In our last blog we discussed the potential hazards of quat binding and the dangers they can pose at your job sites. Today we’d like to go over some best practices for janitorial teams who are currently utilizing quats, so ...

In our last blog we discussed the potential hazards of quat binding and the dangers they can pose at your job sites. Today we’d like to go over some best practices for janitorial teams who are currently utilizing quats, so you can ensure they’re being used correctly. 

To begin, cotton and quats just don’t mesh. The ion imbalance is simply too high. The best textile to use with a quat solution is microfiber. While it does bind with quats, the amount is insignificant and the solution remains on-label and effective for cleaning. 

The “Spray and Wipe” method is the most effective way to clean with quat products because the solution is directly applied to the surface. However, this method may not be the most efficient for hard-to-reach areas, and creates the potential for over spraying and inhalation. 

The “Dip and Wipe” and “Soak and Wipe” methods of cleaning can be effective if you’re using the proper textiles. However, the potential for binding in both these methods is very high. To insure your solution remains at acceptable, safe levels use of a test kit is necessary. 

Quat-based chemicals are frequently used because they are very effective, but only if you’re using them correctly. It is important to check your application methods, cleaning tools, and cleaning chemicals to insure you’re not wasting money or unknowingly creating hazardous situations on your job sites.

Many cleaning supplies on the market contain Quaternary Ammonium Chloride, better known as “Quat.” In theory, this active ingredient is extremely effective. It has a long shelf life, low toxicity and is effective against germs, bacteria and viruses. The only ...

Many cleaning supplies on the market contain Quaternary Ammonium Chloride, better known as “Quat.” In theory, this active ingredient is extremely effective. It has a long shelf life, low toxicity and is effective against germs, bacteria and viruses. The only problem is that its tendency to bind to textiles can render it useless and even harmful in some circumstances. 

Quats are positively charged ions, and many cleaning textiles are composed of negatively charged ions. You can see where this is going, positive and negative ions are strongly attracted to each other. 

Studies have found that quat binding reduces the efficacy of these products. After binding, the solution contains less than half parts per million noted on the label. This renders the disinfectant “off-label,” and now violates federal law. Even worse, it’s not cleaning as it should and can create an environment where microorganisms can become disinfectant-resistant. For our janitorial teams who work in the health care setting this is extremely alarming. Many teams are unaware this chemical reaction happens and continue cleaning, blissfully ignorant. 

The lack of knowledge in this arena is troublesome. As a janitorial supply company, we find in necessary that all of our clients to understand why quats can be ineffective and potentially dangerous if not used correctly. In our next blog we’ll discuss best practices for cleaning with quats, what you can do to retain their efficacy and which materials are best suited for this powerful product. 

While it may seem like a far-away dream or a Sci-Fi fantasy, the possibility of self-cleaning surfaces are becoming new realities. Advances in nanotechnology are breaking historic ground in the cleaning industry, and as an article published in ISSA Today...

While it may seem like a far-away dream or a Sci-Fi fantasy, the possibility of self-cleaning surfaces are becoming new realities. Advances in nanotechnology are breaking historic ground in the cleaning industry, and as an article published in ISSA Today outlines, can have monumental impacts on the health and sanitation industries as a whole. 

One material, Titanium Dioxide, shows amazing promise in this new frontier. In its normal form, TiO2 is widely used as a white pigment in everything from sunscreen to paint and toothpaste. When it’s scaled down to nano-sized, literally one billionth of a meter, its properties are otherworldly. Nano TiO2 produces photocatalytic oxidization using nothing but light. It could be used to create surfaces that kill pathogens on contact by reducing organic compounds into their base elements of water, carbon and oxygen.

Even more impressive, this nano-particle also further oxidizes water molecules, which produce hydroxyl radicals. Hydroxyl radicals are lethal for microorganisms like bacteria, fungi and viruses. This process is completely oxidative. There is no risk of “super-bugs” mutating as a result of antimicrobial resistance, which is currently a huge problem facing health care facilities. 

The application of nanotechnology on surfaces in heath care and other facilities is not that far off. How it will affect our industry as cleaning professionals remains to be seen. As your preferred janitorial supply and equipment supplier, we’ll stay in front of this technology and be here for any questions you may have. 

