nature that affect the cleaning products industry.

Between them, INCPA members have put in place many significant health & safety, sustainability and consumer initiatives to help promote the value and contribution of the cleaning products industry and its products.

Australia will host another very important regional cleaning information exchange in 2019, when Accord will be organising the biennial Asia Oceania Soap and Detergent Association Conference (AOSDAC).

This conference brings together industry leaders from all over the Asia-Pacific region for insights on market trends and key issues. More information on dates and venues will be coming soon.

Accord is the national industry association for manufacturers and suppliers of all types of cleaning, hygiene, disinfectant and specialised products for use in commercial, institutional and industrial applications. www.accord.asn.au

MANAGEMENT

Eye-opening truths of workplace eye injuries Eye injuries in the workplace are very common, with chemical burns one of the major types of eye injuries. Employsure’s Matthew O’Conner * shares some common eye injuries to watch out for and how to prevent an injury.

Driving to work, watching a video, or sending a text, many of us take these activities for granted. But despite the importance of vision for most work and leisure activities, eye safety is neglected by many employers.

Eye injuries in the workplace are very common. Grinding and welding are the two most common activities resulting in an eye injury and more than 840 people made a serious eye injury claim according to the latest report from Safe Work Australia.

Eye injuries in Australia cost around $60 million per year. Up to 50,000 eye injuries occur per year, approximately seven in 1000 workers sustain an eye injury each year, according to a publication by Government safety agency, Comcare.

However, eye injuries are a significant problem for a variety of occupations, not just those working with metal fragments. Those in the cleaning and hygiene industry are at high risk due to the over exposure of chemicals and fumes.

The correct eye protection for the task, as well as proper training could lessen the severity or even prevent a high percentage of eye injuries in the workplace.

What are common eye injuries to watch out for?

Some of the major types of eye injuries experienced by the workers in the workplace include the following: • Chemical burns • Injuries and complications due to welding flash, such as bright UV light 52 INCLEAN May/June 2018

• Cuts and scratches to the eye surface • Embedding of the objects and chemical traces in the eye • Punctures • Microbial eye infections in the case of laboratory, janitor, animal handlers as well as other healthcare workers

What jobs demand eye safety?

Dangerous objects, strike and abrade the eyes of the workers, if they fail to protect their eyes with appropriate eyewear. Apart from dangerous objects, infectious microbes and chemicals tend to adversely affect the eyes of the workers in specific types of workplaces. Be aware of the following: • Dusty environments filled with cement chips, dust, staples, nails, metal slivers and wood chips • Chemicals used in cleaning products and industrial chemicals • Intense, harmful radiations, such as UV lights and excessively bright lights, laser lights and infrared radiation, to name a few • Tools and machines that chip chisel, ship, hammer drill, grind, cut, smelt, spray or weld • Invisible gas leaks or dangerous fumes

“Eye injuries in Australia cost around $60 million per year. Up to 50,000 eye injuries occur per year, approximately seven in 1000 workers sustain an eye injury each year.”

MANAGEMENT

10 ways to prevent injury Your overarching obligation is to provide a safe workplace for workers. A safe workplace is best achieved by taking a 10step hazard management approach that focuses on identifying, assessing, and controlling the hazards.

1. Assess: Look carefully at your workplace operations.

Inspect all work areas, access routes, and equipment for hazards to eyes. Examine past eye accidents and injury reports. Identify operations and areas that present eye hazards.

2. Test: Uncorrected vision problems can also perpetuate more accidents in the workplace. If your workplace is a high-risk industry for eye injuries, it’s a good idea to provide vision testing for your employees.

3. Protect: Select protective eyewear that is designed for the specific duty or hazard. Protective eyewear must meet the current Australian Standards.

4. Participate: Create a 100 per cent mandatory program for eye protection in all operation areas of your workplace, that have been identified as a risk to the worker’s eyes.

5. Fit: Workers need protective eyewear that fits well and is comfortable. Have eyewear fitted by an eye care professional or other competent person. Provide replacement for eyewear that is damaged and require each worker to be in charge of his or her own protective equipment.

6. Plan for an emergency: Set up first-aid procedures for eye injuries. Have eyewash products that are easy to get to, especially where chemicals are used. Train workers in basic first-aid and identify those high-risk jobs.

7. Educate: Conduct ongoing educational programs to create, keep up, and highlight the need for protective eyewear. Add eye safety to your regular employee training programs and to new employee orientation.

8. Review: Regularly review and update your accident prevention policies. Your goal should be no eye injuries or accidents.

9. Put it in writing: Once your safety program is created, put it in writing. Display a copy of the policy at work and employee gathering areas. Include a review of the policy every time a new employee joins.

