Wringer and Press Issue 1 by syrclean2

Message from the boss... I’m very proud to introduce the first edition of WRINGER & PRESS, SYR’s brand new digital magazine! This is a new project for SYR, and we’re so excited to share it with all our valued customers. Released quarterly and packed with seasonal topics, the very latest industry trends and cleaning tips and secrets, with the expertise you’ve come to expect from us, get a glimpse into who we are at SYR and discover what inspires us to always bring you the best in cleaning. We want to thank not only the NHS for working tirelessly to protect communities from the spread of COVID-19, but also all cleaning operatives and facilities managers for the hard work they’ve put in since the start of the coronavirus pandemic. The spotlight has really been shone on cleaning in the past year, and here at SYR we’ve been striving to do our best to help our customers meet the challenges they’ve been presented with.

In this edition of WRINGER & PRESS, we’ll be discussing how to make sure your business is COVID-safe for opening post-lockdown, with focus on specific cleaning considerations, to ensure customers and staff alike stay healthy and happy this summer. Also included within are special insights into our new products and ventures, including our exciting new SYR TechTeam service, exclusively offered to our existing customers, and our innovative range of Motion Trollies, available for purchase right now. And finally, also featured within this issue is an interview with me, Gareth, Managing Director here at SYR, where I will be revealing facts that you might not know about SYR, as well as a sneak peek into exciting developments in the future. WELCOME TO WRINGER & PRESS

“We want to thank all cleaning operatives and facilities managers for the hard work they’ve put in since the start of the coronavirus pandemic. ”

GARETH DAVID MANAGING DIRECTOR OF SYR

JUNE-AUGUST 2021

CONTENTS 04 HISTORY OF SYR

INTRODUCING SYR TECHTEAM

POST LOCKDOWN CLEANING

08-19

> WELCOME BACK

> CLEAN IS CONFIDENT!

> SYR PROTECT

> TOUCHPOINT CLEANING

12-13

> CLEAN FOR THE SUMMER

15-16

> CLEAN SMART : CS CHEMICALS > WHAT’S HIDING IN YOUR CARPETS?

17 18-19

INTERVIEW : GARETH DAVID

20-21

A MOTION TOWARDS A BETTER FUTURE...

22-23

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WHO ARE WE? SYR has been in operation since 1954, and since then we have expanded to reach all over the world. Beginning life as a small window cleaning business, we now manufacture a wide variety of cleaning products, from sponges to litter pickers, chemical cleaners to safety signs, that are sold in different industry sectors on a global scale. Innovation is at the heart of what we do, and is what really stands us apart from our competitors; with 48 patents and 780 inter-connected innovations, we are always looking to the future, and seeking new and creative solutions to improve cleaning effectiveness and sustainability. As a close-knit family business that strives to act with integrity, we are trusted by our customers all over the world to provide them with cleaning excellence: we are experiencing rapid growth in large countries like Russia and China; and in the US we are well-known for supplying products to a number of internationally-famous quick service restaurants, including Burger King, KFC, Wendy’s and Dunkin’ Donuts. In the UK, we have been at the forefront of the cleaning industry for many years, trusted by businesses and institutions across the country to keep their premises safe and hygienic. We supply to diverse sectors like restaurant chains, supermarkets and higher education facilities, and manufacture hundreds of products for use by NHS, keeping millions of people safe every day even in sensitive hygiene environments like hospitals where thorough cleaning is imperative. We’ve even had the stamp of approval from her Majesty the Queen herself, when we won the prestigious

Queen’s Award for Enterprise: Innovation in 2002, recognising us for our outstanding business achievements and forward-thinking approach. With the huge amount of products we manufacture and the wide variety of business sectors that we supply to, we can almost guarantee that most people in the UK will have benefitted from our work, even if they have never heard the name SYR itself. Whether it’s preventing accidents in the workplace with our bestselling non-tip Safeguard safety signs, or keeping surfaces clean and germ-free with our diverse mopping solutions to suit every cleaning environment, we have been working tirelessly to keep businesses and communities safe for more than sixty years, and will continue to do so, with constant development and innovation. You can find out more about the history of SYR by visiting syrclean.com/uk/our-history/

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Introducing The SYR TechTeam QUESTIONS ABOUT YOUR BUSINESS’ CLEANING? LET US COME TO YOU! Every business is different, with their own unique environments and cleaning challenges. With the huge amount of cleaning equipment and tools that are available it can be difficult to formulate an effective cleaning strategy for your team. Fortunately SYR has the solution. The SYR TechTeam, comprised of skilled professionals with years of industry experience and a passion for advanced cleaning practices, offers a bespoke service. Through analysing your existing cleaning practices and producing a detailed site survey, they will help your business identify your cleaning needs and offer exclusive advice and recommendations. No matter where you or your customers are in the UK, a member of the TechTeam will arrange a suitable time to visit – and the best part is that it is a completely free service for all SYR customers.

