WASHINGTON — While the government has yet to establish rules on green or environmentally preferable cleaning products as they have done with food nutritional labels, we are beginning to see set standards in major green purchasing activities, green cleaning consulting firm Ashkin Group, Bloomington, IN, noted in a guide accompanying "green cleaning quiz" materials this week.
According to the Ashkin Group, the list is based on recommendations from and standards set by several organizations including the US Environmental Protection Agency, the US General Services Administration, the US Green Building Council and Green Seal and is intended to help those attempting to initiate green cleaning.
Cleaning Chemicals: Cleaning chemicals that have the Green Seal Certification (independently verified to be less toxic and polluting with fewer adverse affects on the environment), have low volatile organic compounds (VOCs), and are bio-based.
Portion Control: These products and equipment allow the user to eliminate waste by accurately measuring concentrated chemicals and protect the health and safety of the cleaning and maintenance worker.
Floor Care Products: Ask for floor finishes that are metal-free and are durable enough to last at least 12 months between stripping.
Floor Mats: Matting is one of the best ways to trap dirt and dust particles, preventing them from entering a facility. Ask for matting that is of high quality, capable of capturing fine particles, and constructed with recycled content.
Vacuums: Vacuum cleaners can now be certified by the Carpet and Rug Institute. Their "Green Label Certification" designates machines with proven capabilities, but look further for high filtration levels that capture the fine particles (99% of 0.3 microns) and are ergonomically designed to minimize worker fatigue and injuries, bolstering productivity rates.
Floor Machines: Floor machines should be equipped with vacuum attachments to capture dust and fine particles that are often generated when stripping, buffing, burnishing, and polishing floors.
Carpet Extraction Equipment: Carpet extractors should be capable of removing enough water that carpets are dry within 24 hours or less. Excess moisture can provide a breeding ground for mold and mildew.
Paper and Plastic Liners: The Environmental Protection Agency's (EPA) Comprehensive Procurement Guidelines designates the levels of post-consumer recycled content (20% minimum for toilet tissue, 40% minimum for hand towels and industrial wipes, and 10% minimum for plastic trash can liners).
Paper Dispensers: Look for hands-free dispensers, which can limit the amount of paper dispensed, reduce waste, and hold large or multiple rolls.
Recycling Containers: To better manage recycling, look for containers, carts, and other materials that help manage and support a building's recycling efforts and increase recycling rates.
Training/Education Materials: The green cleaning process can entail initial and ongoing training and education. Look for training materials that help users reduce waste (of both materials and time), clean more effectively, and minimize risks to the building occupants, workers, and the facilities in which they clean.
Innovative Technologies: As more manufacturers embrace the concept of green cleaning, new technologies and products are being introduced. Look for materials, such as MicroFiber cloths and flat mops that are capable of capturing more dirt and dust particles and reduce bacteria build-up. Also, ask for products with recycled content and bio-based materials.
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