DECEMBER 2019
THE OFFICIAL PARTNER OF THE CLEANING SHOW
IN THIS ISSUE: Scrubber Dryers
As automation gains traction in the cleaning industry, cleaning professionals will be empowered to make more strategic decisions about how to continuously improve process efficiency, and gain the ability to clean more consistently over time. This feature looks at both autonomous and operator-controlled machines.
Delivering Safer Winters
When the legal consequences of getting things wrong can be severe there’s no excuse for taking a budget approach to safety. Gritit CEO, Jason Petsch, explains how modern day FM is becoming ever more reliant on technology to remain compliant.
PLUS The Voice Supplement The official magazine of the British Cleaning Council
Chemical Free Belt Sanitation Solutions Effortless cleaning and sanitation of flat, modular & mesh belts with belt sanitation solutions from OspreyDeepclean. Powered by the SteamForce range of 3 phase mobile dry steamers; reduce your cleaning costs and speed up cleaning tasks Dry steam safely & efficiently removes allergens & most pathogens and can be used in dry environments too!
T: 01242 513123 E: info@ospreydc.com
The Official Partner of the Cleaning Show
D ECEM BER 2 019
PLUS: • Industry news • People • Contracts • Products
Scrubber dryers As automation gains traction in the cleaning industry, cleaning professionals will be empowered to make more strategic decisions about how to continuously improve process efficiency, and gain the ability to clean more consistently over time. This feature looks at both autonomous and operatorcontrolled machines.
Delivering safer winters When the legal consequences of getting things wrong can be severe there’s no excuse for taking a budget approach to safety. Gritit CEO, Jason Petsch, explains how modern day FM is becoming ever more reliant on technology to remain compliant.
How to trim the fat and save pounds from your waste this Christmas Steve Hill from Grundon Waste Management has some festive words of advice. >>> page 18
>>> page 30
>>> page 22
WWW.CLEANINGMAG.COM
SERVICE THROUGH INNOVATION
AQUA SMART
Aqua Smart (non-stop cleaning) is an innovative system that recycles the water used to clean floors during the cleaning process.
This allows for continuous usage, eradicating the need to empty and refill the cleaning solution.
AT A GLANCE 9 Saves up to 1,000 litres of water a day! 9 Reduces water & detergent consumption by up to 66% 9 Saves up to 2 hours cleaning time per day 9 Labour savings in excess of 25%
The Aqua Smart technology dramatically reduces water consumption and optimises cleaning time and machine utilisation.
0800 389 3869
9 Savings of up to 90% on water costs associated with cleaning operations 9 Delivers productivity benefits of up to 70%
www.ice-clean.com
enquiries@ice-clean.com
EDITOR’S LETTER C&M
People, devices and data – the future of our industry Putting together this issue of C&M uncovered some interesting
In his article, Nilfisk’s John Brill examines the current arena
intelligence surrounding the use of devices and data right across
for autonomous equipment (see P23). He highlights an
our industry – whilst acknowledging that cleaning is still a largely
‘autonomous maturity framework’ which is structured
manual job, lacking in reliable performance metrics and tied to
into specific stages: operational, functional, aligned, and
the availability of labour. Not only are labour costs rising and
integrated. He concludes that, at the end of 2019, we are still
uncontrolled – making up around 70% of operating expenses
in the early ‘operational’ stage but acknowledges that early
for the majority of commercial cleaners - but the talent gap is
adopters – specifically passenger transport hubs, education
growing too, with most janitorial companies experiencing 200%
and healthcare facilities – will drive the market forward. John
average staff turnover. Add to that the impact of whatever version
concludes that the rest of the market is likely to wait until the
of Brexit we end up with and it becomes clear that labour needs
autonomous equipment is at a more mature stage - when the
to be used ever-more effectively.
solutions are more collaborative, when humans and machines easily assist one another, and when best practices have been
The Scrubber Dryer feature in this issue (P22) looks at how,
developed for integrating autonomous routines within daily
in many industries, automation has already proven itself as
cleaning operations.
a way of going further with existing resources - to collect and deliver performance data, standardise mundane and routine
However long it takes, pressures on labour and the more
tasks, create better jobs, and improve the lives of employees.
discerning demands of Millennials joining the commercial
For the cleaning sector, finding the areas where automation
cleaning sector will drive a sharper focus on people, devices
can bolster the existing workforce (rather than threaten it)
and data.
is the opportunity. The lead article in this feature looks at how, with automation, cleaning companies will be able to:
Wishing you a happy, clean, tidy and healthy month ahead.
automate manual, redundant work, freeing up staff to take on the more high-value tasks; create better jobs that incorporate the use of technology, enabling on-the-job opportunities for advancement; use data to standardise the cleaning process and show performance across properties; and gain competitive advantage by broadening the scope of work, increasing contract size, and winning new clients through proof of
Neil Nixon, Editor
performance and innovation.
Cleaning & Maintenance Magazine
@cleaningmag
WWW.CLEANINGMAG.COM
Cleaning&Maintenance
DECEMBER 2019 5
Revolutionary, flexible and powerful
CHANGE THE WAY YOU THINK ABOUT CLEANING Meet the i-mop range. A family of scrubber dryers with the flexibility of a flat mop. Cleaning up to 70% faster than conventional wet mopping and up to 30% faster than conventional auto scrubbing. The i-mop and its ability to get right to the edge and under obstacles means a virtual elimination of manual operations.
0114 269 8686 | sales@killis.co.uk | www.killis.co.uk
CONTENTS C&M
22 Feature: Scrubber dryers As automation gains traction in the cleaning industry, cleaning professionals will be empowered to make more strategic decisions about how to continuously improve process efficiency, and gain the ability to clean more consistently over time. This feature looks at both autonomous and operatorcontrolled machines.
DECEMBER 2019
08
Industry News In the news this month… BCC to help shape future labour market enforcement strategy, Mekitarian sets out his agenda as chairman of the CHSA, Ecocleen acquires Regency Cleaning, Finalists announced for the Golden Service Awards 2020, Kingdom acquires Manchester-based Contact Industrial Recruitment, Axis Group achieves ServiceMark accreditation.
15
People Personnel news and new appointments from across the cleaning and FM sectors.
17
Contracts We take a look at all the latest contracts awarded across the industry.
18 32
30 Special Report: Delivering safer winters When accidents happen, the blame game is never far behind. In an increasingly litigious society, when accidents occur on business premises they are often followed by legal consequences resulting from breaches in health and safety law. Gritit CEO, Jason Petsch, explains how modern day FM is becoming ever more reliant on technology to remain compliant.
Clear Impressions: How to trim the fat and save pounds from your waste this Christmas Steve Hill from Grundon Waste Management has some festive words of advice.
New Products An overview of some of the new products available on the market this month.
03 Editor’s Comment Looking back at the past month in the cleaning sector.
WWW.CLEANINGMAG.COM
14 BICSc Comment How to negotiate!
18 BCC Comment A signatory to the New Plastics Economy Global Commitment. Lorcan Mekitarian, chairman of the CHSA, reports.
19 A job worth doing – a contractor’s blog. Lee Andrews reports.
DECEMBER 2019 7
C&M INDUSTRY NEWS
BCC to help shape future labour market enforcement strategy THE British Cleaning Council is to be consulted
Taylor or to submit written evidence to him in
on national strategy for labour market
November and December this year.
enforcement for 2020/21. Matthew Taylor, who
Chairman of the BCC, Paul Thrupp, said:
The last Labour Market Enforcement Strategy, for 2019-2020, covered three main themes: • Prioritisation of enforcement resources.
was responsible for the independent Taylor
“We are looking forward to sharing our expert
• Helping employers get it right.
Review of modern working practices, was
knowledge of working conditions and practices
• Using joint working to tackle serious and
appointed interim director of Labour Market
in the cleaning sector with Mr Taylor. Legal
Enforcement in August 2019. The role includes
requirements around part-time and flexible
setting priorities for the Gangmasters and
working, pay and conditions are very important
significant risk of workers being exploited was
Labour Abuse Authority and the Employment
to the cleaning sector which, in turn, is hugely
the car washing, agricultural and care sectors,
Agency Standards Inspectorate, along with
important to the UK economy as it is worth
where there is a larger risk of modern slavery
minimum wage enforcement.
nearly £50 billion and employs over 914,000
and the facilitation of tax evasion.
Taylor has written to stakeholders, including
workers. The BCC’s role is to represent the voice
persistent non-compliance. The strategy identified that the most
The Government recently announced a
the BCC, to share with them his outline
of the cleaning sector, so it essential that we
consultation on a new single labour enforcement
workplan for addressing emerging issues in the
play our part in shaping the upcoming labour
body for employment rights, to improve standards
labour market next year. The BCC aims to take
market enforcement strategy which could
and compliance within the labour market.
part in round table discussions with Matthew
impact on businesses in our sector.”
WWW.BRITISHCLEANINGCOUNCIL.ORG
Mekitarian sets out his agenda as chairman of the CHSA
Ecocleen acquires Regency Cleaning
and then identifying practical, positive steps
ECOCLEEN has completed the acquisition of
members can take. Working for Berry BPI Group,
Regency Cleaning Services, a family-owned
which offers exceptional recycling facilities, I am
cleaning business based in Henley-on-
very well placed to understand the issues and be
Thames, in a deal worth up to £2.5 million. The
an active part of this team.”
successful takeover will enable the company to
Recognising the need to work with
increase its presence within key sectors - most
complementary associations in the sector to
notably education and motor retail - while
address global issues, Mekitarian will maintain
expanding its nationwide franchise network. “Regency Cleaning Services is a like-minded
SETTING out his agenda for his tenure as
the CHSA’s active involvement in the British
chairman of the Cleaning and Hygiene Suppliers
Cleaning Council and its close collaboration
and profitable business that will immediately
Association, Lorcan Mekitarian, sales director at
with the CSSA amongst others. “We can get
strengthen a number of existing franchisees
Bpi Recycled Products, focused on the CHSA’s
more done together, particularly when it comes
while helping us create new franchise areas,”
respected Accreditation Schemes and the need
to tackling plastics in the cleaning and hygiene
said Jean-Henri Beukes, managing director
to address the big issues facing members.
supply chain, so I am committed to maintaining
of Ecocleen. “Its cleaners, supervisors and
the close working relationships established in
managers share our passion for service
recent years,” he said.
excellence and innovation, so will be valuable
“The CHSA Accreditation Schemes guarantee standards in the cleaning and hygiene sector,” said Mekitarian. “We are proud of their impact
Mekitarian also signalled his intention to
additions to our team. Their MD, Darran Penny,
and I will lead the council in continuing
engage members in the governance of the
will also join us as commercial director and
to support and expand them, growing the
CHSA and the delivery of its activities. “Our
brings more than 20 years of experience within
membership, widening their scope and raising
programme of events and activities must be
the cleaning industry.”
awareness amongst buyers of the products. We
relevant to our members,” he said. “We need
want everyone who buys cleaning and hygiene
to provide good quality and valuable support,
million, Regency Cleaning Services operates
products to specify the relevant Accreditation
amplify their concerns by providing a collective
throughout Berkshire, Buckinghamshire
Scheme. It’s the only way to be certain that
voice, facilitate networking amongst our
and Oxfordshire supporting over 100 clients.
‘what’s on the box is what’s in the box’. Our
members, and offer opportunities for them to
The company’s team of over 500 staff are
standards, your guarantee.”
host their customers. The active participation
responsible for delivering cleaning, waste
of members in setting the programme and
management, porterage, and maintenance
business must address. Within the CHSA we are
delivering the events and initiatives is essential
services to a variety of private and public
already exploring the challenge presented vby
and so I am inviting members to step forward
sector sites such as schools, nurseries, offices,
plastics to our sector, understanding first the
and get involved.”
and car showrooms.
volume of plastic introduced in the supply chain
WWW.CHAS.CO.UK
WWW.ECOCLEEN.CO.UK
He continued: “Sustainability is an issue every
8 DECEMBER 2019
With an annual turnover in excess of £4
WWW.CLEANINGMAG.COM
Performance you can Trust
The 1840 Compact Scrubber Dryer
The 1840 Battery Scrubber Dryer offers compact, cordless and convenient cleaning with the performance of a much bigger machine. Engineered to provide the same Numatic reliability, durability and usability as always, features include:
• Quick change 24V gel battery pack
• Quick and easy brush change
• Non-stop off-board charging
• Easy, effective and efficient cleaning in small areas
• Easy-use, colour-coded controls • Fully adjustable handle for the perfect working position
• Folding design for compact storage
Nu-Assist delivers multilingual training, troubleshooting and maintenance content through one convenient app.
The FREE Nu-Assist app offers the benefit of online training through a simple, versatile and user-friendly solution, resulting in increased cleaning performance and productivity.
1. Download the FREE Nu-Assist app
2. Open the App and scan the QR Code on your machine 3. Access a wide range of help and support, right at your fingertips
Find out more at numatic.com/apps/nu-assist Numatic International Limited, Chard, Somerset, TA20 2GB Tel: 01460 68600 © Numatic International Limited 2019. Specification subject to change without prior notice.
www.numatic.co.uk
Specification subject to change without prior notice. ©Numatic International Limited 2019.
C&M INDUSTRY NEWS
Finalists announced for the Golden Service Awards 2020 THE finalists have been announced for the 2020 Kimberly-Clark Professional Golden Service Awards. There are 66 finalists coming from 32 different companies. The full list is available at www.goldenserviceawards.co.uk. The announcement follows the first stage of judging carried out by The British Institute of Cleaning Science (BICSc). The judges have said that this year the standard of entries across all categories was exceptional, with the entries for the supervisor of the year and cleaning operative of the year categories exceeding expectations. The finalist companies are: ABM UK, Andron Facilities Management, Aramark, Axis Cleaning and Support Services, Birkin Cleaning Services, Breanheath, Burke and Clemens, Busy Bees Cleaning and Maintenance 2000, Cleanology, County Square Property Ltd c/o Savills UK, Derrycourt Cleaning Specialists, Enhance
washroom standards throughout every facility,
a year of unrivalled standards with evidence of
Facilities Services, FES FM, Grosvenor Services,
demonstrating our passion to continuously
clear innovations and achievements across the
Incentive FM, Incentive QAS, ISS Facility
improve our industry. We are very proud to
industry. The judges look forward to meeting
Services Healthcare, JPC by Samsic, Julius
announce the finalists for the Kimberly-Clark
the finalists at the site visits. It is important
Rutherfoord, Key Enviro Solutions, Maxim
Professional Golden Service Awards 2020
to stress that it is the standards of excellence
Facilities Management, Mitie Cleaning and
who have showcased some outstanding
achieved that will be judged and not just
Environmental Services, Momentum Support,
achievements this year.”
whether the entry specifications are followed.”
