Achieve a first class finish

The perfect result when cleaning safety flooring does not rely on the magical properties of any specific product on the market. The key is to accurately identify the nature of the soiling and choose the most appropriate cleaning regime and equipment to tackle it. But how do you ensure you have hit on the right combination? 

Step 1 – Understanding the soil

One cleaning regime for all safety flooring may seem the quickest option but, if the method is not the best match for the type of soil, it can take longer to get the desired result. Treating the site zone-by-zone according to soil type is a better solution, especially if there are wide variations. For example, safety flooring in kitchens (where greasy spills are a concern) will need a different approach to main entrances (where shoe-borne soiling predominates). To identify types of soil ask:

a) Is it organic or inorganic?

Organic soil is an ideal breeding ground for bacteria and will need disinfecting or steam cleaning.

b. Is it soluble or insoluble?

c. If it is insoluble, is it greasy or particulate?

Different types of insoluble soil will demand different cleaning methods.

Step 2 – The right cleaning medium

Knowing the type of soil will help to identify the best detergent:

Alkaline: Detergents with PH above 9.5 (e.g. AltroClean 44). Suitable for greasy and organic soils but, their corrosiveness can damage paintwork, so thorough rinsing is important.

Acidic: PH less than 5. Good option for inorganic soils such as lime scale.

Neutral: PH of 7. Less aggressive with fewer chemicals, making them more user friendly, with less environmental impact. Effective on everyday contamination across a range of surfaces, but will not cope as well with heavy soiling, or greasy dirt and fats. 

Combined disinfectant detergent/cleaning sanitiser: Reduce bacteria growth making them suitable for food or human waste.

Whatever the detergent, the dilution ratio is crucial. Unmeasured detergent use will give a disappointing finish and could waste money on cleaning chemicals. It can also leave a residue on the flooring which can undermine both its slip resistance and its aesthetic impact. A build-up of detergent residue on the surface of flooring can also attract contaminants and encourage bacteria growth.

Step 3 – The correct kit

Lastly, the surface profile of safety flooring differs significantly from the smooth surface of an ordinary vinyl floor. It incorporates surface aggregates which increase grip between foot/shoe and the floor, reducing the potential to slip. This means that some items of equipment and cleaning processes will prove more effective than others.