Living in A Custodial World

Don't Fall Down on Your Job

2012-01-27T11:57:00.000-08:00

Slipping on a wet floor either due to unforeseen circumstances or negligence is painful. That's why custodians are always encouraged to put out wet floor signs or visible signs on doors when they are cleaning or mopping floors. Although this takes a little longer, it is better to be safe rather than sorry.

The article link below shows what can happen if precautions are not taken to provide proper signage in areas that are wet. We all need to be diligent in doing our best to provide a safe environment for all.

Falling Down

The Clean Museum

2012-01-04T13:39:00.000-08:00

There are museums for all kinds of things. But how about a museum of cleaning paraphenalia? Well, it's been done and is only a few hours away in Idaho.

Read the whole clean story here. I think any cleaner, janitor, custodian or housekeeper who is serious about their job would agree with the comments made about how we view things a little differently. I might just visit this museum at some point in the future. It's sounds interesting.

P.S. I wonder who cleans his museum?

Trilobal

2012-01-02T11:30:00.000-08:00

Our recent poll asked about a common shape of carpet fiber. The answer is "trilobal." (View trilobal and other carpet fiber shapes here.) A trilobal carpet fiber disperses light well and is used on many carpet fibers. It has been used for years and has proven very effective in carpet construction. The fibers are so small it is difficult to actually see this fiber shape. The actual strand you see is made up of several tiny trilobal fibers. You'd have to see these shapes using a microscope or powerful magnifying glass.

Overcrowding, Finances and Building Usage

2011-12-15T16:16:00.000-08:00

I just read and watched the information on KING 5 news about the overcrowding issue here at Tahoma. I can understand the concerns involved since teaching students is the main focus of a school district. Some of the proposals for dealing with the overcrowding issue are feasable. I wonder though about the two suggestions of either year round school or double shifts. Although these might reduce overcrowding, has consideration been given to the financial impact?

Running buildings year round will increase usage of electricity especially because the AC will need to be run in the summer. There's no way students or parents will allow learning to take place in rooms that are in excess of 80 degrees. Running large machinery to cool buildings is costly. Also the supplies such as toilet paper, paper towels, water, electricity for lights, computers, active boards and so on will increase. This will also impact summer maintenance on buildings and custodians abilities to clean and prepare the schools for usage in the fall. Overall, it seems that the financial impact will negate any possible benefits.

Running a school in double shifts will also impact finances in much the same way. Lights on later for classes, heat running much later into the evenings, increased usage of supplies, impact on sporting events, evening classes and events, community usage of the buildings, custodial cleaning time and so on.

In the past year or so many energy efficient measures have been taken and over $500,000 has been saved. All that goes right out the window by increasing building usage either year round or into the evening with double shifting. It is also a huge increase of wear and tear on the buildings and the understaffed maintenance department struggles to keep up now. What would they do with increased building use?

Unfortunately the huge budget cuts by the government has impacted everyone and especially our young people. It's really unfair to them, but what can you do? Hopefully a reasonable solution will be reached soon and our district will continue to produce quality people entering society.

Size Matters

2011-12-09T10:45:00.000-08:00

Our last poll asked what size dust mops we use when cleaning. The answer is 24", 36" and 60". All have their place.

Smaller dust mops are used in classrooms and areas containing less square footage. The larger 60" dust mops are used in large areas like gyms, commons, hallways and other large areas. Recently we switched over to microfiber dust mops. These special fibers pick up more dust and clean better. Instead of sending dust mops to an outside company to have them washed, we wash them ourselves saving time and money.

Dust mopping is crucial to prepping any floor before mopping or cleaning. By removing dust and dirt first, a cleaner floor is the result.

(Don't forget to vote on our newest poll.)

Help Limit Germs Mode of Travel - Wash Your Hands!

2011-12-09T10:39:00.000-08:00

"Did you wash your hands?" How often did you hear that as a child? How often do you hear it now? It is a proven fact that handwashing helps to limit the spread of disease and sickness.

Over the next several months, efforts are being made to limit exposure to surfaces that may transmit disease and bacteria. Hands free fixtures and paper towel dispensers are being tested to see which ones would work the best in restrooms in the schools. This will limit the spread of microbes that can cause sickness.

Along with hands free devices, a continual effort to remind all to wash their hands on a regular basis will limit sickness and the spread of disease as well. This is the most crucial aspect of limiting disease. A study out of Philadelphia highlights the truth to this handwashing necessity.

Let's all do our part by washing hands and limiting the spread of germs!

Cleaning and Stopping Spells

2011-12-01T10:26:00.000-08:00

Here's a unique story. Custodians and janitors do a lot of cleaning and other jobs to keep buildings running smoothly and to make the occupants comfortable. But how about putting the kibosh on a request to cast a spell on fellow building occupants? The article below will explain. What a strange world we live in.

Spell Blocked

Saving the Planet One School at a Time

2011-11-30T11:57:00.000-08:00

The world is moving toward energy-efficiency and a lower impact on the planet. Of course that all starts with each of us individually. Since the human tendency is to push things aside until a later time, it sometimes takes certain individuals to take charge and make things happen.

In our district this has been happening over the past year or more as we strive for a more efficient and greener district. Custodians have played a major role in supporting and implementing some of these changes. And it's not just here. Take a look at the article in the link below about a district in New Jersey where other custodians have been hard at work doing the same thing.

New Jersey

Invaluable

2011-11-28T11:46:00.000-08:00

It has been proposed by some leaders that cleaning and custodial responsibilities in schools could or should be done by students. What do you think?

Custodians do more than just clean. They are trained to use chemicals, use machines, work with HVAC systems, operate boilers and computerized systems that control HVAC, lighting and other functions and more. It's not just a simple matter of picking up a broom or mop and doing some cleaning. Yet, some would insist it's that easy. Have they ever talked to a custodian to see what's necessary to keep a building functioning properly and safely? Do they care?

Check out this opinion in a California paper that highlights the questions raised herein. What do you think?

Opinion Link

Are You Irreplaceable?

2011-11-12T16:52:00.000-08:00

Good question. Are you? How do you interact with people? Are you friendly and helpful? Do you take pride in your work and your building? The article linked below is a powerful reminder of what we can do for others and how we can be viewed and treated. It shows that sometimes there are those individuals who really are irreplaceable. See if you don't agree.

Irreplaceable

The Happiest Place to Work

2011-10-11T10:51:00.000-07:00

As Head Custodian myself, I know how much work and organizing it takes to run a high school. Now imagine being in charge of hundreds of acres of area to clean. How about Disneyland? Check out the accompanying article about the Head Custodian there that is retiring after 46 years. Although a ton of work has to be done daily, I'm sure it is still a fun place to work as he himself states.

Disneyland Head Custodian

It Happens Elsewhere Too

2011-09-20T10:52:00.000-07:00

It happens all over the U.S. Custodians and maintenance personnel working hard to keep their buildings running, clean and safe. I read an article (link below) about the hard work of fellow custodians. Although some of their duties vary slightly from what we do, much is the same. You'll find the article interesting to say the least.

Fellow Custodians

No More Makeup? No More Mirrors?

2011-09-15T12:02:00.000-07:00

Here's an interesting article I ran across at msnbc.com about a ban on makeup and the removal of mirrors in restrooms. Even though this is in Britain, I'm wondering how it would go over here? Here's the article.

High school bans makeup, removes mirrors to crack down on teen vanity

By Lisa Flam

Getty Images stock

Aqua eyeliner, that staple of high school girls' bathrooms.

