However, they still require the cleaning worker to touch surfaces. Dual-bucket systems, which allow one part of the bucket to be filled with cleaning solution and the other with rinse water, can delay mops from becoming soiled and contaminated. However, even with these systems, the cleaning solution becomes contaminated as soon as mopping begins. Further, in the course of mopping, clean-ing workers’ hands will likely come into con-tact with the soiled mop, bucket or both. One of the options available that allows workers to clean restroom surfaces without touching them are so-called “no-touch” or “spray-and-vac” cleaning systems. Introduced more than a decade ago, these systems are similar to pressure washers. These machines apply cleaning solution to surfaces. Then, after a few minutes of dwell time to ensure chemical effectiveness, the machine is used to pressure rinse and then vacuum the same surfaces, removing pathogens in the process. No touching of any surfaces or fixtures is necessary. Some studies have even found that a sur-prisingly high number of healthcare workers do not wash their hands as often as they should during the course of their duties. For cleaning professionals, whether us-ing conventional cleaning methods or no-touch cleaning systems, there is a final step in cleaning that must always be completed: Proper handwashing. This is true after all cleaning, but most es-pecially after restroom cleaning. 1 The study was conducted for Cocoon, an Australian manufacturer of protective coatings. 2 Cross-contamination occurs in many ways. It is frequently caused by an individual touching a germ-laden surface and then touching his or her mouth, eyes or nose. CM WHERE WOULD YOU WANT TO DO BUSINESS? The Final Step Many studies have revealed the great num-ber of people who do not wash their hands properly after using the restroom. So would we! And so would your patrons. Foul smelling dirty restrooms are a big problem. They’re not only offensive, but they’re unhealthy and unsafe too. And mops and rags only make them worse. Fortunately, there’s a solution. Kaivac’s No-Touch Cleaning systems clean 30 times better in one-half to one-third the time. And, like the name says, nobody has to touch anything. Try that with a mop. Image courtesy of Kaivac ® So, before your patrons take their business elsewhere, contact Kaivac for a FREE demo to see just how easy it can be to achieve clean, healthy and safe restrooms. New cleaning technologies have increased restroom cleaning effectiveness and improved pathogen removal. FREE INFO: Reader Service 202 or CMMOnline.com/freeinfo www.cmmonline.com 19
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