The U.S. House of Representatives, 24 states, and multiple municipalities all across the country proclaimed March 24–30, 2024, International Cleaning Week, which celebrates the value of clean and the important, positive impact that cleaning has on public health, the environment, and our economy. This designated week represents a unique opportunity to raise public awareness about the value of clean and show appreciation for cleaning professionals around the world. A total of 24 states including—Arkansas, Connecticut, Georgia, Idaho, Illinois, Kansas, Maryland, Minnesota, Mississippi, Missouri, New Hampshire, New York, North Carolina, North Dakota, Ohio, Oregon, Pennsylvania, South Carolina, South Dakota, Texas, Utah, Vermont, West Virginia, Wisconsin, as well as the territory of Puerto Rico—all officially designated a week dedicated to the industry. Six states (Connecticut, Oregon, North Dakota, Utah, Wisconsin, and WV) recognized a Cleaning Week for the first time in 2024. Additionally, Congressmen Darin LaHood (R-IL-18) and Raja Krishnamoorthi (D-IL-8), introduced a bipartisan resolution to the U.S. House of Representatives stating, “That the House of Representatives—recognizes the commitment and essential services provided by the cleaning industry in maintaining clean and sanitary conditions; and supports the designation of ‘National Cleaning Week’ to continue to promote safe and clean environments at work, in schools, and at home.” “I am proud to reintroduce the National Cleaning Week Resolution, this year alongside my friend, Congressman Raja Krishnamoorthi,” said Rep. LaHood. “National Cleaning Week provides us with the opportunity to highlight the hard work of so many essential workers in Illinois who keep our community facilities, businesses, schools, and hospitals clean and safe. In Congress, I will continue to be an advocate for Illinois’ critical workforce, and I look forward to recognizing National Cleaning Week.” “I’m proud to partner with Congressman LaHood and ISSA, the worldwide cleaning industry association, to introduce this bipartisan National Cleaning Week Resolution,” said Rep. Krishnamoorthi. “Essential frontline cleaning professionals work tirelessly to ensure that our schools, hospitals, offices, and public spaces are safe for us all. I look forward to the formal designation of ‘National Cleaning Week’ to honor these public servants and highlight the importance of their work.” “ISSA, the worldwide cleaning industry association, thanks Representatives LaHood and Krishnamoorthi for introducing this bipartisan National Cleaning Week resolution in the U.S. House of Representatives as well as the 20+ governors that have also recognized Cleaning Week in their states,” said ISSA Executive Director John Barrett. “The cleaning industry is honored to receive this recognition of the critical role that frontline cleaning professionals, as well as the manufacturers and distributors of cleaning products play in keeping our country clean, healthy, and safe. Accordingly, these resolutions and proclamations contribute significantly to changing the way the nation and the world view cleaning.” Six other organizations joined ISSA in supporting International Cleaning Week in 2024, American Cleaning Institute, American Society of Interior Designers, Exhibitors & Conference Alliance, FMI, The Food Industry Association, Household & Commercial Products Association, and International Well Building Institute. “Cleaning and disinfecting have become common practices in our daily lives that we probably don’t even realize how important they are for keeping people safe and healthy, especially from the common cold, the flu, and COVID-19,” said Steve Caldeira, Household & Commercial Products Association (HCPA) president and CEO. “International Cleaning Week gives us the opportunity to celebrate the many companies across the globe that make such a positive impact and recognize the industry’s contributions to improving public health.” “Clean is foundational to the success of face-to-face business events like conferences and trade shows. On behalf of the entire business events ecosystem, the Exhibitions & Conferences Alliance is delighted to join ISSA – The Worldwide Cleaning Industry Association in celebrating International Cleaning Week and raising awareness of the value of clean to safely bringing exhibitors and attendees together to learn, connect, and