“ Always impressed by their enthusiasm, commitment, and willingness to support Sodexo’s business.”

LAUREN KYLE HEAD OF CLEANING SODEXO

JUNE-AUGUST 2021

“ Their ability to solve problems and

suggest solutions to customer specific issues is clearly an advantage to Alliance and sets SYR apart from other suppliers in the field.” STEVE ABBOTT BRANCH MANAGER ALLIANCE EAST MIDLANDS

ENSURE COMPLIANCE

IMPROVE STANDARDS

CREATE BESPOKE SOLUTIONS

EXPLORE LATEST INNOVATION

DELIVER MORE FOR LESS

SLIP FALL TESTING

KNOWLEDGE ENHANCEMENT

INDEPENDENT ASSESSMENTS

DRIVE SUSTAINABILITY

INTRODUCING… MARK TILT TECHTEAM MANAGER I have a total of over 20 years’ experience in the cleaning industry, and in that time, I’ve had the chance to deal with a range of businesses across various sectors, giving me a vast knowledge of working with Healthcare, Education and Facilities Management. Although I have been with SYR since 2010, TechTeam is an exciting new role for me, as well as a new venture for SYR, and I’m looking forward to working with all our customers, both old and new, to help businesses improve their standards of cleaning. Contact us today to see how we can help you!

No matter what sort of work you do, from quick service restaurants to healthcare, the SYR TECHTEAM will work to understand your business, and the needs of your customers, service users or staff, to find cleaning solutions that work for you. Our commitment to building a strong and valued relationship with those we work with is what makes SYR stand out from its competitors, and our customers love our personalised and completely free service.

DON’T HESITATE TO GET IN TOUCH AND LET US KNOW HOW WE CAN HELP YOUR BUSINESS AT SYRCLEAN.COM/UK/TECHTEAM

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“ An ATP

machine is one hightech way our TechTeam will help keep you and your customers safe.

”

ATP is short for Adenosine Triphosphate, a compound that is present in the living cells of all organic matter. As a result, testing for ATP is an effective method of scientifically verifying whether a surface is clean or not. It will monitor if the area has been properly disinfected, testing for organic living matter; if it has not been, tests for ATP will show up positive.

This is a simple way of highlighting possible oversights in cleaning routines, or illustrating to staff the effectiveness, or indeed ineffectiveness, of cleaning methods or products used.

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Welcome Back! PREPARING YOUR BUSINESS FOR OPENING UP AND STAFF AND CUSTOMERS RETURNING POST-LOCKDOWN It’s been a hard year for us all. Not only have our personal lives been impacted, with people forced to stay distant from one another, but also our livelihoods – best estimates show that both sales and employment levels across most sectors have fallen since 2019, and with most people required to either work from home or drastically change the way they behave whilst at work, working may have been particularly challenging recently. Now, however, with the apparent success of vaccinations, things seem to be changing, and many people are set to begin venturing back into the workplace and beyond. Everyone is excited for the return to normalcy after the pandemic, but it cannot be forgotten that workplaces at present cannot return to exactly the way they were before. It will still be vitally important to keep protecting staff and visitors whilst on the premises; as the coronavirus is still a distinct threat, measures need to be taken to make sure everyone stays as healthy as possible, encouraging good hygiene practice and safe behaviour. Businesses should stay up to date with government guidance for COVID safety in workplaces, as recommendations may change depending on the current threat level. Ensure employees know what is expected of them on the premises, through both prior communication such as emails and displaying signage around the area. Cleaning, naturally, is of paramount importance. Contracting coronavirus can have negative effects on businesses as well as individuals, through financial loss of work days lost, damage to reputation and in some extreme cases even forced closure of the business. Thus, it is crucial to maintain not only more frequent cleaning but also more thorough cleaning of workplaces to keep everything running smoothly. Research has shown that improved cleaning measures can reduce viruses on a surface by more than 85% (Journal of Hygiene & Environmental Health 2019). As a result, the formulation of an efficient cleaning routine, cleaning all surfaces with a focus on those that have had increased human contact, is more vital than ever before.