10. Document: If an incident does occur, document the incident, injury or illness in an Incident and Hazard report form. Not only will this help to demonstrate that you are complying with your obligations, it will also assist you to monitor and continually improve levels of health and safety in your workplace.

Matthew O’Conner is the national work health safety practice leader at Employsure

*

www.employsure.com.au

BE READY FOR FIRE & SMOKE DAMAGE FIREPLACES ^ SPACE HEATERS ^ FAULTY FURNACES STEP 1

STEP 2

SUPPRESSION SPRAY NEUTRALIZE ODOURS

9-D-9 + Double-O

Crystal Odor Counteractant

STEP 3 THERMAL FOG

Thermo-55

SUCCEED WHERE OTHERS HAVE FAILED with the Odorx™ 3-Step Proven Odour Removal System Getting to the source of smoke odors can be challenging.

Attack odours in all the places it hides — surface deposits, airborne gases and hard-to-reach surfaces where gases travel.

Clean properly then use our proven 3-step approach.

INTL.LEGENDBRANDS.COM

MANAGEMENT

Rianna Goodwin

Rianna Goodwin

finds the right formula at True Blue Chemicals True Blue Chemicals’ chief chemist Rianna Goodwin speaks to INCLEAN’s Lizzie Hunter about her role and why each day is never the same at the chemical company.

Creating new products and improving formulations are all in a day’s work for True Blue Chemicals’ chief chemist Rianna Goodwin. Though her background was in analytical chemistry – the study and use of the methods applied to identify and quantify matter – Goodwin now specialises in the research and development of industrial chemicals.

“The research and innovation involved in this aspect of chemistry won me over,” said Goodwin. “Solving problems through research is one of the most rewarding aspects of my role. Most of my work at True Blue Chemicals involves creating new products, improving formulations and considering problems our current products could tackle that haven’t previously been brought to market.”

Four years on from her appointment as chief chemist having previously worked in a range of industrial chemical industries, Goodwin says her focus now is on helping the company grow by creating solutions and advancing formulas to improve service and product offer to customers.

“We are regularly developing innovative products which is a very exciting process, while also introducing new products to the industry to measure customer response.”

Goodwin explains that a day in the life of a chief chemist is varied and stimulating, and always challenging.

54 INCLEAN May/June 2018

“You never know what’s coming around the corner. Sometimes I’ll be working on a long-term project, other days a customer will contact us with a technical question. I enjoy the challenge of providing a solution that exceeds their expectations.”

Goodwin believes there are challenges in every industry facing both men and women and that, similar to most other industries, the cleaning industry used to be largely male-dominated.

“Women [in the cleaning industry] are making their way through the ranks now. The stereotypes are changing, and the workforce in general, is becoming less male dominated which is encouraging for new graduates. In terms of chemistry, for example, I think we are seeing a shift with a lot of the younger chemists coming through being female.”

After recently completing a short period of maternity leave, Goodwin is back to full time work. Working for a

respectful family-owned business made a difference and offers opportunities that would not always be offered in other positions and industries.

On what she would say to someone starting out in this industry, Goodwin believes you need to strike the right balance between being detailed oriented, in terms of understanding chemical regulations, compliance and safety and being able to step back and consider the important commercial and strategic aspects.

“This is something I’ve learned to do as my career continues to progress and I’m proud of the experience and skills that I have acquired throughout my career.

By growing and expanding my technical knowledge I have found a multitude of ways to add value to varied organisations which has allowed me to become an integral part of the True Blue Chemicals’ leadership team.” www.truebluechemicals.com.au

“The exciting challenge of my role is the diversity of projects. Sometimes I’ll be working on a long-term project, other days a customer will contact us with a problem and it will be my job to create a solution for them. I enjoy the variety and coming up with innovative solutions for our customers.”

Deb Helping Hand Dispensers Supporting Breast Cancer Network Australia RapidClean are proud to distribute dispensers supporting BCNA. BCNA is the peak national organisation representing and supporting Australians affected by breast cancer.

For every Helping Hand Dispenser you order,

Deb makes a $1 donation to BCNA. Dispensers Available at RapidClean:

The pink lady logo is a trademark of BCNA and is used under license by Deb Australia.

1L Foam Wash

2L Lotion Wash

4L Heavy Duty

1L Sanitise

Suits a range of Deb 1L Cleanse washroom, antibacterial & light duty workplace cleansers for use in washrroms Code: BSDIS2584

Suits a range of Deb shower, light & heavy-duty hand cleaners, for workplaces & other facilities.

Code: BSDIS2585

Suits a range of Deb heavy duty hand cleaners, developed to suit different environments & contaminant types.

Code: BSDIS2586

Suits Deb 1L InstantFOAM Sanitisers, that can be used without water to kill germs.

