(OS1) Deep Cleaning Project

Washington State Department of Ecology Building

Final Report

Prepared by
John Walker
ManageMen

Prepared for
Jimenez & Associates
September 24, 2003

Table of Contents
Executive Summary

Page 3

(OS1) Deep Cleaning Program Development

Page 4

ManageMen (OS1) Peer Recognition

Page 4

Cleaning Procedures in the Deep Cleaning Project

Page 5

Building Occupants Orientation Program

Page 6

Area of the Deep Clean

Page 6

General Cleaning Format and Times

Page 6

Dates

Page 7

(OS1) Cleaning Materials and Tools Used

Page 8

Boot Camp Training for the Deep Cleaning Project

Page 9

(OS1) Boot Camp Training Tools

Page 9

Vacuuming Protocol

Page 11

Carpet Extraction Protocol

Page 20

Restroom Cleaning Protocol

Page 29

Housekeeping Recommendations for Building Occupants

Page 34

Lessons Learned

Page 38

Page 2

Executive Summary
The purpose of this report is to document the ManageMen (OS1) Deep Cleaning project in
the Washington Ecology building in Olympia, Washington. The deep cleaning project was carried
out in B Bay during June and July, 2003.
ManageMen prepared a cleaning protocol for Jimenez and Associates that would improve cleaning
in areas cited by Dr. Eugene C. Cole and Dr. Ira Salkin in their Report of Environmental Dust
Sampling and Analysis for Reservoirs of Microbial Pollution, January 2003. On page 4 of their
report items 4, 5, 6 were recommendations related to changing and improving cleaning quality at
the Washington Ecology facility. ManageMen developed and presented a set of cleaning
recommendations and deep cleaning protocols to improve the environmental defects noted in the
Coles and Salkin report.
Steps in the (OS1) Deep Cleaning Project

Baseline Audit of Current Cleaning Program

Recommendation to adopt (OS1) Cleaning System in Washington Ecology
Recommendation to use (OS1) cleaning methods and techniques in the Deep Cleaning
Project
Decision to perform deep cleaning in B Bay
Participation of the contract cleaning company owner at Janitor University to learn (OS1)
Purchase new environmentally friendly cleaning tools and materials
Conduct a building occupants orientation program
(OS1) Boot Camp Training for the B Bay cleaning workers
Move occupants out of B Bay for cleaning
Perform deep cleaning
Move occupants back into B Bay following cleaning
Establish (OS1) cleaning program as the daily cleaning program
Perform deep cleaning in other bays as needed

Page 3

(OS1) Deep Cleaning Program Development

The (OS1) Deep Cleaning Protocol was developed by John Walker of ManageMen, Inc., Salt Lake
City, UT. Allen Randolph and Rick Hamilton of Scout Systems and John Downey of the John
Downey Company were technical advisors on the project.
The (OS1) training program was utilized in the Deep Cleaning process was based on the Janitor
University course curriculum.
ManageMen (OS1) Peer Recognition
2002 Green Zia Award
New Mexico State Award for the best Green
program in the state
9001 Certification

(OS1) Cleaning Process recognized as 9001

Certified cleaning system, 2002

Benchmarking Best Practices

University of New Mexico reported to the 2002

APPA International Conference that they had
benchmarked (OS1) as a best practice for custodial
Management and custodial safety

Telly Award

ManageMen training videos have been the recipients

of nine prestigious Telly Awards for production excellence

Getting started with the carpet cleaning.

Page 4

Cleaning Procedures in the (OS1) Deep Clean

Procedure
#1

Task
Vacuum Dust

Item
Recessed light fixtures
Lights
Ceiling tiles
Ceiling vents
Top of cubicles
Table top crevices
Hard walls
Fabric walls
Concrete pillars (columns)
Chairs
Restroom Floors
Carpet

#2

Spray & wipe

with microfiber

Counter tops (Formica)

Cubicles (painted metal)
Desktops (Formica)
Plastic surfaces
Computer screens and tops
Glass
Mirrors
Table tops

#3

Spray with
ReachDeep and
High-Flow Extract

Carpet (Shock Treatment)

Fabric spots

#4

Anti allergen
encapsulator
spray

Carpet
Fabric upholstery
Fabric walls

#5

Disinfect /clean

Restroom walls, stalls, fixtures and floors

#6

Scrub, mop and refinish

Resilient tile

Page 5

Building Occupants Orientation Program

ManageMen participated in a Building Occupants Orientation Program about the (OS1) Deep
Cleaning Project of B Bay in the Washington State Ecology Building.
A mini trade show, featuring the cleaning products and training used in the Deep Cleaning
program was presented to the building occupants and other interested parties. Exhibits and
samples of cleaning materials were provided to inform occupants of the low environmental impact
planned for the Deep Cleaning project in B Bay.
Information presented included a description of work to be performed, work flow charts, tools
and materials to be used and specifications. Audio/visual presentations, the (OS1) Beyond
Compliance and Protect Yourself programs were also be presented to interested groups. A
question and answer session followed the presentation. Key product vendors were invited to
attend and discuss specific products to be used in the Deep Cleaning.
Vendors present at the orientation program included:
John Downey
John Downey Company
Rick Hamilton
Scout Products
Tim Harkelroad
PortionPac
There were four separate meetings with presentations and a question / answer period. The
approximately 150 Department of Ecology employees, who were to be relocated for the duration
of the deep clean project in their area, were invited. The other environmental consultants were
invited to attend, as were any interested stakeholders.
Area of the Deep Clean
The Sq. Footage of the "B-Bay" area on 2nd floor is 18,433 sq. ft., plus four - 5 fixture restrooms.
Approximately 95% of the 18,433 sq. ft. are carpeted with a ten year old Shaw Carpet square
covering.
General Cleaning Format and Times
Start at the top and work to the bottom.
Do ceilings first
Move to walls, windows, mirrors and stalls
Do floors last
Project cleaning times were based on the International Sanitary Supply Associations publication
ISSAs Official 358 Cleaning Times and multiplied by frequency (or number of passes). The
recommended workloading was based on the team concept of cleaning.