Nviro, OCS, Prime Clean, Principle Cleaning
The 66 finalists will now go through to the
The winners will be announced at a ceremony
Services, Sodexo, The Exclusive Services
next stage of judging which for most categories
on Wednesday 4 March 2020 at the London
Group, The Westgrove Group, University of
includes a site visit by a BICSc judge. An
Hilton, Park Lane. Over 500 guests, including
Huddersfield, and VINCI Facilities.
independent judge has been appointed for the
finalists and sponsors, and the leading names in
judging of the BICSc industry training award.
the UK’s cleaning and FM industry, are expected
Ireland, Kimberly-Clark Professional, said: “In
Site visits will take place during November with
to come together to celebrate its stars and their
1991 we set up the Kimberly-Clark Professional
the judging panel looking for innovation, staff
achievements in 2020.
Golden Service Awards to recognise excellence
training and client relationships as the main
in the cleaning industry and to inspire
criteria for assessment.
Steve Jones, general manager UK and
the raising of standards. Our mission is to create exceptional workplaces and improve
Stan Atkins, CEO of BICSc, said: “Congratulations to all finalists for 2020. This is
Tickets are now on sale, priced at £195 plus vat. Please email gsa@suzannehowe.com or call Suzanne Howe Communications on 0203 468 0923 to book your ticket.
ECHA winners crowned THE annual European Cleaning and Hygiene
work going on in our industry so it was fantastic
Awards took place recently at the Church House
to see so many entries flood in this year. There
in London. Following a record year for entries,
was some seriously strong competition but we
the judges considered over 130 nominations,
really felt that our nine winners had gone above
announcing 23 finalists across nine categories
and beyond to champion our industry. They are
back in August. The winners were:
some of the most innovative, proactive leaders in the sector and it was brilliant to be able to
• Best use of smart solutions by service
honour them in London.”
provider: Swiss Post Real Estate Management and Services. • Investment in training: Derrycourt. • Excellence in client/contractor partnerships: Principle Cleaning Services for 30 St Mary Axe. • Sustainability – best practice: Incentive QAS. • Commitment to diversity: Facilicom/ Buitengewoon. • Best initiative raising the profile of the 10 DECEMBER 2019
cleaning sector: Lucart. • Technological innovation of the year: Adlatus/Killis.
Joining Michelle Marshall on the judging panel were Lynn Webster, director of Lynn Webster Consultants (UK), Juan Diez de los
• Leader of the year: Gerlinde Troestl, Markas.
Rios de San Juan, president of the European
• Rising star: Sol Amorim, Principle.
Cleaning & Facility Services Industry (EFCI), and
Chief judge, Michelle Marshall, said: “The
Frank Veneman, director of the Association for
European Cleaning and Hygiene Awards are all
Cleaning Research (VSR) (Netherlands).
about shining the spotlight on the outstanding
WWW.ECHAWARDS.COM WWW.CLEANINGMAG.COM
INDUSTRY NEWS
Kingdom acquires Manchester-based Contact Industrial Recruitment
C&M
Biological Stain & Odour Eradicator
for life’s little accidents
KINGDOM has announced the recent acquisition of Contact Industrial Recruitment Ltd - www.contact4jobs.com. Founded in 1997, Contact Recruitment specialises in the recruitment sectors of driving, industrial, waste and recycling, and managed services. With an extensive portfolio of clients, Contact looks forward to using the Kingdom platform to develop further future recruitment growth throughout the UK.
Micro Clean Biological Stain & Odour Eradicator Suitable for carpets, upholstery, fabrics & artificial grass Degrades all organic soiling including urine stains & odour Prevents odours & blockages in sinks, baths & showers Effective in drains & kitchen waste units Eradication of mould from flood damaged properties
5L
MC5-F
Michael Mcintyre, CEO of Contact Recruitment (left) with Terry Barton, CEO of Kingdom Services Group.
The Contact acquisition continues the strategic expansion plans of Kingdom. Terry Barton, CEO of Kingdom, said: “Providing compliant
Suitable for carpets, upholstery, fabrics & artificial grass
workforce solutions has always been our core business strength. The acquisition of Contact not only seriously increases our recruitment sector market share but also offers our current and new customers a great national recruitment solution in an ever-changing regulatory landscape. Strategic acquisitions have always formed part of our growth strategy. It is extremely important that when we acquire a business that there is a culture and values fit to that of Kingdom. Throughout all our negotiations
Degrades all organic soiling including urine stains & odour Prevents odours & blockages in sinks, baths & showers
we were incredibly impressed with Michael McIntyre (CEO of Contact Recruitment) as a person and with what he has achieved. It will be very much `business as usual’ with the same great people providing the same great service. Kingdom will support, guide and enhance the integration of Contact with our expertise, technology and software solutions to deliver a new and dynamic premier national recruitment service called Kingdom Recruitment, so please give Michael a call.”
Effective in drains & kitchen waste units Eradication of mould from flood damaged properties
Michael McIntyre, owner and CEO of Contact Recruitment, said: “Joining the Kingdom family will open many new opportunities and will allow my team and I to offer our customers the full range of services Kingdom offers. The Kingdom leadership team and I share the same aspirations and I’m excited about being a key part in the journey which is
T: +44 (0) 1444 244 000 E: sales@bio-productions.com W: www.bio-productions.com
being created through this acquisition. I will continue to drive our business forward and provide the same level of customer focused interaction that has been the bedrock of our great service.” WWW.KINGDOM.CO.UK WWW.CLEANINGMAG.COM
DECEMBER 2019 11
C&M INDUSTRY NEWS
Axis Group achieves ServiceMark accreditation one of our employees has played their part in
phs double at industry PR awards
the process and should be justifiably proud of this recognition.” Axis Group joined the Institute of Customer
AXIS Group has successfully achieved the ServiceMark accreditation from the Institute
for its campaigns supporting period equality.
customer service was at the heart of all of its
The Caerphilly-based firm which services more
group operations. Levine continued: “We wanted
than 100,000 customers across the UK won
to benchmark our services against the best and
two awards at the CIPR Cymru Wales PRide
look for areas in which we could improve.”
Awards 2019 - gold for the best education
Jo Causon, CEO of the Institute of Customer Service, said: “Congratulations to Axis Group
to put customer service at the forefront of its
for achieving ServiceMark accreditation. It is a
businesses within the cleaning, security and
clear sign of their commitment to continue to
reception services sectors.
improve customer service standards. By acting
campaign and silver for corporate and business communications.
on the insights gained from customer feedback
recognising an organisation’s achievement
as part of the ServiceMark accreditation, Axis
in customer service, and its commitment
Group will be in a strong position to offer
to upholding those standards. It is awarded
customers what they want, when they want and
based on customer satisfaction feedback and
how they want it.”
an assessment of employee engagement with
Group has won two public relations awards
Service in May 2017 after recognising that
of Customer Service following an initiative
ServiceMark is a national standard
WASHROOM and hygiene services provider phs
Axis Group will now hold the accreditation for
Kelly Greenaway of phs Group and Laura Windeatt of Magic Wand PR receiving a PRide Award.
The period equality campaign saw phs create
an organisation’s customer service strategy.
a three-year period with a reassessment in late
Not only does ServiceMark accreditation help
2020. “Our ServiceMark achievement doesn’t
new, independent research to lift the lid of
organisations understand how effective their
mean that we stop our efforts,” concluded
the scale of the issue and a mass awareness-
customer service strategy is, but the process
Levine. “We have built action plans with short-,
raising drive. At the same time, phs adopted
also identifies areas for future improvement.
medium- and long-term objectives on how we
period equality as a core part of its CSR strategy,
can uphold and further improve the service we
including offering its coin-free period-product
“We are the only security, cleaning and
deliver to both our colleagues and our clients.
vending machines free of charge to schools
reception companies to have achieved the
The journey continues.”
and colleges. The campaign drew praise from
ServiceMark accreditation. Each and every
WWW.AXIS-GROUPSERVICES.CO.UK
campaigners, local authorities and government
Axis Group CEO, Jonathan Levine, said:
DOC Cleaning recognised in Parliamentary Review THE Parliamentary Review, co-chaired by Lord
could potentially be a period of considerable
Blunkett and Lord Pickles, is an independent
change and instability in the traditional labour
publication that highlights best practice across
market for the cleaning industry.
a wide range of industry sectors in the UK.
The co-chairman of the Parliamentary Review,
DOC is one of 12 companies represented in the
Lord Pickles, has praised the Review as one of
Review’s Industrial Strategy section.
the most comprehensive yet. He commented
and reinforced the company’s position as the industry leader and the expert in this field. As a result, phs was invited to help lead one of just three work streams on the official Period Poverty Taskforce by UK government in partnership with Bloody Good Period. The campaign was delivered by PR consultant Laura Windeatt of Magic Wand PR, who went on to win the PRide Cymru Gold Award for outstanding independent practitioner. The judges said: “This was a really bold
that as Britain undergoes changes, it is ‘essential
campaign that drew attention to an incredibly
challenges facing the commercial cleaning
that politicians have a firm understanding of
important subject, and sought to find a solution
industry over the next few years and how it is
the challenges with which British organisations
too. Widespread broadcast coverage, coupled
shaping up to deal with them. In particular,
must contend’ and that the Review once again
with extensive print and online articles, helped
it discusses how the company is harnessing
provides a perfect platform for this.
to establish phs Group as the period poverty
In the Review, DOC shares its views on the
information technology in a variety of ways to
Lee Andrews, CEO of DOC Cleaning, expressed
expert, surpassing all of its competitors. The
engage with front-line staff, to deliver company-
his pride at being asked to take part in the
campaign has also left an impressive legacy,
wide training and to digitalise the majority of its
Review, saying: “It’s not often we are mentioned
with the government now speaking to phs
key business procedures, especially those that
in the same breath as parliament, but we are
Group, and phs Group also leading official
support clients more effectively.
grateful for this opportunity to contribute
government taskforces. This campaign really
our thoughts at what is a critical time in our
does show the power of PR. Bold, clever and
culture and how the directors intend to use this
industry’s development.”
well executed.”
to attract and retain staff over the course of what
WWW.DOCCLEANING.CO.UK
WWW.PHS.CO.UK
DOC also highlight the company’s family
12 DECEMBER 2019
WWW.CLEANINGMAG.COM
INDUSTRY NEWS
C&M
Four steps to protecting lone workers A special news feature by Nick Whiteley, CEO of HFX workforce solutions. ‘OUT of sight out of mind’ used to be the mantra
The risks of working alone
for lone workers, but as the number increases
All employers have a duty of care to employees
safety can be tricky. At HFX we have over 40
in the UK, employers are realising that it’s
as lone workers, which means ensuring that
years’ experience of workforce management,
important to ensure their safety and wellbeing.
they take responsibility to provide ways to
of which lone worker safety is a key element.
Here I outline four steps that employers can take
ensure health and safety. There are other
We’ve put the following four steps as a guide:
to manage their remote workers.
benefits that employers who take their
1. Identify what types of lone workers
According to government statistics, working
Knowing where to start with lone worker
responsibility seriously can gain - employees
you employ.
alone is a daily occurrence for almost 6
who feel looked after and valued by their
While there are many industries that employ
million people in the UK. Many of us may have
employers are more likely to feel more engaged
lone workers, we have identified three
employees that classify as lone workers - in fact,
and productive.
categories: public-facing, mobile and fixed-
the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) identifies
site. Once you have assessed your workforce
lone workers as those that work by themselves
against these types it makes it much easier
without close or direct supervision from others.
to work out what sort of protection they require - whether it requires regular calling in,
Lone workers can be working in any industry - from housing, including estate agents, housing
personal alarms or special equipment - or a
associations, social and health, homeworkers,
combination of all three.
transport and logistics, construction, and out
2. Implement a lone working policy.
of hours work (security people or cleaning
Having a lone working policy means that you
operatives). This covers a wide range of sectors
can provide a practical guide that employees
and, regardless of which sector your company is
can apply to their roles. It’s not a legal
in, anyone that is working alone is at risk. Failure
requirement, but an effective policy can help to
to protect them could result in serious harm to
promote a strong safety culture amongst your Continues on Page 14.
them - and to the reputation of your company.
18V LI-ION VACUUMS 18v Brushless Stick Vacuum DCL282FZ
18v Brushless Stick Vacuum DCL280F - DCL280FW
18v Brushless Stick Vacuum DCL281FZB
Brushless Motor
Noise Reduction
LED Light
Delivering longer run time and compact design
Fan cover design and padding reduces noise
Light on handle helps in low light conditions
See our full cleaning range at www.makitauk.com Cleaning & Maintenance.indd 1
WWW.CLEANINGMAG.COM
04/11/2019 12:24
DECEMBER 2019 13
C&M INDUSTRY NEWS
OCS Impact achieves award success
Continued from Page 13.
record staff attendance by collecting data
employees, keeping them safe and reducing
in a number of ways, so you always know
the risk of potential legal issues. Your lone
who’s in and who’s out. They range from the
working policy should be accessible and easy
traditional clock on the wall that uses cards,
to understand and you should ensure that
tokens or biometrics, to apps that employees
workers are familiar with it. Issuing a copy to
can download to their mobile devices, online
new employees who will work alone or to any
apps, even dialling in by telephone. ‘Zoning’
OCS has been awarded the Innovation in
contractors or temporary workers is a good
can also help, so you can see exactly who is
Product and/or Processes award for its
way to start.
working in which department or area of the
Impact cleaning training programme by
3. Carry out lone worker training.
building at any time - especially out of normal
the Institute of Workplace and Facilities
Training is vital to ensure understanding of the
working hours. The tracking facility within a
Management at the IWFM Awards 2019.
risks, consequences and practical elements
T&A system also helps to protect lone workers
to ensure lone worker safety. While providing
from a health and safety aspect. It can alert
2018, was designed to ensure all OCS front-
a copy of the policy to new employees shows
managers if staff do not turn up in the event
line cleaning operatives and supervisors are
due diligence, often training is what makes the
of an incident, to direct help quickly to the
delivering industry best practice standards,
difference to understanding and engagement.
right location, whether that is extra staff or
ensuring their own safety and wellbeing.