transact at business events across the United States and around the world,” said Tommy Goodwin, Exhibitions & Conferences Alliance vice president. “We know that cleaning means so much more now than it used to. In everyday life, we see that cleaning is caring,” said Brian Sansoni, American Cleaning institute senior vice president of communications and outreach. “We know that cleaning can contribute to our physical health, from washing our hands with soap and water to properly cleaning and disinfecting to prevent the spread of germs that can make us sick.” “The American Society of Interior Designers (ASID) is delighted to support the 2024 International Cleaning Week, an initiative by ISSA to demonstrate the importance of clean and healthy buildings. As a professional association serving all those in the interior design industry and practice, ASID advocates for policies that support safe, sustainable, inclusive, healthy, and efficient design and construction. ASID, together with ISSA, recognizes the importance not only of efficient cleaning materials and methodologies but also of design specifications and furnishings that advance the safety, health, and well-being of all building occupants. Learn more about how interior designers play a key role in creating and maintaining – or even reimagining – clean spaces for all who live, work, play, and heal there,” said Lauren Earley, Esq., ASID associate director of government and public affairs. “Cleaning and sanitation are at the heart of what the food industry does every day. FMI members ensure properly sanitized environments in food preparation and manufacturing facilities, maintain healthy spaces for customers as they shop in stores, and follow the highest food safety standards as employees prepare and handle the fresh product offerings that consumers enjoy. Fostering a safe, clean environment for our employees and customers would not be possible without the continued advances of the cleaning industry and cleaning products, and we are proud to support International Cleaning Week,” said Jennifer Hatcher, FMI chief public policy officer and senior vice president of government and member relations. “We are excited to celebrate International Cleaning Week, highlighting the essential role of cleaning and sanitization in enhancing the safety, health and protection of American families,” said Rachel Hodgdon, International WELL Building Institute president and CEO. “As a key element of a holistic approach to healthy buildings, cleaning protocols can help support individual safety and organizational resilience by reducing the risk of infectious
In recognition of International Cleaning Week (March 24-30), SC Johnson Professional has offered a series of tips to raise public awareness of the value of cleaning and honor industry professionals. SC Johnson Professional’s tips for promoting cleaning efforts and showing appreciation to cleaning staff include: Offer opportunities for feedback on facility cleanliness—Ask building occupants for regular feedback on the cleanliness of their facility. This will allow for issues to be addressed swiftly, and people may feel valued if they can share their priorities around facility hygiene. Establish a dedicated email address or phone number for sharing feedback and promote them throughout the facility in signage. By creating opportunities to share feedback, an organization can further demonstrate its commitment to creating a healthy facility. Communicate cleaning efforts—Educate customers on cleaning and disinfecting practices. Create logs that document each area’s cleaning schedule and post them on doors or walls, so it is highly visible. Consider promoting cleaning and disinfecting efforts on social media, wall posters, websites, and tabletop signage. Give gifts of appreciation—Show gratitude to cleaning staff by providing gifts such as a catered lunch, gift cards, or additional paid time off (PTO) days. These gestures acknowledge their dedication to upholding a facility’s hygiene standards daily. Recognize custodial staff externally—Spotlight cleaning staff on social media. For example, spotlight work anniversaries on a quarterly basis or recognize a cleaning professional who goes above and beyond in their job. This can be done via a company blog that is promoted across social media platforms. For more information on International Cleaning Week, visit issa.com/icw.