Code: BSDIS2583

WWW.RAPIDCLEAN.COM.AU OVER 54 STORES ACROSS AUSTRALIA | sales@rapidclean.com.au

MARKETING

3M releases two-in-one daily cleaning pad Cleaning floors is one of the most time-consuming and costly cleaning tasks for facility managers, yet it is completely unavoidable. Floor maintenance requires multiple steps, including cleaning, buffing and burnishing to maintain high gloss and shine.”

In an effort to provide its customers with a more effective option for floor maintenance, 3M has introduced its first Scotch-Brite clean and shine pad, a two-sided low-speed scrubber pad for daily cleaning and dustless polishing.

Recognising that a two-step process is both time and labor intensive, 3M designed the Scotch-Brite pad to clean and shine in the same step, using only a low-speed scrubber.

The two-in-one daily cleaning pad can help cleaning staff reduce or eliminate the need to burnish and save time on labour costs without sacrificing results. Effective with just water, it can be used on most coated and uncoated hard floors including VCT, vinyl, rubber, marble, stone, terrazzo, granite and concrete.

Astghik Poladyan, 3M global portfolio manager said the two-inone pad is a game changer in daily floor maintenance.

“Made possible by our proprietary technology, this two-in-one pad is a game changer in daily floor maintenance around the world. The Scotch-Brite clean and shine pad is a highly effective alternative to a traditional cleaning pad. It lasts longer, removes tough black marks faster, and gradually increases floor shine as it cleans,” Poladyan said.

After using the clean and shine pad for a three-month period in academic buildings and medical clinical settings which experience heavy foot traffic, US facility service provider Janitronics Facilities Services reported a noticeable change in the floor.

Regional manager Bob Makin said the company was able to eliminate weekly burnishing in larger open spaces, and there was no drop in appearance with the use of the pad on auto scrubber.

The jet-stop safety boots

New colour for Aussie Pumps’ safety boots

Aussie Pumps has changed the colour of its jet-stop safety boots from blue to yellow due to the occupational health and safety benefits associated with a high visibility colour.

“We regard the safety boots as essential for high pressure cleaning applications where pressures over 300 bar are applied.” said Aussie Pumps chief engineer John Hales.

In many industries, pressure cleaning is carried out by operators wearing steel capped boots.

“We have seen what a 300 bar pressure cleaner jet can do to a steel cap boot and it’s not a pretty sight,” said Hales.

The Aussie jet-stop boot provides a comfortable and practical foot protection capable of withstanding an accidental jet from pressure cleaners up to 500 bar.

Most high pressure protective footwear is cumbersome, difficult to walk in and can be impractical for operators of lower pressure machines that require mobility and comfort.

The yellow jet-stop boots are made from vulcanised rubber.

For maximum user protection, they come with steel toe caps and steel inserts in the soles to prevent puncturing by sharp objects.

The soles of the boots are designed for excellent grip to reduce any risk of slipping. In icy conditions, boots can be fitted with spikes where there is extreme danger of slipping.

The yellow jet-stop safety boots feature an adjustable strap at the upper calf level, making them easy to put on and take off. www.aussiepumps.com.au

www.3M.com/au/facilities

Abco training sessions educate and empower cleaners Since the start of 2018, Abco Products has been running innovation sessions designed to help cleaners streamline their cleaning processes and improve efficiencies in commercial floor cleaning.

The sessions involve an overview of new machinery available, hands on demonstrations with the full cleaning team, staff training on how to use machines, and comparisons to show the effectiveness of different machines.

Abco Products executive director of sales Craig Dowell said Abco’s purpose is to empower cleaners and elevate the wider cleaning industry.

“It is very fulfilling to see the Abco team grasping our purpose of empowering cleaners and working to elevate the entire cleaning industry to give cleaners the respect and honour they deserve for the necessary handicraft they do.”

“It is only through on-site training and sharing our knowledge to the cleaning industry that we can empower the cleaners that rely on us every day.”

56 INCLEAN May/June 2018

According to Dowell, customer responses to the sessions have been very positive. “Customers enjoy seeing the innovative machines that are available today, and many of our sessions are still running due to numerous customer requests.” www.abcopro.com.au

Cleaners at the innovation sessions

MARKETING

Diversey releases silent vacuum range Diversey has launched the TASKI Aero tub vacuum cleaner range to the professional cleaning market in Australia and New Zealand.

Combining patented ultra-silent, whisper technology with an advanced selection of features, the vacuum is designed to deliver a high standard of cleaning quality and operational efficiency.

The new range consists of two streamlined models which address the requirements of frequent professional cleaning at any time of day and in any environment, significantly increasing the productivity for building service, hospitality and healthcare.

Extremely reliable, they both have a 585W state-of-the-art vacuum motor which provides the same cleaning performance as comparable vacuums with 1000W of power or more. The power is delivered via an airflow system with patented “whisper” technology which makes the vacuums exceptionally quiet to operate at any time of the day or night.