Last month, OSHA’s policy on Globally Harmonized System of Classification and Labeling of Chemicals, or GHS, went into effect. As of June 1, 2015 manufactures, distributors and businesses that repackage hazardous chemicals must label each container being shipped downstream with ...

Last month, OSHA’s policy on Globally Harmonized System of Classification and Labeling of Chemicals, or GHS, went into effect. As of June 1, 2015 manufactures, distributors and businesses that repackage hazardous chemicals must label each container being shipped downstream with HCS 2012-compliant labels and SDSs. This left manufacturers, distributors and businesses that this change in policy affected scrambling to update existing stock.

At the last minute OSHA relaxed their policy for existing stock, classified as hazardous materials that were already boxed, palletized or shrink-wrapped, so that manufactures did not have to unpack, re-label and re-package those hazardous materials.  As some manufactures were not able to comply because they had not received necessary classifications, SDSs and labels from their upstream suppliers. They must, however, provide an HCS 2012-compliant label and SDSs for each shipment, or show signs of diligence and good faith that they attempted to procure and use the required materials. 

U.S. Secretary of Labor, Hilda Solis has said, “Exposure to hazardous chemicals is one of the most serious threats facing American workers today. Revising OSHA's Hazard Communication standard will improve the quality and consistency of hazard information, making it safer for workers to do their jobs and easier for employers to stay competitive." 

It’s great that OSHA is taking steps to ensure worker’s safety around hazardous chemicals. It’s also refreshing to know that they relaxed their enforcement policy to give those manufactures, distributors and repackagers a chance to become compliant without penalizing them for existing stock. 

If you have any questions about how OSHA regulations will affect your facility, give us a call today. 

At Lawton Brothers, we're qualified to work on many brands of janitorial equipment, but we hate to see our clients inconvenienced by a trip to the shop when they should be out doing their work. 

The best way to ...

At Lawton Brothers, we're qualified to work on many brands of janitorial equipment, but we hate to see our clients inconvenienced by a trip to the shop when they should be out doing their work. 

The best way to insure you’re not put in an undesirable situation, that could hurt your bottom line, is to create an equipment maintenance plan. As suppliers, we know what manufacturers recommend and would be happy to help you out. Here are a few ideas: 

-Replace parts, such as: brushes, hoses, filters and belts when they show signs of heavy ware.

- Train everyone who will be using the equipment on proper use and cleaning procedures. Ensure they understand and follow those procedures with a logbook, or similar system.

- Schedule maintenance for the machine as a whole according to manufacturers specifications. By planning this out, you’ll be able to anticipate the equipment’s absence instead of being surprised when it breaks down. 

Making an equipment maintenance plan and adhering to it will spare your business the embarrassing and costly hassle of working around broken machines. You’ll be able to use the equipment for longer and won’t be surprised when it finally does need to be replaced. 

At Lawton Brothers, we supply a wide range of janitorial teams with the equipment they need to maintain clean, healthy facilities. Our health care clients are held to a very high standard, because the work they do can be a ...

At Lawton Brothers, we supply a wide range of janitorial teams with the equipment they need to maintain clean, healthy facilities. Our health care clients are held to a very high standard, because the work they do can be a determining factor in the health and wellbeing of patients within that facility. 

A recent study found that noroviruses, the viruses that cause gastroenteritis, are airborne pathogens. This knowledge, however unsettling, can help janitorial teams do everything they can to help quell the spread of these contagious viruses.  

Infection Control Today explained that researchers collected air samples, one meter away from patients, at the doors of their rooms and at nurse’s stations. They found between 13 to 2350 particles of norovirus per cubic meter of air. Their findings suggested that the measures to contain this type of contagion had previously been insufficient.

Now that we understand air transmits this infection, there are many things janitorial teams can do to curb an outbreak. Maintaining mobile air filtration units and replacing filters of stationary units may help capture virus particles. Also, requiring your janitorial staff to wear respiratory masks as a protective measure ensures they will not fall ill. 

As your resource for janitorial supplies and equipment, we enjoy keeping our clients informed. If you have any questions or would like to learn how we can help you maintain the healthiest facilities, please give us a call today. 

Microfiber, just like your other equipment, works best and lasts longest when it’s properly maintained. We’ve touted the benefits of microfiber before and if you’re laundering it with the wrong chemicals or wash cycle, you are not receiving the maximum ...

