The quality control (QC) inspector should inspect all areas of a building on a priority ranking basis. Near the top of the list should be the custodial closet, custodial office and storage areas. If these area are not clean and well maintained it can send a message to the customer that the rest of the facility may be lacking.

Assigning workers to different areas (possibly on a rotating basis) is important so that there is true accountability. Although the QC inspector may not be able to inspect every day, it should still have a high priority when inspections are conducted. It should be the responsibility of the onsite supervisor or lead worker to verify compliance every day.

As to the storage area, it should be well organize with labels for key items and all equipment numbered for assignment (including carts, vacuum cleaners, etc.) and a person responsible for stocking new supplies that come in, processing repair requests and monitoring the use of chemicals and disposable items.

Management can play an important role in sending the message that appearance of these areas is important to the company. When management conducts a site visit, they should inspect and comment on the condition of the area to reinforce its importance. I know of companies that take great pride in showing off their storage areas to the customer.

Some of you may say that it takes too much time to clean the janitor closet or office/storage area. My response is that it should be budgeted into the pricing and schedule since it is part of the account. Whenever possible, standardize the appearance and storage locations of closets so that a person transferring from another area can more easily adapt to the new environment.

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


posted on 9/1/2016