Isn’t it time to review your existing cleaning contractor?
As the cost of living increases, many companies will be experiencing rising prices across their business which will affect the products and services they provide. Office cleaning has been an important service over the past two years but the business landscape has changed. As we emerge from COVID-19, all costs are being challenged so this could be a good time to consider your cleaning expenditure. In this blog we look why it could be time to review your existing cleaning contractor.
4 reasons why you should review your existing cleaning contractor now
Cleaning hours to reflect new office or building occupancy
There may be no return to the traditional five day office week. The pandemic has changed opinion and the longer-term implications are that working from home will remain at least in part. Hybrid working, where staff split their time between home and office, it seems is here to stay.
The office will still play a vital role. People still need face to face interaction for collaboration and development. The changed office use however may require a new approach to when and how the cleaning takes place.
For example, if the office is much quieter on a Friday, then the team could focus on periodic tasks such as a kitchen deep clean. If the office is fully closed one day a week, then the weekly hours could reduce accordingly. Adjusting the schedules and frequency could save on the overall costs.
Every office is unique and every client has different needs. This means adjusting and tailoring the cleaning schedules to ensure staff continue to deliver the highest standards of office hygiene.
COVID Secure Cleaning
Anti-viral cleaning products are the new norm as they are proven to kill pathogenic viruses including coronavirus. These should be used correctly following manufacturers guidelines. It's important to note the contact time, which is how long a disinfectant must stay wet on a surface to be effective.
Regularly reviewing the office usage is essential to ensure that the enhanced cleaning regimes are still effective. This includes frequently sanitising work areas and especially the common touch points. These typically include door handles and push plates, kitchen appliances and washroom fixtures and fittings.
Continuing to enforce a clear desk policy helps to keep surfaces clear so that cleaning routine are effective. Since cleaners have instructions not to move personal items on desks, having clear areas will make it possible to clean surfaces, keyboards and phone handsets.
More emphasis on environmental and sustainable responsibility
Clients increasingly demand that service providers use greener products, have better social responsibility policies and have a commitment to sustainability.
Sustainable cleaning in the workplace is about eliminating harsh chemicals and instead using biological products that are safer for the environment. This extends beyond cleaning products such as
- Using equipment such as the iMop to reduce water usage
- Replacing vacuum cleaners with alternatives which are more energy efficient
- Reusing spray bottles to reduce single use plastic waste
- Using products made from recycled materials, and for paper products eg hand towels, to use sustainably sourced fibres
- improving workplace recycling rates
Managing the cleaners
One of the biggest complaints from clients is that their onsite cleaning team do not feel supported. This covers training, health and safety, understanding schedules and expectations, cleaning product availability and cleaning to the agreed specification in the contract.
Regular scheduled manager visits for quality audits provide an excellent opportunity to meet with clients and staff. Meeting with the staff mean they can check the equipment and materials, review service delivery, check shifts and holiday cover and ensure the team has everything they need to succeed.
TemcoUK Facility Services is a professional commercial cleaning contractor
Temco has vast experience in commercial cleaning. We understand that as businesses adapt to different ways of working, so too do our cleaning schedules need to adjust to reflect the changing landscape. We tailor our office cleaning service to meet the unique requirements of your business, whatever days you work and whatever your office occupancy.
Our comprehensive list of services covers everything including office window and carpet cleaning, washroom services and pest control.
If you would like further information or reviewing your cleaning, please contact us on LinkedIn, email hello@temco-services.co.uk or call us 01895 520370.
The importance of valuing cleaning staff
Cleaning and hygiene rose the top of the agenda during the Covid-19 pandemic. Cleaning operatives were seen as vital to protect the health and wellbeing of others during this time. Their visibility gave confidence to returning office workers that their workspace was safe and hygienic. With this changing attitude to a previously invisible workforce, this blog looks at the importance of valuing cleaning staff.
Cleaning Industry background
Traditionally in the commercial cleaning industry it was common knowledge that low pay and low expectations of staff was widespread. If you then add poor training and ineffective equipment, the results are poor productivity and at best, second-rate daily office cleaning. In spite of this, low investment in staff is rife, with contractors locked into the low wage and low expectation business model.
Fair Pay – Good Productivity – Great Service
The direct opposite of this business model for commercial office cleaning services begins with fair pay for staff, which naturally leads to high expectations. The Living Wage is a great way to demonstrate fair pay to staff, and to recognise their important contribution.