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Clean Is

CONFIDENT As we all know, as we move further into 2021, lockdown restrictions are steadily being eased, but this doesn’t mean the need for cleaning is easing with it. Businesses may be starting to welcome back staff that were working from home, but COVID-19 has heightened many people’s awareness of workplace hygiene. Almost three quarters of workers are concerned about the germs left on surfaces by their colleagues and illness spreading as a result. This is not just true for working people returning to the office; members of the public remain concerned about the risk of contamination too. Surveys have shown that customers place a great deal of importance on the cleanliness of an establishment when visiting, and are twice as likely to spend money at shops and restaurants that meet their standards of hygiene. Most members of the public surveyed stated that they were more likely to choose to visit establishments that were frequently cleaned, especially if they also provided sanitising stations for customer use at the premises. This, combined with the fact that businesses that required their employees to wear masks and/or gloves were also

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preferred by those surveyed, stresses the importance of not only continuing to clean more as a whole, but also emphasises the need for greater visibility of cleaning in the workplace.

Cleaning does more than just remove contaminants to protect the physical health of people; it also is a way of giving people a sense of security and safety. Assuring employees, customers and visitors that they are as safe as they can be from contracting coronavirus on business premises can have a range of benefits: for customers and visitors to commercial businesses, it will increase the likelihood of return visits; and for staff, it will allow better focus on work and may improve productivity. Overall, it also improves company brand image; both staff and public will have a more favourable view of your company if it is seen as complying with government guidelines and prioritising employee and public health.

11 KEEP YOUR STAFF AND VISITORS SAFE WITH HAND SANITISER YOU CAN TRUST

HAND SANITISER GEL

70% alcohol

kills 99.999% of germs

works instantly without water

HANDS, FACE, SPACE A recent UK government campaign perfectly sums up the most important considerations whilst outside the home to protect against the coronavirus: frequently clean hands, cover the face and maintain space between oneself and others. This is a good adage to stick to whilst at work too, and businesses need to adjust accordingly to allow for this. Spare face masks should be provided at entrances, and hand washing facilities should be clearly labelled and ready for both employee and visitor use. As an extra measure of protection, hand sanitiser dispensers should be readily available around the business.

Particularly recommended for workplaces is the Free Standing Touch Free Dispenser, allowing automatic, hands-free sanitiser dispensing, a more hygienic alternative to the traditional hand pump dispenser, eliminating what is often a key touchpoint in workplaces, with the potential for transferring germs whenever it is used.

Many sanitisers on the market contain insufficient quantities of alcohol to be effective in killing germs, meaning users may not be as protected against coronavirus as they think they are. SYR PROTECT is a range of high-quality hand sanitiser in a variety of sizes, from pocket use to 5000ml bulk fill bottles, perfect for use post-pandemic. All the products in the SYR PROTECT Range have atleast 70% alcohol content, with added moisturisers to protect against painful skin drying.

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Standard practice in workplaces at the moment is that if an employee feels unwell, they should remain at home, or if they are already at work, leave the premises immediately, in order to prevent them from infecting their colleagues. However, it is possible that people can be carriers of a virus, and contagious to those around them, without experiencing any symptoms themselves. Research has indicated that the majority of COVID-19 cases are caused by people who are either presymptomatic (have not yet developed symptoms) or asymptomatic (never develop symptoms). Surfaces contaminated by infected people can remain a hazard for at least 48 hours, which drives home the importance of regular cleaning of public workplace

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surfaces, as they could easily harbour harmful germs that people have passed on without even realising they have them. Touchpoint cleaning is something that risen quickly in popularity since the onset of the pandemic. Also known as hightouch cleaning, the term refers to the process of specifically cleaning and disinfecting key areas or objects that are frequently touched throughout the day. As one might expect, it is such places where touch is unavoidable that are the most risky, so prioritising these areas when cleaning is a simple way to help reduce the risk of crosscontamination between people in a business’ public areas, decreasing the spread of illness and ensuring that the overall work environment stays clean and hygienic.

As part of their regular cleaning routine, cleaners should identify high-touch points in each area of the workplace: this will differ depending on the specific business environment, but may include objects like kettles and taps in kitchen areas, shared electrical devices like computers, keyboards and printers in office settings, as well as door handles, light switches and hand rails more generally. As there can be a wide variety of surfaces and devices that are high-touch areas, it is likely that a range of cleaning products and equipment will be necessary to clean it. Cleaners should identify appropriate methods and equipment as part of their touchpoint evaluation of the workplace, and all staff should be informed of the specific requirements.

