Tools That Keep Staff On Schedule

As I have stated in prior articles, all of our work is about productivity and results. What I mean by that statement is that productivity (how quickly a task can be performed correctly) and results (fulfilling the specifications to the satisfaction of the customer) is what keeps us in business.

Poor productivity results in having to pay out more for labor and benefits than is necessary to do the job. If overtime is involved then it is even more important that we evaluate why the results were unsatisfactory the first time the work was performed. Failing to provide satisfactory results may lead to the customer terminating the entire contract and finding someone that can do the job. Let’s look at a couple more productivity tools.

• Scuff Removal Pole – I have seen many versions of this tool which can be purchased with an ergonomic, light weight, aluminum handle with a vinyl end piece and a handle bar for better control. I have also seen an old broom stick stuck through a tennis ball sliced to allow the stick to have a grip. Both types are used basically the same way and that is to remove shoe scuffs from VCT, Terrazzo and other surfaces that usually have floor finish. If used incorrectly, it can leave dull scrape marks that make the floor look unattractive and spotty. If used correctly, it can increase the time between the need to buff or burnish.

• Flat Mops with Carafes on the Handle –This is a T bar flat mop with a carafe (small bottle containing solution) that can be quite effective spot mopping key areas without having to drag out a traditional mop/bucket set. Although the unit with the carafe on the handle is not my first option for some tasks I must admit to having one in my home for the tiles and wood floor surfaces. My hesitancy is recommending it is that an untrained or uncaring worker can destroy or damage the carafe resulting in him/her using a spray bottle containing solution. Be sure that any units you purchase are sturdy and the worker knows how to use them without damaging the carafe.

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