Microfiber, just like your other equipment, works best and lasts longest when it’s properly maintained. We’ve touted the benefits of microfiber before and if you’re laundering it with the wrong chemicals or wash cycle, you are not receiving the maximum benfet out of your investment. Here are some tips to properly launder your microfiber materials:

• Remove as much dirt and soil from the microfiber as possible before laundering begins. Some washing machines have settings specifically for microfiber and have a special spin cycle that does this for you. In other washer use the flush cycle.
• Microfiber should be washed in temperatures at least 140 degrees and not exceed 180 degrees.
• Microfiber should be washed with like material. Any textile that produces excess lint will be caught in the microfiber. Do not wash with cottons.
• Do not wash microfiber on a full load. The material is extremely absorbent and a full load will overload your washer. As such, a too-small load will not create enough agitation to properly clean the material.
• Read the label of your microfiber products to determine the best detergent to launder with. Bleach is a common go-to for cleaning cloths, but bleach will reduce the effectiveness and life of microfiber. The one thing experts can agree on is that fabric softener should never be used on microfibers.
• Dry microfiber between 130-140 degrees and take them immediately out of the dryer. 

As your trusted janitorial supply company, we care about the longevity of the products you purchase. If you have any questions about how to prolong the life of any of your equipment, please give us a call today. 

As your resource for janitorial supplies in Central Florida, Lawton Brothers enjoys keeping our clients informed of studies and findings that affect your operations. A recent article by Building Services Management , shed light on an often-overlooked issue: the cleanliness ...

As your resource for janitorial supplies in Central Florida, Lawton Brothers enjoys keeping our clients informed of studies and findings that affect your operations. A recent article by Building Services Management, shed light on an often-overlooked issue: the cleanliness of hand soap dispensers. 

Hand soap dispensers are installed in a majority of public restrooms. These dispensers are either top-loading bulk fill dispensers, or sealed soap dispensing systems. A study conducted in 2011, found that bulk fill soap dispensers in public restrooms could be, “A vector, contributing to the spread of pathogenic microorganisms.” 

Many bulk fill hand soap dispensers are affixed to the wall, making them cumbersome to clean. As a result, soap is “topped off” as it gets low. The unit itself is rarely cleaned. When more soap is simply being added to a possibly contaminated batch, the proliferation of bacteria, biofilm and microorganisms is imminent. 

In the interest of public heath, the CDC now recommends facilities use soap dispensers that are either use sealed disposable refills, or able to be sanitized after they are emptied. A great option is to choose sealed soap dispensing systems.  These systems are comprised of a sealed cartridge of soap and a built-in nozzle. When these cartridges are empty, they are simply disposed of and replaced. Providing new, uncontaminated soap.  

At Lawton Brothers we understand that the cleanliness of your facility is a great value to your bottom line. Contact your resource for janitorial equipment and cleaning supplies to ask about your options in restroom cleanliness. 

When you’re running a facility like a school, there’s a lot to consider. Protecting your floors should be near the top of your list, because once they’re scratched--there’s no going back! Not to worry, we’ve got you covered! As your ...

When you’re running a facility like a school, there’s a lot to consider. Protecting your floors should be near the top of your list, because once they’re scratched--there’s no going back! Not to worry, we’ve got you covered! As your janitorial equipment supplier, we are in the business of protecting your facility floors, which is why we’d like to share some benefits of chair leg covers with you here. 

We’ve all been in a classroom and seen those horrid looking old tennis balls, jerry-rigged to the chairs as floor protectors and noise reducers. Eventually these tennis balls wear out, and you’ll soon be begging parents and teachers to bring in their spares once more. Fear not -- there is a better way. Floor protectors come in all shapes and sizes, specific to your particular need, not to mention their incredible durability! 

Lawton Brothers only works with the best name brands, which is why we proudly recommend using floor protectors from Expanded Technologies and Flexi-Felt. We offer a wide range of floor protectors to serve all of your needs including: Formed Felt Floor Savers, Clear Sleeve Floor Protectors, Safety Release Flip Down Doorstops, Clear Carpet Sliders, and Gripper Door Stops. 

