Training Janitors To Clean Office Buildings

Periodically I like to get back to the basics of cleaning since we all can benefit from reminders along the way for the steps necessary to clean a facility effectively and safely.

I always cringe when I hear a customer or BSC (Building Service Contractor) ask: "How hard can it be to empty a trash can?" This is usually the result of someone complaining that one or more trash receptacles were missed the night before. Although we should always strive for 100 percent completion, it can be easy to miss one or more trash cans due to many factors beyond our control. I would like to focus on what we can control:

1. Workload the job so that the worker has a route with a checklist. Make note of unusual situations such as more than one receptacle in the same area.

2. Train the workers and then follow up on a regular basis until you are sure they get it. Some workers will need to be retrained or brought back to the process due to either intervention by a tenant or simply their desire to cut corners.

3. Train in safe, best practices that allow workers some latitude in how they clean. This could include their making note of changes in the area including a new tenant, construction, furniture movement, etc.

4. Be sure they not only know how to use equipment (such as vacuum cleaners) safely but have a chart on servicing liners, bags, belts, cords, etc. on a regular basis.

5. Stress to them the importance of keeping their cart clean and stocked correctly. Make sure they have sufficient cloths, cleaners, tools to perform their tasks correctly and safely.

We will look at a few of the tasks beyond emptying trash cans that are necessary for a clean area.

Your comments and questions are important. I hope to hear from you soon. Until then, keep it clean...

Mickey Crowe has been involved in the industry for over 35 years. He is a trainer, speaker and consultant. You can reach Mickey at 678-314-2171 or CTCG50@comcast.net.