Ah, the high school girls' bathroom. Perhaps you remember it well.
Girls jockeying for a spot before the mirror, dabbing concealer on that day’s blemish, checking their blue eyeliner for signs of smudging, swiping their lips with another coat of gloss.
Can you imagine school days without the primping rituals?
That’s what’s happening at a British school, which not only banned makeup for its 13- to 16-year-old students but also temporarily took down the bathroom mirrors.
The no-mirrors policy at Shelley College, a co-ed public school in northern England, came about around May because some girls were spending too much time in the loo, crowding the mirror to touch up their faces, says head teacher John McNally. They were even staying in there to eat lunch, making other girls feel uncomfortable when they had to walk through a crowd, he said.
The makeup ban followed a month or so later because teachers were daily challenging a small number of students - some wearing heavy mascara and thick foundation - for flouting the school’s vague policy allowing “discreet” makeup, says McNally.
“The makeup ban is about getting girls to focus on what’s important in school, which is learning and not being distracted with makeup and wanting to check it all the time,” McNally told TODAY Moms in a phone interview. “The mirror ban is to break a cycle where social groups started to emerge in the bathroom.”
With school back in session, school officials check each girl’s face daily, and offer makeup-removing products if necessary, McNally said. Most girls have accepted the policy, though a few back-to-school faces were challenged, he said.
Though the girls who want to wear makeup typically say they need it to feel confident, McNally believes that’s not true for most students.“We’ve had quite a few girls say they feel more confident since the ban’s been introduced,” McNally said, because they don’t feel compelled to compete with other girls in the lipstick and eyeliner department.
And, above all, he feels the school’s rules will lead to better academic performance. “We do think it will help,” he said.
Not all of the girls are happy with the policy.
“Before the ban I’d wear foundation, mascara and eyeliner, now I don’t wear any,” Emily Stonehouse, 14, told the Daily Mail. “It is a bit unfair. I do believe too much make-up can be a distraction but so too can too little.”
What do you think? Is it silly to prevent girls from popping by the bathroom mirror after lunch to check for food in their teeth, or a worthwhile restriction that could boost academic achievement?
Lisa A. Flam is a news and lifestyles reporter in New York.

Working Up to the Last Second!

2011-09-03T14:43:00.000-07:00

The big day dawns Tuesday morning at 7:45 a.m. The first day of school! That means our work is done, to some degree. When I say that, I mean that all the big jobs for the summer are complete. The floors are cleaned and waxed, the carpets have been cleaned, the rooms cleaned, maintenance completed, painting done, machinery serviced and so on.

Our crew worked right up to the last second on Friday to complete everything and have the building ready to go Tuesday morning. I went around and made sure the HVAC system was back online, compressors for shop and science were running, timers were set and everything else that keeps the building running and comfortable for learning was on.

I must commend our crew for their extremely hard work. They accomplished an amazing amount of work in the short time we had during the summer. A huge "thank you" to our student helpers who we couldn't have done without. They saved us a lot of time and did a tremendous job helping us prepare the building for use.
Now that we are back to school, the normal jobs will fall back into place. Until next summer rolls around, we'll see you in our buildings somewhere!

P.S. Check out a few snippets of things that we did this summer in our custodial newsletter.

Ten Days Left

2011-07-30T09:55:00.000-07:00

Well, we're down to our last ten days to clean the school. Ten?! Yes, ten. Due to the activities, registrations, setup, return of teachers and administration and so on, we only have until August 15 to finish cleaning the entire building. From the 16th on we will be doing odd jobs that don't require us to actually be cleaning which would put us in the way of staff and returning parents and students. So, this year we had 38 days to clean the building.

I must say, our crew is fantastic! They always get the job done and make it look easy. They work hard and do their best to prepare the building for the students and staff who return each September. I'm glad to have a team like them to work with.

We'll see most of you on September 6!

Little Cleaners

2011-07-06T20:28:00.000-07:00

Imagine seeing children under 14 years of age doing custodial work. Absurd you say? Not according to a new law in Idaho sanctioned by lawmakers. Read the article linked herein and see what this new law is and the comments made by other readers.

Little Cleaners

Summertime Crews

2011-06-30T22:19:00.000-07:00

The end is in sight. Our biggest project of this year is nearing completion. The stripping and re- waxing of a large part of the building. This year we began implementing a new floor care strategy as suggested by our supervisor to strip 20% of the building's hard floor surfaces each year. The means that every five years the floors will always be stripped and waxed. Our 20% this year consisted of the Commons, the front of the kitchen, Main Street, the Student Store and the Marketing classroom, the ASB room, the security office, the choir room, the band practice rooms and the upper gym vestibule. Since the floors had not been stripped in 12 years, it was a monumental task to remove multiple layers of wax. Now that part has been completed. The waxing began yesterday and we plan on having it finished tomorrow just in time for a three-day weekend to allow it to cure.

As the summer progresses, we will continue cleaning rooms, repairing items throughout the building, painting, scrubbing and re-waxing the other 80% of the building, cleaning carpets and cleaning windows. Against popular opinion, our summers are the busiest time of year for us. We have just 50+ days to do all of this work before school starts again. That means having a well-organized schedule and sticking to it. Throw into the mix a myriad other things that pop up amidst our schedule and it throws us into a tizzy trying to keep up. (We just learned that some portables are getting new carpet but we have to move all the furniture next week to prep for this. Not in the schedule as planned, but it is now.)

Somehow we seem to finish most everything by August 15th when activities begin to roll again. I'm never certain how we accomplish this, but our crew working together and working hard is definitely a contributing factor in making it all happen. I love working with our crew. They are hard workers and take pride in their work. We laugh and cry together, but always get the work done.

Summertime is in full swing. So are we. When you return in August, check out what we accomplished and see what you think!

Lost, Lost, Lost and Found

2011-06-14T10:57:00.000-07:00

Wow! Two decades. Imagine having your wallet returned twenty years after losing it. That's what happened to one Georgia woman. The story is attached and you'll find it brings a smile to your face as you consider the nostalgia she and her family must have enjoyed. Read it at the link below.

Wallet

18

2011-06-14T10:29:00.000-07:00

Eighteen portables. That's the magic number. That's how many portables we have at the high school. Our last survey posed that question and now you know! Check out our newest survey soon.

A Cleaner Speaker

2011-05-26T11:40:00.000-07:00

A custodian is in the news again. This time as a graduation speaker. As I've mentioned in past posts custodians are often recognized for more than just cleaning and maintaining the building they work in. They also provide many other types of support and services. The linked article is a great reminder of how we all can support the students and staff where we work. I think you'll find it heartwarming.

Custodial Graduation Speaker

Stripping in June

2011-05-20T07:30:00.000-07:00

In one month, school will be out. Then what? Well, for our department, one of the biggest cleaning events this year. Stripping the floors in the commons and related areas.

Since the school was remodeled in 1999, the floors in this area have not been stripped. Stripping is more time-consuming and labor-intensive than just a normal scrub and re-coating of floors. Stripping involves removing all the wax right down to the original tile. Then wax is reapplied to the freshly cleaned floor bringing the shine back to a fine luster.

Over the years, no matter how often you clean a floor, small amounts of soiling work their way into the wax. Even when you scrub the floor and re-wax, there is some soiling and discoloration that cannot be helped. So, every few years you basically have to start over. When its finished it looks beautiful. Getting to that point is the time-consuming part.

So what areas exactly will we be stripping? The commons, choir room, front of the kitchen, Main St. hall, security office, ASB office, student store, room 405 and the alcove in front of 405 and the vestibule above the gym stairs as well as the ramp and hallway by the band practice rooms. It's a huge area and will take our whole team at least a week or so to accomplish. During that first week after school is out, those areas will be closed in sections as we strip and then finally closed completely while we wax everything. Once that's done, we will begin working on cleaning the rest of the building.

Every year is a busy one in the summer. This year is no exception. Our goal, as always, is to have all major cleaning done by August 15. The rest of August is then spent working on areas that are not so public and taking care of other items that we don't get to during the school year.

So, if you want to help, drop on by! We'd love to show you what we do and get some extra hands in the mix.

Living in A Custodial World in the Past, Present and Future

2011-04-15T10:42:00.000-07:00

As of April 16, 2011, this blog will be three years old. I've shared information ranging from human interests stories to dealing with MRSA. These posts are intended to share information and material that is of interest and benefit to not only custodians but also to the average person. As we look to the future, I will endeavor to continue sharing articles, thoughts and links that will enhance your knowledge and understanding and contribute to better health practices. Thanks for subscribing!

