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Contributed by AFFLINK

Due to the pandemic, cleaning contractors have been looking into alternative ways to teach custodial workers how to perform their duties.  

These alternatives often involve online videos that can be viewed on a computer, smartphone, or even attached to cleaning equipment.  

The videos instruct workers using a one-on-one format, showing them how to perform specific cleaning tasks. 

Because they eliminate contact between persons, it is understandable why contractors turned to these technologies during the pandemic.    

But is this the best way to teach cleaning workers how to perform cleaning tasks?  

According to Michael Wilson, vice president of marketing for AFFLINK, a leading sales and marketing association made up of jan/san distributors, “long-term this form of instruction has limitations.”   

With the possibility that the pandemic is easing, Wilson suggests that cleaning contractors now start working with janitorial distributors, using what he calls teach-and-do custodial training. 

Teach-and-do training involves teaching groups of cleaning workers at the same time. As to why this is better, Wilson offers the following nine reasons: 

1.   Teach-and-do instruction can be modified to the training needs of the group and individuals within the group. 


2.   Instruction can be specific to the facility being cleaned. Cleaning videos tend to be generic. 

3.   Once the worker is taught a cleaning procedure, they can practice it in the facility. The instructor is available to provide personal guidance if necessary. 

4.   Teach-and-do promotes teamwork. Cleaning is faster and more effective when a team approach is implemented. 

5.   Promotes social and organizational skills.  

6.   Workers gain a sense of responsibility to their fellow classmates when they learn together.  

7.   Students can ask questions as they go. 

8.   Inspires workers to discuss cleaning methods and procedures to understand them better. 

9.   Ensures all workers are taught the same cleaning procedures and methods.

“And there is one more benefit,” adds Wilson. “Most distributors receive their training directly from ISSA and jan/san manufacturers. This ensures they are up to date on the latest, safest, and most effective cleaning procedures.”