For companies providing storage and warehousing services, maintaining cleanliness and safety is important, and the specific characteristics of these facilities often necessitate specialized cleaning methods.
Warehouses serve as storage spaces for goods and materials, typically featuring large shelving units, extensive floor space, and sometimes hazardous materials, which create distinct cleaning considerations.
For owners and facility managers of storage and warehouse facilities, the following are six central cleaning challenges commonly encountered in the industry, along with proposed solutions from commercial cleaning professionals at ServiceMaster Clean.
High Ceilings and Hard-to-Reach Areas
Warehouses typically feature high ceilings, numerous lighting fixtures, and exposed structural components like interior I-beams and columns. Without regular cleaning, these areas can collect dust and dirt, as well as retain odours from sources such as smoke or emissions from stored materials. Humidity may also build up, resulting in mould and mildew that pose risks to stored goods and may affect staff health.
Solution: Employ specialized equipment, including high-reaching extendable tools and elevated platforms, to effectively access and clean high ceilings and difficult-to-reach areas. This process should be conducted at a minimum of once every three months, with increased frequency if sensitive or hazardous materials are present.
Large Floor Areas and Heavy Traffic
For safety precautions and to check inventory, warehouse floor space must be kept clear to manage both foot and machinery traffic. As well, maintaining uncluttered open floor space makes it easier to spot spills, leaks, and damaged goods.
Solution: Create a regularly scheduled cleaning routine for high-traffic areas. Use industrial floor scrubbers and sweepers for large floor spaces. Monitor spills and leaks from stored products and follow all safety guidelines and regulatory cleaning procedures.
Storage and Inventory Obstacles
Warehouses most often have extremely high shelving fixtures that hold a variety of materials and inventory. These types of storage shelves can make it difficult to detect dust and grime build-up at the back of the shelving units and between boxes and storage containers.
Solution: Add regularly scheduled deep-cleaning sessions to your cleaning routine. Base the schedule around periods of low inventory or slower traffic times, when it is more convenient and possible to rearrange your storage layout.
Handling Hazardous Materials and Spills
Hazardous materials pose immediate risks when handled improperly or accidentally. When hazardous materials spill or leak in a warehouse, they require immediate and specialized safety protocols for cleaning.
Solution: Ensure your cleaning team is trained in proper procedures and equipped to handle hazardous materials and spills. Ensure your emergency response plan is reviewed and updated regularly to adequately address spills and leaks as quickly as possible.
Maintenance of Exterior Areas
It is essential to maintain the cleanliness and safety of the external areas of your warehouse. Loading docks and parking lots accumulate dirt, grease and debris and can become hazardous if not maintained.
Solution: Schedule regular power washing for outdoor spaces and loading areas at least every few months. Use mats at entrances to minimize tracking outdoor debris into your facility. Place adequate trash bins in appropriate areas, especially near entrances, exits, and eating areas, so visitors and staff can properly dispose of trash.
Safety Standards & Regulations
Following industry regulations and standards for health and safety, and taking proper precautions, protects your business and staff from harm and injury. From handling or being exposed to hazardous materials to operating advanced equipment, there is always potential for health risks and injury in warehouse environments.
Solution: Prioritize safety through staff training, providing PPE, and adhering to industry-specific safety guidelines. Have highly visible safety signs posted throughout your warehouse. Maintain regular inspections and practice preventative maintenance to ensure health and safety for everyone. Ensure your commercial cleaning company is up to date with certifications and follow health and safety regulations.
Warehouse facilities provide valuable functional space and storage services for businesses, but they also pose significant challenges for maintaining cleanliness and safety. You can address these issues with strategic planning, suitable equipment, and a commitment to regular and proper cleaning routines. By implementing these protocols, your warehouse will be a clean and safe environment for all operations.
ServiceMaster Clean has been a leader in the commercial cleaning industry for over 70 years. Our cleaning professionals are experts in cleaning warehouse and storage facilities of any scale. We can create a custom plan tailored to suit your particular needs and budget.