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The British Institute of Cleaning Science (BICSc) and the Cleaning & Support Services Association (CSSA) groundbreaking project aimed at exploring the future of cleaning has demonstrated role of operatives in adopting new cleaning initiatives.
In 2024, BICSc and CSSA embarked on an ambitious project to provide valuable insights through independent trials and scientific results.
The project aimed to:
- Determine the productivity of different types of current machine ranges.
- Provide clarity on the changes to productivity brought about by robotics.
- Evidence the effect on the standard of cleaning achieved from the usage of these machines and chemicals.
- Determine whether the use of this equipment or chemical range made changes to air quality and pathogen count.
Suppliers were approached to assist in trialling different types of equipment, chemicals, and processes. The following suppliers participated in the project:
- Numatic
- Birkin
- Killis
- Diversey
- Karcher
- Orion Eco
The trials took place at the University of Surrey, with each manufacturer given six weeks to establish their equipment and/or chemicals. The BICSc Cleaning and Hygiene Audit App was used to assess changes in cleanliness.
“This collaboration between the British Institute of Cleaning Science and the CSSA reflects a first for collaboration between industry associations and our shared commitment to help the cleaning sector embrace innovation with confidence. Together, we are futureproofing the industry through practical, evidence-based insight,” said Paul Ashton, CSSA Chairman.
Despite the project’s ambitious goals, several challenges impacted the results, including management changes, staff engagement, and external consultant recommendations. The cleaning inspection results were mixed, with no clear correlation from the starting point to the completion results. However, valuable insights were gained, such as the importance of engaging operatives in the process and the need for effective change management.
“The trial has shown us that success lies not just in product performance but in the readiness of people and processes to adopt it,” said Ashton.
“Management of change is key to the success of the process. Where staff are not engaged in the process, the installation of new equipment or processes is doomed to failure,” added Denise Hanson, Commercial Director, BICSc.
“How we manage change needs to be the biggest consideration, whether it is technological, chemical, machinery, or even providing training. Without clear guidance, leadership and ongoing support, change will not be effective,” commented Neil Spencer-Cook, Group MD, BICSc.
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