Early training is a worthwhile investment and
the emergency services.
might include tips on actions and behaviour
The Impact programme, launched in May
Yvonne Taylor, head of cleaning at OCS,
It’s important for the morale of your team
said: “We are extremely pleased to have
- for example, making sure someone knows
and the effectiveness of any department to
taken home this award from the prestigious
where they are, being cautious, or sharing
ensure your lone workers are as much a part
IWFM Awards evening. To have only
incidents for future learning.
of the business as everyone else. As well as
implemented this programme 18 months
4. Implement systems to manage
knowing where they are, and the hours that
ago, we couldn’t be more proud to now
your workforce.
they are working, it’s vital to get them to check
see it being awarded such a high-profile
A time and attendance (T&A) system can
in regularly and meet up with colleagues so that
commendation. We thank the IWFM and our
provide real time visibility of the entire
they feel part of the team. Lone working should
fantastic teams that worked so hard to make
workforce’s attendance and location
not mean working alone.
this programme a success.”
anytime, anywhere. It enables a company to
WWW.HFX.CO.UK
WWW.IWFMAWARDS.ORG
REGISTER TODAY FOR THE REGION’S LARGEST CLEANING & HYGIENE EVENT
25-26 MARCH • EVENT CITY • MANCHESTER
2-Day Exhibition
BCC Seminars
2-Day Conference
Networking Events
The Manchester Cleaning Show is firmly established as the event for procurement officers in the North-West to source cleaning equipment and services for healthcare, education, hospitality, entertainment, manufacturing, government and care home facilities. Enjoy two days of product sourcing, demonstrations, education and networking.
WHO ATTENDS 2,500 professionals responsible for cleaning, hygiene or facilities management, including contract cleaning companies and facility managers from educational establishments, large office premises, hospitals, industrial and manufacturing sites, leisure and entertainment centres, hotels, government buildings, residential and nursing homes, retail centres and transport providers. Organised by
Official Media Partner
www.cleaningshow.co.uk/manchester
14 MCS2020_A4_Print.indd DECEMBER 2019
2
WWW.CLEANINGMAG.COM 28/10/2019 10:28
PEOPLE
C&M
CHSA appoints new chairman AFTER five years leading the Cleaning &
than ever before, the CHSA’s Accreditation
Hygiene Suppliers Association (CHSA), Stephen
Schemes make sure buyers of cleaning and
Harrison, managing director of Harrison
hygiene products can be certain that ‘what’s on
Wipes, has stepped down as chairman of the
the box is what’s in the box’. The CHSA has developed its presence in
association. Lorcan Mekitarian, sales director at RPC bpi group, took over as chairman of
the industry in recent years, with Harrison
the association at a recent meeting of its
supporting its increased engagement with
governing council.
other industry associations and supporting key industry initiatives including the Golden Service
“Stephen has made a significant and incredibly valuable contribution to the
Awards, the CSSA’s Innovation Showcase and
CHSA,” said Lorcan Mekitarian. “I speak on
the CSSA’s Innovation Awards. Harrison’s term of office has also seen the
behalf of all the council and the members
CHSA raise tens of thousands of pounds for
we represent when I say thank you. Under Stephen’s leadership we have increased the
Known for maintaining standards in the
charity. Andi’s Fund, set up to raise £1 million for
value provided to members and widened our
cleaning and hygiene sector, the CHSA is run by
life saving research into cancer, Helping Treat
influence. I am excited about the future, with
its members for its members. During Harrison’s
Cancer Together, the Royal National Institute for
plans to develop key initiatives including our
time in office, the association’s Accreditation
Blind People, and now Grief Encounter, which
drive to tackle the challenge of plastics in our
Schemes for Manufacturers of Soft Tissue,
supports young people who have suffered
sector but I know Stephen will be a hard act
Plastic Sacks and Industrial Cotton Mops have
bereavement, have all received funds to support
to follow.”
increased in rigour, grown in membership and
their valuable work. The CHSA’s Undergraduate
members now consistently achieve near perfect
Bursary Scheme has also been reintroduced
honour to serve the CHSA as chairman. I have
compliance in inspections. The association also
under Harrison’s tenure, giving a helping hand
relished working with the excellent team taking
successfully launched an Accreditation Scheme
to the children of its members as they head off
the CHSA forward and am confident Lorcan will
for Distributors, all distributor members to be
to university.
steer it through the next phase of its evolution.”
accredited from 1 January 2020. Now, more
WWW.CHSA.CO.UK
Stephen Harrison said: “It has been an
Atalian Servest appoints deputy group CIO ATALIAN Servest has recently promoted the
Syer brings over 25 years of experience to the
group IT director for UK and Western Europe.
role having led IT in several large companies
Ian Syer is stepping into the role of deputy
before moving to Atalian Servest in 2014. His
group chief information officer and will be
new role will involve leading global IT operations
expanding his role to managing IT operations
alongside the group’s chief information officer.
and project delivery globally.
With a background in IT transformation and
THE Westgrove Group is growing its senior management team to support its continued
driving business change and efficiencies in
expansion across the UK. The company is
organisations, Syer will direct his attention to
currently recruiting for a director of shopping
implementing a scalable IT strategy allowing
centres to lead the operational delivery across
Atalian Servest to enable technology as a
its 50-strong portfolio of shopping centres and
competitive advantage in its locations across
mixed-use destinations.
the globe. With agility, a core value in all that
Claire McKinley Smith, managing director of
Atalian Servest offers, modern technology and
the Westgrove Group, said: “Westgrove has a
infrastructure is key.
unique position in the market place and we are
CEO of Atalian Servest UK and Ireland, Daniel
taking service delivery to the next level with the
Dickson, said: “We are thrilled to have Ian as
appointment of this individual into our growing
deputy group chief information officer. He has
business. This is an exciting new opportunity and we
been with Atalian Servest for five years and
are looking for dynamic candidates from a senior
has a great deal of company knowledge and
shopping centre management background. The role
expertise to offer.”
is national, liaising with our partners at a strategic
Ian Syer said: “I am proud to be a part of the
WWW.CLEANINGMAG.COM
Westgrove Group seeks director of shopping centres
level, and will help to support the rapid growth of
Atalian Servest family and fully recognise the
the business into the south. We are keen to show
support given by the UK board in achieving our
continued commitment and investment to this
technological step change and increasing our
sector and strengthen our already strong alignment
offerings to our customers.”
with the property management industry.”
WWW.ATALIANSERVEST.CO.UK
WWW.WESTGROVE.CO.UK DECEMBER 2019 15
C&M BICSc
How to negotiate! I am going to avoid using the B-word
parties meeting with no intention
explained again what the cleaning specification was and the chief officer said: “OK, but when are
in this column, but it has drawn
of reaching an outcome was my
me to sharp focus on the pitfalls
negotiation with DCPAF (the
you going to clean?” I said that this was part of
of negotiating. Generally, I feel
French Police) and Douane
the SLA and we could negotiate this. He made
that the cleaning industry does
(French customs).
it clear that he did not want cleaning done
Eurotunnel provided
during the day because his department could
Contractors are very keen
buildings for both of these
be very busy. I confirmed that we would clean
to win a client’s business so, at
authorities and in the mid-
at night. He said: “I do not want you to clean at
90s you were able to clear
night because confidential papers may be left
not negotiate well.
the point of award, anything and everything is possible. SLAs (service level
French customs and border checks in the
unattended.” Again, I was between a rock and
agreements) are rarely negotiated by the two
UK. Unfortunately, at that time, DCPAF and
a hard place, so I asked him what his SLA was
parties and nine out of 10 times are not an
Douane did not communicate freely between
in Calais for cleaning his building. He replied by
agreement but an instruction given by the
themselves, let alone with a third party, so I met
saying that in Calais they have Isobel who lives
client, which the contractor often accepts and
with DCPAF to agree on the cleaning of their
locally and has her own bicycle so during the day
which may lead to long term issues with the
facility at Folkestone.
when we are there and are not busy, they phone
I began by explaining the cleaning specification
cleaning contract.
Isobel and she comes into clean. The perfect
and how we could service their facility. The
solution. I had to state that I was unaware of an
parties want to find a solution to the issues they
meeting did not start well when their senior officer
alternative Isobel with a bicycle in Folkestone!
are trying to address. The more parties that
said: “We can’t afford that!” and I asked: “How do
are involved in the negotiation, the harder it is
you know you can’t afford it when I have not told
I am reminded of the quote from Franklin D.
to find an amicable solution. An illustration of
how much it is yet?” He said: “However much it is,
Roosevelt: “New ideas cannot be administered
this is that arranging a meeting between two
it is too expensive” so we left the negotiations that
successfully by men with old ideas for the first
parties is relatively straight forward, trying to
morning with no deal.
essential of doing a job well is the wish to see
The first rule of negotiation is that both
co-ordinate five diaries or more is an absolute
obsessed with confidentiality and privacy. I
nightmare. A perfect example of multiple
in Partnership with
In the afternoon, I met with Douane who were
Eventually, these issues were resolved, but
the job done at all!” WWW.BICS.ORG.UK
■ Topaz Ride On Scrubber is available in two options 90cm counter rotating disc brushes or 85cm cylindrical brushes. Thanks to its AC traction wheel it offers great performance when climbing ramps. ■ Ergonomics is one of the Topaz’s main strengths. Along with the Adiatek manufacturing process and build quality the Topaz is a truly robust machine for industrial applications. The compact design is combined with large 180 litre water tank capacity for improved cleaning efficiency. ■ Topaz can be provided with several optional extras, Detergent solution system (3SD), Telematic system and side broom supports.
✸ Ride-on machine with traction
✸ Solution tank/recovery tank 180/190l
✸ Cleaning width 900/850mm
✸ Traction battery
✸ Brush pressure adjustable max. 140kg
✸ Working capacity 6750m2/h
www.lincolncleaningtechnology.co.uk info@lincolncleaningtechnology.co.uk
Tel: 01924 820 876 lincoln cleaning technologies_half page_c&m_oct19.indd 1
16 DECEMBER 2019
27/09/2019 13:03
WWW.CLEANINGMAG.COM
CONTRACTS C&M
Transforming business…with help from SmartTask CSM has improved visibility and control over
SmartTask is helping us transform our operation
its cleaning operation with the adoption
by delivering on these demands and offering
of employee scheduling and workforce
huge opportunities moving forward.” Jack White, operations manager of CSM
management software SmartTask. Following a period of rapid expansion, the company
Facilities Management, continued: “By
needed to replace existing paper-based
automating many of our manual, paper-based processes we have been able to massively
systems so that it could better monitor and coordinate a team of 150 cleaning operatives
of customers, so we recognised that we
streamline the management of our cleaning
that work across Scotland. This has enabled
had outgrown many of our existing manual
team, saving both time and money. It has also
CSM to improve service delivery, enhance duty
systems,” said Martin Heneaghan, managing
proven to be invaluable for internal reporting
of care and support business development
director of CSM Facilities Management. “We not
and customer communication because of
while reducing its administrative burden by up
only needed a software solution that would
its ability to electronically capture accurate
to 35 hours a month.
automate and streamline these processes but
operational data while minimising the risk of
also help us differentiate our offering within
human error.”
what is a highly-competitive marketplace.
WWW.CSMFACILITIES.CO.UK
“We have expanded our business to service over 200 sites on behalf of a diverse range
Incentive extends Savills portfolio SAVILLS, the property management specialist,
addition, NFC tagging will be utilised to monitor
has awarded Incentive FM Group a contract
cleaning patterns. Shaun Wall, manager at the Howard Centre,
to provide a range of services at the Howard Centre in Welwyn Garden City. Under the
said: “Incentive FM Group not only has the right
terms of the three-year deal worth in excess of
expertise and skills to support us, but they also
£1.5 million, security specialist Incentive Lynx
share our commitment to developing their
and cleaning specialist Incentive QAS will be
people. This like-minded approach was key in
responsible for ensuring that the 240,000 sq ft centre is both clean and secure. The Howard Centre is situated in the heart
Martin Reed
As part of the remit Incentive FM Group will
our decision to award them this contract.” Martin Reed, CEO at Incentive FM Group, said: “At Incentive FM Group we have the ability
of the town centre with 53 units, a mixture of
provide a single manager responsible for 10
to self-deliver a full range of specialist services
retail and food outlets all under one roof. It has
security guards and seven cleaners. Its Leviy
across the FM spectrum, both individually or
around eight million visitors per annum and
Contract Management Solution will be utilised
in a bundle, meaning that we can adapt to our
there is direct access to the railway station and
to optimise the service levels, promoting
clients’ exact requirements.”
the bus station.
transparency and bringing key insights. In
WWW.INCENTIVE-FMGROUP.COM
Bruntwood and B&M Waste relationship strengthens FOLLOWING contract awards across the
and buy in of waste minimisation strategies via
Steve Dale, our account manager, is extremely
Bruntwood group to B&M Waste Services earlier
surveys and meetings, which has resulted in
helpful - in fact the entire B&M Waste team
this year, the duo are achieving good results in
nominated recycling champions at each site.
has been very proactive and responsive to
terms of waste minimisation and recycling, with
They even took part in a joint litter pick to further
ensuring the waste strategy achieves our waste
a zero waste to landfill goal.
cement the recycling focus of the teams.
minimisation and recycling aims.”
With over 100 buildings across Manchester,
The partnership is continuing to work towards
Amber Greenhalgh, commercial director at
Cheshire, Leeds, Liverpool, and Birmingham,
reducing the total amount of waste after
B&M Waste Services, said: “The enthusiasm and
the location synergies of Bruntwood with B&M
participating in B&M Waste’s Simple Swaps waste
uptake of the Bruntwood team in developing
Waste, which operates across the same regions
programme which looks to minimise waste by
waste minimisation and recycling strategies
and beyond, mean the carbon footprint of waste
making swaps such as staff water bottles to reduce
that work for their particular buildings and
produced is reduced, with waste collection
the number of single use plastic bottles produced,
tenants has been exemplary. Well done
vehicle movements being optimised with B&M
offering coffee grounds free from the canteen
to our very own Steve Dale as well on his
Waste’s optimised route planning, coupled
outlets to be used as fertiliser and encouraging
commitment to ensuring we deliver the best
with the carbon neutral status B&M Waste has
tenants to think before they buy single use items.
service possible, to aid Bruntwood in achieving
maintained since 2011. Furthermore, since the
Head of property management at
their sustainability goals. We look forward to
contract was awarded, B&M Waste has worked
Bruntwood, Simon Durbin, said: “Our facilities
continuing to develop new and innovative ways
closely with Bruntwood Facilities Management
managers and me are thrilled with how well
together with the Bruntwood team.”
teams and tenants alike to ensure awareness
things are going. The service is excellent and
WWW.BAGNALLANDMORRIS.COM
WWW.CLEANINGMAG.COM
DECEMBER 2019 17
C&M SPONSORED FEATURE
How to trim the fat and save pounds from your waste this Christmas We can’t get away from the fact that very often, Christmas is a time of excess. Too many parties, too much food, too much wine and, sometimes, far too many presents – Rudolph jumper or sparkly slippers anyone? Inevitably, corporate (and personal) budgets get blown and savings dwindle, but with a weather eye on 2020 there is one way you can reduce your outlay and even recoup a few of those long-lost pounds at the same time. Steve Hill from Grundon Waste Management has some festive words of advice. Imagine if a new waste supplier knocked at your door and said they could save you hundreds (or thousands) of pounds a year by making a few important changes to the way you manage your waste. Or you’re told that you could meet your environmental goals, including zero waste to landfill, just by switching to a different system. And that, by the way, those massive piles of cardboard you send to general waste every month, could earn you money if it was sent for recycling instead. Such promises of riches may sound like Christmas has come early, but those are just some of the benefits of taking time out to review your current waste contract. At Grundon, research we’ve undertaken with facilities managers tells us that more than 50% of you expect good waste management to deliver improved environmental performance, while nearly a quarter 18 DECEMBER 2019
expect it to achieve cost savings on the bottom line. We take pride in being able to deliver against both of these. However, these improvements won’t happen if you’re bogged down with a system or a supplier that isn’t able to implement change - that doesn’t think outside the (nicely-wrapped) box and
isn’t afraid to get their hands dirty enroute to finding the best solution. And because we handle all different types of waste, you only have to liaise with one person who will help streamline all the necessary disposal methods - much neater than different collections by different companies.
