For the heavier tasks, however, it is best to perform these when they will cause the least amount of disruption. Further, when performing more detailed floorcare work, it is imperative that floor ar-eas be closed off to both patients/residents, visitors and staff. An Environmentally Responsible Strategy Because greening floorcare is so important, especially in these locations, it is being dis-cussed separately here. A green floorcare program encompasses the use of what can be termed environmen-tally responsible equipment, chemicals and cleaning frequencies. Depending on the floor type, carpeting or hard floor, it’s important to make sure there is proper filtration or dust containment where applicable. With vacuums, for example, you’ll want to ensure there is a HEPA filter cartridge. These measures help improve the indoor air quality of the healthcare facility that’s be-ing cleaned. Some facilities also want machines that use less water and chemical. In this case, they can turn to cylindrical brush floor machines, which can do more of the “elbow work” using less water and chemical. These machines use counter-rotating brushes that can reach and remove embed-ded soils in tile and grout. The proper selection of floorcare chemi-cals is vital to an environmentally respon-sible floorcare program. There are more floorcare chemicals now available, from strippers to finishes, that are green-certified. In most cases, administrators or contrac-tors will find that these alternatives for con-ventional floorcare chemicals perform well and are cost effective. If not, an astute distributor should be called in to offer suggestions of chemicals that will have a reduced impact on health and the environment. Part of such a floorcare strategy is also to reduce floor refinishing cycles. It is when floors are being refinished that cleaning workers, in-house or contracted, are most exposed to the potential harmful effects of these products. And, if workers are impacted, facility staff, visitors and patients/residents will be as well. One of the best ways to reduce refinish-ing cycles is to increase daily floorcare tasks. This also helps keep floors cleaner, safer and healthier for all who use and live in a long-term care facility. *BSCs and administrators should keep in mind that the primary reason for applying a finish to a floor is to protect the floor from scratches, debris, moisture and so on. The shine is a side benefit. CM FREE INFO: Reader Service 251 or CMMOnline.com/freeinfo www.CMMOnline.com 35
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