In 2006, the University of Tennessee made the decision to implement a green cleaning program in its academic and administrative buildings. What started as a goal to use products that are better for its cleaning personnel and building occupants resulted in Tennessee becoming the first university to achieve GS-42 Green Seal Certification for their in-house cleaning staff.

To facilitate the switch to green products, a green team was established, led by Kelsan Inc., a Knoxville, Tenn.-based jan/san distributor. With backing from select manufacturers, Kelsan put together a green program for the university, including products, procedures and training.

Listen to Teresa Farmer, a green program specialist with Kelsan, explain what steps were necessary to get the orange clad university to go green.

posted on 8/12/2008