The Living Wage Foundation rate is based on the cost of living and reviewed annually. It is currently £9.90 and the London Living Wage rate is £11.05. This compares with the national living wage, set by the government, which stands at £9.50.
Then add in a professional training regime and give staff the latest equipment to work with. The result is exactly as commercial cleaning services clients would wish - good productivity and great service. It is clearly in everybody’s interest that this approach is adopted.
Labour shortages
In today’s post Brexit, post lockdown employment climate, valuing cleaning staff has become even more important. Some European staff went home during lockdown. They have not returned and seem unlikely to do so in the future. In addition, many people have understandably re-evaluated their lives after being locked down, and this is clearly including many office cleaning staff. When they look around they find that they have more job alternatives open to them than before the lockdown. As a result it is only those who are happy in their work who are staying in the industry.
Employer of choice
A daily office cleaning provider needs to be an Employer of Choice to ensure it can recruit the staff its clients need. It needs to earn a reputation for paying a fair wage and showing genuine concern for staff wellbeing. Then to keep existing staff they need to be encouraged to develop through training and incentives. They also need to be provided with the latest equipment which will help them do the job of office cleaning faster and more effectively.
High expectations
An ethos that encourages staff to deliver the very best service, giving them the most modern equipment and the best consumables will give your commercial cleaning services contractor a high quality attitude that will penetrate every corner of their operation. The result for clients is of course excellent productivity and the best possible service.
Training
Recruiting and retaining the best clean staff is not only about pay. It’s also about providing training to safely deliver the highest standards of service using the best equipment available. Staff increasingly want to feel secure, valued and see a potential to advance their career.
The result for managers will be a highly motivated staff of professional cleaners who really care about their work. People who can be flexible when it is required. People who are responsive and resourceful.
TemcoUK – an Employer Of Choice
Our employees are the backbone of our business. We always offer clients a Living Wage cost option, as we believe it is the right thing to do. And we invest in people, technology and processes to ensure that our cleaning regimes reflect client requirements and building needs. This enables us to recruit and retain staff who care about their work and go above and beyond, after all they often become a part of the wider client FM team.
The benefits for clients is clear: great service, a well-trained and supported professional cleaning team who consistently deliver the highest standards of workplace cleaning and hygiene.
Please contact us if you would like to discuss your cleaning contract hello@temco-services.co.uk or call 01895 520370
Clear Cleaning Costs Create Confidence
When your contract cleaning company gives you clear prices for daily office cleaning it creates a strong base of trust in your relationship. Transparency makes sure that you know exactly which commercial cleaning services you are actually paying for. This blog look at why clear cleaning costs create confidence.
At Tender
At the start of your relationship with a new professional contract cleaning company, clear prices are vital. This will enable you to properly compare the charges proposed by the competing companies. If you can compare each company in detail you will be able to make a fair assessment of each proposal and ensure you get the best for your premises.
Avoid Shocks
A professional contract cleaning company will be open and honest about the pricing for office cleaning services right from the start of the contract. The invoices you receive should be exactly as you expected at the end of the month. This will help you avoid those surprise costs that will throw out your financial plan.
Look For Detail
If the invoice your contract cleaning company sends you shows every service in one lump sum then you cannot know what you are paying for. As an example, you need to know the cleaner's hourly pay rate, not least because it helps with discussions about the Living Wage. It is also possible that you are paying for more cleaners than are actually carrying out your daily office cleaning. Or perhaps your cleaners pay is less, resulting in a lack of care and concern about standards of work. It is also possible that your contract cleaning company is making more profit from your contract than was agreed.
So you need clear detail in your quotation and invoices to get a proper understanding of the commercial office cleaning services supplied.
Situations Evolve
No company stands still, so contracts do change over time. If the last two years have showed us anything, it is that a contract cleaning company needs to be quick to adapt.
If your cleaning contractor supplies detailed pricing you will be able to look at the effect of any changes within your company before implementation. This will give you detail to help you keep any increases in costs as low as possible.
Commercial office cleaning services providers needed to understand and implement new rules to establish new protocols very quickly during the pandemic. Professional COVID disinfection and sanitising services, with new systems and new products had to be brought in fast. Access to clear pricing was essential for managers to understand the effect on their budgets. Otherwise they were working in the dark.
The current environment has staff shortages causing pressure to increase wages, plus rising inflation. More reason then why Facility Managers need to understand the reason behind unavoidable upward pressure on costs.