If you’re looking for long-term floor protecting solutions, then consider how your facility would benefit from chair gliders. Contact our team here at Lawton Brothers today to find out which floor protecting solution will best suit your facility needs! 

Floor mats; we use them everyday without even thinking about the job that they’re doing for us. The fact is that there’s people out there whose job is dedicated perfecting an entire program designed to improve matting and prevent slips ...

Floor mats; we use them everyday without even thinking about the job that they’re doing for us. The fact is that there’s people out there whose job is dedicated perfecting an entire program designed to improve matting and prevent slips and falls. As your go-to janitorial supplies company we can’t say enough about the importance of walk-off matting, therefore we dedicated an entire series of articles to discuss it in depth.  

Comprehensive matting programs have the ability to reduce injury and reduce the costs related to those injuries. According to a recent CleanLink article, Steve Spencer, a facilities specialist at State Farm Insurance spends his days improving comprehensive walk-off programs, who explains that it’s not only about matting. Spencer also explains that his program is successful because of its three phases as described below. 

Phase One. Phase one begins outside of the building with a large scraper mat designed to scrape of any large debris or soil from shoes and keep it outside. 
Phase Two. Phase two takes place in the immediate building entrance where a scraper/wiper mat is recommended. This matting is less abrasive than the outdoor mat but removes and retains debris. Spencer recommends testing this particular mat before you select one for your facility. Look for water capture, retention, and sand capture. 
Phase Three. Phase three is the indoor wiper mat. This mats primary function is to dry the shoe of moisture to prevent slip and falls. It’s important to make sure that your matting is not only long enough, but as wide as your doorways so that it will wear evenly.

At Lawton Brothers we believe that implementing a matting program will not only improve overall facility cleanliness, but safety as well. If you’re interested in learning more about how to successfully integrate mats throughout your facility, contact your janitorial supplies company today. 

At Lawton Brothers we know that managing your facility can be overwhelming and we’re here to help in any way that we can. Whether you need janitorial supplies and equipment or tips for managing your facility smoothly, we’ve got you ...

At Lawton Brothers we know that managing your facility can be overwhelming and we’re here to help in any way that we can. Whether you need janitorial supplies and equipment or tips for managing your facility smoothly, we’ve got you covered. A proficient janitorial staff is only possible through a proficient manager. Recently Services Magazine shared how to avoid five common management mistakes and we’d like to discuss the first three with you here: 

1. Not listening to your staff or valuing their input. Your staff members are your eyes and ears within your facility. They also practice what you implement on a daily basis, and can provide vital feedback regarding the policies in place. Should you listen to their concerns, you must also be willing to act on them. 
2. Not delegating. Delegating can be difficult because it requires a certain level of trust. Your job as a manager is to develop your staff’s goals and strategies, so delegating certain tasks to your responsible team members will allow you to do so more effectively. 
3. Acting like a friend rather than a boss. While having a friendly demeanor is a great way to gain respect from your staff members, it’s important not to overstep any bounds. Friendships actually have the ability to hinder your facility’s process. You can also cause unrest among other employees if they perceive any favoritism is taking place. 

As your go-to company for janitorial supplies and equipment we hope that you find this information helpful in managing your facility. Check back soon to learn about the two management mistakes you should avoid regarding your time. 

At Lawton Brothers we recognize the importance of protecting our janitorial staff members. As they are often on the frontlines of not-so-desirable restroom cleaning scenarios, it’s vital that we take the appropriate steps to ensure their health and safety. 

A ...

At Lawton Brothers we recognize the importance of protecting our janitorial staff members. As they are often on the frontlines of not-so-desirable restroom cleaning scenarios, it’s vital that we take the appropriate steps to ensure their health and safety. 

A recent Building Services Management article highlighted the role that janitorial staff members play in disinfecting against disease. In the wake of the recent Ebola outbreak, several industry leaders have gone the extra mile in helping facilities prepare their staff. The following several steps should be implemented for safer cleaning practices for janitorial staff members: 

• Pick up all liter and trash using a Ettore Grip’N Grab litter pick up tool.
• Spray all surfaces with a hospital grade disinfectant  before cleaning the restroom. Realize that any surface within the restroom might be contaminated. 
• Don’t place anything on the floor or the counters of the restroom to avoid transferring any contamination. 
• Stand several feet away from a flushing toilet to avoid being splashed.
• Always take precautions like wearing gloves, goggles.
• Rather than traditional cleaning methods, use ISSA spray-and-vac cleaning systems in order to avoid direct surface contact. 
• Make sure to wash your hands thoroughly after cleaning restrooms and have paper towels easily accessible. 

