We all want to do a good job in the best possible way and in the shortest amount of time, but how do we finish faster and still be able to look back at the job with pride and a smile? How can we do it without making things more complicated? Maybe your biggest question is.. "How can I do it without adding extra costs? Well the good news is.. Yes, you can! The 4 E's you are about to be introduced to are all about helping you choose the ultimate cleaning method for every cleaning job. The end result is cleaning better for less!
A cleaning method is any task relating to the job:
- Cleaning the floor
- Servicing hygiene bins
- Vacuuming a room
- Removing a stain
The 4 E's are the things you need to think about when you are about to perform any cleaning related task. Here they are:
1. Efficiency
First we need to look at how our cleaning tasks are currently performed and how they could be improved. Here's the kind of questions we need to be asking ourselves..
- How long does the task take and how could you improve efficiency and save time?
- Does the cleaning method do the job properly and work safely?
- Is the task easy to understand and complete?
- Does the method achieve long lasting results?
- Can you do the job in a way that reduces re-soiling and more work down the track?
- Will the cleaning method (including the cleaning chemical or agitation type) do any damage?
So that's number 1. Cleaning Efficiency.. Now lets move on to the second 'E'.
2. Ergonomics
Ergonomics is all about those factors in the workplace that are intended to maximise productivity while at the same time minimise fatigue, discomfort and injury for the person completing the task. Here's some things to consider in relation to Ergonomics in cleaning:
- Are your cleaning machines, tools and equipment easy to use, operate and move around?
- What effort is required and how can that be managed to avoid over exertion, straining, fatigue and injury?
- Are there any bad habits or old ways of doing things that needs to be changed?
- Can items or equipment be stored easily and safely?
- Is there a better way or option of doing what you do?
Great ergonomics will benefit your overall health and well being, but in the initial stages a task may feel different as you retrain yourself from what you are used to. It's kind of like good posture, we know it has huge benefits but initially it might feel unusual and require some effort to make it a new habit. Good posture and better ergonomics are worth it and you'll look back in years to come and be thankful you made the effort.
So the first 2 'E's'are Efficiency and Ergonomics.. Now for the third 'E' that managers love.
3. Economy
When we are considering the economy or cost of a cleaning method we start to ask questions like:
- What is the total cost of the current cleaning procedure?
- How can your cleaning method be improved to save costs or improve earnings?
- Is there a better option available?
So what do you think is the highest cost in cleaning an establishment? In most cases, there is usually these top 4 costs:
1. Labour costs (Time)
2. Administration and insurance
3. Accessories & Consumables (Mops, Buckets, etc.)
Does that surprise you? Did you know on average more than 90% of total cleaning costs are labour related? 56% of the total cleaning budget is spent on floors, 9% of the total budget is spent on walking, refilling, emptying and replenishing stock. The latest cleaning technologies available mean that effort and time taken for cleaning and hygiene tasks can be greatly reduced.
Here at XO2 we carry out regular assessments of cleaning departments to assist in reducing costs and improving earnings. It's amazing how much a new piece of equipment, a tool or even just a change of procedure can increase the profitability of an organisation. Time is our most valuable commodity and it's also the largest cost in cleaning by far. So where you can save time, you save money.
So we've covered Efficiency, Ergonomics and Economy.. Now it's time for the 4th and final 'E'.
4. Environment
Before we look at some aspects to consider in relation to the environment and your cleaning methods, remember this: The environment is not just about the oceans, plant life, animals and air quality.. It's also about you! So when you are asking yourself "Is this environmentally friendly?", also ask yourself 'Is it people friendly?'. In most cases they should be considered alongside one another. Some good questions to ask yourself in relation to your environmental impact are:
- What impact are you and your cleaning supplies having on the environment?
- Are your products and procedures environmentally friendly?
Once you've considered your environmental impact, ask yourself what you can do to make improvements? Here's some ideas:
- Reduce water usage wherever possible
- Minimise energy and power to prevent pollution
- Replace chemicals with safer alternatives
- Communicate and share your environmental initiatives with other staff and clients.
- Never stop improving and commit to a continuous circle of improvement.
- Use your suppliers and other experts to help you find better ways working
To wrap up, the 4 E's are Efficiency, Ergonomics, Economy and the Environment. We need to think of these 4 areas whenever we're choosing a cleaning method, designing a cleaning system or solving a cleaning problem to ensure we achieve the best possible result.
For more information and assistance with any of your cleaning needs, please get in touch!