FCM Spring 2023

PM#40063056

PUBLIC HEALTH: GETTING BACK TO BASICS

A PEST-FREE APPROACH TO SPRING

� EXPLORING THE CHALLENGES OF CLEANING PUBLIC SPACES

SUSTAINABILITY IN THE CITY

PART

INFECTION PREVENTION & CONTROL

22 Get your business spring ready and pest-free

Stay protected with an integrated pest management system by Alice Sinia

MAINTENANCE

28 Why flooding season matters

Consider the risks to your building and occupants by James Mandeville

HEALTH AND SAFETY

20 They’re back...

More people in public spaces brings new challenges by David L. Smith

BEST PRACTICES

9 Public health: getting back to basics

A common-sense approach to cleaning common spaces by Jessica Brill

24 Commercial cleaning technology is a breath of fresh air

Washroom tech can help create a more hygienic experience by Dr. Salomé Gião

“As the specialized hygiene standards from early in the COVID-19 pandemic become normalized, consumers will continue to expect investments in technology from the businesses they frequent.”

COMMERCIAL CLEANING AND MAINTENANCE IN 2023

What does facility cleaning and maintenance look like these days? We’ve written a lot over the last few years about sanitation, hygiene, and health and safety as we navigated through unprecedented times, but now it’s time to forge ahead to a brighter future in commercial cleaning.

Our spring issue features a look at retail and hospitality, highlighting the challenges and opportunities that come with keeping public spaces clean and maintained. We cover how to adopt a commonsense approach to cleaning common areas, emphasizing the shift to new, post-pandemic practices.

We also offer a fresh take on investing in air quality and air-powered washroom technology, as it relates to customer-facing industries. As the weather turns warmer and public spaces become more crowded, hand hygiene and air purification are a topic of discussion, along with the importance of implementing an integrated pest management system for your building.

In our cover story, we take a look at outdoor maintenance with a focus on sustainability, spotlighting the City of Waterloo’s green fleet management program as they lead the way for other municipalities to go greener. We talk about how their fleet management program is benefiting the city and the planet, with eco-friendly initiatives like zero-emission vehicles, solar panels, and detailed reporting.

For our expert Q&A, we share our interview with Rob Scott, executive vice president at Bee-Clean Building Maintenance, diving into the value of membership, designations and their benefits, and what consistency brings to the cleaning industry as a whole.

We also look ahead to the upcoming ISSA Canada Show happening in Toronto on June 14 and 15. This year’s theme is CLEAN: A New Way of Thinking, and with over 200 exhibitors, the show will feature educational opportunities, certification, networking, and more!

This issue highlights key challenges in cleaning and maintenance today and a few of the ways we can look to improve our efforts as we move through spring and summer.

Can’t wait for you to read this issue!

JESSICA BRILL jessicab@mediaedge.ca

Editor Jessica Brill jessicab@mediaedge.ca

Art Director Annette Carlucci

Graphic Designer Thuy Huynh

Production Ines Louis Coordinator Inesl@mediaedge.ca

Sales Sean Foley seanf@mediaedge.ca

Contributing Writers Dr. Salomé Gião Jim Mandeville Tanja Nowotny Alice Sinia David L. Smith

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Facility Cleaning & Maintenance is published four times a year by:

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ISSA SHOW CANADA: THE PLACE TO BE IN 2023!

by Tanja Nowotny

a journey to explore how three of Canada’s most established, respected, and successful contract cleaning companies came to being and the strategies they have in place to move their firms forward in the future.

At noon, Jim Flieler, of Charlotte Products Ltd., will take the stage in a session that will further provide information to the industry as he explores “Custodial Efficiencies for 2023 and Beyond.”

Toronto, Ontario, is where you want to be this June as ISSA Show Canada takes its place at the Metro Toronto Convention Centre in the downtown core.

Being held June 14 and 15, this year’s ISSA Show Canada has built on its past two live events and promises to offer even more to further unite and educate all facets of the cleaning and maintenance industry under one roof.

With a theme of “CLEAN: A New Way of Thinking,” the ONE show for facility solutions in Canada has a host of new, added features to not only maximize attendees’ valuable time but to ensure that the trade show experience ticks all the boxes.

EXPANDED TRADE SHOW FLOOR

If it’s innovative new products and services you’re after, ISSA Show Canada will feature an expanded trade show floor, boasting over 200 exhibitors in 2023. Attendees will have a first-hand opportunity to sample the latest products and equipment, as well as to speak with industry experts who can share insight and provide the best options to suit any facility need.

In addition to the trade show floor, a special “Innovation Showcase” area will feature exhibitor demonstrations of current technologies, providing even more opportunities to see and learn about “what’s new.”

EDUCATIONAL PROGRAM

As in years past, ISSA Canada and its committee of industry professionals have once again vetted key experts from all facets of the industry to provide an educational program that offers something for everyone. Get ready to boost your skillset by attending one of five sessions which will delve into issues facing not only facility service providers but suppliers, healthcare and infection control professionals, as well. And, better yet, participants won’t even have to leave the trade show floor because this year, ISSA Show Canada will feature all of its programming on a special “Education Stage” located at the back of the trade show floor.