As your janitorial supplies company, we hope that you find these tips helpful in protecting your janitorial staff. Please contact the team at Lawton Brothers today for more information regarding how our staff can help your staff improve their disinfectant process. 

At Lawton Brothers we recently shared a blog intended to answer your questions regarding how often your janitorial crew should vacuum different areas of carpet within your facility. While the actual process of vacuuming is vital to the cleanliness of ...

At Lawton Brothers we recently shared a blog intended to answer your questions regarding how often your janitorial crew should vacuum different areas of carpet within your facility. While the actual process of vacuuming is vital to the cleanliness of your facility and the health of your guest and staff, vacuums require regular maintenance in order to keep up with daily demand. If you manage a facility or janitorial crew, chances are you’ve experienced the drama of an equipment failure just when you needed to use it most. That’s why routine maintenance is vital to keeping your facility running smoothly.

The vacuum has several components that require routine attention including bags, filters, belts, and brush rollers. The bags should be replaced once the bag reaches two-thirds full before needing replacement, as when the bag becomes full, the vacuum loses suction and decreases in efficiency. Over time the belts of the vacuum will wear out and get loose. In order to keep the belts in working order, they must be replaced routinely. The brush roller will also need to be monitored regularly to clear any build-ups of hair or other items that could impede its efficiency. Once the brush roller is worn down and no longer makes contact with the fibers of the carpet, it will require replacement. 

As your resource for janitorial equipment and supplies here in Central Florida, we hope that your janitorial staff finds this information helpful in keeping your janitorial process running smoothly. Please contact the staff at Lawton Brothers today for assistance with your janitorial staff and products.   

At Lawton Brothers we enjoy serving as your janitorial equipment supplier. Part of our responsibility is to share helpful tips to keep your facility’s cleaning process running as efficiently and as smoothly as possible. 

A recent Building Services Management article...

At Lawton Brothers we enjoy serving as your janitorial equipment supplier. Part of our responsibility is to share helpful tips to keep your facility’s cleaning process running as efficiently and as smoothly as possible. 

A recent Building Services Management article discussed tips for properly using vacuum cleaners on carpeted areas within your facility. According to research, soil composition in a facility was approximately 80% dry insoluble soil, or as most of us know it, dirt. Vacuuming has proven to be the most efficient process for the proper removal of this dry soil. But when should you vacuum? Before deciding when you should vacuum, it’s important to distinguish between low, medium, and high-traffic areas. 

Heavy-traffic areas are typically shared areas like hallways and lobbies, while medium-traffic areas are general office areas and classrooms, and low-traffic areas consist of executive offices and boardrooms. While the exact frequency of vacuuming will depend on your specific facility, the general rule of thumb is as follows: 

• Low-traffic areas should be vacuumed once weekly
• Medium-traffic areas should be vacuumed twice weekly
• High-traffic areas should be vacuumed daily

As your janitorial equipment supplier, we take vacuuming seriously. If there is any carpet throughout your facility, we hope that you found this information to be helpful in improving your facility’s cleaning process. Please contact the team at Lawton Brothers today with any questions regarding your janitorial staff’s cleaning process. 

Do you know what kind of paper towels you’re ordering and are in your facility’s restrooms? As your resource for janitorial supplies and paper goods, we strive to help facilities and their janitorial staffs improve their value per dollar when ...

Do you know what kind of paper towels you’re ordering and are in your facility’s restrooms? As your resource for janitorial supplies and paper goods, we strive to help facilities and their janitorial staffs improve their value per dollar when it comes to paper products.  

At Lawton Brothers we take pride in providing facilities with quality, affordable paper products. Recently, a CleanLink article focused on the possible profitability of shifting from cheap, poor quality paper towels to more costly, higher quality paper towels. Several industry leaders discuss how an increase in absorbency has the potential to decrease the need for several towels, and can decrease overall usage. Different facilities have different needs, therefore you should speak with your resource for janitorial supplies in order to determine the right paper products for your specific facility. 

