Brace yourself for a fact that, once known, can’t be forgotten. It concerns the sanitation practices—or lack thereof—of some cleaning companies. Without established cleaning protocols and proper training, it’s possible that the cloths used to clean your office space might be the same ones used in the bathrooms.
Here’s how it might happen: a cleaner with a cart full of supplies might inadvertently use the same rag for the bathroom and your desk, especially if the office is cleaned immediately after the bathrooms. The thought of a rag that’s touched a urinal then gracing your desk is unsettling, to say the least.
So, what’s the solution? How can one ensure that this kind of cross-contamination never occurs? There are three key processes your cleaning service provider should implement.
1. Organized Cleaning Routes and Carts
When multiple people are involved in cleaning, it makes sense to have dedicated personnel for different areas. One might focus on office spaces, and another on bathrooms and communal areas. Even with a single cleaner, there should be a clear cleaning sequence that prevents any overlap between bathrooms and other spaces. Using separate carts for different areas is also a good practice, though it’s just part of the solution.
2. Designated Cleaning Cloths
A reliable cleaning company will have a systematic approach to cloth usage. Many use color-coded microfiber cloths, where, for example, red is reserved strictly for bathroom fixtures. This ensures that each area has its designated cloths, which helps prevent cross-contamination. Some services might opt for disposable cloths or paper towels for bathrooms, which is also an effective strategy.
3. Comprehensive Training for Cleaners
Without proper training, even the best systems fail. It’s imperative that a janitorial service provides comprehensive training to its staff. This ensures that every cleaner knows the protocols for preventing cross-contamination, including the use of different cleaning routes, carts, and cloths. Regular supervision and follow-up training are just as important to maintain standards.
In summary, due to the low barriers to entry in the janitorial industry, not all companies have such measures in place. It’s crucial to discuss these procedures with any potential cleaning service providers. By doing so, you ensure that your space remains not just superficially clean, but hygienically safe.