Page 6

On a cleaning team there are four specific task groups. The task assignments include light duty
cleaner, vacuumer, restroom cleaner and utility cleaner. Each task requires a specialized training
program for the worker.
Dates
The Deep Cleaning Project took place on the following dates:
June 19

Training Preparation and set-up

June 20

Training

June 27 (Evening) June 30

Deep Cleaning B-Bay

Page 7

(OS1) Cleaning Materials and Tools Used in the Deep Clean Project
2 each
Steamin Demon extractor with Dual Discharge and 400 feet of hose
2 each
Steamin Demon Stair/hand cleaning assembly
8 cases
Scout Systems Progress-A-Clean
8 cases
Scout Systems ReachDeep
8 cases
Scout Systems UnDo
4 qts.
Scout Civics Surface w/trigger sprayer (red dye, marker ink remover)
2 each
14 Carpet Brush with long handle
4 each
Spotting brush with bone
1 case
Tannin Spotter
4 each
ProTeam Super Coach vacuum
4 each
8 extension wand
4 each
ProTeam Paddle tool
3 cases
ProTeam Micro liner filters
8 each
ProTeam HEPA Dome Filter, LG, #101220
1 each
Mist N Brush machine - MasterBlend Dual cylindrical brush machine
1 container Crystal defoamer
20 each
Air mover carpet dryers
1 each
Hydromitzer
2 each
Multispray electric pressure sprayer
10 pkg.
Green Unger microfiber cleaning cloths
10 pkg.
Red Unger microfiber cleaning cloths
50 lbs.
Huck Towels
1 case
PortionPac #102
205 each
PortionPac Green Scrub Pac Sprayer bottles for #102
1 carton
PortionPac # 202
1 carton
PortionPac # 264
5 each
PortionPac 16 oz. Germicide Sprayer bottles
5 each
PortionPac Stock Solution bottles
1 each
Unger Smart Mop Combo Daily & Project
15 each
Fuller #1638 Bowl brush
1 case
Showers N Stuff
1 case
Safety Foam
1 case
Beauty Seal
20 pkg.
Drop cloths
1 case
17 Black Pads
2 each
6 Ladders
1 box
Safety glasses
3 boxes
Masks
3 Boxes
Nitrile Gloves (1 each S, M, L)
1 each
Unger Window Washing Kit w 27 Extension Wand
Page 8

Boot Camp Training for the Deep Cleaning Project

(OS1) Boot Camp Training at Washington Ecology Building

The training for Deep cleaning the B-Bay area of the Washington Ecology building was conducted
using the ManageMen (OS1) Training System. Training modules include spot cleaning, vacuuming,
restroom cleaning and carpet cleaning.
Live action, award-winning videos were shown to the cleaning workers on the project. Each
participant was provided a student workbook containing all procedure instructions and safety
information. (OS1) Scouting Reports served as job descriptions for each cleaning worker. All of the
cleaning workers who participated in hands-on training were used during the deep clean.
(OS1) Boot Camp Training Tools
1 each
(OS1) How to Be a Restroom Specialist Training Kit
1 each
(OS1) How to Be a Light Duty Specialist Training Kit
1 each
(OS1) How to Be a Vacuum Specialist Training Kit
1 each
(OS1) Utility Specialist Carpet Care Training Kit
Page 9

Hands on chemical training of the cleaning team

(OS1) Boot Camp Training Tools (cont.)

25 each
(OS1) Basic Training Workbooks
1 pkg.
(OS1) Light Duty Scouting Reports
1 pkg.
(OS1) Restroom Scouting Reports
1 pkg.
(OS1) Vacuum Scouting Reports
1 pkg.
(OS1) Modified LD Anti Allergen Scouting Reports
1 pkg.
(OS1) Shock Treatment Scouting Reports
1 pkg.
(OS1) Floor Care Scouting Reports
1 pkg.
(OS1) Modified LD Window Washing Scouting Reports
1 each
(OS1) Beyond Compliance
1 each
(OS1) Protect Yourself
3 each
(OS1) Solution & Filter Log

Page 10

Vacuuming Protocol
The protocol for vacuuming carpets in the (OS1) Deep Cleaning Project is contained in the
ManageMen Vacuum Specialist (OS1) Flow Chart. Efficient and effective vacuuming employs a
systematic routine with each Vacuum Specialist.
The cleaners were instructed in the proper task sequence and how to perform each task. The flow
chart utilized in the deep clean is based on work-studies of Vacuum Specialists conducted
between 1992 and 1995. The tests were conducted in several types of facilities including offices,
schools, arenas, churches, healthcare facilities, and universities, in both the private and public
sector.
Workflow process studies were synthesized into flow charts of the tasks to be performed and then
the flow charts were thoroughly tested as training media. Criteria for the overall tests included
worker safety, IAQ, worker efficiency, fatigue reduction, training demands, supervision issues, tool
selection and cost.
Preparation Checklist
The steps for preparation for vacuuming B Bay were as follows:
1. Remove the top of the backpack and check the micro filter and cloth filter inside to be sure
they are new and clean.
2. Remove the dome filter and replace the foam filter with a HEPA filter.
3. Replace the dome filter making sure its tight and intact.
4. Check the hose cuffs at both ends for a tight seal. A loose seal results in reduced airflow and
inefficient cleaning.
5. Remove any attachments and make sure the retaining ring is in place where the wand
connects with the attachment.
6. Check power cords for any breaks or abrasions.
7. Make sure the back plate is resting low on your hips.
8. Tighten the waist strap so that it fits snugly and low on the waist. Adjust the shoulder straps to
secure the backpack on your back.
Vacuuming B Bay
Vacuuming started on the ceiling and moved down walls and cubicle partitions to the carpeted
floors. Light fixtures and vents were vacuumed with the dusting tool during the ceiling cleaning.
The entire work was vacuumed wall to wall. Cleaners were instructed to make at least two passes
going in different directions on each surface.