“The TASKI Aero is a market leader in ergonomic design, offering a number of features such as a foot pedal switch and dust bag indicator,” the company stated. “The clever design ensures replacing parts, such as cables and filters, is quick and easy, and can be carried out by the user in seconds without the need for any tools.

“The compact design also makes it efficient for storage in small spaces or cupboards, and the integrated handle makes it very easy to carry, while doubling as a simple and convenient manual cable tidy.”

The TASKI Aero 15 Plus

The TASKI Aero 8 Plus

www.taski.com

NEW Manufacturing Company

PREMIUM BATTERIES FOR

FLOOR CLEANERS + Rugged Construction

+ XC2™ Formulation

+ SpeedCap® Venting + Diamond Plate Positive Locking System Technology®

FULL MOBILITY. TOP PERFORMANCE. EFFORT & TIME SAVING. Explore Karcher’s latest 36V 7.5Ah lithium-ion battery with longer run times and super-fast charging. www.karcher.com.au 1800 675 714

Available from R & J Batteries stores and distributors / www.rjbatt.com.au/u-s-battery / 1300 769 282

www.incleanmag.com.au 57

MARKETING

US medical centre sees productivity increase with Virtual Mgr

Spillz appoints Oz Cleaning Supplies as Melbourne distributor Spillz had appointed Oz Cleaning Supplies as the distributor for Kaivac Cleaning Systems in Melbourne.

Oz Cleaning Supplies has been operating in the Victoria for 27 years, and the supplier’s staff have experience in the operation, sale and repair of a wide variety of machines makes and models.

Spillz managing director Scott Rozendaal said the new partnership will ensure maximum support to customers.

“By building a relationship with Oz Cleaning Supplies we can ensure maximum support is provided to our clients in the Melbourne area, from demonstrating and training, to aftermarket support.

“We look forward to a long relationship with Oz Cleaning Supplies and will work with them closely to ensure they receive support and training on the products,” said Rozendaal.

Spillz plans to expand its network and product range.

“We are currently looking to expand our network by taking on distributors in other regions,” said Rozendaal.

Virtual Mgr HealthClean Pro is a software solution that can help hospitals maintain high compliance standards. It remotely manages daily employee schedules in real-time to increase staff efficiencies and cleanliness of facilities.

The University of Rochester Medical Center, New York, was looking to improve HCAHPS scores, facility cleanliness, EVS employee productivity and to reduce EVS costs.

According to Virtual Mgr, implementation of HealthClean Pro at the Center saw a labour costs saving of $365,000 across 60 to 100 staff. Nearly one hour of additional productivity was also gained per day across 80 per cent of the workforce.

With increased productivity from existing staff, temporary employees were no longer required to supplement the workforce and a vacant supervisory position was placed on permanent hold.

The university said it found the staff empowerment, performance metrics and personal accountability to be priceless.

“It is almost impossible to add up all the efficiencies that this can bring to an organisation,” said Mark Schwartz, director of operations. “There is no other product out there that can do everything that this product can do. It is easy to use, supports management and supports senior leadership with the reports that are provided.”

HealthClean Pro is customisable to support the specific needs and goals of each healthcare institution individually. It’s cloudbased and easy to use with drag-and-drop functionality.

Virtual Mgr is now deploying the solution across the UK and Australia. www.virtualmgr.co.uk

www.spillz.com.au

Cleanstar offers marketing service to clients Cleanstar has begun offering a marketing and advertising service to its customers.

Cleanstar director Lisa Michalson said the launch was due to demand from customers seeking marketing support.

“We have wanted to introduce this service for a few years, as we have continual requests from our customer network to create artwork and advertisements for them.”

Cleanstar’s marketing service includes rebranding, brochures,

58 INCLEAN May/June 2018

catalogues, EDMS, social media posts, photography, store and vehicle signage, assistance with websites, merchandising, and private labels.

Cleanstar’s marketing department is made up of experienced marketers and graphic designers.

“Most business owners don’t have time or know where to start with marketing their business. With our expertise and proven track record with our advertising, our clients can be rest assured in us

helping promote their business.” www.cleanstar.com.au

MARKETING

The T350 stand-on scrubber

Tennant releases T350 stand-on scrubber The latest addition to the company’s line-up of scrubber-dryers is available with Tennant exclusive technologies like touch screen ProPanel, ec-H20NanoClean, Smart-Fill (automatic battery watering) and IRIS to help businesses decrease the rising cost of cleaning.