The education program will kick off on June 14 with the ISSA Hygieia Network Canada Region Continental Breakfast and Panel Discussion, featuring some of the industry’s female pioneers who have forged a clear path for women in the industry today. Following the breakfast, ISSA Canada’s Building Service Contractor Council will build on the theme of ‘then and now’ with a BSC Panel Discussion which will take participants on

On Thursday, June 15, at 10:30 a.m., ISSA Canada’s newly formed Distributor Council will shed light on the status of the supply chain and the course of the distribution sector into the future. Then, at noon, the Canadian Healthcare Housekeepers Association (CHHA) and special guest, Mark Heller, will take a look at auditing cleanliness in the healthcare space.

Whether you’re a facility service provider, distributor, supplier or healthcare professional, ISSA Show Canada’s educational offering will ensure attendees walk away more knowledgeable about the industry they serve.

But the education doesn’t end there.

ISSA CERTIFICATION WORKSHOPS

This year, ISSA Canada is pleased to host two ISSA Cleaning Management Institute (CMI) Certification programs.

On Wednesday, June 14 (11:30 a.m. to 3 p.m.) and Thursday, June 15 (9 a.m. to 1 p.m.), the two-part Certified Custodial Technician (C.C.T.) workshop will convene in the convention centre. The C.C.T. course offers a unique hands-on and lecture-based educational experience for cleaning industry professionals and frontline workers. Held over two days, the course will touch on both the CMI Basic and Advanced Custodial training courses and will result in a C.C.T. certification following a final exam.

In addition to the Custodial Technician training, ISSA Show Canada will also feature the CMI Accredited Auditing Professional (AAP) certification workshop on Wednesday, June 14 from 11:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. The AAP workshop is designed for any professional looking to enhance their knowledge and skill around quality assurance and building audits. The one-day session features group discussion, break-out sessions, guest speakers, and much more.

As an added bonus, both CMI Certification Workshops will feature special ISSA Show Canada pricing, so you’ll want to save your seat early.

Although the key feature of ISSA Show Canada is education, a host of networking sessions are also planned, offering delegates an opportunity to catch up with colleagues, learn about current trends, and share industry experiences. Not only will two networking sessions be held directly on the trade show floor, but delegates will also have an opportunity to get their “Brit” on at a special All-Industry Night hosted at the nearby Elephant & Castle pub.

Whether it’s education, certification, networking, or simply reconnecting with the industry, mark your calendar for June 14 and 15, because ISSA Show Canada is the place to be in 2023! For more information on the show or to register, please visit www.ISSAShowCanada.com.

There’s more to experience than ever before at this year’s June show

PUBLIC HEALTH: GETTING BACK TO BASICS

Brian Sansoni at the American Cleaning Institute takes a common-sense approach to cleaning common spaces

by Jessica Brill

As the cleaning industry successfully navigated through the last few years into our post-pandemic world, it’s easy to get caught up with new practices, ever-changing regulations, and today’s newest trends. According to Brian Sansoni, senior vice president of communications, outreach, and membership at the American Cleaning Institute, it’s important to remember the basics.

“From labour shortages to guest expectations, the industry is still being challenged,” Sansoni says. “Relaxing our efforts, sitting back, and forgetting everything we’ve learned is not the answer, but a little common sense can go a long way towards addressing these issues going forward.”

While challenges still exist for cleaners and guest expectations are higher than ever, putting health and safety first means using common sense to get the job done.

THE CHALLENGES

Keeping public areas clean is not an easy feat, especially in a retail or hospitality setting, where guests and customers frequent that space at all times of the day. How can cleaners do their jobs when an area is often occupied day and night? Not having any downtime can certainly be a challenge that requires attention to scheduling, but that’s not as concerning as doing the job short-handed.

Many cleaning companies continue to struggle with staff shortages and employee turnover as they attempt to provide the service levels their clients expect. Now more than ever, it’s important to prioritize the health and safety of cleaning staff to keep those numbers as high as possible.

It may seem counterintuitive to keep sick cleaners at home while there’s a labour shortage, but it’s a vital long-term strategy to keep cleaning workforces at their strongest.

Prioritizing cleaners’ health also lets them know they are important, building trust and loyalty between employers and employees. “Cleaners have certainly been the unsung heroes,” says Sansoni. “The health and safety of your cleaning staff are just as important as anyone else’s health and safety, maybe even more important.” When cleaners are taken care of, they can take care of your customers.

While it’s tempting to put the guest experience above all else, your cleaning crew’s health and safety are vital to the success of your business.

THE GUEST EXPERIENCE

In recent years, the heightened guest awareness and expectation for spotless spaces have become much higher than in the pre-pandemic days. It’s not just about seeing staff cleaning these areas; it translates across your entire business, as part of your

approach to public health. Having sanitizers readily available, keeping hand soap full in your washrooms, and providing sanitizing wipes all speak to your commitment to health and safety, and have an impact on the guest experience. It’s these basic steps that let your guests know that you are taking care of public health responsibly.

In the hospitality industry, many cleaning practices were adjusted during the pandemic and have not returned to the pre-pandemic procedures. With hotels and restaurants full again, guest expectations can be a challenge.

As an example, housekeepers are not always visiting rooms for multi-night stays unless it is requested by the guest. Whether it is because of staffing shortages or simply the new way of things, these practices need to be made clear to visitors to manage expectations and deliver on that experience.

It’s critical as part of the guest experience that they are aware that you are prioritizing health and safety. Often these days, cleaning products are missing the strong odour once associated with a “clean” environment, so if cleaners are visiting those public spaces when they are empty, that vigilance needs to be communicated clearly with signage and supplies wherever guests will be looking.