Page 11

Vacuuming the occupant work area fabric walls.

Vacuuming with an upholstery attachment was performed on furniture and fabric wall partitions.
Other above the floor areas was vacuumed to remove dust. The attachment tools were used to
clean out crevices and hard to reach surfaces. Dusting brushes helped to loosen and remove
attached or embedded soil.
The ProTeam Super Coach vacuum provided filtration through four filters. A high percentage of
filtered dust was captured in the vacuum and not redeposited in the facility. Vacuuming was
selected over manual dusting. It was determine that vacuuming with a HEPA filter system would
be superior to using dusting tools which may fling dust around the work area and resettle after the
cleaning is completed.
Vacuuming in Open Areas
For ergonomic considerations the vacuum workers were instructed in the safe operation of the
backpack vacuums. Open area vacuuming requires a slightly different cleaning motion and the

Page 12

following adjustments to the cleaning procedure were demonstrated to the cleaners:

Extend the wand in front of you, holding it at the hose cuff with one hand and just below the
bend with your other hand.
Pull the wand into your body.
As you vacuum rotate your entire upper torso from side to side. This will allow you to clean
approximately 6 swipes of the floor.
Use double overlapping passes from two directions to assure thorough cleaning.
Vacuum under and around work areas. Move chairs out of the way. Vacuum under desks.
Specialized Cleaning
The backpack vacuum was also selected for its versatility as a dusting tool. It was used to dust the
hard floor surfaces as well as above the floor surfaces. Some dusting tools, feather dusters
particularly, will flip dust from a surface and broadcast it into the air. However the backpack
vacuum captures and removes the dust in its filters.
The wand attachment was used to clean hallways, work spaces and elevator floors.
The upholstery tool was used for cleaning chairs and other office furniture.
The crevice tool was used to reach into tight areas between under partitions and file cabinets
where dirt can hide.
The dusting tool was used on file shelves, ledges, windowsills, elevator tracks and hard to
reach areas.

The crevice tool was used to clean difficult to reach areas.

Page 13

The areas of low-use carpet were given particular attention during the deep clean, because they
accumulate tiny dust and soil particles settling out of the air. Thorough vacuuming of these areas
filled the micro filter bags and they needed to be replaced every two hours and at shifts end.
Completion checklist for the end of each shift
Replace the micro filter.
Inspect other filters for tears or rips. Replace if found.
Remove and wrap cord properly and loosely (not around your hand and elbow).
Spray and wipe inside and outside of vacuum after use.
Inspect shoulder straps and harness.
Reassemble the backpack after cleaning and inspection and store in an appropriate area in
service closet.
Make sure the extension wand, apron, and all attachments are returned to the appropriate
area in the custodial service closet.
Report any malfunctions or missing attachments after inventory.
Proper Use of the Vacuum
The hands on training demonstrated the proper operation of the backpack vacuum to the
cleaning workers. To maximize comfort at all times workers were required to follow these
procedures:
Adjust the belt properly. If the belt is too small, use belt extensions.
Loosen both shoulder straps.
In an open area, lift the unit by a shoulder strap and slide your arm in, then place the other
arm through its shoulder strap.
Check to see that the belt is resting on the hips, then connect it. Make certain it is a snug fit
around the waist.
Adjust the shoulder straps. If right handed, leave the right hand side loose for better arm
movement. If left handed, loosen the left-hand side.
Place the cord under the hip belt. This is a simple way to signal when youre at the end of the
cord.
Ergonomics
It was determined that the (OS1) Deep cleaning project at the Washington Ecology building
should employ a high level of safe cleaning procedures and tools. Both building occupants and
cleaning workers were considered when determining the best practice methods to be utilized.
The backpack vacuum used in this project is designed principally as an ergonomic tool for
cleaning workers. The whole design concept of the vacuum was built around reducing cleaning
worker fatigue while increasing effectiveness.

Page 14

The ergonomic value of the backpack comes from the fact that a worker carriers the weight on
their hips and legs, not their back. This is accomplished by properly adjusting the hip and
shoulder straps. Mountain climbers employ this idea for their hiking comfort, as do students with
backpack book bags. Native Americans used this principle when a mother carried the baby on her
back for comfort and ease.
A ventilated backplate helps to wear the vacuum for extended periods. The padded straps evenly
distribute the weight.
Airflow
Loss of vacuum suction through the project was a concern of project management. Low or
inconsistent suction would result in a depreciation of the deep cleaning project's effectiveness.
A vacuum machines loss of suction is generally from the filter bag not being emptied or changed
often enough. To ensure a high level of airflow (suction) from each vacuum, the micro filter was
removed and replaced every two hours. Clean filters are safer and provide the optimum level of
cleaning power.
The foam media dome filter over the motor (the third filter) was replaced with a HEPA rated filter
at the beginning of the cleaning of B Bay.
The proper functioning of vacuum cleaning machines is related to the relationship of
interdependent technologies in the system. The technologies are basically airflow and filtration
working together.
Airflow carries the particles and objects to be removed. Filtration captures and holds the particles
for disposal. All vacuum systems must be evaluated with these two concepts in mind. They work in
tandem but each can be affected by numerous factors.
For example, airflow is affected by orifice size. The speed of 100 cubic feet per minute (cfm) of air
flowing through a 1" orifice is faster than that flowing through an orifice of 2". This is important
information when we realize that the speed of the flowing air is what moves dirt particles from the
floor to the vacuum filter bag.
Air must pass through the filter leaving the particulate, including spores, pollen, dust mite feces,
etc. While many vacuums have excellent airflow, inadequate filtration permits dust to pass back
into the room.
Strong airflow and suction combined with good filtration would serve to resolve this problem.
However good filtration has a down side since efficient filters have tighter mesh that clogs rapidly
reducing air flow suction and cleaning.
Page 15

Hidden problems in the occupant cubicles.