Itemise Everything
Your commercial office cleaning services provider should give you a full list of all prices, which must include how much they are making. It is fair that a provider should make a profit, but only to the amount agreed. That way you will understand what you are being charged for all the time. You will also be able to see that the contractors carrying out your daily office cleaning are treated properly. Detailed pricing will show up important matters like care of staff and the progress of technical changes.
Clear Cleaning Costs Create Confidence
Your commercial office cleaning services provider should supply clear pricing from the word go.
It must include:
- Direct wage costs - weekly hours multiplied by the rate of pay
- Indirect costs - National Insurance, sick and holiday pay and pension
- Compliance and equipment
- Margins and expenses
There should be no concealed costs and your commercial cleaning services provider should only invoice for agreed charges. Specialist cleaning, like commercial window and carpet cleaning services must be listed separately. The cost of cleaning consumables should be agreed at the start.
TemcoUK Facility Services
With over 20 years experience in the commercial cleaning sector, Temco has always operated a transparent pricing policy. Clear pricing makes working with us as your contract cleaning provider much simpler with less chance of invoice queries and misunderstandings.
Following a site survey, we will prepare an accurate quotation based on the hours required to achieve the cleaning specification.
If you are looking to change your cleaning provider, please give us a call or drop us an email to hello@temco-services.co.uk
8 ways to reduce Office Cleaning costs
Now more than ever, keeping a workplace clean and hygienic is a top priority for Facility Managers. A clean and well-maintained workplace sends a positive message to staff, customers and visitors and it plays an important role in wellbeing at work. Regular benchmarking of cleaning costs is good practice, and a professional contractor will always work with clients to offer best value. Here are eight ways to reduce office cleaning costs.
Review the cleaning specification
If the cleaning specification has not recently been reviewed, then this would be a good place to start. The scope of work may highlight some time savings if its possible to modify or remove tasks. Additionally, identifying high priority areas which must be cleaned daily will focus the cleaning resource as required and highlight other areas where frequencies could be reduced.
How many hours per week?
As we highlighted in a previous blog, using productivity to calculate cleaning hours required – rather than a visual inspection only – will ensure that the right number of hours are allocated to a project. Many clients will prefer to have a daily presence. For smaller offices with less than 10 staff, it may be beneficial to consider having cleaners only for 3 or 4 days a week. Please bear in mind that it is difficult to recruit cleaning staff for less than 1 hour shift as transport costs will make it uneconomic to work for such a short period of time.
Review consumables
Cost in use is a key factor when reviewing office consumables such as washroom paper and soap products. Your cleaning provider may be able to reduce consumption by suggesting smarter dispensing options, and work with you to reduce waste and usage. It’s a fact that higher quality paper hand towels for example absorb more moisture quickly, reducing usage and wastage.
Central bins
Individual waste bins are inefficient as cleaners spend a lot of time emptying each one and replacing the bin liner. Removing them from under every desk and replacing with communal recycling bins will save time and money on the contract. Furthermore, it can have a beneficial effect on recycling rates as it forces staff to rethink how they use and dispose of their rubbish.
Technology
In certain locations and office layouts robotic vacuums can be the ideal, innovative way to reduce time spent vacuuming floors. Time savings mean more focus for higher priority tasks such as sanitising or desk cleaning.
New generation chemicals and surface protectors with increased efficacy offer another solution too. These kill bacteria and viruses and provide a longer-term solution.
Promote a culture of cleaning up
Whose responsibility is it to return used cups and plates from staff desks to the kitchen? One way to reduce the cleaning hours required is to ask staff to take their own cups, crockery and cutlery back to the kitchen. This also applies to meeting room etiquette and clearing away items after use.
Review PPM frequency
Planned Preventive Maintenance (PPM) is scheduled maintenance outside of the standard cleaning, for example windows cleans and carpet deep cleans. Preparation of schedules use a pre-agreed frequency of work, for example quarterly window cleaning.
However, this may not always be the most cost-effective approach, for example north facing windows may require less cleaning than south facing ones, or carpet cleans required only during the winter months. Reviewing the schedules may result in frequency reduction.
Use a professional contract cleaning contractor
As businesses increase their focus on cleanliness and hygiene, it has never been more important to work with a professional cleaning company. A cleaning contractor will work with clients to create a unique cleaning solution that mirrors the unique requirements of the work environment.
TemcoUK works with clients to deliver cleaning excellence
Commercial office contract cleaning is our business, and we have been in business for over 20 years. We are passionate about providing an excellent service to clients. Hundreds of clients trust us to deliver compliant, consistent and reliable cleaning leaving them to focus on their business goals.