The Battle Rages On

2011-04-12T07:36:00.000-07:00

MRSA. A scary acronym for a deadly bacteria. Scientists are continuing to battle this potent killer and now it seems they may have gotten the upper hand. According to the Birmingham Post, scientists have found a way to increase the killing power of mupirocin. This could be the breakthrough they have been searching for for years. Read the embedded link to learn more details and see what you think about this newest scientific discovery. Killing MRSA

Wall Washing Poll

2011-04-11T11:01:00.000-07:00

When you wash walls, you should always wash from the bottom up. Why? Because when you wash from the top down, the cleaning solution will often run down the wall and leave streaks due to the concentrated cleaning solution. By washing from the bottom up you are cleaning evenly and no solution is running through soil thus leaving streaks. Unfortunately, if you start at the top and get streaks, they are very difficult if not impossible to remove. Check out the newest poll.

MRSA to CRKP - What's Next?

2011-03-28T11:43:00.000-07:00

We've all heard of MRSA, that superbug whose resistance to antibiotics is legendary. Now, it seems, there is a new strain of superbug on the scene. It's appearing in hospitals and is worse than MRSA. The embedded link will take you to the article and an ABC news short on this new concern. Superbug

Strip Washer

2011-03-04T20:57:00.000-08:00

The poll that just ended asked what a strip washer is. It's not something risque as the term seems to imply. A strip washer is a device used to scrub windows. It looks like a "T" wherein you hold the handle and a soft cloth cover goes over the horizontal piece of the tool. You then wet down the strip washer and scrub the glass after which you squeegee it off. Some strip washers have a light green scrubbing side to remove tough spots on the glass. Strip washers are handy and make window washing quick and effective.

Check out the new poll and vote.

600 Seconds

2011-02-03T19:38:00.000-08:00

Our recent poll asked how long disinfectants should stay on a surface in order to kill microorganisms. The answer is 10 minutes. Seventy-five percent of those polled answered correctly.

By allowing the disinfectant to sit on a surface this long, it gives it time to kill harmful bacteria and other microorganisms. Often you can simply wipe or spray the disinfectant on a surface and let it air dry. Many of these cleaners are formulated so that they do not leave a film or residue when they dry.

By following the instructions on "dwell time" and letting products work the way they were designed, you are helping limit the spread of germs and disease.

How Will You Feel When It's Time to Go?

2011-02-01T10:08:00.000-08:00

When it comes time to retire, how will you feel? Elated? Sad? Apprehensive? Jubilant? And if you've been in the same district or even the same building for a number of years or even decades, then how will you feel?

Check out this article about a head custodian from New Jersey and his feelings after 31 years of work. Perhaps your feelings are or will be somewhat like his.

Retiring Link

Do Custodians Just Clean?

2011-01-27T22:23:00.000-08:00

When you think of a custodian, what image comes to mind? Someone mopping a floor, vacuuming a room or cleaning a restroom?

All of those are true, but custodians do more than just clean. A custodian is responsible to take care of the building. Thus the term "custodian." Besides cleaning, custodians unlock and lock the building daily, take care of emergencies throughout the day, repair problems related to the building like plumbing and electrical, disperse orders that arrive, put together furniture and other items that arrive throughout the year, maintain boilers and HVAC systems, deal with fire and security systems, perform energy management by setting schedules on a centralized computer, set up chairs and other items for concerts, events, games and such and much more.

Without custodians there would be a lot of services and duties that would not get done. So the next time you think of custodians, think beyond the realm of cleaning. That's a janitor. Think of those who are building operators and caretakers making sure you are comfortable and taken care of while visiting the school.

Sixteen Thirty to One

2011-01-01T10:06:00.000-08:00

So, if you've pondered or voted on our recent poll, you may be wondering which answer is correct with regard to the time the night crew works. The correct answer is 4:30 p.m. (16:30) to 1:00 a.m. (1:00).

This shift gives the night crew the time they need to clean the building, work with groups in the evenings, lock the building and clean up after late games at night. On occasion, they come in earlier if it is a break, summer or a non-student day. Otherwise, these three hard-working custodians are there every day beginning at 4:30 p.m. in the afternoon. Without them, the school would never be cleaned and ready for the opening of the building daily at 6:00 a.m.

Thank you night crew!

P.S. Check out the newest poll and vote.

24 Hours to Do the Extra Stuff

2010-12-24T20:16:00.000-08:00

Here we are again! The time of year when we attempt to do some extra cleaning and maintenance around the building. This year because of the way the days fell and based on the school calendar, we have December 27, 28 and 29 to do some of this extra stuff.

Our crew will be cleaning carpets, touching up paint, maintenancing scheduled items, changing lightbulbs and preparing for the return of semi-eager students on January 4th. It's a constant juggling act to keep things maintained in such a busy building and a challenge.

On our crew we have one new custodian working with the night crew, so he'll find out what the break cleaning entails. He's a great addition and we look forward to his energy and enthusiasm to get the work done.

We'll see you all in 2011! Have a great extended weekend!

Let There Be Light!

2010-12-01T07:21:00.000-08:00

Our latest poll asked the question 'how are fluorescent lights measured.' The correct answer is in eighths.

That's why the designations given fluorescent bulbs are T12, T5 or T3. For example a T12 means it is a tube that measures 12/8 inches in diameter or 1 1/2 inches. A T5 would be 5/8 inches in diameter. The smaller bulbs are more energy efficient and many buildings and homes are moving to these smaller lights.

Are They Here to Boost Their Learning or Bite The Learners?

2010-11-19T21:10:00.000-08:00

"Don't let the bedbugs bite!" How often did you hear that as a kid? Well, it's not such fantasy anymore. The October, 2010 issue of As The Toilet Turns discussed bedbugs and their growing numbers in the United States.

Now there is concern since they are showing up in schools. Read the link below and see what is happening on the east coast as bedbugs invade learning.

Bedbugs in the Classroom

Going Tubeless

2010-11-03T20:14:00.000-07:00

For decades we've taken for granted that small round tube found inside a roll of toilet paper. We either threw it away when we were done with it or used it for some craft project. Maybe we used it for some other purpose, but the point is, we always knew what was waiting after the last piece of toilet paper was used.

But that's all changing now. The days of the toilet paper tube may be ending. In an effort to promote more "green" thinking and to save the environment, some companies are working on changing the toilet paper scene.

Check out this link for details about the new "tubeless" toilet paper rolls.

Tubelessness

Another Excellent Example

2010-09-27T13:20:00.001-07:00

As in the past, I've posted a link below about another human interest story dealing with the kind-heartedness of a custodial employee. I've seen individuals like the one mentioned in the article in our own district. That's commendable!

The Helpful Custodian

They Don't Wash Their Hands! What!

2010-09-23T16:09:00.000-07:00

Unbelievable! Can you imagine the common person washing his hands more than an employee working in a hospital? It seems that may be the case. The link below will take you to an article that discusses that very concern.

As has been proven, hand washing is a must to limit disease and health issues. By making this a daily practice after using the restroom, cooking with raw meat, after working and anytime our hands have been in contact with more than just daily items, we will help slow and possibly prevent the spread of microbes in our environment.

Wash your hands daily!

Hand washing Link

Bedbug Invasion

2010-09-15T20:35:00.000-07:00

In the upcoming issue of As the Toilet Turns, the monthly custodial/maintenance newsletter, the feature article deals with an onslaught of bedbugs hitting the country and the concerns people have over these. Interestingly, another article about these critters has emerged. Check out the link below to see just how invasive these little creatures have become and why they are such a concern.

(Picture from the actionpotential.com)

Don't let the bedbugs bite!

Retired and Honored

2010-09-08T18:17:00.000-07:00

Many times in this blog I have provided links to interesting human interest stories, especially those dealing with custodians. No matter who you are you can make a difference.

Here's another link to a story about a retired custodian who had a hallway named after him. You'll find the story warming and positive.

Hallway Dedication

Year Round, Year-After-Year, Every Year

2010-09-02T22:19:00.000-07:00

Do custodians work during the summer? Our recent poll asked this question. The answer is "yes." Custodians work year round in the district.

During the summer months we do all of our heavy cleaning such as carpets, floors, walls, windows, repairs, maintenance, painting and more. The challenge is working around the other events and people that have been scheduled during the summer months.