Sansoni suggests that employee training plays a large part in balancing a superior guest experience and keeping public spaces clean. While a clean -

ing company or crew may be engaged for larger jobs or deep cleans, there is often the need for frontline staff to supplement that cleaning. So, at a hotel, the front desk staff may be tasked with sanitizing the counter or business centre. At a store, employees may need to wipe down public areas or attend to the washrooms.

Making sure that staff are aware of the proper cleaning products, what not to mix, appropriate applications and procedures, and safe storage are simple and effective ways to make sure all staff stay qualified to complete their assigned tasks.

Encourage staff to read labels, ask questions, and follow cleaning directives. Labour shortages often mean that someone is filling in or that there’s a new team member

to train. Don’t forget about these employees who are tasked with keeping customers and your staff safe. Give them the tools and training they need to be able to focus on public health.

THE BASICS

Cleaning comes down to common sense. The last few years have been hyper-focused on sanitizing and disinfecting to stop the spread of germs and keep everyone safe. But, as Sansoni explains, that doesn’t mean we need to be wiping down surfaces every five minutes. Instead, it means putting common sense practices in place to manage the link between cleaning hygiene and health.

In public spaces, this translates to paying special attention to high-touch and high-

traffic areas where vigilance is required to sanitize and disinfect.

Things like door handles, handrails, and light switches may be obvious, but what about phones, touchscreens, and shared equipment like printers? Keeping these areas and surfaces clean is crucial in stopping the spread of germs from customers and employees alike. Are you overlooking places like breakrooms where staff congregate? Or, in a hospitality or retail setting, are there items like remote controls, meeting spaces, or changerooms that need special attention?

Making decisions that make sense is the way to go. Simple steps like removing unnecessary shared items, avoiding direct contact wherever possible, and following public health guidelines for maximum effect are easy ways to stay focused and manage the work.

THE COMMITMENT

When the pandemic hit and cleaning for health took centre stage, the proper use of cleaning and hygiene products was a critical tool for public health. Even as the worst appears to be in the past, we need to continue to keep health and safety at the forefront as we navigate these next few years. “We can’t afford to take our eye off the ball or take cleaning for granted again, as I believe was the case before the pandemic,” Sansoni says.

Staying committed to making sure you are doing your best to keep spaces clean and sanitized, with adequate supplies and the training to know how to use them — that’s the common sense thinking that Sansoni is talking about. “These are opportunities to show customers that health and safety is a priority and offer them the peace of mind they need when they visit.”

Taking a ‘back to basics’ approach to hygiene, cleaning, and disinfecting products can effectively enforce health and safety, prioritizing guests and cleaners at the same time. Minimizing risks, providing the tools, and cleaning and sanitizing with purpose is the path to maintaining public health in today’s world.

Though public opinion and cleaning practices have shifted in the last few years, there is room for everyday sanitization to become less complicated, without compromising the results. A little common sense goes a long way. /

“We can’t afford to take our eye off the ball or take cleaning for granted again, as I believe was the case before the pandemic.”

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ADDING CONSISTENCY TO COMMERCIAL CLEANING

Created by the industry, for the industry, ISSA’s CIMS is the first consensusbased management standard of its kind

by Jessica Brill

As the commercial cleaning industry continues to change and evolve, consistency has become more important than ever for companies looking to provide an elevated level of cleanliness, while prioritizing productivity and the customer experience.

To that end, ISSA’s Cleaning Industry Management Standard (CIMS) certification was created as a tool to help cleaning companies fully understand and address customer service requirements and to manage their companies to prioritize quality, efficiency, and overall customer satisfaction.

FC&M chatted with Rob Scott, executive vice president at Bee-Clean Building Maintenance, about what earning ISSA’s CIMS certification means to this Canadian-owned and -operated company.

This interview has been edited for length and clarity.

FC&M: WHAT MOTIVATED YOU TO ATTAIN THE CIMS DESIGNATION?

SCOTT: We’ve been involved with ISSA for a long time, and we’ve seen the importance of staying connected with industry associations and groups. I think for us as an organization, going through the process and the audit itself can serve as a functional overview of our performance within our own business and a little more broadly, within the marketplace. It’s great that as Canadians we can get a little more focused on the Canadian marketplace, along with being able to benchmark internationally for a broader audience throughout North America.

So, we appreciate that part of the process. Of course, internally, it’s a great place for us to work with ISSA’s auditing team to spot our own blind spots and to look in the rearview mirror to identify areas where we can improve. Coming out of our most recent audit with the ISSA in the summer of 2022, their team has been able to provide some insight into opportunities for improvement and identify areas where we’re performing well. We really see a lot of value in the certification.

FC&M:

WHAT DOES THE CERTIFICATION PROCESS ENTAIL?

SCOTT: From start to finish, it’s probably about a three-month process. That’s right from kicking off with the ISSA to involving our own teams across Canada to working with the assigned auditing team. It involves a number of things including an on-site audit which is fairly comprehensive in that it makes a good attempt at covering the geography of Canada.

So, we are really fortunate to be a company that operates across Canada and, as such, one of the benefits for us was that the process allowed us to take a look at our own standardization and how we operate, as the audits took place across the country. Having such a broad company can also sometimes make it difficult to connect

with each other internally, but this process gave us the chance to drive some of that much-needed connection and consistency.

