When talking about green floor care products, it is important to note that the newer finishes are totally different in their chemical structure from the finishes of just a few years ago, thereby making them more “environmentally friendly” in most cases.  

The “Green Movement” is still maturing so beware of “Greenwash” (chemicals and systems that claim to be green but are not). If you conduct a search on the web for “green certifications” you will find that there are some legitimate ones and others that are simply diploma mills.  Do your homework and purchase products that are truly Green Compliant and accomplishes the intended purpose.  One goal is to keep your customer in compliance for LEED certification by providing proper documentation for their files verifying the products you use are truly green.

Cleaning products should be used based on what type finish is only the floor since utilizing the wrong product that waste time and effort or possibly damage the green finishes.  Many of the current products containing zinc and other metals may be banned in a few years or even treated as toxic waste when removed.  Stay ahead of federal guidance (Executive Orders 13101, 13324, etc.) by converting to green friendly products as you use up all your current stock of product.  Be sure to provide documentation to your property manager so their files are up to date and in compliance.   

Once you convert to a green floor care product, it is vitally important that you use the cleaning products and processes recommended by your distributor and manufacturer correctly.  If it oftentimes wise to use the same product brand for all the prescribed floor work to assure consistency in outcomes.  The few pennies you save by buying the cheapest products from various sources can easily be lost in confusion over how to use the product safely and if the event of a Slip/Fall incident, no one will be available as an Expert Witness on your behalf.  

Green cleaning is here to stay.  It is to your best interest to become an SME (Subject Matter Expert) in all things green.  

Your comments and questions are always welcome.  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 6/13/2013