The T350 stand-on unit combines speed, agility and cleaning performance to allow cleaning professionals to get the job done quickly and easily. It is the ideal cleaning workhorse for schools, supermarkets, hospitals through to aged care facilities and public spaces. Ultra-compact in its footprint means it’s highly manoeuvrable as it easily navigates tight spaces with minimal disturbance while the speed of the machine covers a large area of the floor quickly.

The stand-on design of the T350 gives the operator a clear view of their surroundings and the ability to easily get on and off the machine.

Daytime cleaning applications are made possible with the T350’s quietmode, which reduces machine noise levels to as low as 59.7 dBA. Tennant’s detergent free ec-H20 NanoClean technology reduces the impact of cleaning operations on the environment in seven key categories when compared to conventional packaged daily-use cleaning chemicals.

Water consumption is reduced by up to 70 per cent and disposal of cleaning agents into the waste stream is significantly minimised.

“Tennant Company invests 3 per cent of our global revenue each year into innovation,” said Adam Esho, Tennant national sales manager. “The T350 justifies this investment and marks our entry in the stand-on scrubber category. We look forward to taking this product to market and showing our customers.”

Cleantech reintroduces Thermopad to Australian market The Thermopad is a patented, economical cleaning system that leaves carpeted floors in offices, businesses, hotel rooms and IT centres clean and immediately usable.

Cleantech general manager William Spiers, says he is excited to reintroduce the technology into the Australian cleaning market.

“One of the Thermopad’s great features, which is also environmentally friendly, is the moistened pad, which allows deep and thorough cleaning of carpets with minimal use of cleaning agents.

The system works effectively on all kinds of carpet and contributes to maintain the quality of flooring.”

The Thermopad’s heat supply can be altered by adjusting the thermostat, depending on the textile material.

“The machine can also be operated during working hours due to how quiet it is,” said Spiers. www.cleantechltd.com

www.tennantco.com.au

IICRC Certifications Give Your Customers Confidence Contact IICRC to discuss training options or go to www.iicrc.org Need CECs? Put these events in your diary!

Australian Restoration Conference

ISSA Cleaning & Hygiene Expo

6-8 June 2018—Sunshine Coast

29-30 August 2018—Sydney

Do you need to purchase Standards?

Contact the office or go to iicrc.org to order

PO Box 576, Crows Nest NSW 1585 T: 1300 307 751 (within Australia) T: +61 2 9431 8661 (outside Australia) E: info@iicrc.org.au W: www.iicrc.org.au

www.incleanmag.com.au 59

MARKETING

OCS inspection gadget saving time and the environment Swapping the traditional pen and paper for an iPhone has not only helped cleaning inspection staff at OCS Australia save time, it’s also helping the environment.

In early 2017, the OCS digital transformation team hired app developer, Interclean Managed Services, to a commercial cleaning service site inspection tool which transferred current pen/paper manual-based process to a web based, paperless process.

According to transformation project manager Charlie Chen, a large amount of time and manpower was needed to collect the inspection forms and create a report for clients.

“The issue we faced was there was just one form with no consideration for the actual client environment,” said Chen. “The forms were one to two page, A4 sized documents that were easily misplaced. Now an inspector can use their iPhone to complete the form and the inspection takes half the time it used to.”

Chen says users working on large client sites now save nearly 500 pages of A4 paper a month.

“More than 80 staff are now using the app across 50 sites in Australia across education, food, medical and airport facilities, large shopping centres and office buildings.”

He said staff feedback had been positive, with most finding the app easy to use while customers have found it gives them service delivery transparency.

OCS Australia and NZ managing director Gareth Marriott says OCS always puts clients first, which involves coming up with new innovations to meet their services.

‘We ask our staff to challenge convention and harness and develop existing technology to deliver best practice and real efficiency,” Marriott says.

“We also export that best practice to and from wherever we work in the world to ensure the solutions we provide are world class.” www.ocsservices.com

SEBO appoints Michael Moxon as commercial floor care manager SEBO Australia has expanded its sales team with the appointment of Michael Moxon as the company’s commercial floor care manager.

Moxon will provide support to the commercial sales team by liaising with distributors and their sales and service staff.

Prior to his appointment, Moxon held roles within the electrical retail industry and was twice awarded National Sales Person and New Starter of the Year in his respective fields.

“I look forward to excelling further in the floor care industry,” shared Moxon.

SEBO believes Moxon’s determination and dedication to providing high quality products and customer service will greatly assist him in securing new business for local and national distributors. www.sebo.com.au 60 INCLEAN May/June 2018

Michael Moxon

MARKETING

Pall Mall’s latest floor pad strikes the perfect balance Recently released in Australia by Pall Mall, the Aqua Marine ultra-high speed floor pad provides the proper lubricity to bring up the shine in floors without being aggressive enough to remove the finish.