FC&M: WHY ARE THESE TYPES OF DESIGNATIONS IMPORTANT?

SCOTT: We can all get caught up in looking for certifications and checking off all those boxes, but I think this certification has great value in that it’s less a box-checking exercise and more of a functional one. The ISSA is trying to develop janitorial contractors that perform at a consistent level, that have an easily-accessible base of knowledge to share with their clients. The intent of this designation is better-suited than some other auditing standards. This process has even encouraged us to take a more mindful view of other certifications and what they offer to us and to our clients.

FC&M: WHY IS STANDARDIZATION IN THE CLEANING INDUSTRY SO IMPORTANT?

SCOTT: Part of the challenges in the cleaning industry space is that there is no red seal standard for us to point to, no consistent training curriculum to provide reassurance to our team members or to our clients that we have the skillset required to do a specific task, or that the skillsets of our organization translate to the ability to perform work. Standardization is something the Bee-Clean would like to see across the industry; it gives our team members reassurance that what they’re doing is safe, and that the techniques they’ve been instructed on allow them to do their jobs and head home safely at the end of the day.

It also allows us to provide assurance to our clients that we are being effective with their budget dollars and that the occupants of their buildings will be safe and secure in the environments in which they work. I really do see a benefit to certification and

standardization, and we certainly hope that we can be a part of an enhanced set of standards and certification processes across Canada and hopefully across North America.

FC&M: HOW DO YOU THINK THIS TYPE OF STANDARDIZATION AFFECTS THE INDUSTRY AS A WHOLE?

SCOTT: I think an industry without standardization makes it easy to have service standards all over the map

companies and services. There’s no good way to get a sense of what they’re buying and how it stacks up against competitors in the marketplace. Standardization and certification of industry practices is a good way for the industry to have the confidence that what they’re buying is on an equal footing, leveling the playing field, and that elevates the whole industry. Organizations will be able to take that and leverage it into good training for their employees and deliver better outcomes and visibility for their clients.

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FC&M: HOW DO YOU THINK THE CIMS DESIGNATION MIGHT HELP YOUR BUSINESS?

SCOTT: We have struggled historically with the market being aware of the CIMS certification, but increasingly (mainly institutions) are viewing the CIMS certification with a more favourable lens. They’re recognizing that it represents a standardization within the industry and a level of achievement that allows them to benchmark their competitors against one another. That has been really helpful. We are hoping to see more and more of that within the industry.

FC&M: CAN YOU OFFER ANY TIPS FOR OTHER COMPANIES LOOKING TO ACHIEVE THE DESIGNATION?

SCOTT: It is a rigorous process, but don’t let that scare you! I don’t think that should deter potentially interested parties. The process is really beneficial, and you will only know its true value once you’ve done it yourself. If a company is considering it, my recommendation is to contact the ISSA and

You need to commit to the auditing process. It’s not something that can be done off the corner of someone’s desk, you really need to make sure that you are able to put in the appropriate resourcing to take care of it properly. If you follow the standards that are set out in CIMS program, it can make a meaningful difference to how your business operates, from efficiency to knowledge. We really have gained a fantastic insight into how our business runs, and we’ve been able to institute more consistencies throughout the business. /

For more information about ISSA’s CIMS certification, please visit their website at

“Standardization and certification of industry practices is a good way for the industry to have the confidence that what they’re buying is on an equal footing, leveling the playing field, and that elevates the whole industry.”

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SUSTAINABILITY

IN THE CITY

How the City of Waterloo’s fleet management is focused on a greener future

by Jessica Brill

As people all over the world strive to lower their carbon footprints and move closer towards an eco-friendly life, the City of Waterloo is a shining example of what can be done at the municipal level.

With more than 400 vehicles and pieces of equipment, Jason Evans, manager of fleet services for the City of Waterloo, has a lot on his plate, but environmental responsibility stays top of mind.

Having spent his career working with various fleets across the country, Jason applies his experience and passion not only to the management of the fleet but also to how the fleet impacts the environment. He describes Waterloo as “a very progressive city, looking to be ahead of the curve with their green fleet practices, always asking how we can complete the tasks and minimize the environmental impacts.” And where passion leads, practicality follows.

THE ROAD TO GOING GREENER City Council was one of many municipalities that declared a climate emergency. This

is an important issue and one the city takes very seriously. “Progress to address climate issues is required from everyone, and in fleet we’re doing our part by advocating and supporting the greening of our fleet where possible,” Evans says.

Of course, there are always budgetary constraints and that’s why planning is necessary to make the journey sustainable. “It’s exciting to see so much support for purchasing zero-emissions vehicles, but charging infrastructure must also be taken into account,” he continues. Fleet is collaborating with all divisions within the city to realize our operations’ future needs for zero-emissions vehicles and the necessary infrastructure to support them.

It’s not all smooth sailing, though. Even with all the planning and infrastructure in place, today’s economic landscape presents a few unique challenges, like the availability of equipment, which is Evan’s biggest obstacle to growing the green movement within his fleet.

With only a few available electric vehicle options that make sense for municipal use, the limited access to these vehicles is certainly an impediment. “We are challenged with being able to source the types of equipment we’re looking for, despite the fact that electric vehicles are more expensive than their internal combustible engine equivalents, demand is extremely high.”

Between availability and operational need, Evans has found it necessary to broaden the scope of his eco-friendly initiatives. “We are focusing not only on the fuel sources for our vehicles but also on the types of vehicles purchased and how they are used,” he says.