It's amazing that we are able to get everything done, although sometimes not as thoroughly or methodically as we'd like. When school starts though we have to be ready. So like it or not, the custodians in all the schools do their very best to have the school ready to go by working right through the summer every year.

Crunch Time

2010-08-20T19:59:00.000-07:00

I guess it's not just in our district. I've commented that each year it seems that we have less and less time to do our cleaning as more summer groups, events and meetings are allowed to use the buildings. Obviously this causes more pressure and stress on the custodial staff to get the school cleaned in time for classes to begin.

I've often said that the custodians should have from at least a week after school is out until a couple of weeks before school starts to clean without any other people or events going on in the buildings. I don't think that will ever happen, but it would certainly allow us to get the schools cleaner and the required maintenance completed in time and with less pressure on the custodians.

Check out the article below and see how this situation is happening in other places too!

Read On

It Happens Everywhere Every Summer

2010-08-04T16:15:00.000-07:00

Sometimes it seems like the cleaning we do is just in our own district. We often forget that other school districts in other cities, counties and states are doing the same work.

Check out this article that talks about the cleaning being done back east. At least we're not dealing with heat and humidity!

Eastern Cleaning

Two Weeks and Counting

2010-08-01T22:04:00.000-07:00

Where did the summer go? Here in the Northwest it seems like summers are very short. And when you are cleaning a school it's even shorter.
In just two weeks, the entire High School has to have all of the cleaning complete. That's floors, carpets, general cleaning (walls, whiteboards, windows, counters, etc.), and other items that would interfere with teachers, students and parents who begin returning for any number of items on August 16.
In reality, every summer, we only have about eight weeks to do everything required in the school to be ready for the next ten months of usage. After that it's just trying to keep up with the daily demand of requests and maintenance that occur regularly.
The crew has done an awesome job in getting the building prepared. It always seems like it will never get finished when we start in June, but then by August 1st there's light at the end of the tunnel.
So, in the next few weeks, there will be busy bees flying around the school preparing for the return of those eager to learn and those not so eager. Either way, school is approaching quickly.

Orange is Not

2010-07-04T14:25:00.000-07:00

My recent poll asked which of the four pads used for cleaning floors was not the correct color. The answer was orange.

The other colors mentioned are actual pad colors. Each color indicates what that particular floor pad is made for. For example, black is used for heavy scrubbing or stripping while white is used for polishing. Each pad has different levels of abrasiveness and will perform different tasks when used.

To learn more about pad colors and their uses, click on this link and watch the short You Tube video dealing with this subject.

Click Here

A Time to Shine

2010-06-17T20:40:00.000-07:00

The time has arrived! Summer in the building at least as far as cleaning goes.

It's when summer starts that we do our deep cleaning throughout the whole building. And not only cleaning, but maintenance, repairs, painting, pressure washing and more. Since the high school is such a busy place, we have to be done with all our cleaning by August 15 when teachers start returning, sports events begin and some students show up to work in various leadership roles.

The sun shines and hopefully the building does too by the time we are finished come August. Have a great summer!

Step Up and See

2010-06-11T22:05:00.000-07:00

This blog covers two items.

First, no one responded to our last poll. The question was What is a podium? The answer is not the item you stand behind to speak to an audience. That's called a lectern. A podium is the stage you stand on. Think about the word podiatrist. It comes from a word meaning foot. Thus a podium deals with where you stand.

Second, I've changed the look of the blog. I may do some more adjustments later, but for now enjoy the new streamlined, modern look! Thanks for reading. Please share your thoughts too.

Right In Our Own Backyard!

2010-05-18T18:27:00.000-07:00

In the news again. A custodian saves a child from choking.

More than once custodians have been instrumental in saving a child's life from some hazard. Read this short article from KING 5 news today and think about how important it is to be prepared and know what to do in any circumstance.

Choking but Saved

So You Think You're Bright?

2010-04-30T16:55:00.000-07:00

Last month we asked this question in our poll. How bright are the stage lights at Glacier Park Elementary? The correct answer is 1000w each! Yes indeed. And the bulbs are only about the size of a AA battery. They are used to light the stage for plays and other events so they need to be bright to do so. There are six lights that can be used. Now you know!

Check out the current poll and vote today.

SDA and C.L.E.A.N. - Year Two

2010-04-28T09:42:00.000-07:00

Last year I shared information about the C.L.E.A.N. (Custodial Leaders for Environmental Advocacy Nationwide) awards sponsored by the SDA (Soap and Detergent Association). Here, in their second year, is another article about custodians keeping their schools clean and safe. Read the article and see if you can't do something in your school that mirrors the efforts of those mentioned. It's something we can all strive for.

C.L.E.A.N.

Two Years Already

2010-04-26T15:43:00.000-07:00

Wow! As of April 16, I've been posting on this blog for two years. Time flies. It seems like yesterday when I learned about blogging and what it involved. Turns out it is rather easy and fun to do.

I hope to continue sharing information and stories about the custodial and maintenance department that some would find interesting or helpful. I always appreciate comments and feedback on any posts. Thanks again!

Working With A Smile!

2010-04-12T13:39:00.000-07:00

Here's a heart-warming human interest story about a disabled custodian and his positive view of work. Wouldn't it be great if everyone had a view of work like this man. Although not the most prestigious job in the world, custodial work and those with whom you interact can be rewarding. Check out the story.

Working With A Smile

A Bright Idea

2010-04-02T13:25:00.001-07:00

Can you put a dimmer switch on a flourescent light? No. Because it has a ballast which changes the voltage to start the light and is a set "on" or "off" situation, the dimmer will not work. The dimmer reduces the voltage to the light causing it to become brighter or dimmer. Since the flourescent light needs constant voltage, a dimmer would defeat this purpose.

Check out the newest poll.

What Do You Do?

2010-04-01T11:31:00.000-07:00

I guess I'm not the only one who has mentioned this before. Custodians doing a ton of work but often unrecognized for it. This is a unique human interest article that discusses one woman's years of cleaning and what she's observed at her job.

Custodial Awareness

Hoppy Cleaner

2010-03-31T11:03:00.001-07:00

Once again a story emerges that shows the diversity of those who work as custodians. You'll get a smile out of this story that shows the fun that one custodian has been sharing with others for years. See what you think.

Happy Feet

Swept Under the Rug?

2010-03-25T17:02:00.001-07:00

I've stated before in this blog and in the monthly custodial newsletter that custodians often are not given the recognition they deserve for the work they perform. Apparently, I'm not the only one who sees this. Check out this link to a story about this very fact and the details presented explaining some of the many tasks performed by custodians.

Recognition

The Abdominal Thrust Saves Another Life!

2010-03-24T15:56:00.000-07:00

Here's another great example of why taking classes for CPR, first aid and so on are so important. In this instance a third grader was saved from choking by a head custodian. Never underestimate the value of trainings provided!

Choking

More With Less

2010-03-23T13:44:00.000-07:00

"Custodians complain of doing too much with too little." Haven't we heard that before? This is a quote from an article from Pullman, Washington describing the necessity of custodians having to do more work with less. With today's economy, it seems that schools and universities everywhere are having to cut more and more. Check out this link for more information and the concerns raised over a lack of funding to provide clean, safe and healthy learning environments.

Too much with too little link.

Bumping Up for Awhile

2010-03-18T15:13:00.000-07:00

For the past few weeks some changes have occurred in the district. Since one of the maintenance employees had to go in for surgery, there was a need to fill his position for a few months.

I was asked if I was interested and I said "yes" so I have been working in the maintenance department. The other employees at the high school have bumped up to cover things while I'm out and we have one sub covering for the vacancy.

So far things have gone fairly smooth. At this time, these changes will continue for at least three months, maybe more. As in any job, when things happen, people move around to fill in the gaps. Thanks for your support.

The Gas That Kills

2010-02-28T21:39:00.000-08:00

100%! Everyone who answered the poll this month was correct. You never mix ammonia and bleach due to the toxic gas produced. Nicely done!