Made up of natural hair fibres and the Glomesh blend of polyester fibres, the floor pad strikes the perfect balance between the varying aggressions of the Glomesh Jackeroo Pink floor pad and the Glomesh Jackeroo Lite floor pad, and is designed for use between the two.

According to Pall Mall, the Glomesh Jackeroo Pink and Jackeroo Lite are two of the biggest selling ultra-high speed floor pads on the market.

“The Jackeroo Pink is so versatile because it works particularly well with gas buffers and electric and battery operated high speed burnishing machines. The Jackeroo Pink is just that bit less aggressive then the Jackeroo Pink,” the compay said.

“However, sometimes the Jackeroo Lite is not as aggressive enough whereas the Jackeroo Pink might be more aggressive than required. That’s where the Glomesh Aqua Marine pad comes in.”

The Aqua Marine pad simply slots in between the Jackeroo Pink and the Jackeroo Lite. For a short time only, contact Pall Mall to try one for free. www.pallmall.com.au

The Aqua Marine floor pad

YEAR RANT

Y

W

AR

U

ES

R

TF

ULLY F

NO RISK

L IBLE

4

L

CONQ

ARTS &

OUR

CONQ

TP

EX

ES

AB

U

CONQUEST 360: INVEST WITH ABSOLUTE CONFIDENCE EN ALS T

• Unrivaled experience and commercial floor cleaning expertise • Dedicated support and customer care teams • Unbeatable range of innovative, cost effective products

LEARN MORE FROM OUR EXPERT TEAM

CALL TODAY: 1800 826 789 sales@conquestequipment.com.au conquestequipment.com.au/360 www.incleanmag.com.au 61

MARKETING

Deb Australia supports BCNA with helping hand dispensers Deb Australia has partnered with Breast Cancer Network Australia (BCNA) to raise funds in support of their work in ensuring Australian families affected by breast cancer receive the very best support, information, and treatment.

To do this, Deb has launched a range of helping hand dispensers, with $1 for every dispenser placed donated to BCNA. The BCNA-designed dispensers were made possible through Deb’s bespoke dispenser offer, and the helping hand range includes one, two and four litre wash and sanitise dispensers.

As part of the program, businesses that select the dispensers have the opportunity to further encourage workplace giving, by holding fundraising events in conjunction with BCNA. To launch this news, Deb welcomed BCNA Community Liaison and breast cancer survivor Karen Pasfield to the Deb Moorebank facility for an all-staff breakfast BBQ, to share her personal story.

“We all know someone who has been affected by breast cancer in some way,” said Steve Saboune, executive at Deb Australia.

“We chose to support BCNA because our values and products have a synergy with their cause.”

Deb will also be involved in upcoming BCNA events including Field of Women, and Pink Lady Luncheons. www.debgroup.com/au/bcna

Nilfisk survey reveals autonomous cleaning could make up 40% of market 2017 estimates from Nilfisk puts the addressable market for autonomous cleaning at 40 per cent of the total professional cleaning equipment market. A survey conducted by Nilfisk during ISSA 2017 and CMS 2017, highlighted the top three benefits of autonomous cleaning being:

Productivity High-volume, repetitive tasks are time-consuming. The new generation of autonomous machines can perform these tasks at the same speed as humans, for many hours at a time, with no drop-in efficiency. They can also work at any time of the day.

Quality One key benefit of an autonomous machine is consistency: it will do what you tell it to, repeatedly, until you tell it to stop, with little or no variation in quality.

Safety Autonomous cleaning can be allocated to dirty or dangerous tasks, especially in factory environments. Advanced sensors mean that they can sense and avoid hazards. Staff can be allocated to jobs with less risk.

Autonomous cleaning solutions are a growing trend, and we are starting to see autonomous cleaning having an impact far beyond just factories. The productivity and efficiency benefits are reaching retail stores, offices, hospitals and schools, to name a few.

Previous generations of autonomous machines often disappointed and didn’t realise their true potential. The machines that are being developed today are vastly different– they are intelligent, able to learn, adapt and make decisions for themselves. www.nilfisk.com Helping Hand Dispenser – 1L Sanitise

62 INCLEAN May/June 2018

MARKETING

Conquest welcomes national key account manager Conquest has welcomed Tawab Frahmand as its new national key account manager to the team.

Frahmand brings a wealth of knowledge of floors, chemicals and customer care to the role.

Prior to joining the Conquest team, Frahmand has held several senior roles within the commercial cleaning industry, including operations manager, specialist flooring consultant and state manager for a chemical supply company.

According to Conquest, Frahmand’s experience makes up the perfect foundation to support Conquest’s focus on exceptional customer care and expert advice. Based in Tullamarine, Frahmand will regularly travel to meet with interstate clients and ensure knowledge and unique expertise will add value across the whole business, nationwide.