The decisions being made need to reflect the needs of the community — the city exists to deliver programs and

services to residents. “We don’t want to assign someone an electric vehicle if it hinders the performance of their job,” Evans confirms. “But this is where we look at the complement of the fleet and where can we right-size vehicles.” Deciding that a small, energy-efficient vehicle can replace the job of a full-size truck is just part of the overall strategy, proving that forward-thinking is vital to long-term success.

MAKING LASTING CHANGE

How do you green a fleet? Evans and his team consider where resources are needed most and how to get the best bang for their buck when adding things like electric or hybrid vehicles to the fleet. “We look at the actual need for this vehicle, and that’s how we are determining the right size and type of vehicle to purchase. In-depth discussion

“How can we use these vehicles to get better value and lessen our impact on the environment?”

and analyzing data assist in the process of rightsizing,” Evans confirms.

“We also focus on utilization. How can we use these vehicles to get better value and lessen our impact on the environment? Can we pool them? Use one vehicle instead of two to get the job done? Or two instead of three? How do we scroll that back without handcuffing the operations and get our jobs done?” asks Evans.

Taking a green approach takes some creative thinking and experimenting. In fact, the city made headlines in 2022 with the purchase of a fully robotic emission-free lawnmower for the city, capable of cutting up to six acres of grass on one charge. It’s these types of projects that help cities determine what best suits their long-term needs.

As part of the green fleet initiatives, the City of Waterloo has added 10 fully electric vehicles so far, as well as putting solar panels on some of the maintenance vehicles and utility trailers that require off-site power. This means that a work vehicle or trailer could be parked on the side of the road do-

ing some maintenance, and rather than sitting there idling, a solar source allows them to have their lighting on without running the engine.

As part of Evans’ progressive planning, he is turning to technology, specifically telematics to optimize his efforts, using tools to better monitor usage, observe fuel economy, and lower greenhouse gas emissions. “We can use the reporting to show divisions how vehicle utilization affects their operations and reduces our fleet-wide fuel consumption. It simply comes down to how we can use less fuel,” Evans says as he explains his newest focus.

“Data is critical in being able to build that framework and to use the tools you have in the very best way,” says Evans. “If we want to use less fuel and do it in a way that makes sense, data is a vital tool in the new age of fleet management.”

PLANNING FOR AN EVEN GREENER FUTURE

While the city has made great strides to go green, there’s no end in sight, with a plan

to add more zero-emission vehicles, working towards the City of Waterloo’s impressive goal to make 50 percent of their vehicles zero-emission by 2030.

What is Evans’ advice to other municipalities looking to lower their carbon footprints? Broaden your strategy and plan ahead. Look for new technology, new evolutions, and new ways to improve. It doesn’t end with adding zero-emissions vehicles; there are many ways you can go greener by taking a look at your operations and making smart, targeted changes.

The City of Waterloo is heading into an even greener future. “I’m even more motivated when I see other municipal and private fleets getting involved and taking an environmentally responsible approach to fleet management,” says Evans.

Between focusing on utilization, measuring viability, studying telematics, right-sizing vehicles, and constantly exploring new options, the City of Waterloo’s fleet is looking toward a bright, green future — and leading the way for more fleets to do the same. /

THEY’RE BACK…

by David L. Smith

As the public returns to a preCOVID lifestyle, more and more hospitality facilities are following suit. Hotels and motels, restaurants, and grocery stores are relaxing their enhanced cleaning protocols and spaces are filling up again. However, COVID-19 is still present, along with norovirus and aggressive flu seasons, so it’s just as important as ever to maintain indoor spaces that are clean, healthy, and safe.

A FRESH TAKE ON INDOOR AIR

Did you know that air pollutants are two to five times higher indoors? One of the most common sources of indoor air pollutants is humans themselves as they release bacteria and viruses into the air. That can be a significant issue in a restaurant packed with guests and staff. If ventilation is inadequate in crowded areas, the risk of infection from these pathogens is high.

Fortunately, advancements in cleaning technology continue to be introduced. The latest development is air purification systems that work to clean the air of pollutants, with some machines capable of continually removing up to 99.998 per cent of airborne pathogens.

Introducing an air purification system is actually quite simple. It starts with an assessment of the size of the space and how many air changes are needed every hour, based on peak traffic periods and the air purifier’s filtering abilities. That determines the number of air purifying units required and optimal placement within the space. Once the units are set in place they take care of the rest, continually expelling clean, sanitized air!

People have returned to public spaces — and brought new cleaning challenges with them

ALL-IN ON HAND HYGIENE

Despite the hyper-vigilance around hand hygiene during COVID-19, old habits die hard. Historically, it’s been challenging to get people to practice proper hand hygiene. A study conducted by the Journal of Environmental Health found that of 3,749 participants, only 66.9 per cent washed their hands with soap and 10.3 per cent didn’t wash at all. From those 66.9 per cent of soap users, only 5.3 per cent spent more than 15 seconds washing in total. For facility owners, especially those who see a lot of traffic, this is concerning.

Keeping all washrooms fully stocked with hand soap is the place to start. Consider placing hand washing posters next to every sink in the washroom to encourage people

to not only wash their hands but to do so properly and for the correct period of time. But it doesn’t stop there.

