A reader writes: “Thanks for the consulting visit; however we still are confused about how to satisfy our customer and make a profit.”

 

In past articles we have covered the importance of setting up Job Cards and Quadrant Cleaning schedules for your crew. We have also assigned one person to use a backpack vacuum cleaning which not only includes the carpeted areas, rugs, hard floors but also taking care of edging, vents, and other project work on a predetermined schedule. This assignment takes a lot of pressure off the two people pulling trash and performing the daily light dusting. It also allows them to completely service the building while having time to take care of the break rooms and maintain the janitorial storage areas.

 

The only other person on the crew services all the restrooms utilizing a double bucket, butterfly mop system that allows him/her to clean and stock all the public and private areas in a fraction of the time it was taking the Zone Cleaners. Upon completion of the rest ooms this worker then collects trash and transports to the dumpster. He/she then inspects and cleans the stair wells, front/side entrances, door glass the small amount of hard floor that requires buffing/scrubbing/ re-coating on a quarterly basis.

 

The other two workers have been moved to another account and trained in their special tasks. The reduction in labor should put this contract in the black within two to three months if not sooner. Productivity is now close to 7,000 SF/Hour. 

 

When we started this discussion we first identified the real problem, poor management and scheduling which was resulting in low productivity. Remember that the greatest cost in any custodial contract is labor and benefits. Purchasing the right equipment can radically reduce this ongoing cost. 

 

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 11/13/2014