Better Cleaning Ergonomics for Increased Productivity
When most people discuss ergonomics at the workplace, body posture and positioning while seated at a computer is usually the first thing that comes to mind. However, ergonomics is an important aspect of nearly every physical task, effecting most lines of work. From plumbers to writers, most professions require some degree of physicality, including repetitive motions such as twisting, reaching, kneeling, typing, etc. While an accountant might suffer from tennis elbow or carpal tunnel, those of us who are not tethered in front of a screen can suffer a host of other physical struggles. Which is why employers of commercial cleaners should consider ergonomics with their choice of tools and training methods. As you’ll see, better ergonomics leads to both increased productivity and efficiency in commercial cleaning.
What is Ergonomics?
Ergonomics is the study of people’s efficiency in their working environment. The first engineers seeking increased productivity dates back millions of years to Australopithecus Prometheus, a primate who created handheld stone tools of varying design, each designated for a specific task. Later in the 5th century BC Hippocrates of ancient Greece wrote about his studies into how a surgeon’s workplace should be optimally designed, including effective tool arrangement.
The term ergonomics gained widespread use in the late 90s by the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) and the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), which suggested a direct link between cleaning work’s physical stress and workers sometimes experiencing chronic pain. One reason was that most cleaning equipment at that time was designed for the cleaning task and not necessarily for the worker performing the task.
In the following 2000s decade, multiple factors within the commercial cleaning industry began to change. The cost of labor and materials went up, prompting many companies to boost productivity in any way possible. In short, the cleaners were being asked to do more within a shorter amount of time.
In response, manufacturers introduced new cleaning equipment that was lighter weight and easier to use. This period of time also saw the introduction of multitasking equipment—machines that could be used for more than one purpose. These innovations eliminated the need to constantly switch cleaning tools and it sped up the work.
What is Productivity and How Does it Relate to Cleaning
Productivity refers to the rate at which cleaning tasks are performed. It describes how much output is required by the janitor to complete a task. Finally, it focuses on quantity. For example, a cordless Hepavac backpack can allow a cleaner to freely and effectively maneuver around office furniture, vacuuming thousands of square feet per hour. By eliminating cord management, and using a wand to reach corners and edges, a cleaner can quickly and easily vacuum like never before. Less bending twisting, and kneeling is required, making the work that much easier. All things considered, this is a huge boost in productivity. Smart investments in quality equipment can lead to healthier and therefore happier employees.
What is Efficiency in Commercial Cleaning
Efficiency looks to find methods of performing cleaning tasks that use the least amount of time, energy, and money. It focuses on minimizing waste—such as wasted movements—and maximizing output. It values quality over quantity. A classic example is the task of dusting. Utilizing a common feather dusters might seem like a great idea at first glance, however this tool does not capture or extract the dust. It can actually create airborne dust, which creates a new problem. The more effective cleaning method would be to utilize a lambswool duster fitted with a disposable dusting cloth. This can better capture the fine dust particles and lead to better indoor air quality.
Efficiency and Training
Another way to help improve worker efficiency is to ensure that the workers are well trained. However, training has always been a challenge in professional cleaning. Cleaners often come and go, seeking new employment opportunities. And today, with a shortage of workers, these challenges are compounded.
One way to retain qualify staff is to empower them with the best possible training and equipment. Tools such as the Apronworx apron are ergonomically designed to lessen some of the physical burdens experienced with common cleaning. The apron allows a cleaner to carry the essential tools on their hips. Switching tools is effortless, as they follow their cleaning routine. It also means fewer trips back to their janitorial cart or barrel. Collectively, this makes cleaning much easier on the body.
Do you have younger new-hires come in to interview? The apron’s large pockets can also hold a cell phone more comfortably than the typical pants pocket. Listening to your favorite music or podcast via Bluetooth earbuds can make cleaning that much sweeter!
Have any questions on how the Apronworx apron can benefit your cleaning team? Feel free to reach out to us for more information. After all, our aprons were designed by cleaning pros, for cleaning pros.