“I am committed to building and nurturing long-standing customer relationships, starting with identifying the correct machine from Conquest’s comprehensive offering, through to providing operator training and tailored service schedules,” said Frahmand. www.conquestequipment.com.au

Tawab Frahmand

Premium Floor Pads.

Our floor pads make your customer’s business shine.

02 9584 8644 | info@pallmall.com.au www.pallmall.com.au

www.incleanmag.com.au 63

PRODUCTS

Multipurpose rotary scrubber

Eliminate hazards, minimise risk FoodSafe provides busy food and beverage outlets with real-time verification that food and drinks are within safe temperature ranges, using wireless technology. Reduce manual workload and receive instant notifications and alerts on your phone, tablet or computer. The complete FoodSafe system improves food safety and assigns staff daily duties to comply with HACCP regulations, eliminating hazards and minimising risk.

FoodSafe 1300 559 060 www.foodsafe.tech

r fo al ed itic n s r sig e-c ent De ien nm g o hy nvir e

User-friendly steam vacuum cleaner Karcher’s easy-to-use SGV 8/5 combines the functions of a steam cleaner and a wet/dry vacuum cleaner.

Designed for use in hygiene-critical environments like kitchens, bathrooms, restaurants and hospitals, the SGV 8/5 ensures a hygienic clean with minimal operator effort. The vacuum uses pressurised steam to cut through grease, fat and dirt, and instantly dries the area being cleaned, leaving surfaces clean and killing bacteria without the use of any chemicals.

Kärcher Australia 1800 675 714 www.karcher.com.au 64 INCLEAN May/June 2018

The Cimex CRS38 is a multipurpose rotary scrubber designed for scrubbing hard floors, polishing and spray cleaning hard floor and soft floor encapsulation.

It features a low torque triple head action giving increased downward scrubbing pressure, enabling effective and quick cleaning of dirty carpets whilst using limited moisture. Its floating brushes also provide effective cleaning of challenging surfaces such as dirty grout lines, slip resistant floors and textured natural stone. A great machine for extensively carpeted areas that experience high foot traffic.

Abco Products 1800 177 399 www.abcopro.com.au

Alcohol-based air freshener range Florogen concentrated alcoholbased air fresheners may be used as a space deodorant or as a surface deodorant for extremely long lasting 24-hour deodorisation. Florogen may be used on toilets, under sinks, behind desks and furniture and into waste bins after cleaning. Florogen has pleasant perfumes of original, strawberry, lavender and frangipani.

Florogen has been proven to kill 99.9 per cent of bacteria. It is available in a five litre bottle and 500ml readyto-use spray bottles.

Whiteley Corporation 1800 833 566 www.whiteley.com.au

Three-in-one shampoo, conditioner body wash Dermalux Enrich three-in-one shampoo, conditioner and body wash is pH balanced and gentle on skin and hair. It contains added moisturisers to hydrate and replenish skin and hair. It is ideal for use in aged care facilities as it is easy to use, gentle on all skin types and delicately fragranced. Dermalux Enrich contains Betaine, a rapid, long-lasting moisturiser with low irritancy to skin.

Dermalux Enrich three-in-one shampoo, conditioner and body wash is available in 500ml bottles or one litre pods.

Whiteley Corporation 1800 833 566 www.whiteley.com.au

Ide for na al rr space ow s

Powerful backpack battery-powered vacuum Kärcher Australia’s BV 5/1 backpack battery-powered vacuum is the ideal solution when narrow spaces hinder cleaning work. The ergonomic and patented carrying frame with the air stream comfort system makes for easy handling and prevents unwanted vibration. It can be easily adjusted to ensure a comfortable fit. Operation of the machine is convenient, as all operating and additional functions such as the eco!efficiency mode or the charging status display are controlled directly via the control panel on the waist strap.

The cordless operation of the BV 5/1 eliminates the risk of trip, falls and injuries.

Kärcher Australia 1800 675 714 www.karcher.com.au

PRODUCTS

Australian made hand and body wash

Eco-safe, biodegradable urinal blocks e-Kube urinal blocks contain a selection of non-pathogenic micro-organisms, a blend of cleaning and water softening agents and a special odour blocking perfume and colour. The urinal blocks are eco-safe, biodegradable and contain active microbes that accelerate the breakdown of organic waste. Simply place one block in a single urinal and replace when it has dissolved. Perfect for use in the mining, commercial and domestic sectors.

Abco Products 1800 177 399 www.enviroplusproducts.com.au

Fast acting heavy duty tile cleaner Tile Plus is a water soluble, concentrated alkaline detergent designed for use as a heavy duty cleaner and degreaser.

It rapidly emulsifies, suspends and removes all types of animal, vegetable and petroleum oils. It is also extremely efficient at removing greases and grime in industrial, commercial and food processing areas. Tile Plus has a corrosion inhibitor to protect surfaces and equipment, it does not impart any cleaning odours and is non-flammable. Tile plus is available in a five litre pack size.