Providing guests with the appropriate products to dry their hands is essential. Although an air hand dryer might be an attractive purchase to make for your washrooms, multiple studies have proven that paper towels can reduce bacteria on the hands by 77 per cent while air dryers actually increased the amount of bacteria on

David

hands and in the air. Since 69 per cent of participants in a handwashing survey preferred paper towels over air dryers in washrooms, a paper towel dispenser is not only a great investment in facility hygiene but also for the customer experience.

In hospitality spaces like restaurants, hotels and motels, and grocery stores, there are many high-touch surfaces from condiment bottles to door handles and shopping carts. Make access to hand sanitizer, with an alcohol percentage of 60 per cent or more, readily available in all areas of your facility. Placing a dispenser next to or before hightouch and high-traffic areas can increase their use and promote better hand hygiene.

MAKING THE GRADE

Participating in clean building certifications is becoming a popular practice to ensure a certain level of cleanliness and best practices are maintained at all times. The Cleaning Industry Management Standard (CIMS) and the Global Biorisk Advisory Council (GBAC) Star certifications can define the standard of cleanliness in any facility.

Digital cleaning management systems can help facilitate efficient and effective cleaning programs that meet CIMS regulations and help you achieve your cleanliness goals, and many leading systems such as WandaNEXT TM are equipped with key features to track, verify, and validate facility cleanliness and designed to make it easy to streamline cleaning operations, improve efficiency, and save time and money.

Whether you manage an essential or leisure facility, a hotel/motel, a grocery store, or a restaurant, tracking your process allows staff to respond to all the facility’s cleaning needs, and aids in keeping your spaces clean, safe, and healthy. /

L. Smith is the Cleaning, Hygiene & Sanitation Director at Bunzl Cleaning & Hygiene, Canada’s largest specialist distributor of cleaning and hygiene products and equipment. For more information or to book a comprehensive Facility Assessment please contact david.smith@bunzlch.ca.

“One of the most common sources of indoor air pollutants is humans themselves as they release bacteria and viruses into the air.”

GETTING YOUR BUSINESS SPRING READY AND PEST-FREE

Stay protected with an integrated pest management system

by Alice Sinia

As temperatures begin to warm up, more people will be out and about seeking retail therapy. From restaurants to markets, food shoppers judge stores for various reasons, including their selection of fresh produce, food quality, overall product appeal, and shopping experience. No doubt you are working hard to entice customers by providing a wide array of products in your storefront. It’s these very products that may come with pests or attract pests in search of a food source. There’s nothing worse than ruining a great customer experience with a cockroach or mouse scurrying across the floor.

AN INTEGRATED PEST MANAGEMENT (IPM) program can help protect your store or restaurant from the threats pests pose to public health, including food safety and customer satisfaction.

IPM in grocery stores and restaurants focuses on removing or minimizing the elements that attract pests to the building. Namely, pests need access to food, water, shelter, and comfortable temperatures, so eliminating or modifying these elements will prevent infestations. With regular, practiced sanitation and a properly maintained facility, you can keep pests out and minimize the need for chemical treatments.

Working with a pest management professional is the first step to pest prevention by designing and implementing the following IPM techniques:

• Develop and follow a comprehensive, written sanitation program to eliminate food, water, breeding, and shelter sources for pests in all food preparation areas including the deli, bakery, and meat processing and packaging areas.

• Immediately clean all spills and wipe down equipment daily. Use organic cleaners in drains to remove the grease and grime that can feed and act as a breeding ground for small flies such as drain flies and phorid flies, roaches, and other pests. Regularly clean dead spaces or voids in food prep equipment or ma-

chines, hard-to-reach areas such as under prep counters, cart wheels, behind appliances, and grease traps. These dead ends provide shelter and breeding grounds for pests because they tend to go unnoticed.

• Keep storage areas dry, cool, and organized. Store all products on wirebacked shelves off the floor and away from the wall. In addition, if products are packed in bulk, store them in closed containers to prevent spills and pest attraction. Use products on a first in, first out (FIFO) basis and immediately discard any deteriorated or spoiled product. If products are stored on skids or pallets on the floor, maintain an inspection aisle between the pallets and perimeter spaces along the walls to allow for effective housekeeping and pest monitoring. Don’t forget to inspect incoming shipments for pest activity before you accept them.

• Line and seal all trashcans and remove trash daily from inside the store. Position dumpsters as far away from the building as possible and clean and rotate them regularly. Also, place them on concrete pads instead of directly on the ground. This will stop rodents from burrowing underneath, as well as prevent flies from breeding.

• Empty recycling bins on a weekly basis. This includes hosing them down to prevent fly breeding.

• Keep all doors shut when not in use. Install door sweeps on the bottoms of doors and weather stripping around entrances to provide a secure seal. In areas of heavy traffic, such as shipping and receiving docks, consider using plastic strip doors

or air curtains as an additional barrier to pests. Have a professional check to ensure the air curtain is installed properly and have it serviced regularly to ensure maximum efficiency.

• Seal or screen all openings, gaps, and cracks in the exterior of the building with rodent-resistant sealant to prevent pest entry. Pay special attention to areas around exterior utility penetrations.

• Monitor regularly for signs of pest infestations, such as droppings, insect frass, trails, webbing, damaged product, live or dead pests, and sounds. Notify your pest management professional immediately of any pest sightings.