WWW.CLEANINGMAG.COM
SPONSORED FEATURE C&M
Digging deep Whenever we start work with a new customer, one of the first things we do is a waste audit. We get to know you, your waste - and your sustainability goals. That means digging deep into those bins and waste containers to give us a full picture of the different waste streams being discarded, the quantities and how long it takes to build up. We also look at issues such as available space for containers, ease of collections, resources, and budget. To attain the best recycling rebates, waste streams need to be as clean as possible and we demonstrate how best to achieve that by avoiding contamination through education and effective signage. We also advise on the most costeffective recycling options - for example, baling cardboard on-site, or segregating food waste to reduce the weight of your general waste and sending it to Anaerobic Digestion for reprocessing into bio-fertiliser and bio-energy. With all this information to hand, the changes we can suggest might include: • Removal of under-desk bins and replacing them with corridor waste stations to collect different waste streams (paper, plastics etc). • Employee education campaigns.
• Installation of separate food waste bins. • New containers with simple pictureled signage to make recycling easy and avoid potential contamination. • Implementing our Paper Cup Recycling service with dedicated new bins. • Introduction of our Haz-Box service for small amounts of hazardous waste to take care of everyday items such as light bulbs, aerosols and printer cartridges. • Introduction of compactors and balers in service yards to reduce the number of collections required – resulting in fewer vehicle movements. All these ideas add up (in a good way) and we find many of our customers earn significant rebates by ensuring their waste is reprocessed and recycled instead of being sent to landfill. Employee engagement We also ask questions about employees and their willingness to become involved in new waste and recycling campaigns. Our survey showed that over a third of facilities managers say the inability to engage with staff about recycling presented the biggest obstacle. It’s not surprising, therefore, that many more were in favour of implementing
employee education and engagement programmes to help promote the topic of waste within their organisations. We totally agree with that thought, which is why we make employee engagement another priority. From Waste Awareness Days, recycling events, one-to-one meetings with tenants, providing advice and training for ‘Green Teams’ of recycling champions, to producing detailed leaflets for different customers - we are experts at getting the message across. For us, it’s all about working together with in-house teams and other partners, such as cleaning or security contractors, and providing hands-on training and advice to make a difference. Celebrating results Everyone deserves to know if success is being achieved and we provide statistics and results to share with your teams and, of course, to demonstrate success to your budget holders too. So, if you think these ideas are a cracking way to trim the fat off your waste budget ready for the new year, then please get in touch. In the meantime, we’d like to wish you all a very Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year. Please contact: info@grundon.com 01753 686 777.
WWW.CLEANINGMAG.COM
DECEMBER 2019 19
C&M BCC COLUMN
A signatory to the New Plastics Economy Global Commitment The CHSA is a proud signatory to the Ellen MacArthur Foundation’s New Plastics Economy Global Commitment. It’s a statement of its determination to address the challenge presented by plastic and support for its members to make a real and positive difference. Lorcan Mekitarian, chairman of the Cleaning & Hygiene Suppliers Association, reports. SINCE the issue of plastic hit the
Global Commitment is a vision of a circular economy for plastic, where
headlines, businesses of all shapes
data to help us understand the tonnage of the different types of plastic entering the supply
and sizes have been trying
plastics never become waste. As
chain in the form of bottles and containers of
to address the challenge.
a signatory, we are committed
cleaning chemicals. These products account
Everyone wants to make
to supporting our members to:
for the highest volume of plastic in the sector.
• Work to eliminate
a difference as quickly as
unnecessary plastic items;
possible but the pressure to
We are working with waste management companies to understand what needs to change
• Innovate so the plastic we do
in the products - whether it’s labelling, colour,
greenwashing - taking steps that
need can be safely reused,
structure, and/or something else - to increase
look and sound good but do little
recycled or composted; and
the potential for recycling.
act creates the very real risk of
We need to know what the day-to-day practical
• Create a circular economy for plastic, so
to improve sustainability and have no real positive impact on the environment. Establishing the full environmental impact of
it is circulated, used in the economy and
barriers to recycling are so we can develop
kept out of the environment.
effective solutions. For example, a busy cleaner needs the right facilities on-hand and the time to
a decision is complex, involving manufacturing,
With plastic throughout the cleaning and
transport, the number of times the item is used
hygiene supply chain, we need cross sector
sort, separate and clean the products so the waste
in real life, and what happens to it at the end
collaboration. Representing the manufacturers
management companies can collect and recycle
of its life span. We need to understand the full
and distributors of cleaning and hygiene
them. They also need to know what cleaning
complexity of the problem. This is particularly true
products, we can address the plastic that enters
and sorting is required and the wide variety of
in the cleaning and hygiene sector, where plastic
the supply chain. Our partners, the Cleaning
specifications across the country doesn’t help.
is in every part of the supply chain - from bottles
Support Services Association (CSSA) and Waste
holding cleaning chemicals to refuse sacks and
Management Industry Training & Advisory Board
industry standard on plastics around the mantra
shrink wrap packaging. It’s pervasive because
(WAMITAB) can address how the plastic is handled
reduce, reuse, recycle: the Cleaning Industry’s
plastic, in its different forms, is an incredibly
and disposed of.
Plastics Pledge. Once developed and widely
versatile and effective material. Turning our backs
Our members and their customers are already
Our ultimate aim is to develop a cleaning
adopted, the Cleaning Industry Plastics Pledge
on it may not make sense but we do have to
working hard to eliminate unnecessary plastic
will enable us to bring together and accelerate
fundamentally change our approach.
items by, for example, switching to concentrates
the good work already being done in our sector to
and dosing systems where possible. In this
make sure our use of plastic is sustainable.
the Ellen MacArthur Foundation’s New Plastics
context, our first step is to investigate and define
The CHSA is a member of the British Cleaning
Economy Global Commitment. At the heart of the
the problem in our sector. We are gathering
Council. The views of council members are their own.
This is why we at the CHSA are a signatory to
The Professional Independent Registered Trade Association for
Window Cleaning Membership offers numerous quality benefits IOSH Accredited Safety Training Safety Accredited Member (SAM) Procurement Scheme Secure online store at: https://www.windowcleaning.org.uk/ Federation of Window Cleaners Tel: 0161 432 8754 - Email: info@f-w-c.co.uk – Web: www.f-w-c.co.uk
20 DECEMBER 2019
WWW.CLEANINGMAG.COM
A JOB WORTH DOING - A CONTRACTOR’S BLOG C&M
The Apprenticeship Levy how do we turn it into a positive for cleaning? Lee Andrews, CEO of DOC Cleaning, reports. AS reported in the press, did anyone see the recent article about the Chartered Institute for Personnel Development’s report on the Apprenticeship Levy, entitled ‘Addressing employer underinvestment in training’? It wasn’t just talking about cleaning, but its conclusions coincided very much with what many in our industry have been saying about the negative effect of the Apprenticeship Levy on training expenditure. Its conclusion is that the levy has failed to deliver the government’s key objective, ie: increased investment in workplace training. Key findings are that the number of apprenticeships started has fallen by 26% in the last two years and that 58% of employers think the levy will have no overall impact on the amount they spend on training. It recommends that the levy should take a broader approach to include other forms of accredited training that are aligned to each industrial sector - in other words a levy that is less prescriptive and gives employers more flexibility. Any cleaning contractor paying the levy will recognise these frustrations with the current scheme. The levy can only be reclaimed against recognised apprenticeships. And yet, as we know, no new apprenticeship for front-line cleaning operatives has been agreed that would replace the old NVQ-style framework apprenticeships in cleaning that are being phased out from July next year. That will just leave contractors with generic ‘backoffice’ apprenticeships such as those in HR, IT, accounts, or compliance as being reclaimable. Meanwhile, any cleaning industry-specific training that is officially accredited, and could therefore act as a foundation for staff to build a career in the industry, remains beyond the financial reach of most contractors wanting to implement it on a company-wide scale. Why? Because as long as employers find themselves paying thousands of pounds each year to the levy, but with nothing to reclaim it against, they will not have funds left over to spend on other forms of training. A crazy situation!
So where do we go from here? Well I believe we need to sort out two issues: one is the use of the levy itself and the other, as I have mentioned in previous columns, is the creation of a clear pathway to building a career in cleaning. The solution to the first is simple enough. We must lobby government (possibly in conjunction with other industries for whom apprenticeships are not appropriate) to relax the rules on reclaimable training. That would immediately bring the currently commercially available, accredited training options within reach, eg: BICSc Licence to Practice, City & Guilds, WAMITAB, UhUb etc. On its own this would be a major step forward and release millions of pounds into cleaning industry training. How much better would it be, however, if the training schemes developed by the above organisations could all be designed to lead exclusively to the achievement of one recognised, portable, multi-tiered, or multi-faceted qualification - a Diploma in Cleaning - that all workers in our industry could use to build a career path? The first tier could be along the lines of basic competence; the second more advanced, task-based skills; the third supervisory; and the fourth focused on cleaning management of various types. Training would be a combination of on-the-job delivery and assessment, backed up by off-site classroom-based instruction for the more complex areas. The different organisations would contribute to drafting the standards of attainment, but the qualification itself, including the issuing of certificates and so on, would be administered by one nominated industry body. To me, a single, universallyacknowledged qualification is the best chance we have of turning cleaning into a respected career. At the same time, it would surely strengthen the hand of our industry in securing the government’s flexibility on the levy in a way that would give all contractors the opportunity to benefit properly from the scheme. WWW.DOCCLEANING.CO.UK
To enable businesses to maximise the usability and efficiency of their batteries and chargers, ECOBAT Industrial has developed the ECOBAT charger app and WiFi charger, which allows the user to connect the charger to any mobile device – android or iPhone – and, through its WiFi capability, remotely adjust voltage, amperage and profile settings to ensure the charging procedure is optimised to its full potential. This innovation provides a genuine addedvalue service to the customer. As the UK’s largest independent battery sales and service supplier, the success of ECOBAT Industrial has come as a result of listening to the needs of its customers and offering them effective and efficient solutions that provide the answers they require. Through this process, which is applied across all aspects of its business, ECOBAT Industrial is able deliver on its sales, support and innovation ethos.
WWW.ECOBATINDUSTRIAL.TECH Worlds largest producer of lead (840,000 tonnes/p.a.) Over 3,500 skilled employees QM system certified to quality standard ISO9001 ISO18001
DECEMBER 2019 21
WWW.CLEANINGMAG.COM 20190212_C&M-265x87_SSI.indd 1
26/06/2019 16:40:50
C&M
SCRUBBER DRYERS
The future of commercial cleaning is people, devices and data BY all accounts, the cleaning industry is
and with building owners and managers
booming. The industry overall is expected to
prioritising tenant expectations above all, it only
grow 6.2% to reach £58 billion by 2022.
takes one mistake to lose a client.
With new skyscrapers emerging across the
Today, janitorial complaints are one of the
opportunities for advancement. • Use data to standardise the cleaning process and show performance across properties.
globe there will be no shortage of cleaning
top three issues cited by office workers. But
• Gain competitive advantage by broadening
business to go around. But in spite of the
with the top cleaning companies reporting
the scope of work, increasing contract size,
potential for growth, the industry is facing a
1.3% margins, and almost 40% of commercial
and winning new clients through proof of
crisis. In a world where automation is being
cleaners reporting that bids are won on price,
performance and innovation.
leveraged across all industries to drive efficiency
providers are expected to increase their service
and growth, the commercial cleaning industry
value while racing to the bottom on deals.
has failed to keep up.
With the top priority of clients being an
SoftBank Robotics: investing in the future of service automation
improved facility image followed by a reduction
As SoftBank Robotics increases investments
devoid of reliable performance metrics, and
in cleaning costs, the pressure to deliver
in companies like Brain Corp, which powers
tied to the availability of labour. Not only
competitive pricing is at odds with the pressure
the technology behind many successful
are labour costs rising and uncontrolled -
to deliver a cleaner environment.
autonomous commercial floorcare solutions,
Cleaning is still an incredibly manual job,
comprising as much as 70% of operating
the company hopes to help the cleaning
expenses for the majority of commercial
industry prepare for the growth that will
cleaners - but the talent gap is growing too,
only increase the labour challenges, client
with most janitorial companies experiencing
satisfaction problems and more. The company has recently released a new
200% average turnover.
autonomous vacuum sweeper overseas
More than any other generation, Millennials expect opportunities to work in digital and
that enables janitorial teams to tackle floor
technology-related jobs. This makes jobs like
cleaning - which comprises up to 30% of
cleaning, which historically have failed to
the average commercial cleaning job –
provide technical training, harder and harder to
autonomously. It plans to bring the product to
fill. As Millennials become the largest generation
Europe in early 2020. With this automation, SoftBank Robotics
in the workforce, recruiting and retention -
hopes to help the cleaning industry create new
which is already a top challenge for commercial How automation can drive the commercial
and more exciting jobs, provide workers with
cleaning industry forward
more opportunities for advancement, and start
Consumers expect higher service levels at
In many industries, automation has already
capturing the cleaning performance data more
lower prices
proven itself as a way to go further with existing
reliably and repeatedly than checklists and
Workforce problems aren’t the only issue
resources, collect and deliver performance data,
human observation.
facing commercial cleaning companies. Client
standardise mundane and routine tasks, create
expectations are increasing too. While this is a
better jobs, and improve the lives of employees.
cleaning companies - will only get worse.
problem that many service-based industries are
In an industry that relies almost exclusively
As automation gains traction in the cleaning industry, cleaning professionals will be empowered to make more strategic decisions
facing, the cleaning industry is feeling the pain
on labour, finding the areas where
about how to continuously improve process
in particular.
automation can bolster the existing workforce
efficiency, and gain the ability to clean more
(rather than threaten it) is the opportunity.
consistently over time.