Cleaner exhaust.
The four-stage filtration used in the deep clean project has surpassed traditional cloth-bag filters
for dust retention, improving IAQ. Empirical data shows multi-filter backpack vacuums reduce
ambient air and surface dust levels, increase productivity and provide a vehicle for change.
The formula is simple: stronger suction, better, sustained filtration, matched with superior ways of
applying these benefits create, significant dust reduction.
Filtration
The air we breathe contains tiny particles that come from many different sourcesactive
volcanoes, automobile exhaust, fires, plant pollen, mold spores, and salt from the oceans.
Dust plays an important part in weather. Water vapor gathers as clouds. The water vapor then
forms droplets by clinging to dust particles. The droplets bump together and form a rain drop. It is

Page 16

too heavy to float in the cloud, so it falls as rain. When ice crystals form around the dust particles,
snow can fall or hail is formed.
Good dust is the dust from disintegrating comets. Some ancient soil has been found to contain
amino acids that apparently came from outer space. Since amino acids are crucial to life, these
chemicals may have been seeds for life on Earth.
Most ordinary dust consists of minerals picked up by the wind as it blows across plowed fields,
rocky hills, mud flats and bare earth. Friction from the wind can grind the particles smaller to form
mineral dust.
Fine rock particles are 1/25,000 inch in diameter.
Interior dust is different from mineral dust. It contains debris from inside the facility, such as lint,
paper, hair, pollen, toner residue and dead skin cells. When the air is still, it settles on floors and
furniture in a fine layer.
Dust can clog furnace and air conditioner air filters and covers refrigerator coils, making them
inefficient. It can also clog the human body. The bodys dust catchers include eyelids, eyelashes,
mucus, earwax and hairs in the nose.
Vacuum Filters
The filter is what turns a vacuum from a simple air-moving machine into something that traps soil.
It sounds simple but it is really quite complex. The filter must allow air to move through the
vacuum as it traps and holds soil. All filters reach a point where they become too clogged. Then
the vacuum cannot maintain an efficient airflow. At that point, the filter must be cleaned or
replaced if the vacuum is to resume a working suction.
Indoor Air Quality and Vacuum Filtration
As concerns about indoor air quality grow, scientists and vacuum/filter manufacturers have
become more aware of something else: what a vacuum filtration system allows to pass through
and back into the room is at least as important as whats trapped inside. In theory, a vacuum
filtration system would have zero efficiency if every soil particle that entered the suction end of the
vacuum returned to the room through the exhaust. Although this may seem far-fetched, poorly
maintained vacuums can have the same effect. If the bag or housing leaks, they simply exhaus
dirty air.
At the other extreme, a filter that stops every particle would be a model of efficiency, assuming
that it continued to allow proper airflow and suction. As cleaning managers try to find the best
combination of filter efficiency and airflow, an increasing number of their customers and clients
wonder whats blowing out of the other end of the machine.
Page 17

Filters for Visible and Invisible Dirt

Commercial vacuum filters trap soil with a straining effect. When properly operated and
maintained, a cloth bag system is a workable filter for vacuuming up 80 percent of larger soil and
dust particles down to about 7 to 10 microns, or roughly one-tenth the diameter of a human hair.
A 10-micron particle is about the smallest size visible to the naked eye. (A micron equals one
millionth of a meter, or one thousandth of a millimeter.)

The vacuums micro filters were replaced every two hours to avoid clogging.

For some, this level of filtration may not be enough. The majority of filters in the cleaning industry
are cloth bags. A facility is not filtering adequately if they are using a cloth bag. Vacuum
technology, which has long used open cloth bags, is starting to switch to sealed filtration systems
that are commonly used in Europe. Most American contractors use cloth bags, but cloth bags are
inadequate. In the (OS1) Deep Clean project of B Bay both clean Micro-liner bags and new HEPA
filters were used in new ProTeam Super Coach vacuums.

Page 18

Micro-liner bagsRemove particles down to about 1 micron. Filtration of particles down to

diameter of 7 microns removes pollen, plant spores, larger dust, fly-ash particles and a few larger
types of mold and yeast cells (see chart). This filtration level allows many other types of particles
to pass through the vacuum, smaller yeast cells and molds, most bacteria, lung-damaging particles
such as asbestos and some smaller dusts.
HEPA FiltersThe accepted industry definition of a HEPA filter is one that removes 99.97 percent
of all particles of 0.3 microns or larger. A 0.3-micron would be smaller than most bacteria but
larger than viruses or many particles in tobacco smoke.
The HEPA filters are constructed of tiny glass fibers. Until very recently, HEPA filters have been
confined to high-technology cleanroom applications, places where even small counts of invisible
particles are a concern.
Medical facilities using HEPA filters in their cleaning operations refer to HEPA filters as hospital
grade filters in some product descriptions. By adopting a system of proper filter care, facility dust
removal is improved, and resettling airborne particulate nearly eliminated. This translates into
healthier air for building occupants.