It’s also important to establish an open line of communication that encourages all employees to report pest sightings immediately. This will help prevent pest activity in areas such as breakrooms, the kitchen, or the dining area. Fostering an open line of communication will help restaurateurs and retailers get ahead of any pest issues and related health and safety threats. Remember, employees can bring pests into the restaurant on their belongings from home, so having workers inspect their residences for pest activity regularly is a proactive step in preventing infestations from outside sources. It’s also important that they know about pest sighting reports and are encouraged to help prevent unwanted visits.

When it comes to pest control, prevention is key to help avoid a costly infestation. Since each situation is different, it’s vital to have an ongoing IPM program and to consistently monitor the process. With a bit of knowledge, effort, and time you can help prevent pests from becoming the primary guests in your store or restaurant. /

Alice Sinia, Ph.D. is the quality assurance manager of Regulatory/Lab Services for Orkin Canada, focusing on government regulations pertaining to the pest control industry. For more information, email Alice Sinia at asinia@orkincanada.com or visit orkincanada.ca.

COMMERCIAL HYGIENE TECHNOLOGY IS A BREATH OF FRESH AIR

Investing in air quality and air-powered washroom technology can help create a more hygienic experience for your customers and guests

by Dr. Salomé Gião

Throughout the COVID-19 pandemic, many businesses made changes in their routines in response to public health guidelines. As a result, many of those businesses — especially in customerfacing industries like retail and hospitality — continue to invest in their environment to make their shared spaces safer and more hygienic.

CREATING CLEANER AIR INDOORS

Today, Canadians have a greater awareness and understanding of the importance of indoor air quality. With people spending up to 90 per cent of their time indoors according to Environment and Climate Change Canada, it’s increasingly important to ad-

dress microscopic particles like dust, volatile organic compounds, formaldehyde, and microbes like bacteria and viruses, that pollute the air we breathe.

While most commercial spaces have central ventilation systems, it may be unclear to customers and owners how effective filtration and ventilation can be, especially when they’re unseen. Coupled with increased awareness of indoor pollutants, visible purification technology can help people feel safe and confident in indoor environments. In a recently conducted air quality survey, 82 per cent of Canadians said they believe air purification is important in indoor working environments, citing reasons including

reducing airborne microbes to limit contracting or transmitting illness, improving long-term health by reducing harmful airborne particles, and an overall fresher feeling environment.

Using tools like portable air purifiers provide an easy way to improve air quality in any commercial space. However, choosing the right machine for your business can be a challenge. Consider these key features when investing in an air purifier:

• The size of your space and the volume of air you need to filter. Air Multiplier technology projects the purified air to the full room, expanding the purification benefits to larger spaces.

• Current air quality issues in your

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space. Old buildings may be dusty, comm ercial products may off-gas volatile organic compounds and formaldehyde, allergens are a year-round problem, and viruses can spread through the air. Purifiers are scientifically tested to capture particles as small as 0.3 microns, including dust, allergens, and viruses like H1N1 influenza. Many purifiers are also equipped with a catalytic filter that traps and destroys formaldehyde continuously, breaking it down into carbon dioxide and water.

• Consumers increasingly demand standards like HEPA. These advanced filter systems capture 99 per cent of particles including allergens, pollutants, bacteria, pollen, mold spores, and gases.

IMPROVING THE WASHROOM EXPERIENCE

While air quality might be effectively invisible, hygiene in shared washrooms is anything but. A 2021 global survey found that empty paper towel dispensers were among the top five frustrations for Canadians surveyed about using public washrooms, followed by a lack of toilet paper, unclean toilets, no soap, and blocked toilets.

But while customers find a lack of paper towels frustrating, 24 per cent of Canadians surveyed were unsure about the cleanliness of air from hand dryers. Choosing the best option for a shared public washroom can be a challenge, but armed with the right information, businesses can make informed decisions that improve the washroom experience for all customers.

Some of the key factors to consider include:

• Your budget. While hand dryers can be more expensive upfront, their long-term benefits can far outweigh these costs, some costing up to 99 per cent less to run than offering paper towels.

• Cleanliness. Not only do hand dryers not contribute to paper waste or the perception of a dirty washroom, but advanced filtration can also make them a more hygienic choice if equipped with HEPA filtration.

• Washrooms are high-touch areas and can benefit from touch-free technology. Allowing customers to dry their hands quickly while limiting touchpoints can ensure a cleaner space for all. Some faucet hand dryers are completely touch-free, providing a washing and drying solution that switches automatically between water and air, drying hands in just 14 seconds.

THE BOTTOM LINE

As the specialized hygiene standards from early in the COVID-19 pandemic become normalized, consumers will continue to expect investments in technology from the businesses they frequent. Understanding your business needs and priorities when making hygiene investments can be a differentiator from your competitors, providing consumers with a safe and elevated experience. /

Dr. Salomé Gião, lead scientist at Dyson, leads the claims for environment control, wearables, lighting, and Dyson Airblade. Alongside leading research studies to support these categories, Salomé has also recently co-authored two scientific papers.

WHY FLOODING SEASON MATTERS

It’s important to know the risks to your building and its occupants

by Jim Mandeville

Canada is no stranger to flooding and extreme weather. Even though it’s spring, a recent Colorado low system brought a messy week to much of central and eastern Canada, leaving hundreds of thousands without power after ice storms..

While winter’s clutches may still hold firm in some Canadian regions, don’t be fooled; flooding season approaches quickly and without much warning.

Several million people in Canada are vulnerable to flooding and flooding has accounted for 40% of weather-related catastrophes in Canada since 1970, according to the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC).

