Custodial Services

If you are finding it more difficult to find qualified plumbers and electricians lately, you’re not alone. The labor shortage in skilled trades is impacting facilities managers in companies both large and small as they struggle to fill vacant roles. According to Facilities Management Advisor, 70% of facilities professionals reported employee retention/recruiting challenges.

And the labor shortage isn’t isolated to any one trade, as these concerning trends show:

There is currently a shortage of 110,000 HVAC technicians.
The U.S. is projected to be short 550,000 plumbers by 2027.
Every year, nearly 10,000 electricians either retire or change careers, but only about 7,000 new ones enter the field.

How Did We Get Here?

Savvy companies are learning that there’s another potential labor pool that boasts high retention and low absenteeism—people with disabilities.

The skilled labor shortage did not develop overnight. Changing attitudes and the economic conditions of the 21^st century have led workers away from the skilled trades.

Lack of Shop Class: In the past, shop class was a popular option among middle and high school students, and these classes served as a pipeline to fill positions in the skilled trades. However, when the No Child Left Behind Act passed in 2002, many schools adopted a college-or-bust mentality and let shop classes fall by the wayside.
Retiring Baby Boomers: While many baby boomers choose to continue working, the boomer workforce is nevertheless declining by 2.2 million workers annually, or 5,900 daily, according to Pew Research. This mass exodus has created more than a labor shortage; it has led to a gap in expertise, as these workers take their extensive knowledge and experience with them when they leave the workforce.
The Great Recession and the Pandemic: After the economic downturn of 2008, many skilled workers who had been laid off never returned to their previous industry. For example, according to Associated General Contractors, the Great Recession led to almost half of construction workers either retiring or finding alternative work. A similar mass exodus of skilled workers happened a little over a decade later when COVID-19 rocked the world.
Decline of Family Businesses: Traditionally, family businesses have been multi-generational. However, the millennial generation for many years showed less interest in continuing legacy businesses, as documented multiple times by PricewaterhouseCoopers (PwC) in their annual US Family Business Survey.
Views on Skilled Labor: Those in a position to inherit a family business aren’t the only ones who turned their backs on skilled trades. Many saw these jobs as overly physical and sometimes dangerous. Younger workers especially have for several years opted for work that is more technology-focused and less physically demanding. And some educators and parents encouraged this point of view, which in turn discouraged young people from pursuing traditionally blue-collar careers.

All of these factors have worked together to create a perfect storm that has led to the current labor shortage. But hope is on the horizon. Other, countervailing trends are starting to shift labor dynamics in a more positive direction.

Shifting Calculations for Trade School vs. College

For years, it was widely assumed that earning a college degree was the best way to optimize lifetime earnings. But with the unrelenting rise in college costs, that calculus is changing.

Educationdata.org reports that the typical student at a private university, living on campus, spends nearly $60,000 a year. Factor in student loan interest and the loss of income from forgoing four years of paid work, and the cost of a bachelor’s degree can balloon to a price tag of more than half a million dollars. Students pursuing a trade education, on the other hand, often live free at home, and their tuition typically starts at just a few thousand dollars annually. Additionally, most trade school programs can be completed in two years—and some can be completed in mere months.

At the same time that the financial investment delta between trade schools and colleges is growing larger, the differences in income are growing smaller. While long-term earnings for college graduates have traditionally been higher than for trade school graduates, pay for skilled trades is rapidly increasing. For example, in 2024 the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics reported that record-high demand in manufacturing and construction operations had raised those sectors’ average wages by more than 20% since 2020.

Reskilling and Upskilling

Rather than wait for trade schools to increase the outflow of skilled talent, some companies are taking matters into their own hands and investing in their current workforce. Working with their human resources departments, companies can identify skills gaps within their current workforce and provide relevant training and development opportunities. This approach addresses the current skills shortage while also creating a pipeline of workers for future company needs. An added benefit to this approach is employee retention, as employees are less likely to jump ship if opportunities for growth are available with their current employer.