HOW TO CLEAN TOUCHSCREENS:

1 If not already wearing gloves, put them on. This will protect the screen from fingerprints and cross-contamination.

As many businesses go digital, cleaners can expect to have to clean electronic displays as part of their regular cleaning routine. Out of all such surfaces, touch screens are the ones that need to be paid the most attention to: not only will dirt or other messes impair the device’s functionality by interfering with touch sensitivity, but touch screens are a common high-touch point, and notorious for harbouring germs. From devices as small as phone screens to large smart surfaces, numerous research studies have found shocking amounts of bacteria on touch screens in public places, including restaurants and supermarkets, that have the potential to spread illness. This is even more of a concern now, with the risk of contracting coronavirus threatening both individuals and businesses, especially as some establishments may have utilised touchscreen devices more recently as a method of limiting face-to-face interaction and encouraging social distancing, such as in food service environments. Not only is it important to not neglect cleaning this kind of surface, but it is also important to take special consideration of what products to use. Many people use pre-moistened antibacterial wipes on devices such as phone screens to clean it of bacteria, but depending on the product used, doing this may not adequately disinfect the touchscreen surface, and may actually damage the product itself, due to the sensitivity of the screen. Use a soft, non-abrasive cloth to avoid scratching the display when cleaning, and avoid harsh chemicals. This includes non-diluted bleach and highly concentrated alcohol cleaners, as such products may cause discolouration on the screen. In order to avoid harming the touchscreen, whilst still disinfecting it effectively, use a small amount of cleaner containing between 70-85% alcohol.

2 To remove dirt, smudges and other visible stains from the display, turn on screen, preferably to a bright, white background for maximum visibility, and use a dry microfibre cloth to gently wipe across the screen. Wipe in the same direction, horizontally across the screen, to prevent smears. For a streak-free clean, the SYR Multi Surface Tool with its microfibre cleaning pads is also perfect for delivering an even clean to all kinds of hard surfaces, including electronic devices. 3 Turn off, and if applicable, unplug, the device. 4 Do not directly spray cleaner on to the monitor – this will minimise the risk of any fluid getting inside the device which may damage it. Instead, dampen a cloth with an appropriate disinfecting solution and squeeze out excess moisture if necessary. 5 When applying to the surfaces, always follow manufacturers’ instruction on the chemical label. Wipe gently in small circular motions and allow to dry. Reapply cleaner and wipe as much as necessary to ensure a thorough clean of the entire surface.

6 Discard or wash cleaning cloth after use.

Depending on how often the touchscreen device is used, it may be difficult to keep it disinfected for every person that uses it – in supermarkets, for example, it likely won’t be possible to clean the touchscreen of self-service checkouts after every single use if the store is busy. This is true for most high-touch point areas, where touch is unavoidable or people may touch subconsciously, and bacteria can never be 100% eliminated. As such, the best solution is to encourage employees, customers, visitors or service users to regularly sanitise and wash their hands, by placing facilities around the business premises. Clean hands will reduce the amount of germs transferred onto surfaces to begin with, and this, combined with touchpoint disinfecting of surfaces, will help keep workplaces as safe from the coronavirus as possible.

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TOOL BELT AD

JUNE-AUGUST 2021

As the summer of 2021 approaches, we can all expect to see increased footfall across businesses and workplaces, with people venturing out of their houses both to enjoy the warmer weather and to return more to normalcy as the coronavirus pandemic hopefully gets more under control. Although, of course, cleaning is a year-round job, there are a few special considerations that cleaners ought to bear in mind whilst cleaning in the summer months. Keeping staff and visitors safe is the top priority, but ensuring high hygiene standards throughout the year will make your business a more pleasant place to work and visit, and can improve your brand reputation.

HIGHER TEMPERATURES BREED BACTERIA Even though research appears to show that coronavirus transmission is not worsened by heat, warm conditions encourage growth of other kinds of bacteria on a range of surfaces. Communal areas and frequently touched surfaces should be paid special attention to, and sanitised regularly. Food in particular is at risk of bacteria growth if left out in the heat, so food preparation and kitchen areas should

be thoroughly cleared and disinfected after use to prevent harmful bacteria accumulating on surfaces. Similarly, hot conditions can lead to a rise in unpleasant odours both indoors and outdoors. Rubbish bins are a common cause of this, especially those containing food waste, and can become a veritable breeding ground for not only germs but insects too, and, in the worst case scenario, even vermin.