This asks technology companies to examine
WWW.SOFTBANKROBOTICS.COM
There’s no shortage of choices when it comes to selecting a commercial cleaning company,
how automation can handle repeatable, routine, physical activities like floor care or window cleaning. With automation, cleaning companies will be able to: • Automate manual, redundant work, freeing up staff to take on the more high-value work like high-dusting and windows. • Create better jobs that incorporate the use of technology, enabling on-the-job 22 DECEMBER 2019
WWW.CLEANINGMAG.COM
SCRUBBER DRYERS
The scrubber dryer revolution John Brill, sales director at Nilfisk UK, examines the current arena for autonomous equipment. Where are we now, and what is really happening in most of the marketplace? THE cleaning equipment industry
but are more collaborative,
is notoriously slow to change -
integrating with IT systems but
historically the industry has been very hardware focused, almost
C&M
Lemon Floor Gel
Lemon scented hard surface cleaner
not with facilities systems. 4. Integrated: autonomous solutions
entirely defined by products, their
navigate through an entire
performance and, importantly, their
facility, communicate with other
price. Recently, however, we have
connected devices, including
seen a very clear split in the market
facilities systems.
between those requiring just a scrubber dryer and those who are
So where are we now?
looking for added value solutions
There is no doubt that at the end of
including automation.
2019 we remain at the operational stage. Manufacturers are developing
Automation - the future
self-operating cleaning solutions
The last few years have been pivotal
that are fully capable of cleaning
in the development of autonomous
a defined space as directed. We
scrubber dryers. Significantly
are working with ‘first mover’
the customer perception of the
customers, companies who are
concept has changed and the
willing to invest their time and
industry itself is now willing to
resources in these solutions. They
adopt advanced cleaning on all
want to learn and be at the forefront
levels. This willingness, of course,
of the integrated solutions and
aligns with the need to increase
developments which will come.
productivity whilst reducing labour
These early adopters include
and consumable costs. The issue of
facilities like passenger transport
Brexit, and the predicted reduction
hubs that are already familiar
in low paid immigrant labour, has
with automation. They have
impacted this arena.
made the leap already so to them,
Nilfisk is working within the
this is just another step. I also
‘autonomous maturity framework’
expect customers in education
developed by the IDC Community
and healthcare to become early
which is structured into specific
adopters, as these are sectors
stages:
where productivity gains and cost
1. Operational: autonomous
reductions could be easily achieved.
solutions are single task based,
The rest of the market is likely
limited to a physically defined
to wait until the autonomous
operational area, and lack
equipment is at a more mature
facilities system integration.
stage. When the solutions are more
2. Functional: autonomous
collaborative, when humans and
solutions operate in a logically
machines easily assist one another
defined area and can sense
- and when best practices have
obstacles yet still lack facilities
been developed for integrating
system integration.
autonomous routines within daily
3. Aligned: autonomous solutions still operate in a defined area WWW.CLEANINGMAG.COM
Lemon Scented Hard Surface Cleaner Fast removal of daily grease & grime. Long lasting fresh lemon fragrance. Highly diluteable (50:1). Suitable for many different floor types. including: tiles, sealed wood, vinyl & safety floors. pH Neutral (6.5 - 8).
Fast removal of daily grease & grime. Low foaming. Long lasting fresh lemon fragrance. Highly diluteable (50:1). Ideal for hand/damp mopping, spray cleaning & machine scrubbing. Suitable for floors and surfaces including: tiles, sealed wood & cork marble, granite, PVC, linoleum, resin, vinyl & safety floors. pH Neutral (6.5 - 8). T: +44 (0) 1444 244 000 E: sales@bio-productions.com W: www.bio-productions.com
cleaning operations. Continued on Page 24. DECEMBER 2019 23
C&M
SCRUBBER DRYERS
to really understand their needs. This led us
intuitive, allowing all cleaning parameters to be
to develop the Nilfisk GO-Line range - basic
easily adjusted by the operator whilst driving.
cleaning equipment which is easy to use,
This is an important feature for the group, one
reliable and good value for money.
that has remained central to our ergonomic
The Nilfisk SC3500 is the first ride on model
development efforts.
in this cost-effective range, providing space efficient cleaning at a competitive price - a
The road ahead
versatile addition to the commercial and
I see the future, therefore, as being something
industrial portfolio. With a scrubbing width of
of a dual carriageway. On one side you have
710mm and a working speed of up to 6 km/h,
the need for high quality, productive cleaning
large areas of floor can be cleaned quickly and
equipment that just gets the job done within the
effectively. Large solution and recovery tanks
traditional arena. Conversely, however, there
It should be remembered, however,
of 110 litres ensure that fill ups are kept to a
are the increasingly collaborative, autonomous
that technology marches on. Technology
minimum, reducing downtime and ensuring
cleaning machines that will transcend simple
improvements are frequent and will benefit
the unit stays visible and active.
equipment sales, delivering integrated cleaning
Continued from Page 23.
manufacturers of autonomous cleaning
The trade marked OneTouch button operates
equipment and move the industry to full
all main functions with the click of one button.
integration much quicker than expected.
The brush deck and squeegee are then
solutions with the humble scrubber dryer very much front and centre. There is no doubt the future will be defined
automatically lowered and raised, eliminating
by the demand for solutions that are ever more
Back to basics
mechanical operation. Usefully the squeegee
efficient, effective and intelligent. Nilfisk is well
It is fair to say that whilst the early adopters
automatically lifts when the unit is put into
placed to answer that demand - our combined
have the time and resources to focus on the
reverse, a feature which significantly reduces
global workforce has the motivation and
future, most of the market needs a quality
damage and resulting service costs.
commitment to exceed all expectations.
cleaning solution now. The need to keep
The machine’s control panel is highly
WWW.NILFISK.CO.UK
premises clean remains relentless, standards rightfully remain high whilst discerning customers expect more for their money. This is the reason why Nilfisk has retained focus on a full range of robust scrubber dryers to suit all requirements - everything from a small upright scrubber dryer that cleans in both forward and reverse mode to a large ride on combination machine that scrubs and sweeps. Recent years have seen us build strong relationships with our customers, striving
Faster, greener, safer, cleaner THE first machine of its kind, the i-mop solves
scrubbing (according to the manufacturer), the
floor cleaning challenges by combining the
i-mop is increasing productivity across the board.
flexibility of a floor mop with the power and
Its ability to get right to the edge and under
speed of an industrial scrubber dryer. Claimed
obstacles means a virtual elimination of manual
to be faster and cleaner than traditional
operations that are required to supplement
mopping and more flexible and agile than
conventional machine scrubbing.
traditional large scrubber dryers, the i-mop is suitable for most spaces. With no borders or
Cleaner
boundaries, the i-mop has been tailor designed
The difference is easy to see. ATP testing
- not for cleaning, but for the cleaner.
confirms that i-mop’s twin counter-rotating brushes deep scrub for 90% cleaner surfaces
Faster
compared to conventional mopping.
Revolutionary, flexible and powerful, the i-mop family is changing the way many industries think
Safer
about and approach cleaning. Cleaning up to
Wet mopping with dirty water and slippery
70% faster than conventional wet mopping
floors are a thing of the past. The i-mop’s
and up to 30% faster than conventional auto 24 DECEMBER 2019
Continued on Page 26. WWW.CLEANINGMAG.COM
REGISTER TODAY FOR THE REGION’S LARGEST CLEANING & HYGIENE EVENT
25-26 MARCH EVENT CITY MANCHESTER The Manchester Cleaning Show is firmly established as the event for procurement officers in the North-West to source cleaning equipment and services for healthcare, education, hospitality, entertainment, manufacturing, government and care home facilities.
2-Day Exhibition
Enjoy two days of product sourcing, demonstrations, education and networking.
BCC Seminars
WHO ATTENDS
Networking Events
2-Day Conference
2,500 professionals responsible for cleaning, hygiene or facilities management, including contract cleaning companies and facility managers from educational establishments, large office premises, hospitals, industrial and manufacturing sites, leisure and entertainment centres, hotels, government buildings, residential and nursing homes, retail centres and transport providers.
Organised by
www.cleaningshow.co.uk/manchester
Official Media Partner
C&M
SCRUBBER DRYERS
Battery power for your floor cleaning regimes Chris North, sales director at DBS Leoch, reports on improving performance and health and safety by including battery-powered machines in your floor cleaning regimes. quickly during breaks in shifts, making the most of ‘opportunity charging’. Advances in battery technology in recent
As the health and safety requirements to which you must comply get ever more stringent, ‘fit and forget’ sealed battery units such as the
years have meant that they can be charged
SLCA are the solution to help you to optimise
much more quickly and, once charged, have
the lifecycle and performance of your floor
a much longer active life before they need
cleaning machines.
recharging. However, as technology moves on
WWW.DBSLEOCH.CO.UK
so quickly, we’re now seeing a shift in demand away from traditional flooded batteries to a new generation of sealed batteries. Take our new Superior Lead Carbon AGM Gel (SLCA) batteries, for example. Their main benefits are that they offer super-fast recharging and you can leave them safely in a partial state of charge (PSoC) without risking MANUFACTURERS of all types of floor cleaning
any deterioration. Their unique chemistry
equipment are increasingly looking at how
also eliminates sulphation that can cause a
they can most effectively use batteries as
premature failure of the battery - something
a power source. They’re looking for ‘fit and
that can happen early in the lifecycle with
forget’ batteries to avoid the worry of regular
flooded technology, if not properly maintained
maintenance and units that can recharge
or left in a partial state of charge.
Continued from Page 24.
more efficient cleaning procedures while building occupants experience a cleaner
advanced suction technology extracts
and healthier environment. With three sizes
virtually all of the cleaning solution and
to choose from - i-mop Lite, XL and XXL -
whatever liquid happens to be on the floor,
you can ensure you have best equipment
leaving floors dry and safe to walk on
for the job.
almost immediately. Making real lives better Greener
Pedro Ferreirra, back of house manager at
A combination of powerful mechanical action
the Hilton Hotel London Metropole, said:
and advanced solution recovery now make
“Since implementing the i-mop we have
it possible to clean more thoroughly with a
seen the cleaning standards go up for our
fraction of the water and chemical used by
floors. We had some stains that we had
traditional cleaning methods. According to the
been unable to remove but with the i-mop
manufacturer, the i-mop reduces environmental
we were able to remove them all easily.
impact by over 75%.
My team were very excited to be using the new equipment as instead of taking over
Better for everyone
an hour to mop the floors with a traditional
The i-mop makes life easier for the operator
mop and bucket, it was taking closer to ten
who is no longer an exhausted manual
minutes! This meant the staff had all of that
labourer but rather a motivated and proud
saved time for other tasks, so productivity
i-mop operator. But it also makes life easier
went up as well.”
for the building manager who can establish
WWW.KILLIS.CO.UK
26 DECEMBER 2019
WWW.CLEANINGMAG.COM
C&M
SCRUBBER DRYERS
Performance boosting upgrades to established machine THE updated Taski swingo 2100µicro
position supports the operator
(micro) ultra-compact ride-on
in the ideal posture and reduces
scrubber-dryer from Diversey brings
fatigue while allowing easy access
added value and extra performance
for maximum productivity. The
to cleaning teams by building on
upgraded model features an all-new
the success of the original model.
seat that is more comfortable while
This latest-generation machine has
also being less sensitive so that it
been redesigned to include a digital
can be used by lighter operatives.
electric motor that delivers more
The seat now has a storage tray for a
cleaning power and uses less energy,
mobile phone and personal items.
an improved seat for better comfort,
Power is supplied by a new
and an adjustable lockable steering
brushless electric motor with
wheel for enhanced ergonomics
digital control. This motor is
and security. The result is an ultra-
smaller, more efficient and
compact ride-on floorcare machine
more reliable than conventional
that offers better performance and
motors. It uses less energy which
productivity with the same unique
can mean even longer intervals
narrow-space and up-to-the-edge
between battery charges for
cleaning capabilities of the original.
extended uninterrupted working
The original Taski swingo
additional power also has allowed
busy and confined areas because of
the design team to increase the
its ultra-compact design and tight
maximum brush pressure by 62%.
turning circle. Its 55cm working
The brushless design promotes
width, 138cm overall length and
reliability and reduces servicing -
less-than-180cm turning circle
there are no brushes to fail which
meant it could operate productively
eliminates the need to replace
and safely between obstacles,
them or the whole motor.
transported in standard lifts. The unique offset feature allows
The operator console has been redesigned with an all-new steering wheel. This now features height
the machine to clean right up
adjustment so that operatives can
against walls - the mechanism
set it for the best possible comfort
can project up to 14cm to the side
and ergonomic working. The wheel
of the machine. This capability is
is also lockable to help prevent
still under patent and therefore
unauthorised use.
unavailable on any other micro ride-
operate at speeds over 50%
and dry to the floor edge in a single
faster than comparable walk-
pass with no need for unproductive
behind models. That means more
secondary cleaning such as wet-
productivity and more floors
mopping. Like all scrubber dryers,
cleaned across the shift. The
it leaves floors clean and dry to
machine has been designed to
reduce the risk of slips and trips.
deliver exceptional performance.
WWW.CLEANINGMAG.COM
Continued on Page 28.