Unfortunately, some people don't know that and in an effort to clean, as they think, better, they mix these two chemicals sending some to the hospital or the grave. Always be aware of the chemicals you are using and be cautious about mixing things unless you know what the results will be!

Less Equals More

2010-02-22T13:51:00.001-08:00

I can concur with the following link about flyers being left around the campus. Although it is much more controlled and those responsible are made to clean up the litter that's left, I have seen times in the past when it was worse. Thanks to the administration and security here at the high school, this is rarely a problem now.

This article highlights one of the many challenges faced by custodians due to cleaning requirements and staffing. Take a peek inside our world.

Pick up this link and read

Still Providing the Basics!

2010-02-13T22:17:00.001-08:00

With budget cuts across the U.S., the potential for a lack of cleaning supplies and necessary paper products is real. The following article from Florida shows just how serious this problem has become in some areas. We are fortunate in that we have not come to this point in our buildings. Read on and be thankful our buildings are supplied properly even during times of economic stress.

From classroom walls to bathroom stalls, posters in Broward County schools urge good hygiene to stop the spread of germs. But when students and teachers try to practice what the posters preach, they sometimes find there's no toilet paper or soap.
At Meadowbrook Elementary in Fort Lauderdale, paper towels and toilet paper are in such short supply that teachers have been asked to stock the lavatories, said Nanci Hunt, the school librarian. To extend the life of the school's limited supply of hand towels, teachers cut them in half or thirds, she said.
"There are times you go into the bathroom, and there's no toilet paper at all and you found out too late," Hunt said. "We are bringing in our own stuff."
She blames the toiletry troubles on money, or rather lack of it.
Schools Superintendent James Notter warned there would be few frills this school year, thanks to a budget crisis that forced the district's 285 school principals to slash spending by 4 to 6 percent.
Still, he said, principals and janitorial staffs are responsible for meeting the needs of their campuses and teachers "should not be paying out of their pockets for the bare essentials."
Barren bathrooms are not a districtwide problem but a school-by-school issue.
At Silver Ridge Elementary in Davie, for example, the bathrooms are "never out of supplies," said fifth-grade teacher Mary Hansen. But teachers at more than a dozen schools have complained about the issue to the Broward Teachers Union.
The lack of toilet paper and soap is more than an inconvenience. It's also a potential health hazard as clean hands are the first line of defense at keeping respiratory illnesses, the flu and other germs at bay.
Yet James Kalmer, a history teacher at Boyd Anderson High School, said "hand soap is rare to nonexistent" at his school in Lauderdale Lakes, even though flyers taped to the walls urge people to "Clean your Hands."
"People are concerned about the spread of the flu or other viruses," he said.
As a result, hand sanitizer has become a hot commodity on campus and Kalmer said the hallways have the feel of a marketplace for the alcohol-based, germ-killing gel.
Boyd Anderson parents called local businesses "to see if they could help us until the school could reorder or restock," said Thomas Douglas, president of the school's Parent/Teacher/Student Association. "At one point it was a serious issue. Kids used to bring their own from home — toilet paper."
Douglas said district administrators tell parents this shouldn't happen.
"We understand there's a budget crunch across the board, and we're not trying to be antagonistic. We're trying to help resolve some issues," he said.
Coconut Creek High School teachers say there is, "No soap. No paper towels [they claim they clog the toilets] … and the water in the sinks does not always work!" At Deerfield Beach High School: "Often the staff bathrooms are out of toilet paper, paper towels or soap."
At South Plantation High School, there are times when toilet paper and soap are missing in the 25 student and staff bathrooms but the issue isn't a lack of supplies, said Principal David Basile. It's usually a custodial glitch.
"The problem we have is when someone on the night crew is out and no one covers that zone," Basile said. "Or we have a day crew, and no one walks through the bathrooms."
"It's really hit or miss," said parent-activist Alanna Mersinger, whose son attends Everglades High School in Miramar and has not heard complaints about the facilities.
Coral Springs High School's faculty council took up the "no soap/paper towel" problem at its October meeting.
According to the minutes, they determined "the janitorial staff needs to develop a more-efficient system of replenishing the needed supplies during the day."
The faculty's solution: Students tell teachers, who buzz the front office, which notifies a janitor.
Students at Stoneman Douglas High in Parkland don't bother sounding the alarm when the soap dispenser doesn't squirt, said senior Itai Raz.
"We get really frustrated," he said. "But most people have hand sanitizer."
Akilah Johnson can be reached at akjohnson@sunsentinel.com or 954-356-4527.
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Copyright © 2010, South Florida Sun-Sentinel

100 in 22!

2010-02-12T21:42:00.000-08:00

Almost two years ago I wrote my first custodial post on this blog. Today is posting number 100!

I must say that I've found blogging to be both fun for me and hopefully interesting and a learning experience for others. I've tried to share motivating stories, supply useful information, ponder on problems or concerns as a custodian, share humorous yarns, create intriguing polls and create a learning experience each time a post is read.

As yet, I only have two followers, but it appears a few others have logged in on occasion to read what's been posted and some have voted on my monthly polls.

One hundred postings have gone quickly! And in only 22 months! I hope to continue posting on my blog for years to come. If you are a regular reader, I hope you continue to enjoy the postings as they appear. Thanks for your support!

Custodial Appreciation Week

2010-02-11T11:48:00.000-08:00

Appreciation weeks come and go for different groups of people all the time. This time it is the custodians turn.

Read the article at the link below about the Custodial Appreciation Week being held in Ontario this week. It highlights the appreciation and work done by the custodial staff and sheds light on the fact that they do much more than just "clean."

Appreciation Week

"At Least We're Not Like This!"

2010-02-03T12:34:00.000-08:00

Although our district is forced to use portables at all the schools, I am proud to know that they are kept cleaned and maintained to the extent possible. When there are leaks or problems, maintenance is on the ball to repair them. When there is a rodent or cleaning issue, our custodians are there to serve.

I was reminded of our conscientious maintenance and custodial departments when I read the article below. I think you'll agree that our situation is FAR from what the situation here was.

Portable Concerns Link

Twice, Twice I Say

2010-01-31T19:25:00.000-08:00

The answers were 1, 2, 3 or 4. The question? How many times each year are the filters above the ceiling at the high school changed? The correct answer is two.

Every year all of the 150+ filters on the roof of the school are changed in the summer. These are large filters, two feet by two feet or otherwise and two inches thick. At the same time, and once again in February, all of the filters above the lowered ceilings in the classrooms are changed. A complete filter change consists of over 300 filters.

By keeping the filters changed on a regular basis, the air quality of the building is kept up and the health of all is enhanced.

When Stronger May Not Be Better

2010-01-25T21:33:00.000-08:00

You'd think that using powerful cleaning chemicals in an area like a bathroom would be prudent. However, using such harsh chemicals on some toilet seats has ultimately created an increase in skin irritation or dermatitis in many young children. To read the entire article dealing with this issue of concern, click on the link below.

Toilet Dermatitis Concerns

A Whirlwind of Activity Hinders Cleaning Efforts

2010-01-18T10:30:00.000-08:00

I've been watching over the last few years and I am amazed at how busy the high school is during breaks, during the summer and on weekends!

I don't know about you, but when I was in school, there were some after school activities, but not that many. It seems now that students and staff practically "live" at the school. Staff members start their day early, some even arriving before 6 a.m. at times and then spend all day teaching, attending meetings, working with clubs or athletic teams, creating or refining curriculum and more.

The students are just as busy. Arriving early, attending school, participating in activities throughout the day as well as being a part of athletic events and various clubs after school which also includes travel to other schools for competition, work and practice on the weekends and in the evenings and basically living at school.

It can be a real challenge for our department to try and work around so much activity. It can be frustrating when we get an area clean on Friday only to arrive at work Monday to find it used, dirty and out-of-sorts again because of weekend events. I know I can't stop this, but I also hope staff, students, parents and visitors realize that due to all the activities that are held here every day these affect how much we can and can't clean. We do our very best, but if things don't always get done as planned, please realize it's not because we didnt' try.