Birds-eye view of the micro-liner bag after vacuuming partition walls

Page 19

Carpet Extraction Protocol

There are six major methods of cleaning carpets to remove embedded soil. Over the life of the
building most of these methods had been utilized at one time or another. Some of the methods
had been used repeatedly. The five methods are:
Dry Powder
Bonnet
Dry Foam (dry shampoo)
Single Disc (wet shampoo)
Traditional Extraction (low flow)
High-Flow Extraction with enzyme cleaner
After considering all of the above methods it was determined to perform a shock treatment with
high flow extraction and a straight enzyme (no bacteria) solution to remove the maximum amount
of embedded soil with the minimum amount of facility disruption.
Extraction also known as rinsing, is the process of spraying water into the carpet then
vacuuming out the water, suspended soil and chemical.
One measure of the effectiveness of an extraction process is determined by the impact rate (flow
rate) of the water delivered by the extractor coupled with the efficiency of the vacuum system.
Truck Mount
1.5 gpm

Water Flow Rates of Various Extractors

Box and Wand
Self Contained
High Flow
0.9 gpm
0.9 gpm
3.5 gpm

Some of the building occupants expressed concern that selecting the procedure that utilized the
most water of the six methods would be harmful. There was a concern that using more water
would require more drying time. More drying time would mean more moisture in the air.
Before high flow extraction cleaning was selected it was determined that the drying times of the
high flow method were not significantly different from other extraction methods. Traditional
extraction was currently being performed on the Washington Ecology carpet.
A local carpet-cleaning firm who offered customers both traditional extraction methods and high
flow extraction was contacted. The carpet cleaner verified that there would not be an issue of
drying time between the various methods of traditional extraction and high flow extraction.

Page 20

The Steamin Demon extractor cleaning B Bay.

Impact Rate was also an important element in the project. Impact Rate is a work factor, like
horsepower. The greater the impact rate, the more embedded soil is dislodged. The high flow
extractor utilized in the Deep Cleaning project has more than three times the Impact Rate of other
portable extractors including the one currently in use in the building.
Impact Rates of Various Extractors
Truck Mount
1.5 gpm

Box and Wand

0.9 gpm @ 100 PSI
0.4208

Self Contained
0.9 gpm @ 100 PSI
0.4208

High Flow
3.5 gpm @ 60 PSI
1.4260

Formula: GPM x PSI x 0.0526

Most carpet extraction machines require that cleaning agents be mixed with the rinse water, the
Steamin Demon machine uses only clean water directly from the faucet. It also removes a much
higher percentage of the water applied (tests show 94% and higher).
The more soil and chemical residue left in the carpet, the faster the carpet will resoil. The reason
is that dust, dirt and other matter are attracted to residue like a magnet and adhere to it, quickly
building up to resoil the carpet. If carpet starts to look dingy just a week or so after cleaning, it is

Page 21

likely that a considerable amount of soil-attracting residue was left in the carpet during the
extraction process. Lower quality chemicals also contribute to increased residue levels, another
good reason to use an extractor with a higher Impact Rate and better flushing action to remove as
much of that residue as possible.

Determining drying time.

The more water that is used to suspend and flush dirt and soils out of carpet, the cleaner the
carpet will be and the fewer amount of abrasive soil will be left in the carpet. With the Steamin
Demon much higher water flow (4 to 6 times higher than other portable machines) the carpet
fibers are rinsed more thoroughly than possible with other methods. As a result of being able to
flush out a higher quantity of dirt and soil from the carpet, it enhances indoor air quality.
The Steamin Demons uniquely designed vacuum system generates such a high vacuum at the
carpet, that even with more than four times the water flow of other units, it leaves carpets much
dryer. It actually solves the over-wetting problem. In the B Bay we performed tests of both overwetting and penetration of water into the Shaw carpet tile seams. Drying and lingering moisture in
Page 22

Moisture penetration line along the Shaw Carpet tile seam 15 minutes after extracting with the high flow machine.
The moisture line dried as fast as the carpet.

the air was a concern for some of the occupants of B Bay. With continuous active air circulation
machines the carpet was dry to the touch and thoroughly dry within four hours. The test for
thoroughly dry was to probe all four corners of an office cubicle and every two feet in the center
with a moisture testing meter.
A test spot was selected in one of the lobby areas of B Bay to test if the Steamin Demon was
forcing water through the seams of the carpet tiles. An occupant concern was that water would
seep under the tile and create mold or mildew after the cleaning project was completed.
The test showed that the water under the tile on the bare floor surface was not seeping. The bare
floor was wet only along the carpet tile seam line. This line on the bare floor was also dry in the
four hours it took the carpet to dry.

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Improving the carpet dry time.

Drying
There were a number of reasons why it was necessary at the Washington Ecology building for the
carpet to dry quickly. They fell into three categories:
Environmental factors
Cost factors
Convenience factors
Factors that affect drying
Humidity,
Ventilation
Moisture remaining in the carpet after extraction,
Carpet pile depth,
Carpet pile construction,
Carpet fiber composition (synthetic vs. man-made).