Skills-Based vs. Credential-Focused Hiring

Skills-based hiring is another solution to the labor shortage. This hiring approach, which emphasizes a candidate’s competency versus a college degree or years of experience, is especially important in a tight labor market as it opens opportunities to a wider pool of candidates. Focusing on objective skills instead of educational pedigrees can also lead to a more diverse workforce. Candidates who have traditionally been overlooked through a more conventional hiring process are often identified through skills-based hiring.

More companies are embracing skills-based hiring to find qualified candidates. In a joint study, American Student Assistance and Jobs for the Future found that 81% of employers now prioritize skills over degrees when hiring, and that 72% of employers feel that a degree is not a reliable indicator when assessing the quality of an applicant.

Recruiting from New Talent Pools

One way to address the skilled trades labor shortage is to look beyond traditional talent pools. For example, skilled trade jobs have traditionally been dominated by men, but many companies are now starting to realize that the best “man” for the job isn’t always a man. In fact, the U.S. Department of Labor reports that between 2016 and 2021, the number of women in skilled trades increased by 32%. Despite this increase, women represented only 3.9% of construction workers in 2021, according to the Institute for Women’s Policy Research.

Women are one demographic that has sometimes been overlooked by companies seeking to hire workers in skilled trades. But they are not the only one. Savvy companies are learning that there’s another potential labor pool that boasts high retention and low absenteeism—people with disabilities.

Advantages of Hiring People with Disabilities

According to The U.S. Department of Labor, a little over a tenth of the working-age population in the United States has a disability, yet only 35% of these people are employed. By comparison, the employment-to-population ratio for people without disabilities is 75%. This difference may be fueled by the many myths about employing people with disabilities. For example, many companies wrongly assume that the reasonable accommodations required by the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) will be prohibitively expensive. However, a survey of employers by the Job Accommodation Network (JAN) showed just the opposite. Almost half of surveyed businesses reported that accommodations “cost absolutely nothing,” with the median expenditure being a one-time cost of $300.

Furthermore, expenditures to accommodate a person with a disability can often be more than offset through government incentives. The Work Opportunity Tax Credit is a federal program that provides incentives for hiring individuals from certain target groups, such as those with disabilities. Under this program, an employer can generally claim up to $6,000 of an employee’s wages in the first year—provided qualifications are met and appropriate paperwork is completed.

Employers that hire people with disabilities gain a stellar workforce. Employees with disabilities consistently demonstrate low absenteeism and have a high retention rate, improving productivity and profitability for their employers. In fact, according to an Accenture study, businesses that proactively hire people with disabilities generate 30% higher profit margins and 28% more revenue than those who do not.

Companies that have not hired people with disabilities in the past may feel they lack the expertise to manage a diverse workforce. But there is a simple solution—contracting with a third party who employs a reliable, inclusive workforce. In addition to helping your bottom line, such a move can help you score points with customers and investors who are increasingly looking at a company’s environmental, social, and governance (ESG) practices.

Five Criteria to Consider When Outsourcing Skilled Trades Labor

Finding qualified workers in the skilled trades will be an ongoing problem for at least a few more years. And while facilities management partners can be a solution, not all providers are equally qualified. When searching for a facilities maintenance contractor, keep in mind these important factors:

Ability to Self-Perform: Does the contractor have its own in-house workforce for MEP (mechanical, electrical, plumbing) tasks?
Established Relationships with Specialty Vendors: Does the contractor have relationships in place for those specialty tasks that fall outside the more traditional disciplines of day-to-day maintenance?
Certified Workers: Are the vendor’s workers certified in the relevant skills? It’s essential to ensure that your contractor’s workers are fully trained in the skills you need.
Same-Day Response: What are the vendor’s lead and response times? Is the contractor available 24/7 for emergencies?
Skills and Experience: Does the facilities maintenance provider have the experience to optimize outcomes? For example, in addition to keeping your energy systems operating efficiently, an experienced energy services partner should know how to work with your local utility company to provide a custom rebate program for additional savings.