Bernoulli's Principle

2010-01-01T21:17:00.000-08:00

Bernoulli's Principle is the correct answer for our latest poll. The air rushing across the surface of something causes a lower air pressure. That's why carpets dry quicker when high-speed air movers are set up after a carpet has been cleaned. The difference in air pressure allows the moisture to evaporate quickly thus slowing or preventing "wicking" which is deeply embedded soil reappearing at the tips of the carpet fibers.

Thirteen Hours and Counting

2009-12-31T11:08:00.001-08:00

Well, here we are at the end of another year! We have today and tomorrow off which is a nice respite before we begin January and we appreciate that.

We were able to take care of a lot of small jobs, maintenance related issues and cleaning during the break that we normally can't get to. That always feels good to get "caught up" on projects. As we enter 2010, we will continue with our daily assignments and activities which keep us busy. As with any job or endeavor, some days are slow, others very packed. Either way, we use the time to keep the school looking and smelling clean.

Thanks for all your support and we look forward to continuing our professional relationship right on into next year!

Cleaners Really Do Pay!

2009-12-15T11:58:00.000-08:00

A few posts back I discussed the sad situation of how some janitors/custodians/cleaning personnel are treated by those in positions of higher responsibility. The following article taken from the www.cmmonline.com on December 15, 2009 shows the huge, beneficial impact that those who clean have on the world and the economy. I found it uplifting to be recognized for more than just "cleaning." I think you'll agree.

LONDON — The New Economics Foundation has released a study that places hospital cleaners above City bankers in terms of their worth to society. Their report on the social impacts of six different professions revealed that City workers, advertising executives and tax advisers destroyed financial wealth, while hospital cleaners, childcare workers and staff in the waste-recycling industry all create a positive return to the British economy.
The centre-left thinktank reveals how much a worker should be paid in relation to the value they produce, using a series of measures such as economic growth and environmental impact to calculate the effect that these indicators have on the general wellbeing of society.
Breaking away from the traditional model that links wages exclusively with the amount of profit produced for employers, the report looked at 'externalities', the true consequences of economic activities, to "quantify the social, environmental and economic value that people's work produces, or in some cases the value that is undermined or destroyed."
Investment banker’s generation of wealth has been offset by the cost and negative impact of the banking crisis on public finances, while advertising executives cost society by perpetuating over-consumption and creating socially and environmentally wasteful wants.
Meanwhile, hospital cleaners alleviate the human and financial cost of hospital acquired infections and make a significant contribution to the wider social value created by healthcare. Waste-recycling workers help cut carbon emissions significantly and contribute to the recycling industries output.
The report found that hospital cleaners create more than £10 in value for every £1 they receive in pay, and waste-recycling workers generate £12 for every £1 spent on their wages. Contrastingly, City bankers destroy £7 of value for every £1 they create; while advertising executives eradicate £11 from the economy for every £1 they are paid.
Andrew Large, Chief Executive of the Cleaning and Support Services Association, commented on the report: ‘It is widely accepted that the cleaning industry is a key factor in protecting patients from hospital acquired infections, but these findings demonstrate the additional economic value our industry creates. As stated in the report, this worth is not being transmitted to the pay or prestige of the cleaning industry. Our work is vital to the nation’s health and wellbeing while adding unqualified value to the economy, we hope that the report’s findings are recognized by business and government and that all workers are appropriately remunerated for the contribution they make.’
Steve Wright, Chairman of the British Cleaning Council, said: ‘Workers in the waste-management sector deserve recognition for their role in increasing recycling so dramatically in the UK in recent years, as they have overseen the substantial reduction in the landfill waste which has been so damaging to the environment. As the UK strives to meet sustainability targets in the future, their expertise and experience will be a vital asset to this cause. We support the conclusions of the New Economics Foundation’s report, its recognition of the social value of the waste management industry and hope that the government provides our industry with the backing that it deserves’.
The New Economics Foundation Published their report; ‘A Bit Rich’ on 14th December 2009: http://www.neweconomics.org/sites/neweconomics.org/files/A_Bit_Rich.pdf

Hot, Cold and Everything In Between

2009-12-11T07:43:00.000-08:00

Most of the time heating and cooling the school is not a problem. Since it is controlled by hundreds of electronics, motors, valves, dampers and other HVAC related equipment including the main computer, most of the balancing is automatic.

However, when the temperatures go to an extreme in either direction, it can be difficult to keep the building comfortable. Last spring and summer when we were hitting the 90's and above some areas of the building were difficult to cool due to the amount of heat outside. Now we're facing the opposite. The outside temperatures are so cold that it is difficult to keep some parts of the building warm.

The boilers are running non-stop to keep up with the demand. We've also had problems with the cold air kicking the air handling units offline. This happens automatically to prevent valves and pipes from breaking due to the cold. It's been a battle all week not only in our school but in others throughout the district.

Hopefully, people understand that we are trying to adjust and monitor the temperature to the best of our ability as we battle the extreme elements outside. Since most machines are made to function well between 35 degrees and 85 degrees, you can imagine what happens when the temperatures go beyond those points to any extent.

Thus, the battle continues until the weather warms up and gets back into what is considered normal for this area at this time of the year!

Ten Minutes

2009-11-30T22:24:00.000-08:00

Our poll just closed. The question raised dealt with the amount of time a disinfectant should remain on a surface to effectively kill germs. The answer is ten minutes.

That time is known as "dwell time." Ten minutes gives the disinfectant time to work and kill the germs on the surface being cleaned. Wiping it off sooner than ten minutes diminishes the amount of germs killed. Thus, leaving it for the ten minutes recommended on the label will assure the removal of most germs.

With the amount of sickness and various flu strains like MRSA and H1N1 out there, it would be wise to allow disinfectants to do their job!

Squat and Read

2009-11-20T10:53:00.000-08:00

It seems that the bathroom is a favorite subject of news items, concern and cleaning. We all use them. Can you imagine a world without toilets? Wow!

Check out this interesting article about toilets and sanitation. I think you'll find it moving.

Toilet

At the Top of His Class!

2009-11-09T11:52:00.001-08:00

On the heels of a sobering blog last week, I once again share with you an article showing how people can change the lives of others, even though they may work in a field that most consider menial, undignified.

Read this positive and encouraging article about a custodian who made a huge difference in the lives of those he touched. I know you'll agree.

Read the article.

Brushed Under the Carpet

2009-11-06T10:54:00.000-08:00

It's a sad situation when anyone is treated with less respect than others. However, it seems that when it comes to cleaning, it is often those individuals who are the ones put at the bottom of the pile, so-to-speak, brushed under the carpet. In all my years of work, I've seen this in every industry, institution, business and residential cleaning endeavor.

It baffles me that the people who keep a building clean and do the "grunt" work to keep everyone else healthy and comfortable are the ones who are stepped on and mistreated. No one seems to notice them unless something goes wrong. Then they are in the negative limelight immediately. What would happen if one day they were all gone? How long before the cleanliness of the building and the maintenance of the facility began to be noticed? How long before they were truly appreciated and treated equally? And when they began working again, how long before they were forgotten once more?

Check out this article and see what I mean. It's not the first time this has been the case nor will it be the last. It's sad and unfortunate.

Hog's Hair - For What?

2009-10-31T12:47:00.000-07:00

A hog's hair pad. Hmmm. Remember the poll that just closed? The question was what is a hog's hair floor machine pad used for? Do you know?

It is used to burnish a floor. Floor burnishing uses a high-speed machine with a special pad like a hog's hair pad and due to the high RPM the wax on the floor heats up enough to bring back a shine. This is used in place of laying new wax which is a much more labor intensive job. Burnishing is quick, produces nice results and makes the floor look good again.

Don't forget to check out our new poll.

H1N1 101

2009-10-29T06:00:00.000-07:00

With the constant barrage of news in the newspaper, on TV and the Internet, few, if any, would deny there is a real concern about the H1N1 virus this year. Concern over catching this flu and fighting it are on the minds of everyone. What are some simple steps you and I can do to slow down or prevent getting sick?

The simplest and easiest thing we can all do is wash our hands. Use soap and water or if not available some type of hand sanitizer. This is where the majority of germs are passed on from one person to the next.