®
By GRANDE BRIO
35 E Ecoray ® 35 B Ecoray ®
WHAT
IS THE
ray ay sy s?ys yst ecc ra ®
SYSTEM
Ecological Cleaning System For The GRANDE BRIO Scrubber Dryer Range
Uses Ultraviolet Energy (UV-C) With 260nm Frequency - THE Most Germicidal Wavelength Wavelength “C” Targets The DNA Of Microorganisms, Causing Cell Death
GRANDE BRIO RIDE ON
75-650 ®
Ecoray
WHY
CHOOSE
Does Not Pollute Or Produce Ozone
THE
ray ay? sy sy ec ra ®
SYSTEM
Reduces & Eliminates Symptoms Increases Indoor - Allergies; Asthama; Other Diseases Air Quality Caused By Mould And Bacteria Removes Bacteria And Mould
Eliminates Organic Odors
Reduces Transmission Of Infectious Bacterial & Viral Diseases
Hypoallergenic
Does Not Need To Be Cleaned
Reduces Costs By Cutting The Use Of Chemicals
Ride-on machines generally
on and allows the machine to clean
The unique ‘active sitting’ driving
SYSTEM
times and higher productivity. The
2100µicro proved to be ideal for
pass through normal doors and be
ray ay a ys c rra eec
WE ARE LOOKING FOR NEW PARTNERS
IN THE UK
daveclark@hooperservices.co.uk d l es co uk UNIT A3
JACKSON CLOSE
PORTSMOUTH
HANTS
PO6 1US
DECEMBER 2019 27
C&M
SCRUBBER DRYERS
Flexible and adaptable scrubber dryers MORCLEAN offers a range of cordless scrubber
handle systems and brush-assisted traction,
dryers - petrol or battery alternatives – and
which helps make lighter work of big jobs that
each model is built for purpose with its own
sometimes cover a wide floor space.
unique application. Whilst previous models may have restricted
There is an increasing pressure on companies to be eco-friendlier, and using battery powered
versatility and freedom of movement, the
alternatives supports the drive for businesses to
cordless versions are now gaining favour, with
be greener. Battery machines operate on far less
corded versions becoming less and less sought
energy than their petrol alternatives. Morclean
after. For areas where an electricity supply is not
battery powered machines, on average, run on
available, it is now possible for floor cleaning
24v when in use, whereas those with a cable
the warehouse floor and picking up fine
equipment to reach every nook and cranny.
can use up to 240v.
pieces of debris and waste. Warehouses are a
With the continuous development in
Morclean supplies a broad range of scrubber
common place for scrubber dryer equipment
floorcare machines, these heavy, bulky pieces
dryers and sweepers that suit a whole host of
to be found, but the company has also been
of equipment are improving in design and are
applications. They are available with varying
confronted by companies that need specialist
easier to manoeuvre in tighter spaces. Machines
brush sizes and methods of use, including
equipment to deal with alternative floor types.
now come equipped with fully adjustable
pedestrian and ride-on. The smaller machines
An example was when Morclean was contacted
are useful for compact applications and where
by an F1 team to supply a machine that would
flexibility around corners may be required. This
be suitable for the cleaning of its epoxy coated
may include warehouses which have a lot of
floors, including the supply of a specialist
obstacles or shelving to manoeuvre around.
detergent. A spokesperson for Morclean said:
Alternatively, the machines with bigger tanks
“We understand the different working times
are ideal for larger applications.
and limitations customers may have when they
Morclean exports its machines around the
come to us and we provide the best solution
globe. The versatility of its range enables the
using our past experience and knowledge. If you
machines to pick up various materials such
are looking for a new scrubber dryer or sweeper,
as dust, tobacco and wet applications. The
we have a new range available spanning a
company has recently supplied a floorcare
multitude of sizes, varying from 300mm brush
machine to a tobacco plant in Uzbekistan
size right up to 500mm.”
which needed machines capable of cleaning
WWW.MORCLEAN.COM
Continued from Page 27. Its 55cm cleaning width, 75 litre tank and fast operating speed allow it to clean more than 3000m2 in an hour. Machine speed is automatically reduced when turning to promote stability. The design offers full-width protection for the operator to reduce the risk of injuries. The design team has also ensured the machine retains its proven capabilities as a highly productive mobile cleaning workstation. Equipment such as microfibre tools, mops, buckets, trays, and other items from the Taski Trolley range can all be mounted on the rear of the machine. This allows it to be configured and customised to match any customer’s unique requirements. Typical applications include rapid spillage or flooding response, mobile hard surface cleaning, and janitorial workstation. WWW.DIVERSEY.COM 28 DECEMBER 2019
WWW.CLEANINGMAG.COM
SCRUBBER DRYERS
C&M
Ecobat confirms presence at Interclean 2020 ECOBAT Battery Technologies (Ecobat
flexible aftersales service packages that will
research and develop alternative options and
Industrial), the independent battery sales
maximise battery life and optimise returns on
new combinations in order to best address the
and service supplier, has confirmed it will be
a customer’s investment.
needs of our customers,” continued McCartney.
exhibiting at Interclean Amsterdam (stand
“We are a proactive business that is able
“Just look at our cost-effective lead crystal-
to apply the knowledge and experience held
based Rapid Charger System, for example,
“Although it might seem like a long way
within the organisation so that, in addition
which has provided users with a practical
off, we’re keen to announce our presence at
to our off-the-shelf solutions, we can also
alternative to lithium-ion, but at significantly
number 01.221) when it opens in May next year.
Interclean as it’s an important statement for
reduced costs. These kinds of solutions are
Ecobat Industrial to make to the cleaning
only made possible because we can apply the
industry,” said Colin McCartney, the company’s
knowledge inherent throughout the business
national accounts manager.
and due to the fact that we have with an understanding of what our customers require
As an established player, distributing prominent brands such as TAB, Lucas,
from their machinery and the capabilities of
Sonnenschein, and US Battery across the
the batteries that power them. So, as important
industrial sector, Ecobat Industrial has built
as the products we supply are in terms of
its reputation by providing its customers
what we’ll have on display at Interclean, it’s
with a level of service that reaches far
an understanding of the additional support
beyond just battery sales. Additional services
that we can bring to bear on each individual
include everything from practical advice as
situation, that we also want those visiting our
to the most suitable battery solution and
stand to come away with.”
charging regime for each application, to
WWW.ECOBATINDUSTRIAL.TECH
DISTRIBUTOR ENQUIRIES WELCOME
AS PART OF OUR EXPANDING RANGE
INTRODUCING THE NEW ALL ELECTRIC HOT PLANTMASTER PRESSURE WASHER RANGE FROM INTERNATIONAL
• AVAILABLE IN 18/24/36/48 KW • MAXIMUM TEMPERATURE 85°C • AMAZING CONSTANT RUNNING TEMPERATURE DUE TO THE REVOLUTIONARY TANK SIZE AND DESIGN • RE-INVENTING THE PERFORMANCE OF THE ELECTRIC HOT PRESSURE WASHER • THE MACHINES ARE AVAILABLE IN POWDER COATED AND FULL STAINLESS STEEL
CALL MAC INTERNATIONAL ON 0870 242 4462 OR EMAIL sales@macinternational.co.uk TO FIND YOUR LOCAL MAC DEALER M A N U FA CT U R E D I N T H E U K
WWW.CLEANINGMAG.COM
WWW.MACINTERNATIONAL.CO.UK
WWW.MACELECTRIC.CO.UK
DECEMBER 2019 29
C&M
SPECIAL REPORT
Delivering safer winters When accidents happen, the blame game is never far behind. In an increasingly litigious society, when accidents occur on business premises they are often followed by legal consequences resulting from breaches in health and safety law. In such situations, evidence is everything and organisations found to be ill-prepared or lacking adequate records can struggle to mount an effective defence. However, as mobile technology permeates ever further into today’s workplaces - and into the world of facilities management - this could well be changing. Gritit CEO, Jason Petsch, explains how modern day FM is becoming ever more reliant on technology to remain compliant. We’ve all been there, but maybe this universal
like was transformed and even business to
annoyance will soon become a thing of the
business software was forced to become more
past: already, many delivery companies have
agile, user friendly and device-independent in
responded to customer dissatisfaction and
order to compete. This evolution is known as
adapted their services to plug this information
the ‘consumerisation of IT’ and you’ll probably
gap. With rich tracking data available at every
see evidence of this trend every time your IT
stage of a parcel’s journey, delivery companies
department rolls out new software.
have simply made this information visible to
Surely, this is all a long way from the world of
the customer and thus provided a greater sense
outdoor FM and liability? Maybe not as much as
of control and assurance. Of course, not every
you’d think…
company does this, but as more do, customer
Let’s say company X learns that a visitor to
expectations become irreversibly redefined.
one of their sites has slipped on a footpath
THIS is ultimately an article about managing
Think of how Uber is making wondering when
on an icy morning and broken a leg. As a
the risks of trips and falls on ice and snow but
your taxi will arrive into an anachronism.
self-employed professional, the injury will
let’s start by thinking about something far
The point is that once expectations of how
prevent this person from working and earning
more relatable - waiting in on a delivery. This
things can be done are shifted, it is very hard
for several months - a fact that is highlighted
very modern source of frustration is a classic
for any industry to stay the same. Just as DHL
by the party’s lawyers in a personal liability
example of how powerless we feel when we
or Uber are using real time, geographically
claim. But company X knows that that path
have limited information and limited ability
accurate data to redefine how they relate to
should have been gritted the night before by
to act. You know a parcel will arrive between
customers, the same has already happened
its gritting contractor, whose actions should
09.00 and 14.00, but remain trapped indoors
in the adjacent world of IT. When consumers
have fulfilled the duty of care to keep the site
listening out for the doorbell and limiting your
took to smartphones, their expectations of
safely accessible. In this situation, the question
fluid intake to avoid ill-timed bathroom breaks.
what an IT application should look and feel
is whether these actions were really undertaken and whether they were up to standard. Unlike the frustration of waiting on a parcel, this scenario shows how an information poor situation can become incredibly serious in a legal context where ambiguity comes with a risk of financial and reputational damage. However, for organisations seeking to mitigate risks during winter, the solution may prove surprisingly similar to the world of couriers and minicabs. At Gritit we have found that just as mobile technology has proved transformational in tracking the movement of goods, the same infrastructure of mobile networks and GPS has transformed our business of snow and ice clearance. Like virtually every other industry, outdoor facilities management is becoming increasingly data driven. Thus, as well as triggering site visits according to road surface temperature forecasts, the actions we take to mitigate
30 DECEMBER 2019
WWW.CLEANINGMAG.COM
SPECIAL REPORT
C&M
already in place and will be used by our teams throughout this winter. Beyond such worst-case scenarios, this level of insight can help transform business as usual. The ability to capture data in real time allows for reports to be automatically generated that can be directly accessed - day or night - by facilities managers via an online (or mobile) portal. When data is made available in a timely fashion its practical value increases: for example, by letting businesses know that their sites will be accessible the day after unexpected hard frost. Today, this sort of application may be relatively unusual in the world of outdoor FM, adverse weather can be tracked by customers in real time and used to create robust records that can be used in the event of incidents.
can be shared with customers too. Let’s say company X had access to this
but once expectations change it is likely this level of performance will become the default
system. When the question arises over how the
- especially in more risk adverse contexts.
path had been gritted, they provide the court
Ultimately, different service providers will
location data and smartphones has been
with a ‘breadcrumb map’ that shows to the
invest in technology to differing degrees and
at the heart of the evolution. Not only are
minute the amount of time spent by the gritting
offer differing levels of transparency and
Gritit’s site visits logged the moment a gritting
operative at the location where the accident
accountability. Yet, unlike opting for the cheap
vehicle enters a geo-fenced area (as defined
happened. Similarly, they could also share the
delivery option for a parcel, when the legal
by its GPS coordinates), but our gritting crews’
quantities of grit distributed during the visit.
consequences of getting things wrong can be
movements and activities can be tracked via
This example shows how better information can
severe there’s no excuse for taking a budget
the smartphones app they use to manage and
remove dangerous ambiguities. While company
approach to safety.
record their jobs. Furthermore, that information
X’s situation is hypothetical, the technology is
WWW.GRITIT.COM
Just like other industries, the ability to use
EDITORIAL FEATURES Each issue of C&M includes all the latest industry news stories, product announcements, plus regular columns from the British Cleaning Council, British Institute of Cleaning Science and guest contributors. JANUARY
FEBRUARY
MARCH
Flooring & Floorcare
Eco/Green Products & Services
Washroom Hygiene
Carpet & Upholstery Cleaning
Autonomous Cleaning
Waste Management Manchester Cleaning Show 2020 On-site & Show Guide
CONTACT: Neil Nixon . Editor . neilnixon@quartzltd.com . 07957 713316 Vanessa Van Santen-Smith . Sales Director . vanessavss@quartzltd.com . 01737 855041 Michelle Andrews . Business Development Manager . michelleandrews@quartzltd.com . 01737 855086
WWW.CLEANINGMAG.COM
DECEMBER 2019 31
C&M
PRODUCT NEWS
ROBERT Scott has launched its latest product innovation - a sustainable alternative to
Sustainable cleaning is only a spray away
its classic spray bottle, made from 100% post-consumer recycled (PCR) plastic resin sourced from used milk bottles. The recycled spray bottles offer an eco-friendly and reusable way to dispense cleaning fluids without the waste and environmental impact of single-use plastic bottles, which are often made from virgin plastic. Made from 100% recycled and 100% recyclable high-density polyethene (r-HDPE), the spray bottles are manufactured in the UK and use less energy to produce than traditional bottles made from virgin resin. Designed for multi-use, they can be refilled by the end user or recycled again into car parts, pipes and clothing, supporting a
closed loop recycling system. This means less waste at the end of the day while helping to reduce the UK’s plastic waste economy. The cleaning manufacturer provides a custom bottle printing service, using screen print technology and a specially formulated UV ink that results in a colourful, permanent label. This process is not only cost-effective, but also removes the need for the secondary application of labels. Robert Scott is also in the early stages of testing a compostable plastic packaging wrap. If successful, this would help the company to further reduce its impact on the environment. WWW.ROBERT-SCOTT.CO.UK TO celebrate the 120-year anniversary of Miele, the professional division is marking the occasion with the introduction of an improved range of its ‘Octoplus’ washing machines and tumble dryers. The Octoplus 120 series offers increased load capacity, reduced water consumption and lower energy usage, all at the same price point as its predecessor. Boasting a load capacity of 9kg, the Octoplus models are suited to medium-scale laundry needs including care homes and boutique hotels, bridging the gap between Miele’s Little Giants and its larger industrial scale machines.
Energy efficient washing machines and dryers
Sam Bailey, sales and marketing director for the professional division of Miele, said: “The launch of the new Octoplus 120s demonstrates our continued commitment to providing quality products for new and existing customers - something that has been at the forefront of Miele’s success for 120 years now. We understand the various challenges faced in busy laundry environments across different sectors, and we are constantly looking for innovative ways to improve our models. Octoplus customers will not only benefit from the increased load capacity and versatility of programmes but will also have the Miele quality guarantee that assures the longevity of the product.” WWW.MIELE.CO.UK/PROFESSIONAL P-WAVE has launched a new fragrance diffuser range under its recently created PW-Aroma brand. Produced in partnership with manufacturer Carpex, the Scentaura range of fragrance diffusers are ergonomically designed, discrete and user friendly.
Scentaura fragrance diffuser range launched
“Ideal for anyone looking to offer an up-market experience in their venue, the new PW-Aroma Scentaura fragrance diffuser range features advanced micro-diffusion technology, operates silently, and creates a perfect ambiance of subtle fragrance,” said P-Wave’s sales and marketing manager, Mark Wintle. “The Scentaura and Scentaura BT units have three scent diffusion levels, delivering coverage up to 200m3. The standard Scentaura unit is controlled via a panel below the front cover, but the Scentaura BT adds bluetooth control and advanced programming via a smartphone or tablet.” Available in black or white, the Scentaura and Scentaura BT fragrance diffusers can be mounted on walls or flat surfaces. The 50ml Aroma cartridges are effective for up to 90 days. Completing the range is the Scentaura Max 1200
which has coverage of up to 1200m3 and is effective in large areas. WWW.P-WAVE.CO.UK
32 DECEMBER 2019
WWW.CLEANINGMAG.COM
PRODUCT NEWS
C&M
DYSON has launched the Airblade 9kJ hand dryer, claimed to be the fastest, most energy efficient HEPA-filtered hand dryer
Dyson launches the Airblade 9kJ
on the market. With a unique design, the Dyson Airblade 9kJ hand dryer enables people to dry their hands quickly and hygienically, while using low energy and offering an alternative to single-use paper towels. “At Dyson we believe hand drying should be fast, hygienic and responsible in its energy use,” said Jake Dyson, chief engineer. “We solved many of these problems when we
disrupted the industry with the launch of the first Dyson Airblade in 2006. We continue to pioneer with the Dyson Airblade 9kJ - our latest hand drying technology. From the acoustics to its design, everything has been rethought to deliver the best performance without any compromise on user experience or hygiene.” James Dyson said: “It is the instinct of engineers to want to improve things, make them more
EDITOR
Neil Nixon neilnixon@quartzltd.com 07957 713316 SALES DIRECTOR
Vanessa Van Santen-Smith Vanessavss@quartzltd.com 01737 855041 BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT MANAGER
which drives progress and advancement - even in the washroom.