If you’re interested in upgrading your paper products and improving your efficiency, then contact your resource for janitorial supplies today. We look forward to helping you reduce waste and of course decrease cost.  

At Lawton Brothers we are proud to offer green cleaning products and equipment to help your facility’s cleaning process become environmentally friendly. Sports facilities have recently been looking more towards a green cleaning future, and as your resource for janitor ...

At Lawton Brothers we are proud to offer green cleaning products and equipment to help your facility’s cleaning process become environmentally friendly. Sports facilities have recently been looking more towards a green cleaning future, and as your resource for janitor supplies, we couldn’t be more excited. 

New stadiums seem to be going up left and right for teams of the Major League Baseball and National Football League, which is providing them with an opportunity to think and clean more green. According to a recent CleanLink article, sports venues are using their position in the public eye to raise sustainability awareness. With ample power and money at their fingertips, newer sports facilities will aim to surpass the guidelines for the U.S. Green Building’s Council’s LEED certification. While several major sports leagues have made efforts towards greener practices, new facilities provide an even better opportunity for green cleaning improvements. 

The following are just examples of local arenas that we are presently working with to take their cleaning products and process to a "greener" level: 

• Orlando Amway Center
• Dr. Phillips Center for the Performing Arts 
• Tampa Bay Buccaneers Raymond James Stadium

We truly enjoy helping facilities realize how their daily processes can impact environmental sustainability. If you’re interested in how the staff at Lawton Brothers will improve your facility’s practices through green cleaning methods, products and equipment please contact your resource for janitor supplies and cleaning equipment today. 

As we once again find ourselves in the midst of flu season, we hope that your facility is managing to keep the germs at bay. As your janitorial supplies company, we would like to take a moment to share several ...

As we once again find ourselves in the midst of flu season, we hope that your facility is managing to keep the germs at bay. As your janitorial supplies company, we would like to take a moment to share several pieces of information essential to keeping your staff and customers from falling ill this winter. 

Flu season can provide a challenge for your janitorial staff, as the need to disinfect properly and thoroughly increases. According to an ISSA article by Clorox Professional Products, over 111 million workdays are typically lost during flu season, resulting in a loss of $7 billion dollars for businesses. While the following tips may seem obvious, it’s important for your janitorial crew to understand how important their task is, especially during flu season. 

• Clean and disinfect regularly. Flu viruses can be killed easily with the proper disinfectant, but disinfection must occur regularly. Consider increasing disinfecting routines during the peak of flu season. 
• Focus on high-touch surfaces like keyboards, faucet handles, door handles, phones, and desks. 
• Select the proper disinfectant:
-Wipes like Hillyard's Disinfectant wipes, Clorox and Lysol wipes are handy for cleaning and sanitizing small surfaces. 
-Disinfectant sprays like Pro-Link RA008 are great for spraying surfaces like phones, keyboards, copiers, and other multi-user surfaces and allowing them to air-dry.
-Disinfectant Cleaners like Pro-Link OneStep and Hillyard Foaming Germicidal 
-Cleaners used in conjunction with a microfiber cleaning cloth are perfect for any skin contact surface.
• Use the cleaning products as directed. Each disinfectant is most effective when used as the packaging instructs. 
• Educate your janitorial staff. Explain to your crew how important their job is to the health of your facility and don’t be afraid to reinforce rules, regulations, and practices. 

At Lawton Brothers we’re proud to serve as your janitorial supplies company. Contact us today to find out how our janitorial supplies and cleaning equipment can help your janitorial staff fight the flu fight and win. 

 If you’re a facility manager, chances are that time and money are a major part of your daily focus. As a janitorial equipment supplier, we are constantly searching for ways to help facilities improve the efficiency of their cleaning process, ...

 If you’re a facility manager, chances are that time and money are a major part of your daily focus. As a janitorial equipment supplier, we are constantly searching for ways to help facilities improve the efficiency of their cleaning process, and we’re here to tell you that the battery powered backpack vacuum does just that. 