To help prevent this, keep rubbish covered where possible and empty waste disposal areas frequently, even if the bin is not full. Bins should be washed periodically with soap and water and, in between more time-consuming washes, should be wiped down and disinfected to prevent bacteria growth – use a disposable cloth with a little cleaning product to remove germs and residual rubbish without risking crosscontamination.

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OPEN WINDOWS GENERATE MORE DUST As we approach the summer months, many people will want to open windows in the workplace wherever possible, both as a result of rising temperatures and the continuing need for better ventilation indoors while coronavirus is still a threat. This will cause an increase of dust throughout the premises, as well as leaves, pollen and other debris blown in through open windows, so it is important to formulate a cleaning routine that cleans all surfaces regularly and thoroughly. See the SYR catalogue for dusting products, such as dusters and frames in

a range of shapes and sizes, perfect for cleaning even awkward and hard-to-reach areas.

floor maintenance tips, see the carpet cleaning guide on page 18 for how to use a spin bonnet cleaner.

Much of the mess may settle on the floor, and as people are generally more mobile in the summer, they may bring in more dirt on shoes. A good floor maintenance regime will counteract this problem: keep workplaces as hygienic as possible by not only of vacuuming to remove surface level mess, but also with more in-depth washing, both of hard surfaces and carpets. For further

Summer time is also a good time to clean the windows themselves, as brighter sunlight shining through will likely expose unsightly streaks and stains. SYR stocks a wide range of professional window cleaning equipment, including squeegees and T-bars to keep the windows in your business sparkling clean for the bright sunny days.

KEEP CHEMICALS AWAY FROM HEAT AND SUNLIGHT Chemicals, such as those in cleaning solutions, can react negatively if exposed to high temperatures and light, releasing potentially harmful fumes into the area or even becoming a fire hazard. To prevent this from happening, follow storage instructions on packaging, storing in a wellventilated environment away from bright sunlight. Don’t forget about hand sanitiser - an essential in protecting workplaces against coronavirus, it may be a new addition to many cleaning cupboards, but it is important that it is stored responsibly. Most of us will recall the viral posts on social media warning of hand sanitiser exploding in hot conditions: this

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is unlikely to actually happen, but alcohol, the primary ingredient in most sanitisers, is considered flammable, and so should still be treated with caution. Research also suggests that exposing sanitiser to high heat or sunlight can cause it to lose its potency, and thus its effectiveness in destroying viruses and bacteria. Therefore, it should be stored similarly to chemical cleaners, in a cool, dark environment. A negative side of summer for many people is the increase of pollen, irritating those with allergies. Oftentimes, allergy sufferers will find their condition worsening due to the harsh odours and fumes released with

the use of chemical cleaning products in enclosed spaces. To help reduce reactions in both the public and in cleaners themselves, many people are moving towards ‘green’ cleaners, eco-friendly products that contain more naturally occurring ingredients. Alternatively, using less of a chemical cleaner, especially when dissolved in water, can also lessen the chances of irritation. SYR’s Clear Solution Chemical cleaners are a good option, as they are scientifically formulated to require the use of less chemical and less water, cleaning faster and more effectively than a standard chemical cleaner.

Clear Solution : Clean Smart GET A MORE EFFECTIVE CLEAN WITH SYR’S RANGE OF CLEAR SOLUTION CHEMICALS. You wouldn’t wash the dishes with a dirty sponge, so why clean floors with dirty water? Mopping with a traditional detergent will only give you an effective clean for a short period of time before the dirt and grime, picked up by the mop head, pollutes the water when rinsing. Unless the water is changed every few minutes, you won’t be able to clean properly, leaving dirt, germs and unsightly streaks on floors and other surfaces. In fact, in order to prevent dirt saturation from getting so high that thorough cleaning is impossible, water will

have to be changed 8 times over an average 4 hour shift, wasting time, money and effort for your business’ cleaning crew. SYR Clear Solution Chemicals offer a less wasteful alternative to continuously changing water. Chemically designed to allow water to stay cleaner for longer, switching to SYR Filkakleen could save up to 25% in labour costs, with water only needing to be changed twice over a 4 hour shift period. These unique, dual action cleaners work to lift

dirt and grease from surfaces, only to detach the mess from the mop head and settle to the bottom of the bucket upon rinsing, ensuring cleaner water and thus less transfer of dirt, for visibly cleaner results. Designed to work with less water and less chemical use, the CS chemical range offers an intelligent cleaning solution that is cost-effective and environmentally friendly, whilst still ensuring a thorough clean.

