ISSA is offering a complimentary webinar—Proposed LEED V5 Revisions: Industry Setbacks & How You Can Take Action—taking place April 22 at 12:00 p.m. CT. Earlier this month, the U.S. Green Building Council (USGBC) began seeking feedback regarding the next version (v5) of the Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) program. In this FREE one-hour webinar, learn more about USGBC’s proposed changes and how they may adversely impact the cleaning industry. Attendees will hear from a panel of industry experts and USGBC committee members on concerns that LEED v5 undervalues cleaning in comparison to other issues and how the proposed changes will eliminate basic requirements for management systems, training, and certifications for cleaning services. Participants will also learn how to submit comments to the USGBC along with draft language for easy commenting. Click here to register today! To access the current LEED v5 drafts and voice your concerns, visit the USGBC website.
ISSA, the worldwide cleaning industry association, is pleased to announce 24 ISSA member companies have successfully achieved Cleaning Industry Management Standard (CIMS) Advanced by GBAC certification or CIMS-Green Building (CIMS-GB) Advanced by GBAC certification in the first quarter of 2024. CIMS certification and CIMS-GB certification help to set cleaning organizations and their green cleaning operations apart in the marketplace. It also helps to meet the growing demand for the U.S. Green Building Council’s (USGBC) Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) certification. CIMS and CIMS-GB certification are required in many cleaning service bid specifications as customers look for an effective way to identify high-quality providers committed to customer satisfaction. Relevant for in-house operations and outsourced building service contractors of all sizes, CIMS leverages five core elements of management best practices and requires participants to meet 100% of the mandatory elements and 60% of the recommended elements, per section. An ISSA-accredited third-party assessor completes an on-site evaluation to validate that the cleaning operation follows documented systems and processes that support cleaning for health. CIMS-GB takes this certification a step further, placing much greater emphasis on green cleaning and sustainability. “Earning CIMS Advanced by GBAC certification allows an organization to separate itself from the competition by demonstrating a dedication to a higher standard of cleanliness,” said ISSA Senior Director of Education Brant Insero. “Using CIMS encourages service providers to manage their organization in a manner that is predicated on ensuring quality, efficiency, and overall customer satisfaction.” Maintenance Resources Inc. has achieved certification to CIMS Advanced by GBAC, while Goodwill Industries of the Coastal Empire, JKSM Commercial Cleaning & Maintenance, ServiceMaster Commercial Systems, Service Star Building Cleaning Inc., and TRK Investments LLC have certified to CIMS with Honors Advanced by GBAC. Davolt Community Advocacy, Regency Cleaning Services Inc., and Southern New Hampshire University have achieved CIMS-GB Advanced by GBAC certification, while the following 15 organizations have achieved CIMS-GB with Honors Advanced by GBAC certification: A1 Cleaning Services AHI Facility Services Inc. Alabama Cleaning Service Ambassador Services LLC Blackstone Consulting Inc. Collins Building Services Inc. Goodwill Easter Seals Miami Valley Green Apple Commercial Cleaning H4 Enterprises LLC Job Options, Inc. Native Resource Development Co. Inc. Nobis Enterprises, Inc. Terra Klean Solutions, Inc. UG2 Vanguard Resources Inc. For more information about CIMS Advanced by GBAC, visit www.issa.com/cims. About GBAC, a Division of ISSA The Global Biorisk Advisory Council™ (GBAC), a Division of ISSA, helps organizations demonstrate their commitment to protecting the health and well-being of their customers and employees in a safe, responsible, and sustainable way. GBAC provides the training, education, consulting, accreditation, and certification services needed to help shape a healthier and safer world for everyone, everywhere. GBAC STAR™ facilities and organizations use their accreditation to support and show their commitment to health and wellness, and a more sustainable, resilient world. In addition, GBAC STAR Accreditation can support an organization’s commitment to the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) by assisting in achieving their environmental, social responsibility, and governance (ESG) objectives. For more information, visit www.gbac.org.
