Cleaning teams are an integral part of (OS1).
The (OS1) concept is based on cleaning teams. Each team is comprised of four specialists: Light Duty, Restroom, Vacuum and Utility.
In Adam Smith’s book, “The Wealth of Nations,” published in 1776, Smith explained that the greatest economies are realized by the specialization of labor. A system of specialists simplifies training, balances workloads, minimizes worker complaints, and makes it easier to hire, train and retain qualified employees. Equally important, it provides a better quality cleaning product.
Team Cleaning workers are not specialists in name only. They are valued employees who deserve to be recognized as an important part of the learning/work environment. They are the first line of defense in keeping buildings clean and occupants healthy.
(OS1) Scouting Reports explain the function of each specialist. They provide a standardized way of training employees on new topics. Scouting Reports are often accompanied by training videos and, in some cases, an audiotape with step by step instructions to assist on-site trainers with in developing effective training seminars.
Scouting Reports are also effective during the hiring process. They provide a clear, written assessment of exactly what will be expected of the new employee. It covers every level of training in a very simplified way that’s been thoroughly tested in other facilities.
Corresponding flow charts outline the sequence of work. A handbook is also available to help transition cleaning organizations from typical zone cleaning operations to team cleaning specialists. The Light Duty Specialist is responsible for emptying trash and recycling bins and reinstalling liners. This individual also cleans telephones and chalk trays and dusts all horizontal and vertical surfaces. In preparation for the Vacuum Specialist, the Light Duty Specialist picks up paper clips, paper and pencils from the floor. Finally, this specialist spot cleans surfaces such as doorplates and wall and fixture marks.
The Vacuum Specialist follows. Using a backpack vacuum, this individual vacuums all traffic areas and spot vacuums other areas. The Vacuum Specialist cleans crumbs, ashes or other spills from the furniture. He/she makes certain each trashcan has been emptied, the furniture is positioned correctly, lights are out and the area is secure.
As the name implies, the Restroom Specialist is responsible for all restroom cleaning and refilling dispensers. This specialist uses tools that are designed to prevent cross-contamination, eliminate contact with bloodborne pathogens, and kill harmful microorganisms.
Finally, the Utility Specialist is responsible for policing stairs and vacuuming stairwells, cleaning glass and brass, carpet spotting, cleaning first impression areas, and hauling trash to the dumpster.
Training cleaning workers as specialists allows them to feel a sense of pride in their specific area of expertise. It also helps minimize the effects of absenteeism. Specialists can be cross-trained to cover more than one function, or can perform their given specialty in buildings other than those they may typically be assigned.
As one university cleaning manager put it, “the team concept gives each custodian ownership of the building as a whole, not just one small area, or zone”.