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WHAT’S HIDING IN YOUR CARPETS? As any cleaning professional will tell you, it is far easier to clean tiled or boarded floors than it is to clean carpets. In most public buildings and workplaces floors will be regularly vacuumed, but the texture of carpets, no matter the length, provides the perfect breeding ground for bacteria, dirt and debris becoming trapped in the fibres, meaning vacuuming alone is not sufficient to extract all the dirt and bacteria from carpets.

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Even if there is no visible stain, a carpet can be hiding up to 4 times its own weight in dirt, accumulated beneath the surface over time, as well as other unhygienic substances such as mould and human hair and skin cells. Harmful bacteria can be tracked in on shoes, or spread on carpet surfaces by water droplets in the air, distributed by sneezing, coughing or talking. On average, one square inch of carpet contains around 200,000

bacteria, which is 4000 times more germs than is usually found in a similar area on a toilet seat, a horrifying statistic that stresses the absolute necessity of regular and thorough carpet cleaning. Viruses too can be hidden in carpets; studies have found that some viruses can live for as much as two weeks in carpets, and in 2021, when one must still remain vigilant to the risks of contracting COVID 19, this is a worrying statistic.

19 Many people would imagine that carpet cleaning is something that is too time-consuming to do regularly. Between conducting the cleaning itself and waiting for the wet surfaces to air-dry, it may be expected that doing so would take the cleaned areas out of use for some time, which is inconvenient in a busy workplace. This is not always the case; a method that is almost as simple and quick to do as vacuum cleaning is spin bonnet cleaning, perfect for refreshing carpets, removing the worst of dirt and stains at fairly low effort. HOW TO SPIN BONNET CLEAN CARPETS : >1 Clear the floor of all furniture and possible obstructions, before thoroughly vacuuming area to remove surface debris from the carpet. To protect against floor becoming dirty whilst cleaning, disposable shoe covers may be worn. >2 Dilute chemical cleaner of choice with water. As most solutions contain bleach as a brightening agent, if using for the first time it may be advisable to test the cleaning agent on the carpet before starting the full clean, as it is possible that some

fabrics or colours may react negatively to the chemical. >3 Don’t use bonnet dry. Some rotary machines moisten their pads automatically, but if this is not the case with your device, either spray the bonnet with the diluted cleaner or soak it in a bucket of water and cleaner and wring out the excess before using. >4 Use overlapping circular motions to rub the solution into the carpet. As the pad moves over the carpet, the agitation causes dirt to be absorbed into the cleaning pad. If pad becomes soiled, rotate or change it before continuing to use.

5> There are two types of bonnets for rotary floor machines available for purchase from SYR: the SYRSORB Spin Bonnet, made of non-aggressive looped cotton; and the Queen Carpet Bonnet, with integral scrubbing strips for working at more stubborn build-ups of dirt.

>6 Clean bonnets after use by soaking in warm water for up to an hour to loosen up dirt, then machine washing. This method of carpet cleaning is far more effective than vacuum cleaning at removing dirt and germs. It is suitable for regular use, is inexpensive, easy to do, and will instantly have carpets looking much cleaner. Spin bonnet cleaning should be done at least once a month to keep carpets fresh. However, it is generally regarded as an interim cleaning method, and it is advisable to have carpets extraction cleaned or steam cleaned semi-annually, to prevent against dirt build-up at the very base of the carpet. Research has also indicated that the high temperatures involved in techniques like steam cleaning may be effective at killing viruses in carpets and upholstery, so it is recommended that your company make inquiries into this method of cleaning in order to ensure the safety of employees and visitors in the era of the coronavirus pandemic.

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INTERVIEW :

GARETH DAVID THE MANAGING DIRECTOR AND BUCKET CONNOISSEUR OF SYR

1 HOW DID YOU START AT SYR? GD: I first applied for SYR, then known as Scot Young Research, in my twenties. I’d already been in sales for quite a while at that point, but I had never heard of SYR, and didn’t know what they did when went to the interview. I didn’t get the job, but clearly I made some sort of impression, because 12 months later I got a call from them asking me to come back for another interview. When I first started working here, I had a geographical area to work in: I looked after everything from Liverpool to Wales, whether that be businesses, end users, distributors or councils. When I got promoted to sales manager, I got involved in national accounts, and then eventually got the opportunity to work internationally. I’d always said I wanted to work somewhere I could travel and chase the sale, and that’s exactly what I’ve been able to do. It’s been an incredible experience. I’ve been with SYR for around 26 years now in total, and I still love the culture here. I’ve always had total respect for Scot Young, who had his vision of changing the world of cleaning when he started the company 58 years ago. Without him being there, having that goal and seeing the potential in me, none of this would be possible. 2 HOW HAVE THINGS CHANGED OVER THE YEARS? GD: For me personally, I’m still finding that every day is different. I had to condition myself and change my mind-set when I moved from sales to sales manager, and then again moving to managing director. I’ve sometimes had to fight