Office cleanliness not only affects hygiene standards, but also overall employee wellbeing, productivity and morale. If you would like to discuss your cleaning project, please don’t hesitate to get in touch on 01895 520370 or email hello@temco-services.co.uk
How contractors should manage an office cleaning contract
One of the most common reasons which prompts clients to seek alternative cleaning contractors is lack of management. This is frustrating to say the least, as office cleaning teams should solve issues rather than create them. If you are finding that you are increasingly becoming involved in day to day service, then its definitely time to consider a change of provider. In this blog we look at how contractors should manage an office cleaning contract.
The cleaning contract specifies the cleaning activities and frequencies for the cleaning team. Ensuring this is implemented every day to the required standards is the essence of good contract management. This should not be a firefighting role, but rather working proactively and collaboratively with the client to achieve a common goal.
5 key elements to manage an office cleaning contract
Communication
Managing a cleaning contract effectively requires excellent communication. The cleaning service should after all match the client requirements and things do change which may necessitate a corresponding change to the service delivery.
This could be about any number of issues, such as changing cleaning specifications or hours. Communicating these changes, either by email, phone or in person, should be easy with the contractor responding quickly to confirm how they will be implemented and by when. Lines of communication need to be clearly defined and responsibilities explained and understood by all members of the team.
Regular scheduled contract meetings
Having regular contract meetings with a set agenda will not only improve communication but will also help to build good working relationships. To be meaningful there needs to be open and honest forum for discussions.
Reporting Performance management / KPI
As we discussed in an earlier blog, cleaning costs can make up a large proportion of an organisation’s FM budget so its important to ensure the service delivery is as per the agreed terms.
Key Performance Indicators (KPI’s) are a common way to measure and monitor the contract against business objectives. The KPI may be made up of various different indicators which vary, but typically contain scores for the following:-
Quality of Service
Determined by the results of quality and compliance audits. These scores reflect the results of many areas, for example scoring the cleanliness of an office desk or reception floor.
Staffing
This would include staff training matrices and that right to work documents are in place. It should also report on employee attendance and any other issues relating to the cleaning team.
Health & Safety
For example reviewing accident or near misses, Portable Appliance Test (PAT) reports, checking that Risk Assessment and Method Statements are in place, as well as the necessary COSHH and MSDS documentation.
Periodic Schedule (PPM)
This would be to review the periodic tasks which support a daily office cleaning contact, for example window cleaning, washroom services and pest control.
Operational including Site inspections
Checking equipment is in good working order and fit for use
Are all cleaning material in stock and storage correctly
Are the cleaning cupboards neat and tidy
Ensuring cleaning workplans up to date and cover arrangements in place if a member of staff is absent
Environmental and sustainability issues
Financial / Budgetary
Closely monitoring financial performance to check how actual spends compare to the allocated budgets. The main spend is labour. Other costs are chemicals and consumables for example washroom items such as soap or paper towels.
Customer Satisfaction
Customer satisfaction results can be discussed here and a review of any helpdesk or other issues arising. Good cleaning contractors will strive to exceed client expectations through consistent service excellence and client-focused solutions to deliver reliable, good quality cleaning.
Feedback provides crucial insight into a contractors performance, identifying issues which can be rectified for continuous improvement.
TemcoUK Facility Services is a professional commercial cleaning contractor
Established in 2001, TemcoUK provides professional daily office cleaning and associated facility services in London and the South East.
There is a vital difference between on and offsite contract management. We often find when we tender for a cleaning contract that clients are happy with the onsite staff, but become frustrated by the lack of interaction and support by offsite managers.
Temco has an excellent record of contact management, and you will have full transparency on your service from mobilisation and for the duration of your contract. We professionally manage our contracts are our managers will make regular visits to monitor performance and discuss any issues.
Please get in touch if you are looking to switch your cleaning provider. Call us on 01895 520370.
5 Benefits of a clean and hygienic office
Research shows that a clean and hygienic office boosts workplace wellbeing, enhances productivity and reduces absenteeism. It also has a key role to play in keeping staff healthy and creating the right impression of businesses and brands. Many companies employ a professional service contractor to manage their daily office cleaning, and in this blog we look at the 5 benefits of a clean and hygienic office.
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Confidence of returning employees
Since the COVID-19 restrictions were lifted in July, people have been encouraged to return to the office. For some, this will be the first time in over 18 months that they have been back - understandably there may be some concern. So the focus for employers is to instill confidence through a range of measures including effective and regular cleaning.
