5 Ways the Pandemic Changed the Janitorial Industry
The onset of the COVID-19 pandemic posed a challenge to the cleaning industry and altered the public's expectations of cleanliness in places such as supermarkets, airports, restaurants, and hotels. Looking back over the past two years, it is safe to say that facilities are no longer cleaned solely for aesthetic purposes. To ensure that employees, customers, and other building visitors enter a safe and healthy environment, heightened infection prevention protocols will become a standard. As we continue to make progress in our fight against COVID-19, it is more crucial than ever before to comprehend how this crisis has transformed the cleaning industry.
Stability in the Supply Chain Is More Important Than Ever
When the pandemic struck, the increased demand for cleaning chemicals, toilet paper, hand sanitizer, and personal protective equipment (PPE) overwhelmed supply chains. In fact, demand for hand sanitizer alone increased by 1,400% between December 2019 and January 2020, necessitating the addition of more production shifts by manufacturers. As a result, numerous organizations struggled to acquire cleaning and disinfectant products. In some instances, this meant that cleaning professionals were utilizing products for which they lacked the proper training.
In the future, it will be crucial for manufacturers and facilities to have an adequate supply of emergency solutions on hand and to provide proper training, so that product safety and efficacy are not compromised in the event of an emergency.
The Public Cares More About Cleanliness
Before COVID-19, many individuals believed that "if something smells clean, it must be clean." Statistics demonstrate that this is no longer the case, as public concern for cleanliness and hygiene has increased. A full 53% of respondents in a November 2020 Harris Poll stated that the level of cleanliness in a hotel would influence their decision to book a future stay there.
Another study found that 82% of restaurant patrons agreed that common areas should be visibly wiped down frequently. Additionally, the public is more conscious of their own personal hygiene. According to studies, 90% of Americans washed their hands more frequently, thoroughly, or for longer durations during the pandemic, and 90% claim they will continue these hand washing best practices after the pandemic. Regular cleaning and the availability of hand hygiene supplies will help instill confidence among building occupants and visitors.
Increased Scrutiny of Product Efficacy
As a result of the United States Food and Drug Administration's (FDA) recalls of contaminated hand sanitizer and companies making false claims about product efficacy against COVID-19, the public and facility managers have become more skeptical of cleaning solutions. Before the United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) released List N, facility managers did not have a great deal of information on which anti-virus products were effective. Consequently, facility managers will need to carefully review the manufacturer's instructions to ensure that products are effective against pathogens of concern and live up to their performance claims.
Sustainability Takes Precedence
The pandemic has resulted in a significant increase in the use of cleaning chemicals, masks, gloves, disinfectant wipes, and other related items. The key to reducing the environmental impact of cleaning programs is reducing excessive waste. Through certification programs such as Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) and Green Seal, many facilities are also searching for ways to improve indoor air quality and the overall health and safety of building occupants. In the future, it will be crucial for facility managers to examine how their chemicals, tools, and equipment affect people and the environment, and to collaborate with service providers who share their commitment to sustainability.
Custodians Receive Recognition
Cleaning personnel are now regarded as indispensable employees and heroes who aid in the protection of individuals from potentially fatal pathogens. In fact, some have worked 12-hour shifts alongside physicians throughout the duration of the pandemic. 56% of respondents to a June 2020 survey said they hold custodians in much higher regard than they did before the pandemic. It will be essential for the industry to continue supporting cleaning professionals and providing them with the education, tools, and PPE they need to perform their jobs safely.
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The Infection Control Training: Become a Certified Infection Control Technician
Infection control and disinfection services came to the forefront of the cleaning industry in 2020, during the Covid-19 Pandemic. Building owners and property managers suddenly wanted cleaning companies to have Certifications and proof of Pandemic Protocols.
The Infection Control: Cleaning and Disinfecting Training Program meets Certification Requirements.
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