International Cleaning Week takes place March 24–30, 2024. The week-long event hosted by ISSA, the worldwide cleaning industry association, is a global celebration to honor frontline cleaning professionals and raise awareness of the value of clean. ISSA has hosted National Cleaning Week at the end of March for the past four years. Based on the event’s tremendous success in the United States, this year ISSA is expanding the reach of this week-long public acknowledgment of the industry’s positive impact on the economy and the importance of cleaning on public health. “ISSA is thrilled to build on the success of National Cleaning Week by hosting the first International Cleaning Week,” said ISSA Executive Director John Barrett. “This expanded scope reflects the value of clean and the importance of cleaning for health, both in public places and in our homes.” International Cleaning Week represents a unique opportunity to learn more about proper cleaning, indoor air quality (IAQ), and how a safe, clean home reduces stress and boosts productivity. In honor of International Cleaning Week, ISSA is promoting the following: Spring Cleaning – Use this week to tackle cleaning projects in your home. Commonly missed areas include baseboards, air vents, ceiling fans and blinds. Each area quickly collects dust and allergens, contributing to poor IAQ, which has been tied to headaches, fatigue and trouble concentrating, according to U.S. Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA). Philanthropy – Cleaning for a Reason is an ISSA Charities™ signature program that provides clean homes for cancer patients across North America. International Cleaning Week is the perfect time for individuals to donate their services and for patients to apply for free spring cleanings. A Commitment to Clean – Over 25 states and cities across the U.S. are signing official International Cleaning Week proclamations, including Alabama, Arkansas, Connecticut, Idaho, Illinois, Georgia, Maryland, Massachusetts, New York, North Dakota, Ohio, Oregon, Pennsylvania, South Dakota, Utah, Texas, Vermont, Wisconsin, Chicago, and more. For a complete listing of proclamations, visit issa.com/icw. “ISSA is proud to elevate Cleaning Week to a truly international event this year,” said ISSA Director of Government Affairs John Nothdurft. “I’d like to take the time to personally thank the organizations that have supported our endeavor to change the way the world views cleaning, including American Cleaning Institute, American Society of Interior Designers, The Exhibitors & Conference Alliance, The Food Industry Association, The Household & Commercial Products Association, and International Well Building Institute.” For more information about International Cleaning Week, visit issa.com/icw. Engage with ISSA on LinkedIn, Facebook, X, and Instagram using #ICW.
The March/April issue of Cleaning & Maintenance Management (CMM) is now available in a digital format. This edition focuses on sustainability, explaining how cleaning contractors and distributors can help facility managers meet their environmental goals. It provides spring cleaning advice on pressure washing exteriors and setting up vacuuming routines indoors. A six-page spread reveals the challenges, opinions, and values of in-house service providers who responded to CMM’s 2024 In-House/Facility Management Benchmarking Survey. Here’s a quick look at what you’ll find in this issue: Create Partnerships for Sustainability Success Cleaning contractors and distributors hold the key to their customers’ environmental achievements 2024 CMM In-House/Facility Management Benchmarking Survey Report Annual survey highlights trends, values, and challenges for in-house service professionals Building a Happy and Loyal Cleaning Team Eight employee retention strategies that work Spray Away Winter’s Dirt and Grime Choose wisely when selecting a pressure washer for your facility Make Daily Vacuuming Part of Your Routine Set up a vacuuming protocol using answers to these commonly asked questions Facility Health and Infection Prevention Roundup GBAC examines issues critical to facility managers this spring and beyond Check out the table of contents to see all this edition of CMM has to offer including a sustainability showcase.
Friday, March 8, is International Women’s Day, designated to globally celebrate women and their the social, economic, cultural, and political achievements. March is also Women’s History Month in the United States, set aside as a time to remember and honor women’s contributions throughout American history. All month long, the women of ISSA, in partnership with the ISSA Hygieia Network, an ISSA Charities™ signature program dedicated to the advancement and retention of women in the cleaning industry, are showcasing how they #InspireInclusion in the cleaning industry. Throughout March, we are featuring ISSA female employees or ISSA Board or Council/Committee members giving their unique perspective on how they inspire inclusion within the workplace and the cleaning industry. Learn more about how the women of ISSA inspiring inclusion at issa.com/IWD2024. PLUS: Be sure to register for next week’s MasterClass in Leadership, a complimentary webinar from the ISSA Hygieia Network. The event takes place Wednesday, March 13, from 1:00–2:00 p.m. CT, and features Jill Frey, president and CEO of Cummins Facility Services, who will introduce strategic tools tailored to enhance your leadership skills. For more information and to register, click here.