ISSA, the worldwide cleaning industry association, today announced that industry leaders will convene on Capitol Hill April 10-11 for the 2024 ISSA Clean Advocacy Summit. More than 100 cleaning industry leaders will head to Washington, D.C., to inform Congress how the cleaning industry strengthens America’s health and economy. The group will advocate for important issues, such as addressing labor shortages, securing U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) funding, and seeking support for workforce legislation. Attendees include leadership from cleaning product manufacturers and distributors, as well as service providers responsible for cleaning schools, homes, hospitals, hotels, workplaces, and other spaces. “Industry leaders are eager to emphasize that fostering healthy and safe facilities contributes significantly to the economy and plays a crucial role in safeguarding public health,” said ISSA Executive Director John Barrett. “In this dynamic landscape, ISSA and the cleaning industry must continue to have a seat at the table to shape policies prioritizing a resilient and thriving future for all.” Cleaning industry leaders will ask Congress to support a minimum of US$166 million in federal funding for the EPA’s Office of Pesticide Programs in fiscal year 2025. Funding will ensure the agency has sufficient resources to process registrations for the sanitizers and disinfectants that keep homes, schools, and workplaces clean, healthy, and safe. Per data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics, one out of every 40 workers in the United States is a cleaning professional, and labor shortages continue to be a huge issue for the industry. The group is asking for Congress’ support in reforming asylum laws, instituting employment verification reforms, and expanding the scope of essential worker programs, specifically allowing employers to meet temporary labor needs in non-seasonal jobs. Additionally, cleaning industry leaders will ask for support on the bipartisan, bicameral Freedom to Invest in Tomorrow’s Workforce Act (HR 1477/S 722). The act will expand qualified expenses under 529 savings plans to include post-secondary training and credentialing, such as licenses and professional certifications for workers who pursue career growth, mid-career changes, or pathways that diverge from a typical academic route. Cleaning industry leaders from more than 30 states will hear from over 125 congressional offices, including Reps. Grace Meng (D-NY-06) and Rep. Sean Casten (D-IL-16), and are scheduled to meet with Reps. Ami Bera MD (D-CA-06), Russ Fulcher (R-ID-01), Brian Mast (R-FL-21), Marc Molinaro (R-NY-19), Delia Ramirez (D-IL-03), and Mike Rogers (R-AL-03). “As we grapple with big issues facing the country, the industry has a compelling story to share – one that highlights its vital contributions to the economy and dedication to safeguarding public health,” said ISSA Director of Government Affairs John Nothdurft. “The industry continues to play a pivotal role in shaping a resilient and health-conscious future for our nation.”
The March/April 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 latest edition of ISSA Today, learn how to prepare your workforce for tomorrow by getting “future-ready.” Then embrace thought-leadership ideas for cleaning for health and be sure to tap into smart sales strategies to land more commercial floor care work. Learn how human capital and culture are hot topics today, embrace the tips to using entertainment to land valuable clients, and then see what ISSA is doing for its members. Here’s some of what you can find in the March/April 2024 issue: Cleaning for Health Measuring cleanliness and storing chemicals properly. Use Smart Sales Strategies Create your plan to win commercial floor care clients. Are You Future Ready? Four strategies for embracing technology and preparing your workforce for tomorrow. Human Capital and Culture Driving the future of work. And so much more! Why not see for yourself? Check out this edition’s table of contents to get started.
Crypto.com Arena in Los Angeles, California, recently completed the reaccreditation process for GBAC STAR™ Facility Accreditation from the Global Biorisk Advisory Council® (GBAC), a Division of ISSA. The iconic 20,000-seat sports arena, formerly known as Staples Center and home of the NBA’s Los Angeles Lakers and Los Angeles Clippers, the WNBA’s Los Angeles Sparks, the NHL’s Los Angeles Kings, and home to many of your favorite award shows and events, joined more than 150 facilities across the globe in renewing their GBAC STAR Facility Accreditation during the first three months of 2024. The accreditation demonstrates a facility’s commitment to establishing and sustaining a high-performance cleaning and disinfection program to maintain a hygienic indoor environment supported by knowledgeable professionals trained to uphold the highest standards of building maintenance. In addition, GBAC STAR Accreditation aligns a facility’s rigorous infectious disease prevention protocols with the latest sustainability initiatives, ensuring a resilient, sustainable operation. “Facilities of all types and sizes are renewing their GBAC STAR accreditation because it assures visitors and employees that these environments are clean and healthy,” said Dr. Gavin Macgregor-Skinner, GBAC Senior Director. “With GBAC STAR, you are not only demonstrating your commitment to protecting your employees’ and customers’ health and well-being in a safe, responsible, and sustainable way, but also shaping a healthier and safer world for everyone, everywhere.” Visit ISSA.com to see all the facilities that joined Crypto.com Arena in successfully achieving GBAC STAR Facility Reaccreditation during the first quarter of 2024, reinforcing their commitment to keeping their staff, visitors, and community safe.
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.