Page 24

Moisture in the carpet

The less moisture left in the carpet, the more quickly it will dry. Unfortunately, most portable
extractors do not have vacuum systems that are strong or efficient enough to promote quick
drying. This is primarily due to the distance the air and water must travel from the carpet to the
recovery tankup to 25 to 50 feet. Some additional water is removed by repeated vacuum strokes,
but this is very time consuming and does not remove a lot of additional water.
The Steamin Demon machine has a patented vacuum system, which requires only 8 inches of
water and air travel. As a result the Steamin Demon has dramatically higher water removal
capability, resulting in faster drying times.
Humidity
In very dry areas of the country, such as the Southwest, carpet typically dries very fast because the
amount of moisture in the air is so low that it essentially draws the moisture quickly out of the
carpet. This also holds true, to a lesser degree, for closed-in, atmospherically controlled or sealed
buildings where the heating, ventilation, air condition (HVAC) system keeps temperature and
humidity in the moderate range.
Unfortunately, most parts of the country are relatively humid. This presents a bigger challenge for
quickly drying carpetespecially if the building is not sealed to the outside environment.
Adequate ventilation and, in extreme cases, portable dehumidifiers may be needed to extract
moisture out of the air to ensure that carpet will dry quickly.
Ventilation
To assist drying all available ventilation sources were run during the extraction and the drying time
after. The HVAC system blower was run on continuous cycle. The air conditioning was turned on,
as air conditioning removes moisture from the air, allowing moisture in the carpet to be released
more quickly. Professional carpet drying fans were brought in by the professional carpet cleaning
company and placed in each workers cubicle until carpets were dry.
Ergonomics of Carpet Cleaning
With no fresh water tank to fill or waste tank to empty operators were able to clean with less body
stress. The operating weight is less than half that of most other extraction machines. The Steamin
Demon eliminates the use of an extraction wand, which reduces back stress and worker fatigue.
Because it is lightweight and the operators back remains straight during the cleaning process, the
chronic back problems commonly associated with carpet cleaning are greatly reduced with the
Steamin Demon machine.
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Environmental factors
When carpet takes too long to dry in a warm and humid environment, the possibility of mold and
mildew growth becomes a concern. The result can be anything from a musty odor to allergic
reactions. Certainly this does not make for a pleasant or desirable indoor environment for people.
Cost factors
If the slow-drying area is a work area the longer it has to remain closed for drying, the more
revenue is lost.
Convenience factors
Simply not being able to use an occupants work area for an extended period is an inconvenience.
The Cleaning Solutions
Carpet chemical residues from past Washington Ecology cleaning left a glue-like coating in the
carpet. Chemical residues left in carpets attract more soil and bind it to the fiber. This causes an
unsightly soiled condition and traffic lanes that require more cleaning.
It was determined to avoid the traditional carpet cleaning chemicals of the past. Three nontraditional, environmentally friendly chemicals were selected for use in the Deep Cleaning project.
The three carpet chemicals were from Scout Systems and included ReachDeep, UnDo and
Progress-A-Clean.
ReachDeep: carpet-cleaning solution
ReachDeep is an enzyme based cleaning solution. Reach Deep breaks up organic materials and the
accumulated chemical contaminants to make them easy to remove with the high-flow extractor. It
has a neutral pH of 7
ReachDeep contains no:
Hazardous, caustic or toxic ingredients, by any standard.
Optical brighteners.
Solvent whose residue attracts dirt.
Acid or alkaline whose residue attracts dirt.
Inferior surfactant whose residue attracts dirt.
Glycols
Butyls
dlimonene.
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UnDo: carpet chemical build-up remover

UnDo is a super surfactant for carpet, which is heavily impacted with residues from previous
chemical cleaners needs to be decontaminated. it contains no hazardous, caustic or toxic
chemicals.
UnDo contains no:
Hazardous, caustic or toxic ingredients, by any standard.
Optical brighteners.
Solvent whose residue attracts dirt.
Acid or alkaline whose residue attracts dirt.
Inferior surfactant whose residue attracts dirt.
Glycols
Butyls
dlimonene.

Counter rotating brush machine used to agitate the ReachDeep and UnDo into the carpet fiber.

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Progress-A-Clean: vacuum enhancer

A high performance polymer encapsulator carpet extraction and polymer treatment product
which is specifically designed to reduce allergens in carpet, discourage their return, and
significantly reduce the rate of carpet resoiling. Carpet with Progress-A-Clean will have low levels
of allergens (dust mites and feces) which are lowered even further by subsequent vacuuming. All
this is accomplished with none of the harsh chemicals or disinfectants, which cause indoor air
problems. Progress-A-Clean is a negative resoiling agent. Neutral pH at 7 it contains no hazardous,
caustic or toxic chemicals.

Progress-A-Clean vacuum enhancer and anti allergen spray being applied to carpets.

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Restroom Cleaning Protocol

The top to bottom deep cleaning in B Bay included a combination of procedures to clean and
disinfect the restrooms. Infection control was an important factor in the washroom cleaning. The
restroom cleaning equipment was upgraded for the deep cleaning project. Old mopping
equipment that had become dirty was replaced with an Unger mopping system. The changes of
the restroom cleaning tools provided clean and ergonomic tools to clean the restrooms.

Two sided bucket and point of use mixing hose.

Change Mop Buckets

(OS1) switched restroom cleaners to a divided bucket. This bucket had two sides for solution.
One side contained clean disinfectant solution and the other side was the rinse side. The bucket
was fitted with a drain plug at the bottom and a faucet-fitting fill hose. The point of use mixing
hose eliminated "dirty water" mopping and enabled workers to drain and refill the bucket without
lifting or trips to the service closet.