On Thursday, April 25, 2024, join the ISSA Hygieia Network for its upcoming networking and leadership conference—Workplace Allies: The Power of Having Someone in Your Corner. This information-packed conference, which includes a networking reception, will take place from 9:00 a.m. to 6:15 p.m. at Delta Hotels Toronto Mississauga in Mississauga, Ontario, Canada. “We’re thrilled to announce our upcoming networking and leadership conference,” said ISSA Hygieia Network Program Director Dr. Felicia Townsend. “We invite people to come and learn about the significance of workplace relationships and creating allyships through discussions led by our phenomenal lineup of speakers.” Attendees will gain new strategies on how to become better advocates and supporters of employees from every level in the organization. Additionally, they gain insights into how they can make their organizations more inclusive for everyone to thrive and discover how securing mentors, sponsors and peer relationships can help them reach their goals. “We’re especially honored to have Karen Craggs-Milne, CEO of Conscious Equality Inc., to present her workshop, Turning Good Intentions into Real Impact: Gender Equality and Allyship at Work,” added Townsend. “This will be a great opportunity for attendees to learn what it takes to achieve gender equality and how to promote allyship within the cleaning industry.” Other guest speakers include: Lori Armitage, Canadian Sales Manager Strategic Accounts – Essity Jenny Lawson, Director of Human Resources – Bunzl Canada Tom Fournier, Chair – ISSA Canada’s Distributor Council Shannon Hall, Vice President of Sales and Marketing – Dustbane Products Ltd. This conference is sponsored by Dustbane and SC Johnson Professional with supporting sponsors: Bunzl, Balpex, Carrousel, Cascades Pro, Larose ,and Tork. Registration is open now, with pricing starting at US$89 for ISSA Members and US$119 for nonmembers. To learn more and register, visit events.issa.com/events/hygieia-networking-conference-ontario-2024/.
If you’re a facility manager or building service contractor (BSC), you won’t want to miss CMM’s upcoming webinar, Strengthen the Synergy of Cleaning & Disinfection, taking place at 1 p.m. CT on March 5, 2024. During this free, one-hour session, a panel of industry experts will offer infection prevention best practices that, when enacted, will help you and your cleaning crew keep facility inhabitants healthy—every day. By attending, you’ll learn: How to identify the germiest areas in facilities How to effectively use cleaning and disinfecting products on surfaces How to justify increased frequency of cleaning and disinfecting Why a focus on improving indoor air quality is critical How to build confidence in the staff cleaning your buildings. A live Q&A session will round out the webinar. Come prepared with questions specific to the challenges and concerns you face at your facility and on the job. Registrants can participate in the live event and will obtain a link to the webinar recording afterward. To register, click here.
If you're a member of ISSA and/or an in-house facility manager who receives CMM communications, be sure to check your email for an important opportunity! We need your feedback for our 2024 CMM In-House/Facility Management Benchmarking Survey. This survey is all about you—your facility, your industry, and your chance to win one of three US$100 gift cards! It won’t take but a few minutes to complete, and the information your industry will gain from your participation will be huge! But in order to make a meaningful contribution—and have the opportunity to win—you must take the survey by Thursday, February 29. So be sure to check your email (including your junk/spam folder and other email tabs) and take the survey today!
