The entire process and approach to cleaning a museum or other public facility devoted to housing collections and displays is much different than cleaning an office building.

First of all, every museum is unique. Its design is unique. Its layout is unique. Its collections are unique. The very essence of the museum, what it is intended to do, where it is located, is unique.

This uniqueness is grasped and appreciated by all of its staff. But this appreciation and feeling of ownership must also be conveyed to the maintenance team.

The museum maintenance team is out on the floor and very visible to visitors. Therefore, the team needs to act and appear as part of the staff. Not only should they wear attractive, clean uniforms, but they need to be knowledgeable of the museum’s layout so that they can enthusiastically answer basic questions and help the patrons and visitors.

Green cleaning products make a statement.

Cleaning itself is a specialized duty in a museum. Cleaning carts will probably be seen out on the floor. If carts can be seen, the cleaning products can also be seen. Environmentally-friendly products reduce the risk of harmful chemical interactions. But more importantly, by going green, a museum makes a positive statement to the public that they are trying to be responsible guardians of the environment.

The actual cleaning of exhibits and displays is usually left to the experts on the museum staff. However, the maintenance company may have good tips on how to keep “touchable” items clean and sanitary while still totally accessible to the public.

With a little time and patience, the passion of the museum staff can rub off onto the maintenance team and they can become friendly, knowledgeable ambassadors – as interested and enthusiastic as anyone else working there.

Alyssa Rosen is a West Coast Regional Business Development Manager for ABM. She has extensive experience in the sports and entertainment industry. Prior to joining ABM, she worked for Aramark Sports & Entertainment.


posted on 2/6/2019