Regular and effective cleaning
Using professional products including proven anti-viral cleaners will ensure the levels of germs and pathogenic viruses including Influenza A (H1N1 and Swine Flu) are significantly reduced. Staff can assist the process by ensuring their desk is clear of any items so the cleaning teams can fully sanitize areas every evening, as cleaning staff typically have been instructed not to touch or move these.
High frequency touchpoint sanitisation
High frequency touchpoints in the workplace include door handles, door push plates and operating buttons on appliances such as coffee machines and printers. Regular sanitisation of these identified areas will reduce the risk of cross contamination and infection.
Trained cleaning staff
Cleaning staff need to know how to clean and sanitise effectively and implement this in their day to day routines. Training will cover aspects such as chemical contact time and which cloth to use for maximum effect.
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Prevent illness
It’s not just COVID-19, but other germs, bacteria and diseases have the opportunity to spread more in an unclean environment. Absenteeism through, for example, catching colds and flu is not only an inconvenience to individuals, but it also costs business many thousands of pounds each year and has a detrimental effect on the bottom line.
By maintaining effective cleaning and hygiene routines, germs levels reduce and prevented from spreading. Pathogens can live on hard surfaces such as desks for long periods of time so regular cleaning and sanitizing is essential to reduce the risk.
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Employee wellbeing
Staff spend a large amount of time in the office and need to feel happy and comfortable in that environment to perform at their best. Working in a clean and hygienic office enhances their feeling of wellbeing and demonstrates that their employer has invested in providing them with the highest quality work environment.
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Increases productivity and motivation
Let’s face it, dirt and mess can be very distracting! Cleaning removes these distractions, helping employees to better focus and concentrate on their tasks. A part of workplace productivity is employee motivation, and a clean workplace signals to staff that they are valued and respected. There are also additional benefits such as improving staff morale and of course employee retention.
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Creates a good impression
First impressions count! A clean, tidy and hygienic workplace instills confidence and projects a positive image which is good for business. An office should be an enjoyable place in which to spend time, welcoming visitors and showing an attention to detail. Nothing says unprofessional more than dirty floors, messy reception desks or overflowing bins in the workplace. A well-kept workplace implies efficiency and quality.
TemcoUK Facility Services – experts in daily office cleaning
Temco is a professional and experienced contract cleaning company specializing in the provision of daily office cleaning services.
We are agile with a focus on consistent service excellence. In these challenging times we understand that a clean and hygienic office is more important than ever and plays a significant role in providing confidence for staff returning to the office. Our fully trained cleaning teams will work to agreed schedules and safe ways of working so that you have total confidence that your workplace is clean and hygienic.
Temco has an excellent record of professionally managing contracts to ensure that the right staff, at the right time clean using the right chemicals and follow the right processes. If you would like to find out more or to discuss your office cleaning provision please download our brochure here, call on 01895 520370 or email hello@temco-services.co.uk.
How much does commercial office cleaning cost?
Working out the cost of an office clean is not as straightforward as it first seems. Every office is unique, and every client has different requirements and specifications. Combined, these determine how long it takes to clean and therefore how much it will cost. This blog looks at these elements, and how much does commercial office cleaning cost.
5 elements in commercial office cleaning cost
In broad terms there are 5 component parts: hours, pay rates, staff structure, cleaning equipment and materials. Get the inputs right, and the results will be correct.
Calculating office cleaning hours
A previous blog looked at productivity and how this is used to accurately calculate the cleaning hours required for a workplace environment. The primary factor used is size, either square footage or meterage. Splitting the space into areas, such as office and washroom, is another determining factor as each has different productivities and therefore affects the hours required to clean.
Spending time at the start to carefully scope the size, layout and cleaning specification required will provide an accurate number of hours for the office clean.
Which cleaning pay rate
There are a number of pay rates which cleaning companies can use, and this can be confusing.
National Living Wage
The lowest rate that can be paid to an adult is £8.91, the current national living wage.
Real Living Wage
The real living wage, as set out by The Living Wage Foundation, is £9.50 UK rate and £10.85 London rate. This rate is reviewed every November with an implementation date of the following May.
Offering Real Value
Often paying at the lower rate can be a false economy. The cost of paying a higher wage rate can, with correct contract management, be offset by proportionally higher rates of productivity.
Real value is added not only by investing in staff but also by embracing technology, having robust systems and processes in place to deliver a motivated and reliable workforce.