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the temptation to go back to sales, having worked in the field for nearly 35 years. My role is now more about steering the ship than being part of the crew, passing on my knowledge rather than jumping in my car and selling something myself. In the company as a whole there’s a lot more strategy now compared to the past, which has coincided with the expansion of the company. Although we’re still a family-run business, we have clear business goals and values we adhere to, to continue getting SYR’s name out there and offering the best in cleaning to our customers. I think this is true across the industry in general, but there’s a lot more focus on corporate social responsibility, particularly in regards to the company’s impact on the environment. Our SYR SWITCH range is one that we’re proud of. By recreating some of our most popular products using recycled plastics and materials previously destined for landfill, we’re minimising the waste generated in our production processes and making it easier than ever for our customers to lessen their carbon footprint 3 WHAT’S AN ACHIEVEMENT YOU’RE PROUD OF? GD: Becoming MD was definitely one of the biggest ones. Taking on that role allowed me to physically change things and be a part of big things in the business, maybe not the changes that immediately visible, but ones that hopefully have a real positive impact for the company and the people who work here.

21 4 TELL US SOMETHING PEOPLE MAY NOT KNOW ABOUT SYR. GD: I think most of our customers in the UK have no idea just how global we are. We supply cleaning products to around 40 different countries, and I’m lucky to have had the chance to visit a few of them, taking SYR as far afield as Dubai, Russia and Japan. We’re a truly international manufacturer and supplier. Perhaps we are not household names in the UK, but I like to think of us as hidden giants. We actually have a very visible presence in the cleaning industry in this country. I often see our Caution Signs in public places like shopping centres and I can’t resist pointing them out to my family. 5 WHAT’S YOUR FAVOURITE PRODUCT OR A PRODUCT THAT YOU WOULD MOST RECOMMEND TO CUSTOMERS? GD: I love the LTS – I actually have one at home! I can leave it outside in all conditions, and it still performs perfectly. The wringer is so strong I’ve actually put my recycling in it, crushing down things like baked bean tins and drinks cans. It’s remarkable. I can’t fault the product: it’s the one I love, the one I use, and definitely the one I’d recommend to customers.

From left : Scot Young, Kimberley Young, Lee Ann Young, Gareth David

QUICK FIRE ROUND WHAT’S YOUR FAVOURITE PLACE ON EARTH? Out of all the places I’ve travelled to, I liked the Philippines the most. There’s a lot of contrast there between urban and traditional aspects, and rich and poor, and I found that really interesting. WHAT’S YOUR BIGGEST INSPIRATION? My kids. Seeing them grow and bringing them up really changed my perspective on life. You think when they’re babies it’s hard, but the challenges change when they get older. Now they’re the ones trying to tell me what to do! WHAT’S YOUR PARTY TRICK? I don’t think I have any real party tricks, I’m quite boring! I can spin one of our Interchange handles through my fingers like a cheerleader; maybe I’ll start doing that in my sales meetings! WHAT IS THE LAST THING YOU WATCHED ON NETFLIX/YOUTUBE/TV? I watched Whitehouse Down recently. I have to admit I like action and aggression in films!

6 CAN YOU GIVE US A SPOILER ABOUT SOMETHING EXCITING IN SYR’S FUTURE? GD: Our Rapid Response cone, which is a safety cone complete with mop holders and castors, has been a phenomenal product not only in the UK, but also globally. We’ve actually been working on evolving that product, and we’re now at the final stages of completion. In about 6 months’ time hopefully customers will see a newly designed, more user-friendly and useful cone system, with a lot more options and opportunities for it to deliver. So watch this space!