ISSA Scholars, an ISSA Charities™ signature program, has opened its scholarship applications for the 2024–2025 academic year. Employees of all ISSA member companies and their families are encouraged to apply now through April 12, 2024. There are also opportunities for member companies to donate to a scholarship fund or develop a new fund to support our efforts. “Our commitment is not just to financial support but to nurturing the future leaders of the cleaning industry. As ISSA Scholars continues to invest in the potential of bright minds, we proudly extend scholarships to deserving students, empowering them to reach new heights in higher education,” said ISSA Charities Director of Development Sandy Wolfrum. “We’re eager to see this year’s exceptional applicants!” On an annual basis, ISSA Scholars awards scholarships to students who showcase outstanding academic and leadership qualities. These scholarships serve as a beacon of support, alleviating the financial strain of tuition for individuals affiliated with ISSA member companies, including employees and their immediate family members, as they embark on their educational journeys at accredited four-year colleges and universities. This year, ISSA Hygieia Network, an ISSA Charities signature program dedicated to the advancement and retention of women in the cleaning industry, has increased the ISSA Hygieia Network Scholarship from US$3,500 to $5,000. Applicants for this scholarship must be a female employee of an active ISSA Member company and have a minimum two years of experience in the cleaning industry. The funds can be used toward any level of undergraduate or post-graduate degrees. With the support of generous ISSA member companies, ISSA Scholars awarded $142,000 in financial aid to 49 students in 2023. Member companies looking to provide support can donate to existing funds or develop their own scholarship award. ISSA announces the complete list of scholarship recipients and company sponsors each year. To apply for a scholarship or to donate to ISSA Scholars, visit issacharities.org/issa-scholars/ To create a scholarship fund under an ISSA member company, contact Michon Mohan at michonm@issacharities.org.
The January/February edition of ISSA Today—now available in digital format for your desktop, smartphone, or tablet―helps you stay up to date on the latest cleaning industry and ISSA-member news. In the first issue of 2024, learn how sustainability reporting should mimic a CARFAX report, find out how artificial intelligence (AI) can help prevent problems in warehouses, read a special report of what happens behind the scenes to produce ISSA Show North America, learn tips for attracting younger sales talent, and much more. Here’s some of what you can find in the January/February 2024 issue: Sustainability Reporting A CARFAX report for the cleaning industry Artificial Intelligence How AI could prevent problems in your warehouse Technology in Building Service Contracting What does the future hold for you? Facility Productivity Strategies: UNLEASHED! Solutions to increase productivity and enhance cleaning And so much more! Why not see for yourself? Check out this edition’s table of contents to get started.
Workplace Solutions Association (WSA), Powered by ISSA, has announced the opening of applications for its annual scholarship. Candidates must have graduated from high school or its equivalent before July 1 of the year in which they would use the scholarship and have an academic record sufficient to be accepted by an accredited college, junior college, technical institute, or accredited trade school. Students currently enrolled full time in college or graduate school are not eligible. Employees and immediate family members of all WSA member companies are eligible to apply through March 31, 2024. “Continuing education is necessary to be competitive in today’s job market,” said WSA President Charlie Kennedy. “We encourage all member companies to share this opportunity with their employees and help our students enhance their skills and have access to better opportunities in the workplace.” Created more than 50 years ago, the WSA Scholarship Fund has now awarded more than US$2.8 million in scholarships to deserving families of office products and office furniture dealers and is supported entirely through individual and member contributions. The fund recognized 30 college students receiving one-year scholarships in the 2023–2024 academic year. As part of WSA’s continued collaboration with ISSA, the WSA scholars program will now be hosted and administered by ISSA Scholars, a Division of ISSA Charities. To learn more and apply for a scholarship, visit issa.com/wsa-scholarship.
ISSA has released its 2023 Year in Review: Celebrating a Century of THE Association for the Cleaning Industry—a look back at how the association, including all of its various divisions and departments, focused on changing the way the world views cleaning. As the title suggests, this past year was particularly special for the association, as 2023 represented its 100th anniversary as the leading trade association for the worldwide cleaning industry. The association and its members made 2023 a time to reflect on the many achievements and tremendous growth experienced over the last century, through articles, photos, and opportunities for special recognition. The year-long celebration culminated in Las Vegas in November at ISSA Show North America 2023, with more than 12,000 cleaning professionals present for the event. Beyond marking its 100th anniversary, the association also saw amazing advancements within ISSA’s many avenues for its more than 10,500 members, including its various divisions that focus on distinct areas of the cleaning industry, as well as education opportunities, government affairs, ways to give back to the communities that support the industry though ISSA Charities, and much more. To learn more on the specifics of those advancements and opportunities within all the areas of ISSA, check out the 2023 Year in Review: Celebrating a Century of THE Association for the Cleaning Industry.