I have had several discussions lately with floor techs who insist on using stripper in their autoscrub machine to either strip or just scrub floors with finish. Some were insistent that using such a system was more productive and allowed them to get more work done in a shorter time. I have seen floors ruined due to a contaminated autoscrubber, mop or other system that inadvertently contaminated the floor finish, usually requiring a total strip/recoat to repair the damage. My concerns/comments follow:

1. An autoscrub machine solution tank should ONLY be filled with water or a neutral (7.5 - 9) pH cleaner to reduce the chance of contamination of floors that have finish (wax/seal). Once the machine has stripper (or any harsh cleaner) in it, no one can guarantee that all of it has been rinsed out so that it can be used on floors with finish.

2. My recommendation is that any stripper solution be mixed in a bucket and applied with a contaminated stripper mop. Be sure the mop and/or bucket is identified as containing stripper to avoid the chance of someone using it on a floor.

3. Note that you can use the autoscrub unit to pick up the stripper slurry and even use it to scrub or strip the floor (with appropriate pads or brushes) since the pick up tank can handle the product.

Remember to clean out all the tanks, rims, pads, solution hoses, etc. to reduce damage to the machine. 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 3/30/2015