SMART Cleaning – Easy Things to Implement
Equipment Carpets can be a host for moisture problems and mold growth. When implementing green cleaning programs, use Carpet & Rug Institute’s Green Label approved vacuums. Empty vacuum bags frequently for more efficient operating.
◦ As you replace equipment use green/smart devices such as:
Floor machines that use less chemicals
Long life gel battery systems
Back pack vacuums 3 micron or smaller filtering
Ergonomic designs
Keep equipment running properly (we use schooldude work order system and PMdirect to make sure everyone has this in their radar)
Minimize particles and chemicals in the air. Mechanically capturing dust and dirt, using course spray for chemicals, and applying the cleaner to the cloth rather than spraying the surface to be cleaned are important to indoor air quality programs.
Smart cleaning chemicals Use environmentally preferable cleaning chemicals along with chemical management systems for accurate product dilution.
◦ Water delivery systems
◦ Portion management
◦ Less is better
Micro fiber system rather than moving it around. Green cleaning programs should use products like microfiber dusting cloths and flat mops, for example, which can eliminate the need for chemicals
◦ Dust cloth
◦ Dust mops
◦ Waxing systems
Saves on wax cost with less waste
Ergonomically preferable
Focus on preventative measures and quick clean up of accidents. Therefore, fewer and milder chemicals can be used
◦ Use PM program such as PMDirect to make sure your equipment is always in tip top condition.
Focus on touch-points. Door handles, bright work and other areas where people come in contact with the facility or its fixtures.
Apply disinfectant in restrooms properly. Typical procedures for green cleaning programs will include ensuring the chemical has proper dwell time so that soil is thoroughly removed using less product.
Promote safety and prevent cross-contamination. Safer products and proper use and storage of chemicals help green cleaning and indoor air quality programs create a safer environment. Color-coded tools ensure that pollutants don’t get carried from one area (such as a restroom) to another.
Entrance Matting – 70% to 80% of floor-damaging soil is tracked into the school
90% of the soil brought into any building can be contained within the first 10 to 15 feet with the appropriate matting system.