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Change Mops
For the (OS1) Deep Clean project the restroom cleaners were switched from using traditional
Kentucky (string) mops to flat mops. The Unger flat mop reduces the weight of mops by 50% to
70 %, and decreases the amount of bending and stooping required. With flat mops--using quickrelease microfiber mop heads--workers were able to mop clean the walls, stalls and floors with one
lightweight tool.
Studies also show microfiber mops clean better and rinse out more completely in the wringer and
with less worker effort.
Wall brushes, squeegees and telescoping handles
(OS1) switched restroom cleaners to using brushes and squeegees with telescoping handles to
reduce the amount of reaching and stretching required for cleaning mirrors and walls.
Use Microfiber Cloths
(OS1) switched restroom cleaners to using a microfiber cloth to further reduce the amount of
exertion workers need to wash counters, mirrors and fixtures, along with chemical usage
and streaking.
The restroom-cleaning workers were trained in the (OS1) Boot Camp to use an efficient method
of cleaning a restroom that is described in the ManageMen Restroom Specialist (OS1) Flow
Chart. A copy of the flow chart was provided each cleaning worker during the training.
The systematic routine provided each Restroom Specialist instructions in the proper task
sequence as follows:
First, flush all toilets and urinals as you enter the Restroom for the initial inspection.
Apply one ounce of PortionPac Stock Solution germicidal / detergent to the inside of each toilet or
urinal. To guarantee an exact amount of germicidal detergent, it must be a measured amount.
The toilets and urinals are then allowed the proper dwell time for the disinfectant to work and
other cleaning functions are then performed in the lavatory. After the proper dwell time is
allowed (approximately 10 minutes - which is the time used by EPA to test germicidal efficacy) the
Restroom Specialist will return to the toilets and urinals and complete the disinfecting and
cleaning process.
Empty trash. This includes removing paper trash as well as emptying sanitary napkin dispensers.
Collect trash and rubbish by carefully removing the trash can liner from the receptacle (be careful
to avoid striking your body with a full liner - these liner bags sometimes carry uncapped needles
and other sharp objects) and replace the liner. Empty waste receptacles. Dont spill the trash.
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Sanitary napkin containers must be handled carefully by removing the liner and placing the entire
bag in a trash container. Do not put the contents of the sanitary napkin trash in the toilet. Empty
the sanitary napkin containers very carefully, they contain blood and perhaps sharp objects.
Wipe exterior and interior of receptacles with cloth and germicidal/detergent cleaner. All
receptacles should be lined with disposable paper or plastic liners.
Exteriors of metal accessories were cleaned with spray PortionPac germicidal detergent and the
Unger micro fiber cloths.
Ceilings, walls and vents were cleaned. Both a woolly duster with the duster cover and a Super
Coach backpack vacuum with a clean micro fiber filter were used to dust partition tops, doors and
support rails. High air vents, light fixtures, shelves above and walls behind wash basins were
dusted or vacuumed.
The Unger lobby dustpan with an ergonomic handle and broom were supplied to pick large litter
and dust piles from sweeping. Sweep open areas last.
(OS1) Disinfecting Procedures
Restroom cleaners were trained to use clean, properly folded cleaning cloths. They were trained
not to wad or bunch up the cloth in their hand when cleaning.
Workers demonstrated folding it in half, then folding it in half again, until it fit comfortably in the
palm of their hand. Using this method the cleaer will have 8 or 16 clean, flat wiping surfaces.
Restroom sinks were cleaned and disinfected with a properly folded cloth clean microfiber cloth
and spray germicidal cleaner. Abrasive cleaners and pads were removed from the restroom
cleaners carts, due to the fact that abrasives can create scratches that dull the shiny finish and
damage bright work.
The stiff Unger deck and corner brushes were used to clean the wall tile, and floors. Particular
attention was paid to the area around the base of faucets. All metal fixtures were sprayed with
germicidal and damp wiped to remove stains and film.
Wash basins were sprayed with germicidal and wiped with microfiber. The whole sink and
countertop were wiped with a clean dry cloth, properly folded.

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Restroom disinfecting tools and training materials.

Exposed pipes and faucets fixtures were sprayed with germicidal and wiped to remove stains and
film.
Stainless Steel was sprayed with the germicidal cleaner directly onto the metal surface or onto a
properly folded clean cloth. It was then wiped dry in the direction of the metal grain.
Germicidal detergent was used on all restroom surfaces such as doors, partitions, walls,
brightwork, fixtures, plates, mirrors, etc. This process both cleaned and disinfected mirrors.
Because the washroom walls are impervious to water the Unger flat mop, with lots of germicidal
solution could be used to clean any heavy accumulations of soil and then squeegee the water to
the floor drain. The disinfectant solution was used on walls and stalls.
To clean the inside of the toilet bowl workers scrubbed the entire inner surface with circular
motions. This included scrubbing under the rim of the toilet and working down to the trap
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opening using a swirling motion. The entire interior surface of toilets and urinals were scrubbed
with the disinfectant applicator (a special Fuller bowl brush #1638).
Lighted hand mirrors were issued to cleaning workers to check under the rim to be sure that all
stain and soil was removed. The underside of rim was periodically checked with the inspection
mirror to insure complete cleaning.
To disinfect and clean the outside of toilets and urinals, the germicide was sprayed onto the
surface and then damp wiped. The outer surfaces were then wiped dry with a clean microfiber
cloth. The accurately measured germicidal spray was then used on the base, seats (top and
bottom), flush handle and water tank.
To clean urinals the germicidal detergent was sprayed into the interior of the urinal starting at top
under the rim and scrub down with the disinfectant applicator. The outer surfaces and pipes of
the urinal were wiped with a cloth sprayed with the disinfecting solution. The urinal pipes and the
outside of the bowl were dried with a clean cloth.
Floors were mopped with the disinfectant solution. The area around toilets and urinals was
presoaked before mopping. Workers were trained to use a side to side mopping action known as
the figure 8 mop pattern. The were also instructed to mop a U shaped area about 6 x 6 square
feet to outline the area to be cleaned.
For hard water or mineral deposits present on the restroom brightwork or urinals the Tom Shirley
Showers N Stuff was issued to the workers. Workers were trained not to use the Tom Shirley acids
on marble, granite or concrete surface. Acid etches these surfaces.
Restroom Specialists were trained to distinguish between acid applicators and disinfectant
applicators and make certain that their functions are not mixed in the restroom.
Safety checklist for restroom cleaners
Gloves should always be used with bowl cleaners.
Disinfectant detergent must be used daily.
Protect your eyes.
Never mix chemicals together.
Wash hands before leaving the restroom.
Hand Washing Practices
Soap +
Water +
Friction.

