There are many steps that can be taken to increase your Green potential from something as easy as frequent emptying of vacuum bags to a complete program that meets LEED cleaning requirements.

What does it mean to go “Green”?

Many companies are looking toward the future and making the decision to take an environmentally friendly outlook on the way they operate. We have also taken that step and many of our cleaning procedures are performed in the most efficient way possible. We use micro-fiber cleaning methods, HEPA filtration vacuums, and utilize efficient cleaning methods. At many of our accounts we utilize specialized
chemicals and have recycling programs.

• Minimizing Particles in the Air
  
  
• Utilization of HEPA filtration vacuums – Review Carpet & Rug Institute’s Green Label Program for vacuums (www.carpet-rug.com).
• Cleaning using micro-fiber clothes, mops, dust mops, and dusters which reduce air born pollutants and are reusable
• Practicing cleaning procedures that reduce pollutants in the air such as spraying chemicals onto rags instead of releasing aerosols into the air
• Introduction of Air filtration systems

• Chemical Management
  
  
• Environmentally friendly chemicals (Green Seal Certified Available)
• Proportioning chemical systems have less waste
• Hand soaps that do not contain antimicrobial agents (some medical and food preparation facilities require antimicrobial hand soap)

• Carpet Maintenance
  
  
• Routine carpet maintenance will reduce the possible irritants that live in carpet fibers
• Use of truck mounted carpet cleaning machine with heat that kills dust mites
  
  
• Reduce Exposure by Utilizing a Mat System at all Entrances
  
  
• Mats help to remove dirt and pollutants before they enter the building. Proper utilization and frequent cleaning can reduce the amount of time needed to properly maintain a building and aid in improving air quality

• Proper Procedures that Utilize Efficient Cleaning Methods
  
  
• Emptying vacuums before they are full to ensure most efficient collection of dirt particles
• Routine cleaning of areas that are often high in germs such as restroom and door fixtures

• “Green” Products
  
  
• We can provide an analysis of green products that are available including recycled and chlorine free paper products
• High efficiency bathroom fixtures are available including center pull roll towels, hands free dispensers, high efficiency foam soap, coreless toilet paper, and high capacity dispensers

• Recycling Programs
  
  
• We can help determine the best recycling program for your facility

• Building Upgrades
  
  
• High efficiency HVAC units
• Air Filtration
• Germ Killing UV Lights
• Motion Sensor Lighting
• Waterless Urinals

LEED CERTIFICATION

LEED certification requires much more than just switching from traditional to green cleaning chemicals. According to the USGBC, LEED-EB focuses on seven major areas, each with their own certification standards and best practices.

• Facility Cleaning & Maintenance, including Chemicals
• Indoor Air Quality
• Energy Efficiency
• Water Efficiency
• Recycling Programs
• Exterior Maintenance Programs
• Systems Upgrades

 
By implementing a complete green cleaning program, your building can earn up to 14 points toward LEED certification in the Existing Building category.