Uncovering the Secrets to Effective Green Cleaning

If a building has already adopted a green cleaning program,

it can still find ways to reduce cleaning’s environmental impacts and ensure occupant health.

Here is how to do it:

• The organization establishes a clear and formal commitment to green cleaning.

• A "road map" is created that identifies all the necessary products needed for the green cleaning program. These road maps can be tailored to specific facility areas.

• A portion control system is used to dilute concentrated cleaning solutions.

• Products are certified by independent third-party organizations such as the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency's Safer Choice (formerly Design for the Environment Program), Green Seal, or Underwriter's Labs/EcoLogo.

• Equipment and related tools are selected that also reduce the environmental impacts of cleaning.

• Equipment is also selected that incorporates ergonomic designs, protecting the cleaning workers' health.

• Vacuum cleaners and carpet extractors are certified by the Carpet & Rug Institute.

Finally, what truly differentiates a basic cleaning program from a well-developed green cleaning program is training.

Basic training of workers is required by law, especially as it applies to the use of hazardous products.

But a well-developed training program goes beyond this to ensure workers understand why cleaning is essential - to protect occupant health to reduce environmental impacts, and that they are engaged in creating a healthy, high-performance building.

-Steve