As a result of climate change, extreme weather is on the rise. In the March 28 federal budget, the government announced new initiatives and a new approach to address the gaps in natural disaster protection and insurance. This is something businesses and organizations, including the Insurance Bureau of Canada, have been clamouring for over the years, with increased intensity.

SPRING MELT SURVEY

A recent spring melt survey examined Canadians’ concerns, perceptions, and property readiness amid ever-changing weather patterns. It found that fears of flooding and mould are top worries keeping them up at night. Overall, three in five people are worried about the damage caused by severe rains and flooding.

Regional flooding concerns are highest in BC (73%) which endured the historic Pacific Northwest floods in 2021. That disaster saw several communities overwhelmed by rain, rising rivers, road closures, and

evacuations. Atlantic Canada, still reeling from Hurricane Fiona, was the second most worried region regarding damage caused by severe rains and flooding (65%), followed by Ontario (58%), Quebec (54%), Alberta (48%), and Manitoba/Saskatchewan (46%).

The survey also asked about disasterrelated concerns. Three-quarters of people said they are concerned about the risk of mould after a flooding event, and 24% said their workplace or home has already been affected by mould.

Meanwhile, about one-third of respondents said the air quality of their workplace is regularly monitored, while about twothirds know the places to check for signs of mould in their home or workplace.

Finally, the survey touched on the importance of disaster preparedness. Four in five respondents feel all workplaces should have disaster recovery and business continuity plans in place, while only two in five are aware that their workplace has such a plan.

One of the biggest threats to facilities is flooding and water damage. In the spring, when ground can still be frozen, thawing snow and heavy rainfall heighten the risk of water damage to many commercial properties.

APPROACH TO PROPERTIES AND FLOODING

In the melting season, properties are hit hardest by flooding in the lower levels where water seeps in through cracks in the foundation that may have developed over the winter. With excess water flowing through sew-

ers and drains, flooding is also a risk from sewer back-ups. Heavy precipitation can result in leaks indoors from the roof while melting ice and snow can create water accumulation both above and below ground.

The excess water and moisture caused by spring showers and melting snow can also lead to another hazard, mould growth — especially in dark spaces that are unable to dry naturally. For commercial properties, it is important to be aware of the environmental triggers that feed mould growth. On properties where water damage from spring flooding has occurred, mould growth poses a severe threat to the health and safety of the residents or occupants.

DISASTER-PREPAREDNESS PLANNING

The risk of heavy rainfall during many seasons is a cause for concern and is a constant driver for facility maintenance managers to be more resilient and better prepared for tomorrow. To that end, managers can be central in business continuity and disaster planning to mitigate possible damage, work stoppage, and repair expenses.

Today, there is an increased appetite for disaster-preparedness planning from businesses. More organizations are exploring and inquiring about business continuity planning, including flood preparation and response. This is a trend that needs to continue. Strategically partnering with response providers is key in minimizing downtime for any organization. /

Jim Mandeville is SVP, Large Loss for First Onsite Property Restoration. He has been onsite mitigating floods and disasters for businesses and homeowners at several catastrophic events in Canada.

ISSA CANADA ANNOUNCES NEW MEMBERS

ISSA Canada, a division of the leading worldwide trade association for the cleaning industry, is a not-for-profit organization that represents product and service providers across the country. ISSA Canada works to promote public knowledge and an understanding of sanitary maintenance principles while contributing to improved public health and environmental awareness in Canada.

The association is focused on providing a high degree of professionalism, technical knowledge, and business ethics to its ever-growing membership. Representing companies in manufacturing, distributing, and selling sanitary products and services, ISSA Canada is always adding new companies to its organization. Here is a list of some of the most recent additions to ISSA Canada’s membership:

1. JDI Cleaning Services (Building Service Contractor): Since 1992, they have focused on offering affordable, customized, effective cleaning programs, governed by a core set of values highlighting quality, customer satisfaction, and bringing commercial cleaning to the next level.

2. The Mold Guy (Residential Cleaner): Focused on Toronto and the GTA, they specialize mold inspection, air quality testing, and mold removal services, and they go above and beyond to provide great service to their customers.

3. PUR KLEEN (Residential Cleaner): Established in 2000, they provide chemicalfree cleaning services with Canadian products, offering expert service, honest estimates, and helpful consultations.

4. Town of Banff (In-House Service Provider): The Town of Banff was incorporated in 1990 and was the first municipality in Canada to be incorporated inside a national park, offering a comprehensive list of services, organizations, and groups within the Town of Banff.

These companies, and many more, can be found in ISSA’s newly released 2023 exclusive Canadian Membership digital directory. The directory lists all of ISSA Canada’s members from coast to coast, acting as a resource to encourage those purchasing cleaning products and services to choose from the professionals in ISSA Canada’s membership. For facility managers, the directory provides assurance that the companies and services they are purchasing come from the professional providers that make up Canada ISSA’s membership. /

These companies, and more, can be found in the recently released Canadian membership directory

DELIVERING

A lot has changed since 1922, but not our dedication to excellence

DELIVERING QUALITY SERVICE AND SOLUTIONS FOR OVER A CENTURY

• HVAC Services

• Predictive Maintenance

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Raymond Carmichael established this company in 1922. Spanning four generations, Carmichael has nurtured passionate engineers, technicians, systems designers, and technical advisors whose collective goal is to support our valued clients.

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