With the battery powered backpack vacuum, your janitorial staff is no longer constrained to the limitations of a power cord. This freedom improves productivity on average 30%. Eliminate trip and fall hazards in facilities utilizing day cleaning or 24/7 facilities. They can also help clean those hard-to-reach places including elevators and stairwells. A recent CleanLink article cites end users that have found success with this new wave of cleaning technology. While the expense of a battery powered backpack vacuum may be a deterrent to some, to others like Brandon Schneider it has paid off. According to Schneider, founder of Southeastern Janitorial, a battery powered backpack vacuum approximately saves 45 to 6o minutes of vacuuming time per 100,000 square feet. 

At Lawton Brothers we are interested to see how janitorial staffs and their facilities will benefit from this technology in the future. If you have any questions for your janitorial equipment supplier in Central Florida, please don’t hesitate to contact our team. Ask for a demonstration of the Proteam GoFree Flex battery backpack vacuum.

As your resource for janitor supplies in Central Florida, we take a special interest in how your janitorial staff can improve your company’s bottom line. Often, CleanLink shares helpful insights regarding increasing efficiency and in turn your profitability. 

The most ...

As your resource for janitor supplies in Central Florida, we take a special interest in how your janitorial staff can improve your company’s bottom line. Often, CleanLink shares helpful insights regarding increasing efficiency and in turn your profitability. 

The most recent insight offered by cleaning consultant Mickey Crowe suggests that Team Cleaning Specialists can take on more than one “role” or cleaning tasks and improve overall efficiency. The article discusses how assigning certain janitors to specific roles and tasks can result in higher productivity than zone cleaners assigned all tasks in a area. 

Crowe discusses how to assigning role, task and work appropriately in order to promote the most efficiency possible. For example:

• Assign one person the role of Vacuum Specialist to use a backpack vacuum for carpet, rugs, and hard floors in addition to edging, vents and other work on a predetermined schedule. This Specialist may have ample time to perform some of the tasks usually performed by the Utility Specialist.
• The Team Cleaning Specialist with the backpack vacuum follows the Light Duty Specialist who pulls the trash and performs other daily cleaning tasks. They can also completely service the building while having ample time to maintain the break room and the areas designated for janitor supplies. 
• The third person in Team Cleaning is the Restroom Specialist and they service all the restrooms with a double bucket and collapsible or butterfly microfiber flat mop system. The person in this role is usually the most detailed person on the team so additional task that require a detailed person would best be assigned to this specialist.
• Finally, the forth role in Team Cleaning is the Utility Specialist. This specific worker will clean stairwells, entrances, door glass, and hard floors that require buffing. Remove the trash pulled by the Light Duty Specialist from the building and inspect for quality.

The key to gaining efficiency is to assign a single role to a specialist with a clear cleaning schedule. Once that role is complete that same person can take on a second role. I a small facility like a bank or doctors office one cleaner can perform all four roles, however it is important to perform only one role at a time.

At Lawton Brothers we not only work with your facility’s janitorial staff to improve the health and cleanliness of your facility, but we also enjoy helping you improve your bottom line. Contact your resource for janitorial equipment and supplies today with any questions about how our team can help your team. 

As your janitorial supplies company we’re not only concerned with the safety of our employees but with the safety of your employees as well. While a safe workplace is great in theory, achieving one takes a great deal of commitment ...

As your janitorial supplies company we’re not only concerned with the safety of our employees but with the safety of your employees as well. While a safe workplace is great in theory, achieving one takes a great deal of commitment on multiple levels. According to a recent article by Cleaning & Maintenance Management there are three requirements necessary in order to provide a safe work environment.  

• Management staff commitment. Your employees rely on your management team to offer a safety strategy and to lead by example. As a manager you have the ability to prevent injury and illness while reducing costs. 
• Compliance with OSHA and develop, implement and maintain a written hazard communication program in effect. The program should outline how hazards will be communicated to employees. For example, all chemical containers need to be labeled adequately, employees need access to Safety Data Sheets, and employees need to be trained on safe chemical handling. A thorough risk assessment should be completed to identify and decrease risks.  
• Employee involvement. Employees need to follow the plan each and every day. It’s up to managers to make employees feel included so that they will speak up when something is amiss. 

At Lawton Brothers we are proud to serve as your janitorial supplies company with locations throughout Central Florida, with locations in Orlando, Clearwater, Ocala and Melbourne. If you’re interested in how our staff can help your staff achieve a safer workplace, contact our team today.