YOU ARE CLEANING A VERY DIRTY ROOM: WHAT SONG DO YOU CLEAN TO? Insomnia by Faithless Something with a heavy beat. Or maybe Kate Bush! ROOM, DESK, AND CAR - WHICH DO YOU CLEAN FIRST? Car. That’s easy! AND FINALLY IF YOU COULD ONLY CLEAN EITHER THE OUTSIDE OR THE INSIDE OF YOUR CAR FOR THE REST OF YOUR LIFE WHAT WOULD YOU CHOOSE? Outside. I can get some curtains - it’s OK as long as no one can see the mess!

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A Motion Towards A Better Future... SUPPORTING BUSINESSES & THE ENVIRONMENT WITH INNOVATION In the last few years, sustainability has been a key trend in the cleaning industry, with businesses intentionally seeking out products that are more environmentally friendly. Although, it has been noted, the coronavirus pandemic has in the last year spurned a tendency towards disposable products, especially in healthcare settings, green products are very likely to be the future, not just in cleaning, but across industry sectors. Aside from consumables and supplies such as cleaning cloths, where many cleaners are gradually phasing out disposables in favour of washable and reusable alternatives, one mustn’t forget cleaning equipment itself can have a negative impact on the environment. Plastic is obviously

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an extremely useful material for the cleaning industry, but as it is often made to be strong and resistant to chemical corrosion from cleaning solutions, as is usually the case with cleaning buckets, it takes a very long time for the product to break down once it is disposed of and sent to landfill. Depending on the material and construction, and the conditions of the landfill site, plastic can take anywhere from 10 to 500 years to decompose, creating a huge amount of waste building up over time and having disastrous consequences for the environment. True as it is that some of the negative environmental side effects caused by the cleaning industry may be unavoidable when maintaining fully sanitary

environments, that doesn’t mean that companies shouldn’t do all they can to minimise their own carbon footprint. At SYR, we are aware of the environmental impact our business has, and as a result we are always striving to develop new and innovative ways improve sustainability, such as through reducing water and chemical consumption whilst cleaning, and re-using and recycling wherever we can. One of SYR’s most recent innovations are the new Motion range of trollies. Durable and sustainable, these products are made with the environment in mind, and they have the accreditation to prove it. Certified with the EPD system, assessing the environmental impact across the whole

23 lifecycle, the trollies of the Motion range are fundamentally designed to meet international environmental standards of sustainability.

of useful features, including mop buckets, removable waste bags and lockable storage areas, and can be easily equipped with other SYR products.

While a cheaper, lower quality trolley may need to be replaced periodically, all products in the Motion range are built to last for many years, and with SYR’s Repair & Reuse Program, the raw materials used in construction will go even further. Over 75% of every Motion trolley, aptly reconditioned, can be used again for the same purpose or in new operating environments, resulting in less waste ending up in landfill.

With 12 different Motion trollies, in different shapes and sizes, there is something suited for a range of cleaning tasks, within different hygiene environments. From the large Motion Housekeeping Pro, ideal for storing and carrying a multitude of housekeeping products and equipment; to the Clean-Room Certified Motion Clean, specially designed to be easy to clean and fully autoclavable, perfect for maintaining a controlled anti-microbial environment, and ideal for areas exposed to biohazards, including the coronavirus.

With the Motion range, SYR are aiming to prove that you don’t have to sacrifice functionality to be kinder to the environment. Every Motion trolley is highly mobile and intelligently designed to maximise available storage space, fitted with a range

Seeking out products that are more environmentally friendly is not only good for the

natural world; in many cases, what makes a product more sustainable also has benefits for businesses in other ways. As ergonomics plays a huge role in the design of the Motion range, they are formulated to ensure maximum cleaning efficiency, saving cleaners time and effort, which will be beneficial for the business in the long term. The durable design will also ultimately result in financial savings, and the Repair & Reuse program, which allows damaged components to be easily repaired or replaced with new spare parts, will ensure that a product will stay operating at peak performance for even longer. Want to learn more about our brand new Motion range? Visit syrclean.com/uk/syr - motion

MOTION PRO 2

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INTERESTED IN BEING FEATURED IN A FUTURE ISSUE OF WRINGER & PRESS? Want to tell us about your company’s latest news? Got any thoughts on up-and-coming trends and key topics in the cleaning industry? Maybe you just want to tell us what you thought about any of the stories in this issue – either way, why not get in touch with us and see you or your business included in the next edition of WRINGER & PRESS! > ADVERTISE YOUR BRAND > BE FEATURED IN AN ARTICLE > GET INTERVIEWED BY US This is a great opportunity to spread the word about you and your brand to a wider audience, and to share your opinions on current industry topics with like-minded people! Contact us today at wringerandpress@syrclean.com

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