Addressing the skilled trades labor shortage requires a multipronged approach that includes investing in workplace development and leveraging more inclusive hiring practices. Given that qualified tradespeople will likely remain scarce for several more years at least, partnering with a facilities management provider remains a practical solution for companies seeking to fill essential roles.

Your Skilled Labor Partner

Are you looking to fill vacancies, build a more inclusive workforce, and meet your ESG goals? PRIDE Industries can help you do all three. Our award-winning facilities management services have helped hundreds of companies tap into a reliable talent pipeline. We help recruit, hire, train, and support people with disabilities—free of charge to employers. Learn how we can help you solve your labor shortage.

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The importance of maintaining a clean and healthy environment in your facility cannot be overstated. Surveys have found that workers in cleaner office environments report fewer symptoms of illness, such as coughing, headaches, and fatigue. Meanwhile, a study on workplace hygiene found that office desks harbor more than three times the number of bacteria found on a typical toilet seat. As these two issues make clear, janitorial services play an important role in supporting workplace productivity.

An environment’s level of cleanliness directly impacts the well-being of your occupants, the productivity of your workforce, and even the reputation of your business. This is why—whether you manage an office building, healthcare center, or data facility—it makes sense to hire a reputable janitorial services provider to ensure your facility is thoroughly cleaned and sanitized.

Benefits of Using Professional Janitorial Services

The most compelling reason to outsource your cleaning needs to a professional service is the superior level of cleanliness they can provide. Professional janitorial services providers have the expertise, equipment, and resources to ensure that all aspects of your facility are cleaned properly. And there are other benefits as well.

Studies show that clean workspaces reduce absenteeism due to illness. And surveys indicate that clean, organized workplaces lead to higher employee satisfaction and improved focus and morale.

Fewer Sick Days, Increased Productivity

Studies show that clean workspaces reduce absenteeism due to illness. And surveys indicate that clean and organized workplaces can lead to higher employee satisfaction and improved focus and morale, which can contribute to increased productivity.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention states that regularly cleaning surfaces in your facility helps prevent the spread of germs that make people sick, and that using commercial cleaners that contain soap or detergent removes most types of harmful germs from surfaces.

A Focus on Your Business, Not Your Cleaning Regimen

Outsourcing your janitorial services allows you to focus on what you do best: growing your business. Cleaning and maintenance are essential tasks, but they are not the core competencies of most businesses. By entrusting these responsibilities to a professional service, you free up valuable time and resources that can be better spent on strategic initiatives that drive your business forward.

Reputable janitorial services providers also know when and how to go beyond normal cleaning. For example, high-touch items like pens, counters, door handles, stair rails, elevator buttons, restroom fixtures, and desks should be cleaned frequently, while less-used surfaces require less-frequent cleaning.

In addition to health benefits, there are also administrative advantages to using a professional cleaning service. One advantage is foregoing the time and cost of stocking cleaning supplies and equipment. But perhaps the biggest benefit is reducing the need to manage labor.

The cleaning profession suffers from high absenteeism and turnover rates, which can create significant challenges for businesses that attempt to manage cleaning services in house. By using a third-party janitorial services provider, you shift this burden onto your vendor, which has the experience and infrastructure to manage staffing issues effectively. This not only ensures consistent cleaning but also reduces the administrative headache of dealing with staffing problems.

Cost-Effective Solutions

Outsourcing janitorial services can be more cost-effective than managing cleaning operations in house. Professional janitorial companies can achieve economies of scale that are difficult for individual businesses to replicate. Not only do professional cleaners get the job done thoroughly, they also get it done efficiently and quickly. Additionally, because they purchase in bulk, they have access to commercial-grade equipment and supplies at lower costs, and in the competitive world of commercial cleaning, this savings is often passed on to the customer. When you factor in the cost of hiring, training, and managing an in-house cleaning team, outsourcing often proves to be the more economical choice.

Increased Tenant and Occupant Satisfaction

Research has found that 86% of office employees regard cleanliness as the most important aspect of a good work environment, and a survey conducted by Staples found that 94% of employees reported feeling more productive in a clean workspace. In tight labor markets, employee satisfaction is crucial.