The rate that’s right for the contract
What rate to pay cleaning staff is a decision that is taken jointly between the cleaning provider and the client. There are many factors to take into account for example the location, transport links, availability of labour, and shift times.
Staff structure
One of the most important is the management and support for the onsite cleaning teams. Without this, clients often end up having to manage the contract.
There are a number of organizational structures that can be in place for the onsite cleaning team.
Simple out of hours cleaning is often based on early morning or late evening cleaning operatives and a working supervisor. Typically two or three hour shifts and all tasks are completed in this time.
Prestigious sites may benefit from including a daytime housekeeper to carry out duties to deliver a high-end client specification. This helps to maintain standards throughout the day particularly around washrooms, kitchen and break-out areas and all main walkways.
Larger sites may additionally require a non-working supervisor or site manager who would be responsible for overseeing all aspects of cleaning as well as being the first point of contact for any onsite reactive cleaning.
Cleaning equipment
The purchase of new cleaning equipment is included in the overall cost of a contract. Typically, this would include vacuum cleaners and floor scrubber dryers. With the ongoing pandemic situation, clients may also wish to consider purchasing a fogging machine to quickly and easily sanitise office areas to control the spread of COVID.
Cleaning materials & Consumables
Most professional cleaning providers would include the cost of materials in their monthly price. For example microfiber cloths, cleaning chemicals, dusters, vacuum bags and PPE such as nitrile gloves.
Cleaning consumables, which vary each month, are usually charged on a usage basis. Examples of these are waste bags, dishwasher tablets and paper products such as hand towels and toilet paper.
TemcoUK Facility Services
Temco is an established and professional contract cleaning provider, and we operate a transparent pricing policy. We’re passionate about delivering outstanding service and working in partnership with clients to ensure contacts are correctly staffed and managed.
Following a site survey to establish size and scale, we will carefully prepare an accurate quotation based on the hours required to perform the cleaning tasks.
Our preferred option is to pay cleaning teams the Living Wage Foundation rate. Our extensive experience within this industry has proven that payrates need to be attractive to both recruit and retain the right calibre of staff.
If you are looking to review your cleaning provision or would like to discuss your workspace please contact Temco today 01895 520370.
Recruiting and retaining office cleaning staff
One of the many effects of the pandemic is the impact on availability of staff within the UK workforce. Coupled with Brexit, which has limited the numbers of workers from the EU, worker shortage particularly in low-paid jobs is becoming a real concern for the UK. The commercial cleaning sector is no exception. This blog looks at the challenge of recruiting and retaining office cleaning staff.
Cleaning viewed as a low paid sector
The cleaning industry has historically been a low pay sector. Typically characterised with a vicious cycle of high levels of staff turnover and absenteeism leading to operational inefficiency, low standards and moral, and low productivity.
Greater demand for office cleaning and hygiene
At the same time the pandemic has led an increased demand for office cleaning and hygiene services. 2020 has highlighted the importance of cleaning to deliver COVID-safe workplaces to give confidence to returning workers.
The issue now for the industry is recruiting and retaining office cleaning staff.
Recruiting cleaning staff
Finding the right cleaning staff from the start is key. The best candidates often make the best long-term employees. Being clear from the initial job advert about the role and responsibilities, the hours and the expectations will attract a higher quality cleaner.
Retaining cleaning staff
High staff turnover rates on a cleaning contract leads to lack of stability, knowledge and continuity. It often has a negative effect on team morale with increased workloads and reduced productivity as new staff learn the role. More time is also required for staff right to work checks and training, all of which reduce the cleaning hours on site.
There are many factors which affect staff retention. Below we have highlighted four of the main actions to reduce cleaning staff turnover rates.
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Invest in quality training
Training covers a wide range of areas such as health and safety and how to use the chemicals and equipment. And of course, training in how to clean and sanitise effectively is particularly relevant.
Training ensures that cleaners understand exactly what standards are expected of them, and why it matters to the client. Taking time during sessions to make sure that everyone in the team understands this will lead to sense of ownership and pride.
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Invest in efficient machinery
The cleaning industry is undergoing big changes and there are many new and innovative tools and processes which significantly improve efficiency and productivity. This applies to equipment, software and chemicals.
An iMop for example works up to ten times faster than traditional mop and bucket, reducing the strain on the operative. Investing in efficient machinery means the cleaning teams can focus on hygiene and making office spaces safe and clean.
