The future is collaborative

READ THROUGH this issue of Cleaning Matters and one theme emerges with striking consistency: artificial intelligence is no longer something the cleaning industry is preparing for. It has arrived. The debate has moved on from whether technology will transform the sector to how businesses can make it work in practice.

Meet the CHSA secretary

Lorraine Francis joined the CHSA in March 2020 as Secretary of the Association. The first point of contact for members and prospective members, Lorraine is also at the heart of the CHSA’s back office. Cleaning Matters asked what keeps her busy, at work and play.

Navigating change, driving standards

As expectations around hygiene, sustainability and service transparency continue to rise, the cleaning industry is undergoing rapid transformation. Neil Spencer-Cook explores the key challenges facing the sector.

Transforming professional standards for BICSc members

As an industry, asks Neil Spencer-Cook, have we ever considered how the integration of digital credentialing in the cleaning sector could revolutionise not only professional standards but also the way we perceive trust and transparency in industries traditionally reliant on manual verification?

All roads lead to Amsterdam

IT'S THAT time again! The global cleaning and hygiene industry is turning its attention to Amsterdam. This year, the milestone 30th edition of Interclean promises to be the biggest yet, bringing together innovation, expertise and collaboration under one roof at the RAI Amsterdam from 14–17 April.

Sustainability: Going back to basics

Sustainability in cleaning isn’t driven by trends or “green” labels alone. As Neil Spencer-Cook explains, the greatest environmental gains come from mastering the fundamentals: well-trained operatives, correct chemical use, and efficient machinery.

Recognition matters

Recognition plays a vital role in raising standards and strengthening trust across the cleaning and hygiene sector. Lorcan Mekitarian explains how new industry awards aim to celebrate excellence, champion ethical practice and highlight the people and organisations setting the benchmark for the future.

Cleaning teams - part of the wider risk management strategy

The concept of risk management has expanded across business, moving beyond finance and HR/health and safety. Now, as Avigilon observe, every team is aware of, and engaged in, risk management to some extent.

Building safer cleaning workplaces with an OSHA compliance course

CLEANING PROFESSIONALS work in environments where safety risks are part of everyday tasks. Chemical exposure, wet floors, electrical equipment, and physical strain can all create hazards if not managed correctly.

Building trust: The critical role of independent inspection

THE CLEANING and hygiene sector is an industry built on long-term relationships. As Lorcan Mekitarian, chair of the Cleaning & Hygiene Suppliers Association, observes trust is at the heart of these relationships and when that trust falters, so does the relationship.