Cleanliness is fundamental in building management, ensuring that facilities are not only visually appealing but also safe and conducive to productivity. A well-maintained environment, especially within shared spaces, promotes good health by reducing the spread of germs and viruses. 

Studies indicate that around 98% of office workers are exposed to infectious agents due to inadequate workplace hygiene, highlighting the importance of incorporating robust cleaning protocols into the overall building management strategy.

This blog provides key strategies for integrating cleaning services seamlessly into building management. We’ll discuss essential elements of building management, highlight the critical role of cleaning, and outline practical methods to maintain a clean, healthy environment. These include effective communication, scheduling, technology integration, staff training, and a feedback-driven approach.

Understanding essential building management

The essential steps of managing a building focus on maintaining a facility’s functionality, safety, and comfort for occupants. This comprehensive approach encompasses various aspects like structural maintenance, air quality, energy efficiency, and sanitation standards. For example, ensuring that HVAC systems are cleaned and maintained not only enhances air quality but also optimises energy use, directly affecting comfort and cost.

Cleaning services play an important role in ensuring hygiene in buildings by maintaining cleanliness across high-traffic areas, addressing issues like spills or waste disposal, and preventing the buildup of dust and allergens. Regular cleaning also ensures that all surfaces are free from bacteria, viruses, and fungi that can compromise the health of those in the building. This is particularly important in shared spaces such as lobbies, kitchens, and restrooms, where germs tend to accumulate quickly.

Learning top ways to integrate cleaning services

1. Establish clear communication channels

    

   For a building management strategy to be successful, open and effective communication between facility managers and cleaning staff is crucial. Clear channels allow both parties to share requirements, concerns, and updates efficiently, ensuring that all areas receive appropriate attention. Teams that implement strong communication strategies can increase productivity by as much as 25%, which leads to faster response times and increased satisfaction among tenants and occupants.

   Communication can be facilitated through various means: regular meetings, shared digital platforms, and accessible contact methods for urgent requests. By fostering consistent interaction, facility managers can ensure that cleaning staff are well-informed about specific needs, such as handling high-traffic areas during peak hours or quickly addressing spills. This contributes significantly to a safe and welcoming environment.

2. Develop a comprehensive cleaning schedule

    

   A cleaning schedule tailored to building usage patterns is a key part of essential building management. This ensures that high-touch areas, such as door handles, elevators, and common areas, are cleaned more frequently, reducing the risk of contamination. Establishing a schedule based on peak hours is crucial, as it enables cleaning staff to conduct thorough clean-ups outside of business hours, reducing disruptions.

   Comprehensive scheduling not only optimises cleaning resources but also creates a routine that tenants can rely on, knowing that their environment is maintained to a high standard. This consistency is beneficial for everyone, as regular cleaning deters dirt accumulation, keeps surfaces in good condition, and contributes to a clean and attractive facility.

3. Implement technology solutions

    

   Technology offers innovative ways to streamline and monitor cleaning operations, making it a valuable asset in building management. Facility management software enables managers to track cleaning schedules, monitor completion rates, and document issues as they arise. Additionally, technology can provide valuable data to assess the efficiency of cleaning practices, making it easier to identify areas that may need adjustment.

   Real-time digital platforms also simplify communication, as they allow cleaning staff to report issues directly from the field, reducing delays and ensuring prompt responses. Another advantage of management software is the ability to schedule tasks automatically, taking into account building occupancy and high-traffic periods. Embracing technology can significantly improve efficiency, transparency, and accountability in cleaning services.

4. Train staff on best practices

    

   Proper training is essential to ensure cleaning staff adhere to hygiene standards and effectively manage sanitation across all areas of the building. Cleaning teams should be trained in handling equipment safely, understanding various cleaning agents, and addressing potential contamination sources. For example, high-touch items like dish sponges and rags have been found to carry harmful bacteria like salmonella and E. coli, with up to 75% containing these pathogens compared to 9% of bathroom faucet handles.

   Training empowers staff with the knowledge they need to follow best practices and respond to a wide range of cleaning needs. Regularly scheduled training sessions can help staff stay up-to-date with industry trends, safety protocols, and any specific requirements within the building. Educated cleaning teams can perform their duties more effectively, ensuring that the building remains a safe and hygienic space for everyone.

5. Review and adjust cleaning plans regularly

    

   Regular evaluations of the cleaning plan allow facility managers to adapt to the changing needs of the building and its occupants. Over time, building occupancy patterns, tenant preferences, or even seasonal factors can affect the cleanliness needs of a facility.

   Collecting feedback from tenants is an excellent way to gauge satisfaction with current cleaning practices and identify any potential gaps. By continually adjusting the cleaning strategy, facility managers can address emerging issues promptly, ensuring that cleaning services remain relevant and effective. Flexibility in cleaning plans is vital in essential building management, as it allows the facility to meet evolving standards and expectations.

Benefiting from integrating cleaning services into building management

Integrating cleaning services within a building management framework yields numerous benefits. A clean facility attracts and retains tenants by promoting a healthy, visually appealing environment. Cleanliness also reduces maintenance costs over time, as regularly attended surfaces and fixtures are less likely to suffer from damage or wear. Furthermore, it boosts tenant satisfaction, as they can enjoy a comfortable and hygienic workspace.

Clean, well-maintained spaces contribute to higher levels of productivity, as occupants are less likely to fall ill or experience discomfort due to unsanitary conditions. In commercial buildings, where a positive impression can impact business success, cleanliness is particularly valuable. Facility managers who integrate effective cleaning practices as part of their building management strategy see improved tenant retention, increased productivity, and a healthier work environment.

Integrate effective cleaning services into your building management strategy today!

Incorporating cleaning services into a building management strategy is crucial for creating a safe, attractive, and well-maintained facility. By establishing clear communication, creating a comprehensive schedule, leveraging technology, training staff, and reviewing cleaning plans regularly, facility managers can maintain an environment that promotes tenant satisfaction and well-being. Cleanliness is the cornerstone of essential building management, ensuring that every aspect of the facility remains conducive to health and productivity. Through these steps, facility managers can uphold high standards, supporting the long-term success of their buildings.