Michelle Andrews michelleandrews@quartzltd.com 01737 855086
In 1907 paper towels were first introduced, and the electric hand
PRODUCTION MANAGER
efficient and to use fewer resources in the process. It is wired into our DNA and it is this urge
Carol Baird carolbaird@quartzltd.com 01923 437619
dryer made its first appearance in 1948 - but both have their failings. The journey to find a better way is fascinating. In 2006 the invention of Dyson Airblade technology meant that, for the first
MANAGING DIRECTOR
time, water was scraped off hands using high velocity unheated
Steve Diprose
air, thus reducing the energy consumption.” WWW.DYSON.CO.UK
CEO
IN A SPECIAL REPORT, DEBORAH BLAND, SENIOR SECTOR
PAID SUBSCRIPTIONS & CIRCULATION ENQUIRIES
Paul Michael
MARKETING MANAGER AT DIVERSEY, UK AND IRELAND, REPORTS. ONE of the biggest sustainability talking points over the past year has been the use of plastics in packaging. The cleaning industry is not immune to these discussions but there are areas where we can help reduce the use and impact of plastics. Reducing use: smaller packs use less plastics and other
Reducing reliance on plastics
Elizabeth Barford subscriptions@quartzltd.com 01737 855028
materials. Adopting ultra concentrates - and adding water at the point of use - can reduce overall plastics consumption. Depending on the system used this can reduce packaging material by up to 98.5% compared to ready-to-use products. For example, one container of a market-leading ultraconcentrate can replace around 280 ready-to-use products for the same job. This saves over 40kg of plastics that no longer needs to be manufactured, transported, stored or recycled. Reduced wastage: closed-loop ultra-concentrate dosing and dilution systems greatly reduce chemical and packaging waste by preventing chemical over-use. Diversey found users overuse chemicals by six times the recommended dilution rate when using open ‘glug-glug’ containers. Recycling: much of the plastics in cleaning product packaging can be recycled or reused. Manufacturers are constantly improving designs to make packs easier to recycle. However, recycling is dependent on local infrastructure to collect, sort, and recover packaging materials. These localised limitations mean no manufacturer can guarantee its packaging materials will be recycled everywhere. Raw materials: while desirable it is often impractical to use recycled plastics for packaging because the standard and quality of the materials being used is difficult to guarantee and
PUBLISHED BY
Quartz Business Media Quartz House 20 Clarendon Road Redhill, Surrey RH1 1QX 01737 855086 www.cleaningmag.com Annual Subscriptions 12 copies per year (10 print & 12 digital) UK: 1 yr £125; 2 yrs: £224 Rest of the world: 1 yr: £174; 2 yrs: £310
can be inconsistent. Using new or ‘virgin’ plastics helps manufacturers maintain the quality and consistency to meet regulatory requirements for air transport or particular applications. Nevertheless, packaging made this way can itself often be recycled. Progressive manufacturers - and many end user organisations - are adopting lifecycle thinking into their businesses to help minimise potential negative impacts associated with packaging. This includes utilising sustainability scorecards or similar techniques that identify opportunities to improve packaging during material selection, manufacturing, use, and eventual recycling. The use of plastics is part of the wider sustainability trend that also includes saving water, conserving energy and preventing waste. None of these can be considered in isolation.
ISSN: 1473 723X © Quartz Business Media, 2019 All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced in any form or by any means, without prior permission of the copyright owner. Printed by Pensord Press Ltd, Cardiff, UK
WWW.DIVERSEY.COM WWW.CLEANINGMAG.COM
DECEMBER 2019 33
The Official Partner of the Cleaning Show
START PLANNING YOUR ADVERTISING
Cle an ing er of th e ial Pa rtn Th e Of fic
Sh ow
SE PT EM BE
R 20 17
The Offici al Partn er of the Clean ing Show OCTO BER 2017
PLUS: news • Industry • People s act ntr • Co • Products
PLUS: • Industry news • People
Follow us on Twitter
• Contracts • Products
T THE SCEN S OF SUCCES trol Odour Con solutions in ht the spotlig >>> page 26
GREAT MAKING A ESSION FIRST IMPR the ng and Street Cleani of outdoor ce maintenan spaces 38 >>> page
FACE TO FACE
@CleaningMag
PARK LIFE Neil Nixon speaks to JPC Cleaning about managing the extensive complex at Chiswick Park >>> page 26
With RPC bpi ducts Recycled Pro tery Bat and Fortis 24 & 36 >>> pages
TOO BUSY TO WASH?
Join us on LinkedIn
What can be done to make hand washing quicker and easier for healthcare staff ? >>> page 28
Cleaning & Maintenance Magazine
HYGIENE SERVICES MADE EASY Hiring pressure washing equipment has numerous benefits >>> pages 36
WW W. CL
Renew your subscription at: WWW.CLEANINGMAG.COM
EA NIN GM
AG .CO M
24/08/2017
09:58
WWW .CLEA NINGM AG.CO
M
p03_CM_Oct17_Editorial
_Front_Cover.indd 1
er.indd 1
l_Front_Cov
p03_Editoria
26/09/2017 13:39
Established in 1953 and always reaching the right audience
Official show magazine of
THE
CLEANING SHOW
The biggest read within the cleaning & support services sector Make sure you reach your audience and advertise with us. Published by
For further details please contact: Vanessa Van Santen-Smith, Sales Director C&M Magazine T +44 1737 855041 M +44 7944 277598 E vanessavss@quartzltd.com
Michelle Andrews, Sales Manager C&M Magazine T +44 1737 855086 E michelleandrews@quartzltd.com
WWW.CLEANINGMAG.COM
Products & Services Directory
to advertise call 01737 855086 C and M product services.pdf 1 28/03/2019 13:33:39
COMPUTER SOFTWARE
SOFTWARE / TECHNOLOGY
FULLY INTEGRATED SOFTWARE
C
FOR CLEANING/FM CONTRACTORS
M
Business Software for Janitorial Distributors
Y
CM
MY
CY
CMY
| +44 (0)1732 832888 | businessteam@templa.com | www.templacms.co.uk
FEMININE HYGIENE
FEMININE HYGIENE BINS
Brimaid Ltd, Valley Mills Valley Road, Bradford BD1 4RU Tel: 01274 728837 Fax: 01274 734351 www.brimaid.co.uk
GUM REMOVAL
GUM & GRAFFITI REMOVAL
SELF CONTAINED MOBILE VAN OR TRAILER Trafalgar Cleaning Equipment
01403 273 444
DON’T MISS THETHE REGIONAL CLEANING SHOW FOR DON’T MISS REGIONAL UK CLEANING, FM & WASTE PROFESSIONALS
CLEANING SHOW FOR UK CLEANING, FM & WASTE PROFESSIONALS BOOK YOUR STAND NOW
Limited stands available
MEET OVER 2,000 REGIONAL TRADE VISITORS Organised by
Official media partner
ORGANISED BY THE INDUSTRY FOR THE INDUSTRY
WWW.CLEANINGSHOW.CO.UK/MANCHESTER
K
www.bluerocksystems.co.uk
SOFTWARE / TECHNOLOGY
Don’t miss the UK’s largest event dedicated to cleaning, hygiene & facilities management
THE
CLEANING SHOW 2021
PUT THE DATES IN YOUR DIARY TODAY!
16-18 MARCH 2021 EXCEL • LONDON @TheCleaningShow
www.cleaningshow.co.uk/london
CleaningShow
THE VOICE
THE OFFICIAL MAGAZINE OF THE BRITISH CLEANING COUNCIL
BRITISH CLEANING COUNCIL
YOUR INDUSTRY • YOUR VOICE
AUTUMN/WINTER 2019
REDUCING INJURIES IN THE WORKPLACE DO YOU USE A WATER-FED POLE? READ THIS FIRST
e c a l p k r wo safety precaution
protection
well-being ALSO INSIDE:
BCC TO HELP SHAPE ESA GIVEN WARM FUTURE LABOUR WELCOME BY THE BCC MARKET ENFORCEMENT STRATEGY
REGISTER NOW FOR THE MANCHESTER CLEANING SHOW
KEEP BRITAIN TIDY LAUNCHES GREAT BRITISH SPRING CLEAN
CHAIRMAN’S INTRODUCTION Welcome to the latest edition of the British Cleaning Council (BCC) newsletter, The Voice. I’m pleased to say there is a lot of interesting news between these pages, that will appeal to anyone with a connection to the cleaning sector. The BCC’s role is to champion the interests of the industry and those who work in it and that includes helping protect the health and wellbeing of colleagues in the sector. We are pleased to be working with the Health and Safety Executive to highlight the issue of workplace injuries in our sector and to help gather information to develop solutions to the challenges. You can read about this work on page three. On the following page, you will learn of a revolutionary new research project that we were pleased to help finance. This has resulted in fresh, evidencebased advice for colleagues using telescopic or long water-fed poles that will ultimately help reduce the risks of injury in the workplace. If you are one of the many thousands who use this type of pole, or other similar tools, then I strongly urge you to read the very useful advice leaflet which has been recently published. Find out more on page four. As the ‘voice of the cleaning industry’, the BCC’s role is to ensure that the interests of the companies and individuals that we represent and their views are taken into account by the various bodies that make decisions that affect our industry. With this in mind, there are a number of areas in which we wish to campaign. We are currently putting together a plan of action to ensure
our thoughts on labour, rewards, working conditions, health and safety and much more are taken seriously, and to ensure that the cleaning sector’s voice is heard and to protect the future of the people that work or plan to work in our industry. We’ll be able to reveal full details of our exciting plans over the next year.
We are already making sure the cleaning sector’s voice is heard loudly and in the right places. That’s why we jumped at the chance to be consulted on national strategy for labour market enforcement for 2020/21. You can read all about it on page seven. And as we approach 2020, please ensure that you have registered for the Manchester Cleaning Show. It promises to be another fantastic event hosted by the BCC and Quartz and one not to be missed. Read about it on page six. We are also fully behind the Chartered Institute of Environmental Health’s campaign to highlight the importance of environmental health. Read about it on page six. The BCC’s members are hugely important to us. So we are pleased to welcome the Environmental Services Association, which has just joined the BCC. Find out more on page seven.
INFO@BRITISHCLEANINGCOUNCIL.ORG PAGE 2
We also welcome the new Cleaning & Hygiene Suppliers Association Chairman Lorcan Mekitarian, (page seven). The BCC is committed to supporting excellence and innovation in our industry. So congratulations are due to the winners of the 2019 BICSc Annual Awards – read about that on page eight – and to the Chartered Institute of Wastes Management, which won an accolade for their member-only magazine, Circular. Find out more on page nine. We also want to urge you to consider entering the Cleaning Support Services Association’s 2020 Innovation Showcase before the 20 December deadline (page eight). Finally, you can also find out about an important new Keep Britain Tidy campaign – the Great British Spring Clean – that is launching next year. That’s on page nine. Happy reading.
Paul Thrupp British Cleaning Council Chair, Paul Thrupp BRITISH CLEANING COUNCIL
YOUR INDUSTRY • YOUR VOICE
YOUR INDUSTRY • YOUR VOICE
REDUCING WORKPLACE INJURIES IN THE CLEANING SECTOR Working with members of the Health and Safety Executive Cleaning Industry Liaison Forum (CILF), the British Cleaning Council is focusing on musculoskeletal disorders and injuries suffered by cleaning sector colleagues in the workplace. The Health and Safety Executive (HSE) is raising awareness of the issue with employers as part of its Go Home Healthy campaign. So what exactly are musculoskeletal disorders (MSD) and why look at them now? The HSE defines MSDs as ‘any injury, damage or disorder of the joints or other tissues in the upper and lower limbs or the back’. Data suggests three-quarters of all ill-health within the cleaning sector is MSD-related and the sector has a slightly higher MSD prevalence rate compared to the all-industry average. Over a three-year period between 1 April 2015 and 31 March 2018, there were 269 lifting and handling injuries reported affecting workers in the cleaning sector.
Making a real difference begins with gleaning a deeper understanding of the wide variety of tasks completed by cleaners and any subsequent issues.
“These are the kind of activities undertaken by many in the cleaning sector, hence why there is a slightly higher prevalence rate in the industry.
So the BCC is currently gathering information from members about the areas identified as problematic, with the aim of developing tailormade solutions for cleaning sector businesses.
“The solutions will different for different businesses. It is important that employers understand what their particular workforce is doing so they can adopt the most effective approach.
How do we cut the number of work-related injuries in the cleaning sector?
“Introducing off-the-shelf manual handling training is well-intentioned but might not be the right answer for that business.
Tracy Hamilton is Operational Policy Advisor at the HSE and also Chair of the Cleaning Industry Liaison Forum. She said: “Musculoskeletal disorders are associated with many different physical activities such as manual handling, repetitive tasks, muscular fatigue, load lifting, neck extension and awkward fixed postures.
INJURY FIGURES FOR THE CLEANING INDUSTRY SHOW THAT: • the majority of injuries sustained were musculoskeletal – ie sprains and dislocations – which account for more than two-thirds of all injuries • back injuries were the most common, closely followed by injuries to upper limbs • injuries were most likely to occur while moving waste bags or emptying bins, making beds, carrying heavy items (e.g. furniture), moving linen cages and picking up cleaning materials • the injured person was usually either pushing/pulling something or lifting something • most of the injuries were sustained simply through the act of moving something
“That’s why we are working across the industry, including with the BCC, to collect more information so we can understand the problem. We want to spread the word that these injuries are not inevitable but can be prevented.” Chairman of the BCC Paul Thrupp said: “The BCC wants to help ensure the safety and well-being of colleagues working in the industry. “It is in the interests of both employees and employers to reduce the number of these injuries.” Employers seeking advice on this issue should contact their local environmental health team. For further information, visit: www.campaigns.hse.gov.uk/gohome-healthy/musculoskeletaldisorders-msds/ www.hse.gov.uk/statistics/lfs/ about.htm
PAGE 3 WWW.BRITISHCLEANINGCOUNCIL.ORG
Anyone using water-fed poles should pay heed to the results of a ground-breaking industry-wide project. The recently-published leaflet, entitled Window Cleaning Poles: How To Do It And Look After Your Body, could greatly improve the safety and well-being of workers who use water-fed poles when cleaning high windows. The Federation of Window Cleaners (FWC), supported by a £2,000 grant from the British Cleaning Council (BCC), joined forces with the Health and Safety Executive (HSE), Principle Cleaning, Specialist Window Cleaning Ltd and NJC as part of the revolutionary research initiative which produced the leaflet. The partners worked with ergonomic specialist dorsaVi to develop the guide, which explains best practice techniques when using waterfed poles in order to decrease the risk of musculoskeletal disorders (MSD).