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Paying the Living Wage
Paying cleaning teams the Living Wage is not only a good thing to do, it makes business sense. Rewarding staff a fair wage increases morale, enthusiasm and engagement. It also gives people a sense of pride in their job which in turn reduces absenteeism and sickness. Now more than ever, payrates need to be attractive to both recruit and retain the right calibre of staff.
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Showing respect and improving communication
Making cleaning staff feel part of the team and showing respect is vital to promote loyalty and maintain good working relationships. Saying thank you to cleaners and acknowledging good work is a positive example of how a little can go a long way.
TemcoUK Facility Services – An employer of choice
Temco has a proven track record of professional competence and client retention. Our focus on cleaning excellence supports our aim of being an Employer of Choice.
We are committed to the provision of ongoing, effective employee training to create a quality driven and highly motivated workforce. We have access to the same labour market as our competitors, but we take the competitive edge through other factors. For example our expertise in getting the best from staff, training and developing them to deliver productivity significantly above average.
Temco is a committed Living wage employer. By paying the living wage and investing in our staff, embracing technology and innovation, having good systems and processes all makes for our strong business foundation that delivers a happy workforce, satisfied customers and long- lasting business relationships.
Working in an industry which is traditionally associated with low pay and inefficiency, we believe our success lies in how we recruit, retain, motivate, train and reward our staff. If you are thinking of switching your cleaning provider, please contact Temco today 01895 520370.
Using productivity to calculate office cleaning hours
In these challenging times value for money is as important as ever, and ensuring you are paying the right amount for your office cleaning to deliver the standards you require is vital. This blog looks at why commercial contract cleaning companies should be using productivity to calculate office cleaning hours for quotes, rather than visual inspection.
Productivity matters because it enables accurate calculation of the cleaning hours required for any project. This helps to identify and implement operational efficiency by using appropriate equipment, materials, processes and training. There are many variables and of course no two offices are the same.
The drive for successful contractors is to find new innovations and techniques that enable cleaning teams to achieve high cleaning standards in less time for the optimum outcome.
How to calculate office cleaning productivity
Define the office space
Productivity is based on size, square footage or square meterage, so the start point is to establish the office space size that the quote will cover. This should eliminate all areas not included in the cleaning specification, for example server rooms or technical areas.
Measuring the office space
When architect office plans are unavailable or out of date, the only way to start is to measure the space manually. This can be done by walking around the premises using a small lightweight laser distance measuring tool. At a click of a button the essential measurements can be obtained and recorded.
Determine area splits
The next stage is to understand the percentage split by area, as each has a different cleaning productivity which affects the cleaning hours required. Washrooms for example have much lower productivity than corridors. The different areas would be for example
- Office
- Washroom & changing rooms
- Corridors & stairs
- Meeting rooms
- Reception areas
- Kitchens
What is cleaning productivity?
What is productivity in relation to cleaning? According to the British Institute of Cleaning Science (BICSc), the average productivity rating establishes the amount of area covered by one trained cleaning operative in one hour.
In general terms, this is typically around 230-250 m2 per hour. However, the productivity varies enormously depending on a wide variety of factors. Some examples shown below.
Factors which affect cleaning productivity
Client expectation and cleaning standards
Detailed specifications are essential to accurately calculate productivity. This is what will deliver the cleaning standards. A project with client-facing areas may have a much higher specification that a cost-conscious one who requires only the basic service. And clients who have invested heavily in a high-end office fitout or refurbishment will demand very high cleaning standards of their prestigious office.
Density
High density open plan office space means rows of desks tightly located together. Each individual desk requires cleaning and sanitisation. And in these pandemic times, partitions have been introduced to minimise infection and of course these need to be made safe to ensure workplace hygiene.
Client specifications
Understanding all the elements of the specification is important and additional items for consideration include:-
- Cleaning and restocking coffee machines
- Practicality - Are there individual or communal waste bins, location of cleaning cupboard etc
- Do fridges require cleaning and disposing of food at the end of the week
- Availability of areas to clean, eg late-running meetings
- Is a daytime presence required for sanitisation of high contact touchpoints
Building age, type and layout
Older buildings typically take longer to clean than newer ones thanks to things like quirky design with awkward nooks and crannies, uneven floors and old-style materials. Types of buildings are office, schools and healthcare facilities, each of which have specific cleaning requirements. Finally, layout plays an important role in productivity as open plan offices are generally working at higher productivity rates than older style configurations.
