Post by Mike R. on Oct 24, 2006 13:16:33 GMT -5
ABCs of Green Cleaning Programs
By: Bob Clarke, OneSource
Source: SchoolFacilities.com
Thorough green cleaning programs will take a holistic view of the school facility. Each aspect of “green” building operations and maintenance will be viewed in the context of goals and benefits the school expects to derive from green cleaning and indoor air quality programs they wish to implement.
Some basic principles of green cleaning programs include:
• Focus on entryways inside and out. Most pollutants enter the building on people’s feet, so it’s important to implement indoor air quality programs, which will help to trap and remove dirt before it enters the building and to frequently clean the entrances and entryway mats.
• Minimize particles and chemicals in the air. Mechanically capturing dust and dirt, using course spray for chemicals, and applying the cleaner to the cloth rather than spraying the surface to be cleaned are all important aspects of indoor air quality programs.
• Use environmentally preferable cleaning chemicals along with chemical management systems for accurate product dilution.
• Ensure proper vacuuming, extraction, rinsing and drying. Carpets can be a host for moisture problems and mold growth. When implementing green cleaning programs, use Carpet & Rug Institute’s Green Label approved vacuums. Empty vacuum bags frequently for more efficient operating.
• Focus on preventative measures and quick clean up of accidents. Therefore, fewer and milder chemicals can be used.
• Mechanically capture dirt and remove it rather than moving it around. Green cleaning programs should use products like microfiber dusting cloths and flat mops, for example, which can eliminate the need for chemicals.
• Focus on touch-points. These are door handles, bright work and other areas where people come in contact with the facility or its fixtures.
• Apply disinfectant in restrooms properly. Typical procedures for green cleaning programs will include ensuring the chemical has proper dwell time so that soil is thoroughly removed using less product.
• Promote safety and prevent cross-contamination. Safer products and proper use and storage of chemicals help green cleaning and indoor air quality programs create a safer environment. Color-coded tools ensure that pollutants don’t get carried from one area (such as a restroom) to another.
• Use “green” paper products, such as recycled tissues and towels bleached without the use of chlorine.
• Implement an effective recycling program.
• Create a communication program so that building occupants understand they are part of the process. Proper spill notification, food clean-up and clutter reduction will help to ensure a healthy facility.
By: Bob Clarke, OneSource
Source: SchoolFacilities.com
Thorough green cleaning programs will take a holistic view of the school facility. Each aspect of “green” building operations and maintenance will be viewed in the context of goals and benefits the school expects to derive from green cleaning and indoor air quality programs they wish to implement.
Some basic principles of green cleaning programs include:
• Focus on entryways inside and out. Most pollutants enter the building on people’s feet, so it’s important to implement indoor air quality programs, which will help to trap and remove dirt before it enters the building and to frequently clean the entrances and entryway mats.
• Minimize particles and chemicals in the air. Mechanically capturing dust and dirt, using course spray for chemicals, and applying the cleaner to the cloth rather than spraying the surface to be cleaned are all important aspects of indoor air quality programs.
• Use environmentally preferable cleaning chemicals along with chemical management systems for accurate product dilution.
• Ensure proper vacuuming, extraction, rinsing and drying. Carpets can be a host for moisture problems and mold growth. When implementing green cleaning programs, use Carpet & Rug Institute’s Green Label approved vacuums. Empty vacuum bags frequently for more efficient operating.
• Focus on preventative measures and quick clean up of accidents. Therefore, fewer and milder chemicals can be used.
• Mechanically capture dirt and remove it rather than moving it around. Green cleaning programs should use products like microfiber dusting cloths and flat mops, for example, which can eliminate the need for chemicals.
• Focus on touch-points. These are door handles, bright work and other areas where people come in contact with the facility or its fixtures.
• Apply disinfectant in restrooms properly. Typical procedures for green cleaning programs will include ensuring the chemical has proper dwell time so that soil is thoroughly removed using less product.
• Promote safety and prevent cross-contamination. Safer products and proper use and storage of chemicals help green cleaning and indoor air quality programs create a safer environment. Color-coded tools ensure that pollutants don’t get carried from one area (such as a restroom) to another.
• Use “green” paper products, such as recycled tissues and towels bleached without the use of chlorine.
• Implement an effective recycling program.
• Create a communication program so that building occupants understand they are part of the process. Proper spill notification, food clean-up and clutter reduction will help to ensure a healthy facility.