Cleaning for the Future: How Technology is Transforming the Custodial Industry

As our environments became more complex, impacted by population growth, infectious outbreaks, urbanization, and waste generation, the cleaning industry has relied mainly on personnel rather than technology. Driven by supply chain challenges, labour shortages, the COVID-19 pandemic, and the need for greater efficiency, the custodial industry is rethinking how to efficiently implement advanced solutions and equipment that make cleaning smarter, not harder.

Green Clean: The Rise of Eco-friendly Solutions

Prior to the technological advancements we are experiencing today, the go-green movement revolutionized the custodial industry. Growing public and consumer awareness about environmental issues has prompted suppliers to make environmentally conscious choices and select sustainable products, reducing health risks for custodial staff and building occupants while minimizing environmental damage.

Innovations in green products include sustainable cleaning agents and PFAS-free solutions (PFAS-free means free of per and poly-fluoroalkyl substances, a group of non-degradable chemicals) that are created using safer formulations, Smart Dose system technology that allows for exact dosing of cleaning agents to lower consumption of water and product, and machinery that boasts high recyclability (more than 90% recyclable), high efficiency (dry vacuums that utilize 50% less electricity while maintaining 98% cleaning performance), and reduced water consumption (pressure washers and floor scrubbers that regulate water volume).

Although these products may initially incur higher costs, they often demonstrate cost-effectiveness over the long term due to their diminished environmental impact and the potential for enhanced operational efficiency. Several Canadian organizations are actively working toward obtaining Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) international symbol of sustainability excellence and green building leadership. LEED’s proven and holistic approach helps virtually all building types lower carbon emissions, conserve resources, and reduce operating costs by prioritizing sustainable practices.The certification is an international symbol of sustainability excellence and green building leadership. LEED’s proven and holistic approach helps virtually all building types lower carbon emissions, conserve resources, and reduce operating costs by prioritizing sustainable practices.

Many custodial companies are receptive to these changes in purchasing behaviours and recognize the importance of corporate social responsibility (CSR) in their business practices. This shift from traditional cleaning solutions is paving the way for innovative technology to enhance sustainable practices further.

Industry Trends in Technology, Robotics and Automation

By integrating cutting-edge technologies, state-of-the-art equipment, and automated solutions, cleaning is becoming smarter. Innovations such as robotic cleaning solutions, IoT-enabled devices, touchless technology, and data-driven insights are revolutionizing how cleaning is approached. Some of the recent trends in the industry include:

Optisolve™ Pathfinder™ Surface Imaging Technology: Optisolve™ utilizes advanced surface imaging to detect contamination invisible to the naked eye and provides scores for immediate remediation in real-time. Its integrated SAVI® software is designed to empower organizations to optimize their building cleaning and maintenance processes.

Drone Cleaning: Drones are used for building and infrastructure maintenance, replacing traditional methods like scaffolding and ladders and mitigating risks involved with cleaning hard-to-reach areas. In addition to being safer and working to be more efficient, drone solutions are designed to lessen the environmental impact by lowering carbon emissions and conserving water.
Robotic Cleaning Equipment: Many robotic cleaners for routine tasks such as vacuums, floor scrubbers, sweepers, and moppers are self-operating, requiring little supervision from custodial staff.

Internet of Things (IoT) Enabled Devices: IoT technology can provide real-time monitoring of cleaning performance and compliance with hygiene standards. Products like smart dispensers, waste bins, and restroom sensors can monitor supply levels and cleanliness, allowing for efficient maintenance and resource use.

Touchless Technology & Hygiene Needs: In light of rising hygiene demands, innovative technologies like ultraviolet (UV) light sanitizers, touchless dispensers, and electrostatic sprayers work to ensure thorough sanitation without physical contact.
Ergonomic Solutions: Tools and equipment designed to reduce work strain and prevent injuries, including components like adjustable features, ergonomic handles, and lightweight materials.

Data Analytics & Insights: Software solutions that integrate with cleaning equipment to provide analytics on cleaning operations, usage patterns, and maintenance needs. This data strives to improve worker efficacy and productivity.

Clearing the Air About Air Quality

In addition to clean surfaces, the pandemic emphasized the need for clean air and good indoor air quality. Institutions are compelled to implement updated practices that address current and emerging airborne health risks, ensuring safe environments through ongoing efforts and adaptations. Government investments have underscored the importance of air quality, exemplified by the federal and Ontario provincial governments’ combined investment of more than $33.1 million to improve ventilation in all 72 Ontario School Boards by upgrading and installing HVAC equipment and HEPA filter units. Recent advancements include ionized hydroperoxide technology and advanced High-Efficiency Particulate Air (HEPA) filters, which effectively neutralize airborne pathogens and capture fine particles.

Challenges of Adopting New Practices

Integrating new technologies and solutions comes with challenges, including cost constraints, compatibility issues, resistance to change, and a lack of training and education. However, focusing on the long-term benefits and value of investing in eco-friendly, ergonomic, and automated options enhances efficiency and elevates the standards of cleanliness and safety in various environments. Providing end-users adequate training and helping organizations familiarize themselves with the new tools can help mitigate uncertainty and apprehension towards adopting smarter cleaning.

Thank you to OECM’s supplier partners!

We would like to acknowledge OECM’s awarded supplier partners on the Custodial and Janitorial Supplies, Equipment, and Related Services agreement that have contributed to this article through knowledge sharing. If you want to learn how to access the latest custodial technology by leveraging OECM’s agreement, please contact our dedicated Customer Support team to help you connect with one of our awarded suppliers.