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Housekeeping Recommendations for Building Occupants

Adapted for the Washington Ecology facility from The State Farm Insurance Companys policy
developed by Steve Spencer
A persons work area is private space. What we do in our area is shared with other occupants of
the facility.
During a busy day, more than our work can begin to pile up. Sometimes mishaps occur that
requires our immediate attention. And some areas would stay neater if we took a little time to
keep them that way.
Incorporating some of the following tips into our regular routine will keep our work areas healthy
and safety hazards to a minimum.
Entrances
Use the mats or walk-off areas provided at each entrance to help keep soil outside of the building.
Raincoats, Umbrellas & Overshoes
Use the coat racks to keep water, mud, and other remnants of the elements in one concentrated
area.
Work Area
Your work area is your responsibility. Keep your area dusted and free of litter such as food
wrappers. A coaster for beverages is also a good idea.
Walls
Is there a favorite comic strip or drawing by a child artist taped to your wall? Magnets on metal
walls and tacks or Velcro on fabric walls work much better than tape and wont cause any damage.
The building maintenance manager will be able to help you hang things on special walls such as
drywall or vinyl. Also, walls of any kind dont make very good chair backs or foot rests.
Recycle
Is the item youre throwing away recyclable? If so, find out where the nearest recycling bin is for
paper or aluminum cans.
Computer and Machine Areas
If you work in these types of areas, you probably spend a great deal of time on maintenance
already. Excess litter and dust from paper makes thorough cleaning a necessary task, so dont
hesitate to spend a little extra time.
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Cleaning workers may have a difficult time cleaning around personal items.

Personal Work Areas and Clutter

The people who clean your area and remove the trash do not want to get in trouble because they
accidentally damaged any of your personal belongings. Think of this persons job whenever you
add display items to your workspace.
Spills
Spilling your morning coffee may not only signify the start of a bad day; it can also be a slipping
hazard. Clean up spills on hard surfaces before this can happen. For spills on carpet, blot up the
liquid and notify the hotline number immediately. Early clean up before drying prevents
permanent stains.
Staples
Even the most powerful vacuum cleaner wont pick up staples hooked in the carpet. When you
drop them, please pick them up and dispose of properly.

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Living plants can affect workspace with mold, spores, moisture and plant chemicals.

Plants
Living plants brought into the work area can affect other areas beyond your space. When fans and
vacuums are operating the plant may be spreading spores, pollen and microorganisms into the
area. This may reduce the indoor air quality of you and those around you.
Wastebaskets
Before throwing away beverage containers, empty whats left in the restroom. Sharp objects such
as razor blades, needles, or broken glass should not be disposed of in wastebaskets. Please contact
the hotline number to handle these items.
Floor
Try to keep the floor area around your desk as uncluttered as possible. Briefcases and storage
boxes create obstacles compromising safety and restricting access for maintenance and janitorial
staff.
Files
Dont store boxes on top of shelves because this can create a fire and/or safety hazard. Clearing off
the tops of file and storage cabinets and other surfaces also makes the maintenance crews job a
lot easier.
Rest Rooms
Water left on a lavatory sink can result in an embarrassing situation for the next person who leans
against it. Be considerate of your fellow workers by wiping the sink after you use it. And put litter
in its proper place.

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A Job to Do
At Washington Ecology, we all have specific job requirements. Some maintenance tasks such as
moving furniture and cleaning carpet stains should be left to the professionals. However, it takes
the combined efforts of every employee to make the over-all job of good housekeeping a
successful one. The tasks weve discussed are simple and we may do some of them already, but
they cant be overlooked if we are to properly maintain our offices.

Moving the occupants out for the Deep Cleaning.

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Lessons Learned
Lesson #1
The most important lesson learned is that the (OS1) Deep Clean was viewed by the occupants as
very positive. The occupants who had been critical of the indoor environment and the
remediation were impressed by the deep clean. Facility management received both verbal and
written praise for the deep clean. Occupants noticed a difference. They recognized the effort
being made in their personal workspace. They could see, feel and smell a difference and they
appreciated it.
A cost / benefit analysis of the deep clean would demonstrate to the occupants and facility
management that it was an excellent use of remediation funds. Concluding the remediation with
the deep clean project provided a positive, visible end to the entire project. It demonstrated that
facility management really is concerned.
Lesson #2
Attempting to use the existing contract cleaning organization to perform the deep clean was less
than successful. The owner of the service provider attended a concentrated one-week Janitor
University training course in Salt Lake City. He praised the new approach to be used in the (OS1)
Deep Clean project when he returned to the Ecology building. He also was part of the
presentations to the occupants. During the presentations he spoke in favor of the protocols that
had been prepared for the project.
The deep clean began with an extensive training for all the cleaning workers and supervisors. This
training included the process and all the tools to be used in the deep clean. This was necessary
because the cleaners were not familiar with most of the protocols. It was also conducted to reduce
occupants concerns of safe cleaning methods in their workspace.
Factory representatives of the carpet process were on hand to assist in the training. At the
beginning of the deep clean, problems were experienced with the carpet extraction process.
Without approval, the contracted service provider substituted the (OS1) approved cleaning
extractor and began cleaning off-protocol.
It was necessary to hire a carpet cleaning company that specialized in the (OS1) process to, on a
rush basis, come in and finish the carpet extraction.
In a future project it would probably be more effective to hire an outside service provider to
perform the deep clean. The service provider should be the one who validates positive experience
with the (OS1) process.

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Lesson #3
The carpet blower dryers were insufficient at the beginning of the project. Over 30 blowers were
used to dry the large, cubicle filled area in four hours. The successful formula was one dryer per
cubicle and one for the aisles.
Lesson #4
The improved (OS1) methods of cleaning should be adopted for the facility cleaning bid
specifications. The cleaning process should be used for the on-going daily cleaning now that the
occupants have been presented the protocols and enjoyed the results. The higher level of cleaning
should be maintained.
Lesson #5
A third party should be retained to inspect the cleaning program to determine if the (OS1)
procedures are being utilized and to certify that cleaning is according to specifications. This would
assist facility managers in evaluating the cleaning program.
Lesson #6
At the occupants meetings a new summary sheet of the (OS1) Deep Clean functions could be
provided. Displays could be made containing the photos contained in this report. This would give
occupants a picture of what to expect.
Lesson #7
The occupants expressed concerns about the potential risk of environmental harm during and
immediately after the deep cleaning. None of these concerns materialized into a problem.

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