Temco Bespoke Quotation Tool - TemQuote
Temco has developed a bespoke quoting tool TemQuote to accurately calculate cleaning hours required for each quotation. We take building measurements as a starting point, determine the percentage split by area and overlay the client specification and expectations. This provides the hours required for the project. The resulting figure incorporates the latest innovations and cleaning techniques to ensure that the service specification is delivered at the highest achievable productivity levels.
For successful bids these figures provide valuable information to ensure the staff schedules and workplans are effective, efficient and achievable.
If you are looking at your cleaning provision, please call us now on 01895 520370 or email hello@temco-services.co.uk. We’d love to talk cleaning with you!
Cleaning Collaborative Spaces – 3 things you need to know
The impact of COVID-19 continues to reshape office space. Workplace trends are for agile, hybrid, social offices for use as hubs for collaboration and communication rather than the traditional desk setting. With so many workspaces fundamentally changing their design, this blog looks at cleaning collaborative spaces and the 3 things you need to know.
Hybrid Working and collaboration – the new office role
Hybrid working allows staff to work flexibility, splitting their time between working remotely and the workplace, and allows them to choose where best to complete their work.
The office still plays a key role for face-to-face meetings and training. As collaborative hubs, office are places were people gather to solve problems, create solutions and discuss opportunities. And collaboration plays a crucial role in productivity. Collaborative energy, getting together to brainstorm ideas on whiteboards, leads to innovation and improvements.
Cleaning collaborative spaces – 3 things you need to know: Visibility, Flexibility and Efficiency
Cleaning is no longer about visible dirt, and it requires a very different approach to provide the levels of assurance that returning staff demand and expect. To make staff feel confident, keeping collaborative spaces safe and hygienic is vital. Here are three things you need to know:-
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Visibility in office cleaning – daily presence to give confidence
Cleaning is changing post COVID. Previously schedules were focused on cleaning desks and other fixed locations, and this generally took place out of hours. Requirements now are for daytime visibility with cleaning staff regularly sanitizing touchpoints and busy communal areas. Where budgets allow, some workspaces are insisting on a continual daytime cleaning presence to ensure that spaces are always safe and ready for use. Typical flexible working spaces include:-
- Collaboration zones
- Break out, chill out and social areas
- Formal meeting rooms
- Informal meeting spaces
- Work pods incl acoustic pods
- Team working benches
- Kitchen and café areas
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Flexibility in office cleaning schedules – matching cleaning to office usage
Changing space needs a change in cleaning approach. Having flexible cleaning schedules which can adapt to office usage is essential. The new hybrid office interior layout differs from the traditional one in many ways, below are some examples:-
- Booths and work pods instead of desks.
May require additional time to fully clean and sanitise as this includes the walls, floor, door, desk and seating area
- More soft seating and upholstery
Upholstery can quickly become stained and dirty and this does not give a welcoming impression. More frequent cleaning of soft seating is necessary to match the increased usage and maintain a healthy, fresh environment.
- Storage lockers
In traditional office spaces, even in open plan areas, individuals had their own assigned storage space eg pedestals with cleaning scheduled weekly. Storage is evolving and shared solutions are now more common. There is a requirement for daily sanitisation of handles, keypads or manual dials to maintain surfaces free from germs and give staff peace of mind.
- Benches and screens
Informal spaces with benches mean that many people may use the same space so these need to be frequently cleaned in-between use. Where traditional desk seating remains unchanged, safety is provided with screens or dividers to reduce the risk of any cross infection.
- Meeting room booking system screens
To ensure touch screens are safe, the cleaning teams will schedule regular wipe downs with sanitizing solutions
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Efficiency with office cleaning materials and equipment – the right products at the right time
Daily cleaning and sanitizing materials need to be effective anti-viral proven to kill coronaviruses and conforming to EN14476. Touchpoint cleaning is the regular sanitisation of frequently touched surfaces such as door handles, entry screens, shared switches and kitchen appliances.
Investing in mobile fogging machines on site will enable quick reactive sanitisations of areas.
Finally ensuring sufficient stock of hand sanitizer, wipes and PPE provides further reassurance for staff. In addition, ensuring good supplies of soap and regular checks to ensure they don’t run out should be a daily task for office cleaning teams.
TemcoUK Facility Services has experience of cleaning collaborative workspaces
Many of our clients are adapting or refurbishing their workspace to accommodate the new requirements post COVID. We have a lot of experience of cleaning collaborative spaces, managing the changing cleaning requirements and working in close cooperation with the FM team to understand the individual daily demands and amend our schedules accordingly.
If you would like to discuss your cleaning or are considering a change of provider, please contact Temco today 01895 520370.