If you want to learn more, check out the November issue of As The Toilet Turns and see what you can do to avoid getting sick.

Click HERE and look for the November, 2009 issue.

Four Decades of Service

2009-10-22T09:41:00.000-07:00

Longevity! Commitment! Loyalty! Qualities that many people don't have anymore. However, there are some who view their responsibilities with pride and commitment.

Read the following story and see how one custodian spent 41 years of his life in the same district and how those he worked with feel about his efforts. It's another one of those positive stories amidst so much negativity in the daily news.

Longevity Link

Harried. Hectic. Homecoming.

2009-10-20T07:05:00.000-07:00

The busiest week of the year has arrived! Homecoming.

Why the busiest? Because so much is going on and so much extra time is put in by our crew to work with the events, clean up after them and keep the school in some semblance of order while everything is going on.

This week we have spirit week. There is also a door decorating contest which has been "under construction" for over a week. There's the big Homecoming game Friday night and of course Homecoming dance Saturday night. Amidst all of these events there is the normal routine of cleaning which happens daily as well as other athletic games that need extra attention. So, yes, this week is very hectic.

As we do every year, we will do everything we can to keep things running smooth behind the scenes to allow for an atmosphere of learning, fun and health. Of course any help provided by others to make the week less hectic is always welcome!

Welcome to Homecoming!

Clearly the Best!

2009-10-13T11:17:00.000-07:00

Wow! Talk about fast. For those of you who "don't do windows," check out this man from the UK who has once again set the world record for cleaning windows. Watch the video clip for a real visual experience. People can do some amazing things.

Window Clip

Another Life Saved

2009-10-08T09:22:00.000-07:00

For those who don't think that CPR, first aid or learning other life-saving techniques is important, I encourage them to read the story at the following link.

Another life was saved due to some simple steps that anyone can learn. Hopefully none of us ever faces a situation like this, but the importance of knowing how to do some simple life-saving techniques is highlighted.

Click to Read

Doodling Around

2009-10-02T07:53:00.000-07:00

So, did you figure it out? What is a Doodlebug for? This was our recent poll.

A Doodlebug is a small pad about 5" x 10" that attaches to a small plastic head which screws onto a handle. This tool is then used to scrub edges and corners of a floor. Since it is small and rectangular, it is easy to get into those areas where the round pads of a floor machine don't reach.

Pads for the Doodlebug come in different colors which indicate different grades of abrasiveness. A different colored pad will be used at different times depending on the type of cleaning that is being done.

The Doodlebug is a very handy tool when cleaning floors.

Don't Be A Pig

2009-09-18T18:19:00.000-07:00

As the fall season nears there is growing concern about the H1N1 virus also known as the Swine Flu virus spreading. One of the simplest ways to slow the spread of this and other diseases is as simple as washing your hands regularly.

To raise awareness of this need and its simplicity, next week has been designated Clean Hands Week by the SDA (Soap and Detergent Association). Putting more emphasis on washing hands will hopefully decrease the amount of people that might otherwise get sick this flu season.

Check out this link to learn more and always wash your hands to prevent the spread of disease.

www.cleaning101.com

More is Less

2009-09-10T10:45:00.000-07:00

Reducing man hours by using equipment that saves time has always been important to me. Unfortunately, the cost of equipment usually hampers our efforts to obtain it and we spend more man hours on cleaning than would otherwise be necessary.

If money can be earmarked for such equipment, the results are obvious. I read an article about a school in Horton, Michigan where the custodial department purchased $38,000 worth of equipment to streamline their work and to save money. This was a one time expense. Notice the results.

"The gym floor used to take four people eight hours to clean. Now, two people do it in two hours. Hallways are scrubbed in 15 minutes rather than 45 minutes."

"Bathrooms are sprayed with hands-free disinfectant to eliminate scrubbing time."

"Consultants also taught new techniques and helped the department establish benchmarks. Custodians even received uniform shirts."

I've talked before about the benefits of purchasing equipment that saves time. For example. In the high school, we regularly clean 19 bathrooms nightly. Most have several toilets or urinals. We also clean two locker rooms every night. I ponder on the savings and time that could be attained if we were to purchase a machine that one person uses to spray down the bathrooms and that creates a hands-free cleaning system. Less potential for sickness, quicker cleaning time, a deeper cleaning and all done by one person thus allowing others to concentrate on other areas of the building.

I know that the economy limits us, but I hope this isn't an idea that is brushed under the carpet. I'd like to be more efficient and have an even cleaner school in the near future by the implementation of equipment that saves time, man hours and money.

The Crew Flew for You!

2009-09-03T22:10:00.000-07:00

School started yesterday. We made it. The school was cleaned and ready on time. And we did extras. I must commend our crew for all the "stuff" they did this summer. In addtion to the normal cleaning, they were able to paint almost every exterior door in the building, they painted hallways, patched and painted walls in different classrooms, cleaned gutters and drains on all the portables and the main building and the list goes on and on.

We have had several positive comments from teachers and staff about how nice the building looks. Without our crew's positive attitude and willingness to work hard, the building would not look like it does.

Again, I thank our crew and all their hard work this summer!!

Thanks to Beaker, The Green Hornet, Scooby-Doo, Sugamomma, Inspector Gadget and our yet as unnamed super hero Jordan. Great job guys!

The Window Poll

2009-08-31T18:40:00.000-07:00

So when is the best time to clean windows? When it is overcast or cloudy. Why? Because if you try to clean windows in the sunshine the water dries so fast on the glass that you end up smearing the windows and creating more trouble than if you cleaned them in cooler weather.

Cleaning windows in cooler, overcast weather allows you to spend more time on the glass and to clearly see where any spots may be left over when you finish. Then you just simply touch them up with a rag without smearing the glass. Although the sunshine will let you see more dirt, it is more difficult to clean and often is very hot and the reflection of the sun off the glass makes seeing difficult.

Hand Dryer Installation: Not A Lot of Hot Air!

2009-08-28T20:16:00.000-07:00

Much discussion is currently underway as to how we can become a "greener" school district. Recycling, composting, electronic communication versus paper and other ideas are being discussed or implemented.

I feel that the installation of hand dryers in the restrooms will not only save energy and money in the long run, but will be a boon to preventing or diminishing sickness. (Almost 50% of my budget is spent on paper towels and toilet paper alone!) And with concerns running high about the H1N1 (Swine Flu) virus making an aggressive comeback this school year, doing everything we can to prevent it is a necessity.

Notice a quote from an article taken from wisbusiness.com with regard to hand dryer use.
"Another CDC report noted that after using a public restroom, a person’s hand can host as many as 200 million bacteria! In restrooms, germs tend to concentrate in damp areas and on door handles. Conventional faucet handles in older public washrooms also house germs, so touching the handle, even after washing, re-contaminates the just-cleaned hands. The problem multiplies when students use manual cloth or paper towel dispensers, or even air blowers that require a button to be pressed. When all those steps are combined, there go most of the hygienic benefits of hand washing. That’s one reason hands-free, sensor-activated faucets, hand dryers, fixtures and other accessories have come into widespread use in public facilities. (Another reason: They conserve water and help reduce utilities costs.) Maze-like open entrances, which afford privacy and eliminate the need to push door plates to enter and pull door handles to exit are another design feature that eliminates germ exposure."

The studies are clear. Use of hand dryers prevents extra trash, minimizes the spread of germs, saves money on the purchase of paper towels, eliminates the need for maintenance to paper towel dispensers and the time involved to load them as well as remove discarded paper products and is quick and efficient in drying hands. I think this is an area where serious consideration of hand dryer installation in our schools' restrooms is needed. What do you think?

Mercury Dangers Raise Awareness of the Need for Safe Handling

2009-08-25T15:36:00.000-07:00

Almost a year ago I wrote an article in the custodial newsletter dealing with the dangers of mercury. (Click here and open the November issue.) Once again the very real dangers of mercury are in the news.

Mercury is not something to play with, although in the past before the dangers were known it was treated as a toy. Check out this article and see how crucial it is to avoid exposure to mercury or the fumes emitted. I think you'll agree that extreme caution around mercury is a necessity!