Whiteley Corporation 1800 833 566 www.whiteley.com.au

From the new True Blue Botanical range, the fig and bergamot hand and body wash is a nontoxic, biodegradable liquid enriched with moisturisers for soft skin and hair.

Made in Australia, this highly versatile product contains a beautiful fragrance and produces a rich, creamy lather when used. Suitable for use on skin and hair, the hand and body wash is available in a carton size of six 500ml bottles.

True Blue Chemicals 1800 635 746 www.truebluechemicals.com.au

QUALITY WASHROOM PAPER DISPENSERS Durolla Products NZ Ltd

FOR YOUR REQUIREMENTS CONTACT:

dispensers@durolla.com or visit www.durolla.com

www.incleanmag.com.au 65

PRODUCTS

Light weigh t and p ortab le

Low profile air mover The XPower low profile air mover is just as powerful as a standard air mover with the added benefit of having a low profile.

The lower profile allows the machine to fit in spots a standard air mover wouldn’t. The air mover is lightweight, portable and can be easily stacked. It comes with a three speed control and a power outlet for daisy chaining.

Cleanstar 03 9460 5655 www.cleanstar.com.au

Compact ride-on scrubber-drier The Scrubmaster B120 R has been designed to meet the highest demands when it comes to cleaning shopping centres, production halls and highly frequented buildings such as train stations and airports. With its tank capacity of 120 litres combined with high operational performance and available in four different working widths, the machine enables fast and efficient cleaning of large and medium-sized areas. Its compact dimensions make the Scrubmaster highly manoeuvrable and flexible in use. Ergonomically designed and equipped with sophisticated technical details that ensure efficient working for the operator.

Hako Australia 1800 257 221 www.hakoaustralia.com.au

66 INCLEAN May/June 2018

Environmentally friendly sweeping The Conquest FSR ride-on power sweeper operates on a range of surfaces from hard floors to carpets, with self-levelling springloaded brushes that adjust with the floor level. Made from 80 per cent recycled materials with innovative safety features inherent to Conquest, this environmentally friendly sweeper limits energy consumption while minimising risk with start&stop technology and an immediate safety brake. Lightweight and manoeuvrable with a 65-litre waste hopper, the Conquest FSR is ideal for carpeted commercial spaces such as airports, hotels and convention centres.

Conquest 1800 826 789 www.conquestequipment.com.au

Skin protecting moisturiser Bactol moisturiser absorbs quickly and is suitable for use under gloves. Enriched with Vitamin E, pH balanced and lanolin free, the moisturiser is the perfect solution for healthcare workers required to sanitise their hands regularly. Dry, cracked skin can create the risk of infection and increase the risk of transmission Softe to others. The use of ns an d cond an oil-containing lotion itions s k in E / nrich or a barrier cream, ed w ith V three times a shift, can itamin E substantially protect the hands of vulnerable healthcare workers. It is available in a 500ml bottle.

Whiteley Corporation 1800 833 566 www.whiteley.com.au

Kaivac Autovac cleans up fast The Kaivac Autovac is an automated floor cleaning machine that’s three to four times faster than mopping with one major difference: it actually removes the soils completely from the floor instead of spreading them around. Even more impressive, cleaning up to 2000sqm/h and leaving the floor completely dry, it rivals the performance of an auto scrubber - at a fraction of the cost!

Available in both corded and battery options, the Autovac is a fast and simple approach to clean safe floors.

Spillz 1800 774 559 www.spillz.com.au

Quiet, cord-free scrubber The Mitchell Brumby ride-on scrubber combines scrubbing and drying in one machine, cleaning small to medium sized areas quickly and efficiently.

Equipped with a battery capable of up to four hours continuous operation with a single charge, the quiet but powerful electric scrubber scrubs floors and collects waste material into a separate tank to be discarded later. The machine leaves floors clean and dry in a single pass which significantly reduces OH&S accidents due to wet floors.

Polivac International (613) 8378 0000 www.polivac.com.au

Hospital grade disinfection with nothing but water!

THE BEST OF BOTH WORLDS. A combined steam cleaner and wet dry vacuum in one – the Kärcher SGV 8/5.

The easy-to-use Kärcher SGV 8/5 steam vacuum cleaner provides hygienic cleanliness every time.

The SGV 8/5 uses steam pressurised to 8 bar and a powerful wet and dry vacuum function to ensure hygiene-critical environments like kitchens, bathrooms, restaurants, hospitals and aged care homes are kept hygienically clean with minimal operator effort.

For your FREE onsite demonstration, contact Kärcher on 1800 675 714. www.karcher.com.au