LEANing Up The Cleaning Process Table 2 LEAN Applications Cleaning Management Standards Maintenance Management and other Software Science-based Cleaning Sustainable Building Standards Workloading, Day and Zone Cleaning Green Cleaning Equipment Tools Chemicals operations is possible and can be highly beneficial as the cleaning industry is full of ideas that can help start the LEAN journey. A review of Table II shows a variety of waste reduction processes already avail-able to the cleaning industry and the poten-tial results of implementation. Properly applied, each of these ideas can meet the goal of waste reduction and help “LEAN up” cleaning operations. To apply LEAN to cleaning operations, step one is to begin implementing 5S+1. During the 5S+1 step, start by organizing cleaning closets and supplies. Get rid of everything that isnʼt used. Conduct an audit of cleaning chemicals and consolidate similar products. Bring all tools, equipment and supplies to a “like new” condition. Organize safety supplies and make them available to staff. Ensure a material safety data sheet (MSDS) for every chemical is readily accessible. Emphasize this new way of operating to maintain the condition indefinitely. Then, in the Kaizen step, conduct events with staff to determine what processes can be modified to improve efficiency. Involve the front line workers. You may be surprised what is learned when you engage the people that actually do the work. Value stream mapping: Start by mapping discrete cleaning processes, such as rest-room cleaning, daily dusting, daily floor mopping/scrubbing, etc. Nothing helps visualize a process better than a picture. Use this workflow diagram to look for ways to modify or change the process to reduce waste. As the cleaning industry becomes more sophisticated, the LEAN concept used suc-cessfully for years by world-class manufac-turing organizations can offer many bene-fits to cleaning operations. LEAN processes can help drive down costs by eliminating waste without compro-mising quality. Understanding the intersection between LEAN, sustainability initiatives, green cleaning and the successful application of these concepts can result in world-class cleaning operations. CM Result Organized management of cleaning operations. Using the power of computing to automate and organize cleaning processes. Apply scientific principles to cleaning operations to validate performance and improve quality. Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) provides the standard for efficient operation of sustainable buildings. Making work crews more efficient by methodical organization of the cleaning process. Reinventing the cleaning process to focus on protecting human health. Less water/detergent usage, improved filtration, quieter, more productive. Improved quality and efficiency. More concentrated, automated dispensing, sustainable raw materials, less human and environmental impacts. processes and activities. Now more than ever before, LEAN is a process every business needs to embark upon to be successful. The integration of LEAN, sustainability initiatives and green cleaning promise to reduce costs, raise efficiency and reduce human health and environmental impacts. LEAN Business Processes Some LEAN implementation concepts include 5S+1, Kaizen and Value Stream Mapping. The 5S+1 process is often seen as a necessary precursor to applying LEAN ideas and is usually the first step on the LEAN journey. 5S refers to a list of activities that pro-motes organization and efficiency in the workplace. The 5S terms are: Sorting; set in order; shining; standardizing; and sustaining. An additional S is sometimes added for safety. Sort all items and keep only those con-sidered essential — store or discard any items not used on a regular basis Set in order tools and equipment to promote efficient workflow Shine: Bring all tools and equipment to a “like new” condition Standardize work practices and oper-ating procedures Sustain the new way of operating and do not allow a gradual decline back to the old ways of operating Safety is an integral part in any process, including cleaning. Kaizen is a Japanese term meaning: “To change for the good of all.” Kaizen events bring together a cross functional group of employees to study a specific process and immediately imple-ment changes. Value stream mapping is an advanced LEAN process referring to the activity of developing a high-level visual representa-tion of the process flow in delivering a prod-uct or service to customers. Applying LEAN To Cleaning Applying LEAN processes to cleaning 20 CM/Cleaning & Maintenance Management ® • August 2009
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