for vacuuming hard surface flooring, allow-ing the dust mop to clean a large floor area more quickly. However, Allen Rathey, president of InstructionLink/JanTrain Inc., disputes the idea that dust mopping is always faster and cheaper than vacuuming. According to Rathey, dust mopping may require a soiled floor to be damp mopped multiple times to achieve the desired clean-liness. However, if a vacuum is used, it is pos-sible that only one damp mopping will be necessary. Also, there is the plug issue: Even with a long cord, most electric vacuum cleaners still must be plugged in to operate. This can slow down worker productivity, especially in long corridors where electrical outlets may be few and far between. And, a long cord can become a tripping hazard as well. “And, some are exceedingly quiet, less than 70 decibels — about the sound level of conversation — making them perfect for day cleaning situations.” With increased concerns about IAQ and the environment, Frimml suggests that vac-uuming hard surface floors instead of dust mopping will likely become more common, especially as more facilities adopt green cleaning systems. “Or, at the very least, it will be a combina-tion of the two,” adds Frimml. “For interim and fast cleaning, dust mopping may still be used. But, for more thorough, effective and ‘healthy’ cleaning, the vacuum cleaner will be the tool of choice.” CM WAX ON. WAX OFF. Types Of Vacuum Cleaners Typically, the two types of vacuum cleaners most commonly used to clean hard surface floors are backpacks and canisters. Backpacks have proven their effective-ness at cleaning both carpets and hard surface floors; however, many early back-packs were heavy, would heat up as they were used and were noisy. According to Frimml, these problems have been eliminated with today’s more advanced backpacks. The machines are lighter, are quieter so they can be used in day cleaning situations, are more comfortable to wear and come in different sizes. In addition, some machines have advanced filtration systems such as HEPA. Canister vacuum cleaners remain the big “sleeper” in the American professional cleaning industry. The preferred vacuum cleaner throughout most of Europe and Asia, canisters have made minimal inroads in the U.S. market. However, that may be changing, accord-ing to Frimml. “This may change because some of the newer canisters have more lift and air-flow than their predecessors, making them more effective machines,” asserts Frimml. Fight g labor costs! You Yo u ha have ve h high igh standards and shrinking budgets. We have The Fixx – premium floor finish that dramatically saves labor costs and delivers proven, long lasting performance. • Save labor costs. Extend time between recoats and strip outs • Proven to outperform in initial gloss, wear resistance and gloss retention • Patented polymer technology repels traffic damage and enables easy restoration Step Down Low Odor Finish liquidator is formulated to aggressively penetrate finish build-up plus give you the flexibility to use anywhere – even in odor-sensitive work environments. • Excellent for confined spaces, healthcare facilities, retail establishments, schools, public buildings and more • Concentrate formulate for high dilution and maximum economy • Low foam, easy rinse, non-butyl Lean more about these tough Floor Care Products! Call 1.800.537.8990 or visit www.spartanchemical.com to find a distributor near you. Product Information no. 217 on page 24 www.cmmonline.com 29
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