Mercury Article

A Nice Comparison

2009-08-19T17:44:00.000-07:00

Read the article at the following link and you'll get a nice synopsis of what we do in our district. Although it may not be as large, the work that is done is just as extensive. I'm sure that if you travel around to the various schools in the district, you'll see that a lot of work has been and is being done.

A big thumbs up to all school districts across America!

Click here.

Connected Even More

2009-08-14T20:09:00.000-07:00

As of today, this blog is now linked from my new blog on the Covington Reporter web site. Cool! Perhaps more people will be able to share their thoughts and input on this blog via linking. It's exciting to be connected on a World Wide Web for people anywhere to share thoughts. Of course, caution on a large network like this is always in order. But with careful thought and safe Internet practices, a world of educational possibilities is open to all.

Go to this link and click on Reminiscences

Covington Reporter

Finesse

2009-08-10T12:32:00.000-07:00

Finesse when cleaning. Finesse with students. Finesse in life. All three situations can be displayed by anyone who works in a school setting. But even more interesting is when these are displayed by those who do not have a direct interchange with students in a teaching environment.

Although custodians come face-to-face with students daily, that doesn't mean they always interact one-on-one with them. But they can and many do. I found the linked article herein to be of interest from this standpoint. It's another example of people displaying their fine qualities and sharing their years of wisdom and knowledge with the young people who cross the threshold of school buildings worldwide.

See what you think.

Finesse

The Final Countdown

2009-08-08T17:32:00.000-07:00

Monday morning marks the beginning of the final week we have to complete our cleaning of the building. Each year, due to the return of staff and students, we need to have the entire building cleaned by August 15 or a day or two therein. Then, for the final two weeks before school starts, we will finish up odd jobs and other school-related items as needed.

Those might include painting, sorting KCDA orders, delivering furniture to rooms, receiving and transporting new furniture that was ordered during the summer, cleaning up after sports practices that have begun, cleaning up after sports games that may start before September, finalizing maintenance requests and more. The atmosphere definitely begins to take on the school-in-session phase and interaction between our crew and the staff increases.

As we finish up this week, we are confident that when students, parents and staff return the middle of the month they will be greeted by a clean, tidy and repaired facility. Thanks for your support as we begin another year of learning.

Title Nostalgia

Dedication for the Dedicated

2009-08-05T19:37:00.000-07:00

A few weeks ago a baseball field at Cedar River Middle School was dedicated to Ivan Gingrich, a long-time employee of the school district. An blurb about this event can be found online at the district website. Ivan's dedication and determination to do his best are obvious to all. This gesture to name this baseball field was very kind and thoughtful. We all appreciate Ivan for his hard work over the years.

The following article made me think of Ivan and his dedication. Don't you agree?

Thanks Ivan.

Appreciation Link

Just Clean the Surface

2009-07-31T23:08:00.000-07:00

Our latest poll closed with the question, "how come my carpet sometimes has areas that look soiled after it has been cleaned?" What do you think? The answer is that it is due to a phenomenon known as "wicking". Wicking is a process whereby deeply embedded soil in the fibers or in the backing of the carpet is pulled or "wicked" to the surface in much the same fashion as an oil lamp wick pulls oil from the reservoir to the top of the wick.

This happens more often in areas of heavy traffic or where liquids have been spilled. It also occurs after carpets have been cleaned since as the carpet dries the "wicking" action pulls soil that is not reachable during cleaning to the surface of the carpet fibers.

How do you get rid of it? A very simple process of dry cleaning the carpet will remove this discoloration. Instead of going as deep to clean, in a dry cleaning process only the surface or tops of the fibers are cleaned with a product that stays fairly dry. Thus there is no time for more soil to "wick" to the surface and the product dries in just a few minutes. Dry cleaning is also great for intermediate upkeep of carpets between deeper cleanings.

Recognition from the Top!

2009-07-24T17:46:00.000-07:00

Once again the outstanding work and performance done by fellow custodians has been noticed by others. Check out this link to read a short article from Bainbridge, Georgia where five custodians received recognition for their work and efforts as custodians in public schools. Could Tahoma be in the news for this same recognition someday?

Recognition Link

Just Like Us - Sixty Days or Less

2009-07-18T15:45:00.000-07:00

It happens all over the United States every summer. Schools are transformed from dirty to clean in 60 days or less. In a previous blog I mentioned how our high school is undergoing this same metamorphosis this summer. Here's an article that confirms what I stated about what has to be done in a limited amount of time. I think you'll find the article interesting and a confirmation of what goes on in the Tahoma School District too.

Click to Read

Leave the Covers On!

2009-06-30T16:01:00.000-07:00

Another poll has closed. What do you think? What's the best way to clean couch or chair cushion covers?

Definitely DO NOT remove them and put them in the wash machine. This will not only shrink them, but they will be almost impossible to put back on the cushion. You can vacuum them, but that doesn't remove all the soiling in the long run. You could use your own cleaning machine, but you need to make sure that you know what kind of material you are cleaning, how it will be affected by water and cleaning chemicals, are their dyes or threads that will bleed through and so on. Your best bet is to have it professionally cleaned.

Special cleaners have been designed to clean upholstery. Some material requires specialty chemicals to avoid shrinkage, damage, browning, bleeding and so on.

If you decide to clean upholstery on your own, remember you are taking things into your own hands and any problems that occur could be irreparable.

More Than Just Janitors

2009-06-29T21:18:00.000-07:00

Often called janitors, custodians are becoming more adept and knowledgeable than in years past. In an article by the AP entitled "School Cleaners Gather at Jonesboro, Ark., for Custodian Institute," information was presented dealing with this change. Note what was said.
The days of school janitors pushing their brooms up and down the hallway after the kids leave for the day are apparently long gone.They're called custodians, now, and they have to pay attention to laws and regulations.But how they do their jobs can greatly affect how a visitor views a school, according to Bob Smith, director of custodial services at Arkansas State University."The efforts you put forth are really what sells the institution," Smith told an audience of custodians during an annual Custodial Training Institute last week.George Jones of Spartan Chemicals spoke to the custodians about regulations covering use of cleaning chemicals. He said rules now require keeping safety-data logs that list the makeup and properties of the products used. (JONESBORO, Ark. (AP))
There's more than meets the eye when a custodian walks by!

Squat No More!

2009-06-23T22:02:00.000-07:00

It seems like the media is never "behind" when it comes to bathrooms. Here's another article about a new bathroom invention. And if anyone thinks that men get all the gadgets, think again. This one is just for women. See what you think. It is another automation that is moving restrooms to a totally hands or bottom free environment.

Squatless Link

California Custodian Creates Caring Kids

2009-06-22T15:53:00.000-07:00

Here's another story of someone doing what's considered by many a "menial" job stepping up and being a support and mentor for young people. Read this short article about a custodian in California who is leaving lasting impressions on the minds and hearts of young students. You don't have to have a degree to motivate people. All you need is the desire to do so.

California Custodian

Top to Bottom and End-to-End

2009-06-19T21:06:00.000-07:00

Today was the last day of school. Now the real work starts. Come Monday our crew will begin the process of cleaning the entire school from one end to the other. That's right. Our summers aren't leisure. In the 45 days or so that we have during the summer, we have to clean all the rooms throughout the school. This includes, but is not limited to, such things as scrubbing and waxing all floors, cleaning all carpets, washing windows, painting, cleaning every room; which means cleaning walls, cabinets, doors, sinks, ceiling vents, smoke detectors, light fixtures and more; moving furniture, moving teachers from one room to another, collecting and preparing surplus items for pickup, doing maintenance projects and other duties as assigned. We do enjoy time as an entire crew working together, but with a shorter summer and no extra help we will be hard-pressed to get everything done. The teachers are great as they have already helped with as much as they can and that is fantastic.

It is also a juggling act to coordinate the cleaning around classes and other sessions that are scheduled throughout the summer. There's more to do than meets the eye. Although the building may seem quiet from the outside, inside it is like a beehive of activity.

As the summer progresses, we will slowly advance to that point in September when the students return, the teachers teach and the building once again sounds, smells and looks like an educational facility.

Have a safe summer!