In today’s public facilities, the proper management of cleaning chemicals is more crucial than ever. Beyond considerations of price and scent, the focus has shifted to effectiveness, safety, and overall hygiene. Drawing from extensive experience in the hospitality industry, this blog post presents essential practices for managing chemical processes and procedures in your facility, office, or daily cleaning routine. Whether you’re a facility manager, a business owner, or simply someone looking to improve their cleaning practices, these tips will help you create a safer, more efficient cleaning environment.
Establish a Strict Chemical Policy
- Collaborate with management, front-line operators, procurement staff, and vendors
- Leverage facility managers’ hands-on experience and client feedback
- Clearly communicate approved cleaning products, including:
- Areas of application
- Manufacturer’s instructions
- Safety tips
- Required Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)
- Post this information prominently for all staff
- Review vendor agreements to prevent unauthorized substitutions
- Train the receiving staff to verify incoming deliveries carefully
Test and Evaluate Products Before Implementation
- Stay informed about new formulations entering the market
- Consult the Environmental Protection Agency’s registered product listing for virus claims
- For hospitality professionals: Engage regularly with chemical vendor partners
- Conduct thorough testing before making any product changes
Smart Shopping: Consider Overall Labor Costs
Evaluate factors beyond initial product cost:
- Application process
- Contact “dwell” time
- Proper “kill time”
- Safety and environmental considerations
- Required training and PPE
- Supplies and delivery methods
Prioritize Thorough Staff Training
- Conduct comprehensive training before independent work begins
- Retrain all staff during chemical transitions
- Review specific manufacturer directions and PPE requirements
- Partner with chemical vendors that support the training process
Ensure Accurate Chemical Dilutions
- Consider concentrated options to reduce costs
- Install dispensing stations to maintain safe and effective dilution levels
- Prohibit manual mixing by staff
- Schedule regular vendor visits to verify proper mixing and efficiency
The importance of maintaining public facilities presents opportunities for companies to refine their approach to product safety and quality. By implementing these practices, you can ensure a safer, more effective cleaning process for the experience of your customers.
We’d love to hear your own tips and experiences – please share them in the comments below!