The leaflet advises cleaning operatives on how to set up their workspaces, clean windows and pack up afterwards. It includes detailed information on how to position the body when using long or telescopic poles, recommending using two main techniques - the ‘Whole Body’ and the ‘Walk in and Away From the Wall’ moves. Evidence-based guidance is also being produced for optimal equipment training, including content and data to integrate into in-house training courses.
BCC Chairman Paul Thrupp said: “There has long been concern in the industry that colleagues using this kind of equipment incorrectly could be exposed to injury which, in turn, could develop into debilitating long-term problems.”
DorsaVi used its unique ViSafe wearable body sensors and software to help identify, prioritise and control injury risk by measuring movement profiles and muscle activity in real work environments. Data generated by dorsaVi’s technology allowed the partners to better understand the impact of using long water-fed poles on the user’s back, shoulders and neck. The study allowed the partnership to identify, validate and establish best practice techniques to minimise the risk of musculoskeletal disorders.
“This revolutionary initiative has produced, for the first time, evidence-based advice to protect the safety and health of colleagues using long-reach equipment. I urge colleagues to read this very helpful leaflet and
INFO@BRITISHCLEANINGCOUNCIL.ORG PAGE 4
think seriously about adopting the practices it recommends. “This is a great example of the kind of project that the BCC supports – schemes that benefit the cleaning sector.” FWC Chairman and Safety Officer, Andrew Lee, commented: “When the federation was approached by DorsaVi with this project, of course we got involved. “This was an ideal opportunity to invest in the health, safety and well-being of not only our membership, but of the window cleaning industry in general. “After a lot of input from members of the FWC committee and other organisations on the steering group, the resulting guidance is an excellent and informative tool for all window cleaners and window cleaning companies to use and refer to when using water-fed and telescopic poles.” You can download the leaflet in PDF from www.f-w-c.co.uk
YOUR INDUSTRY • YOUR VOICE
WINDOW CLEANERS USING WATER-FED POLES ARE URGED TO HEED NEW ADVICE
PAGE 5 WWW.BRITISHCLEANINGCOUNCIL.ORG
REGISTER NOW FOR THE MANCHESTER CLEANING SHOW Registration is now open for The Manchester Cleaning Show, which takes place at EventCity on 25-26 March 2020. The Manchester Cleaning Show is the region’s largest cleaning and hygiene event, offering an invaluable opportunity to meet with suppliers, make new connections and gain knowledge about the key challenges affecting the industry. By attending The Manchester Cleaning Show you will: CREATE FANTASTIC BUSINESS RELATIONSHIPS AND STRENGTHEN EXISTING ONES TEST AND SOURCE NEW AND EXCITING PRODUCTS BENEFIT AND LEARN FROM A FREE TO ATTEND CONFERENCE PROGRAMME DISCUSS INDUSTRY CHALLENGES AND NETWORK WITH NEW AND EXISTING CLIENTS
Register here www.cleaningshow. co.uk/manchester/register-now Potential exhibitors are also being welcomed. Interested parties should contact Vanessa Van Santen-Smith on vanessavss@quartzlimited.com
www.cleaningshow.co.uk INFO@BRITISHCLEANINGCOUNCIL.ORG PAGE 6
Environmental Health Manager Peter Carey, a case study for the campaign
CAMPAIGN RAISES THE PROFILE OF ENVIRONMENTAL HEALTH The Chartered Institute of Environmental Health (CIEH) is campaigning to highlight the importance of environmental health, raising the profile of the profession and inspiring the next generation of Environmental Health Practitioners (EHPs). The CIEH’s What Is Environmental Health? campaign promotes the work of EHPs across a range of vital policy areas such as food safety, environmental protection, housing standards and public health. The work of EHPs to safeguard human health and well-being is often overlooked, which is why the campaign focuses on the stories of real EHPs and showcases the meaningful role that they play in protecting the public, as well as their inspirations and passion. Anne Godfrey, Chief Executive of CIEH said: “EHPs are such an important element in our lives, protecting our health and improving our environment. They should be incredibly proud of the part they play in keeping people safe.” If you are an EHP, you can share your experiences on social media using the hashtag #IamEnvironmentalHealth Find out more about the campaign at www.cieh.org
YOUR INDUSTRY • YOUR VOICE
ESA GIVEN WARM WELCOME BY THE BCC The trade body representing the UK’s resource and waste management industry has joined the British Cleaning Council (BCC). The Environmental Services Association (ESA) has around 100 members, two-thirds of whom deliver recycling and waste services, and is working with members to make the circular economy – where all waste is eliminated and resources are re-used – a reality.
NEW CHSA CHAIRMAN SETS OUT HIS AGENDA
The industry is set to invest £10 billion in new facilities with the right Government policy platform.
BCC Chair, Paul Thrupp, said: “I am delighted to welcome the ESA as we share common goals in the desire to promote sustainability and high standards.
ESA Executive Director, Jacob Hayler, said: “As well as working to bring about a circular economy, we aim to raise standards across the industry and drive out poor practices.
“Working together will make us stronger, help achieve the objectives within waste elimination and re-use and ensure the industry’s voice is heard.”
“We always look to build collaboration and work with partners. There is a lot of overlap with the BCC and lots of areas where we can work together.”
“We want everyone who buys cleaning and hygiene products to specify the relevant accreditation scheme. It’s the only way to be certain ‘what’s on the box is what’s in the box’. Our standards, your guarantee.”
Lorcan Mekitarian has become the new Chairman of the Cleaning & Hygiene Suppliers Association (CHSA), replacing Stephen Harrison, who stepped down after five years. Setting out his agenda for his tenure as Chairman, he said he would focus on the association’s respected accreditation schemes and the need to address the big issues facing members.
He continued: “Sustainability is an issue every business must address. Within the CHSA we are already exploring the challenge presented by plastics to our sector, understanding first the volume of plastic introduced in the supply chain and then identifying practical, positive steps members can take.”
“The CHSA Accreditation Schemes guarantee standards in the cleaning and hygiene sector,” said Mr Mekitarian, who is Sales Director of RPC bpi group.
CHSA Chairman Lorcan Mekitarian
BCC TO HELP SHAPE FUTURE LABOUR MARKET ENFORCEMENT STRATEGY
Mr Mekitarian also said he would maintain the CHSA’s active involvement in the British Cleaning Council and its close collaboration with the Cleaning Support Services Association, amongst others, along with inviting more members to get involved.
“We are proud of their impact and I will lead the council in continuing to support and expand them, growing the membership, widening their scope and raising awareness amongst buyers of the products.
The British Cleaning Council (BCC) is to be consulted on strategy for labour market enforcement for 2020/21.
his outline workplan for addressing emerging issues in the labour market next year.
Matthew Taylor, who was responsible for the independent Taylor Review of modern working practices, was appointed Interim Director of Labour Market Enforcement in August 2019.
The BCC aims to take part in roundtable discussions with Mr Taylor or to submit written evidence to him.
The role includes setting priorities for the Gangmasters and Labour Abuse Authority and the Employment Agency Standards Inspectorate, along with minimum wage enforcement. Mr Taylor has written to stakeholders, including the BCC, to share with them
Chairman of the BCC Paul Thrupp said: “Legal requirements around part-time and flexible working, pay and conditions are very important to the cleaning sector which, in turn, is hugely important to the UK economy, as it is worth nearly £50bn and employs over 914,000 workers.”
PAGE 7 WWW.BRITISHCLEANINGCOUNCIL.ORG
ENTRIES INVITED FOR THE CSSA’S 2020 INNOVATION SHOWCASE Applicants have until 20 December to enter the Cleaning & Support Services Support Services Association’s (CSSA) 2020 Innovation Showcase celebrating the cleaning industry’s most innovative products, services and initiatives.
Taking place every two years, the Innovation Showcase is again backed by the Cleaning & Hygiene Suppliers Association (CHSA), which is sponsoring the event. Businesses and organisations operating throughout the cleaning industry are invited to enter their innovative products, services and initiatives. To be eligible the product, service or initiative must have been launched since 1 January 2018 and may be applicable to any area of the cleaning industry. Entries are free. A ‘Dragons’ Den’ panel of industry experts and representatives will review and interview the entrants and select those to be exhibited at the Innovation Showcase itself, taking place on Thursday 19 March 2020.
BICSC AWARDS CELEBRATE OUTSTANDING INDUSTRY EXCELLENCE
The final winner will be selected by a ballot of the delegates attending the Innovation Showcase and announced on the day.
CSSA Chief Executive Officer, John Findlater, explained: “The 2018 Innovation Showcase was a big success, so we are delighted to be running it again!” For more information, visit www.cssauk.co.uk/2020-innovation-showcase/
People and organisations across the industry received accolades at this year’s BICSc Annual Awards, Showcase & Exhibition. The event celebrated outstanding industry excellence in training and accreditation and is one of the industry’s most prestigious events. The British Cleaning Council was proud to sponsor The Eric Hill Medal. BCC Chairman, Paul Thrupp, is pictured above awarding The Eric Hill Medal to Lorraine Larman.
INFO@BRITISHCLEANINGCOUNCIL.ORG PAGE 8
YOUR INDUSTRY • YOUR VOICE
KEEP BRITAIN TIDY LAUNCHES GREAT BRITISH SPRING CLEAN The ultimate national clean-up – run by charity Keep Britain Tidy will take place again in 2020 from March 20 - 13 April. With the ambition to get 600,000 #LitterHeroes out, cleaning up the environment on their doorstep, the Great British Spring Clean is the country’s biggest mass-action environmental campaign. Last year, more than 560,000 volunteers took part, carrying out litter-picks in their communities and clearing up over 4,000 tonnes of rubbish. Next year, with the support of a host of partners including community groups, charities, local authorities and businesses, the campaign aims to be bigger and better than ever. It is easy for anyone to get involved by pledging to take part, organising a litter-pick in their community or joining an organised event. To find out more, register to take part and access resources including a how to guide, simply visit www.keepbritaintidy.org/ GBSpringClean If your organisation wants to get involved, contact the Great British Spring Clean team via email – enquiries@keepbritaintidy.org
Photo shows CIWM’s digital editor, Darrel Moore (centre left), CPL’s Circular editor Liza Salazar (centre) and CPL’s Sophie Hewitt-Jones (centre right)
CIWM’S MEMBERONLY MAGAZINE WINS PRESTIGIOUS AWARD The Chartered Institute of Wastes Management (CIWM)’s member-only magazine, Circular, has been named Best Association Magazine (circulation up to 10,000) by the Association Excellence Awards 2019. The ceremony saw CIWM, with its publishing partners CPL, pick up the award. CIWM beat six other magazine finalists to the award, including the Chartered Institute of Public Relations’ magazine, Influence. Founded in 2014, the Association Excellence Awards are a prestigious accolade to recognise and reward the hard-won achievements of trade bodies, professional membership organisations and associations. CIWM’s CEO Sarah Poulter said: “This is such an amazing accomplishment for all the teams involved in the creation of our new member magazine and recognition for the hard work and dedication it takes to bring members the relevant and engaging content that makes Circular the success it is. “The Circular brand is one that will continue to go from strength to strength and will only grow in its relevance to spearheading the resources agenda.”
PAGE 9 WWW.BRITISHCLEANINGCOUNCIL.ORG
OUR MEMBERS THE ASSOCIATION OF BUILDING CLEANING DSPS THE ASSOCIATION OF HEALTHCARE CLEANING PROFESSIONALS THE BRITISH ASSOCIATION FOR CHEMICAL SPECIALITIES THE BRITISH ASSOCIATION FOR CLEANING IN HIGHER EDUCATION THE BRITISH INSTITUTE OF CLEANING SCIENCE THE BRITISH TOILET ASSOCIATION
ABOUT THE BCC Established in 1982, the British Cleaning Council (BCC) is the authoritative voice of UK cleaning, a sector worth over £24bn a year to the country’s economy and one which employs over 700,000 people. The council’s membership is made up of over 20 trade and membership associations which are all linked to the cleaning and hygiene professions. From contract cleaning to waste management, pest control to housekeeping, training providers to machine manufacturers, chemical suppliers to wheelie-bin washers – the BCC coordinates, campaigns and supports the affairs of the whole of the UK’s cleaning industry. Key priorities for the BCC and its membership include raising professional standards, employee health and well-being, career development and training, improved quality control and better procurement practices. They are also committed to promoting higher levels of cleaning and hygiene across all environments – commercial, domestic and public.
THE BRITISH PEST CONTROL ASSOCIATION THE BUSINESS SERVICES ASSOCIATION THE CHARTERED INSTITUTE OF ENVIRONMENTAL HEALTH THE CHARTERED INSTITUTE OF WASTES MANAGEMENT THE CLEANING & HYGIENE SUPPLIERS’ ASSOCIATION THE CLEANING & SUPPORT SERVICES ASSOCIATION THE DOMESTIC CLEANING ALLIANCE ENVIRONMENTAL SERVICES ASSOCIATION (ESA) THE FEDERATION OF WINDOW CLEANERS THE INDUSTRIAL CLEANING MACHINE MANUFACTURERS ASSOCIATION KEEP BRITAIN TIDY THE NATIONAL CARPET CLEANERS ASSOCIATION THE NATIONAL ASSOCIATION OF WHEELED BIN WASHERS
BRITISH CLEANING COUNCIL
YOUR INDUSTRY • YOUR VOICE
THE UK CLEANING PRODUCTS INDUSTRY ASSOCIATION THE UK HOUSEKEEPERS ASSOCIATION WAMITAB
Find out more: Online at www.britishcleaningcouncil.org Email info@britishcleaningcouncil.org Via Twitter @BritishCleaning On Facebook search “British Cleaning Council”
THE WORSHIPFUL COMPANY OF ENVIRONMENTAL CLEANERS
FOR DETAILS ON EACH MEMBER AND A LINK TO THEIR WEBSITE VISIT WWW.BRITISHCLEANINGCOUNCIL.ORG/MEMBERS