Likewise, a clean, well-maintained facility is a significant factor in tenant retention and can make your property more attractive to potential occupants. This is particularly important in the current leasing climate—a report from August 2024 found that commercial vacancy rates averaged 18% nationwide. These days, it’s more important than ever to differentiate your property, and one way to do that is through superior cleanliness and maintenance.

Traits of a Good Janitorial Services Provider

There are many janitorial services providers competing for your business. To find the one that’s right for your needs, it’s essential to consider several key factors.

Proven Track Record

A good janitorial services provider should have a solid track record of success. Consider how long the provider has been in business and who its current clients are. Different facilities have different cleaning requirements, so it’s important to choose a provider with experience in your specific industry. Data centers, for example, have cleaning requirements that differ from office buildings. Make sure your provider has the relevant experience and expertise for your type of facility.

Licensing and Insurance

Make sure that your janitorial services provider is fully licensed, bonded, and insured. This is not just a legal requirement, but also the hallmark of a professional and reputable company. Proper licensing ensures that the provider complies with local regulations and industry standards, while insurance protects you from potential liability in case of accidents or damage during the cleaning process.

Certifications

Certifications are another critical factor to consider. Reputable janitorial services providers should hold certifications that demonstrate their commitment to quality and industry best practices. For example, the ISSA Cleaning Industry Management Standard (CIMS) certification is a widely recognized standard in the cleaning industry. Additionally, look for certifications related to sustainable cleaning practices, such as the CIMS-Green Building with Honors certification, which indicates that the provider uses environmentally friendly and nontoxic cleaning products.

Facility owners who have earned the Global Biorisk Advisory Council’s GBAC Star Facility Accreditation need to utilize cleaning staff that are specially trained in the safe use of powerful cleaners and disinfecting agents. And if your facility has yet to be granted this accreditation, the right cleaning service can help you earn it.

Experienced and Reliable Crews

The quality of the cleaning crew is just as important as the janitorial services company itself. Cleaning professionals may need access to sensitive areas of your facility, and since they tend to work after hours, they are often in your facility unsupervised. For these reasons, a full background check of all janitorial staff is essential.

Reliability is also important. It’s no secret that America is in the midst of a custodial labor shortage. This has led to high rates of turnover and absenteeism at some janitorial services providers, which can disrupt the delivery of contracted services. To make sure this doesn’t happen to you, look for a provider with high employee retention.

Use of New Technologies

The cleaning industry continues to evolve, and new technologies offer enhanced efficiency and effectiveness. Ask potential providers about the cleaning technologies they use. Electrostatic sprayers, for example, ensure even coverage of disinfectants, which is especially important in high-touch areas. Other technologies, like UV-C light disinfection, HEPA filtration vacuums, and antimicrobial surface coatings can further enhance the cleanliness and safety of your facility.

Sustainability and Employee Health

In today’s world, sustainability and employee health are top concerns for many businesses. Studies have shown that employees are increasingly concerned about the chemicals used in their workplaces, preferring low-toxicity options that nevertheless provide effective disinfection. Fortunately, the EPA has made it easy to ensure that your janitorial services provider uses nontoxic, environmentally friendly cleaning products. The agency manages the Safer Choice program, which certifies products that contain low-toxicity ingredients. And the EPA’s Design for the Environment label on disinfectants and sanitizers indicates that these products are both sustainable and safe. If sustainability and safety are important priorities, then check with your cleaning service provider to make sure that the products they use are EPA-certified.

Janitorial Services for Specialized Cleaning Needs

Certain facilities, such as data centers and healthcare centers, require specialized cleaning due to the sensitive nature of their environments. Choosing a janitorial services provider with expertise in these areas is crucial to maintaining the integrity and safety of these facilities.

Data Centers

Data centers house critical technology infrastructure, making their cleanliness a top priority. Dust and debris can cause equipment to overheat or malfunction, leading to costly downtime. So, it’s essential that the cleaning personnel in these environments have received proper training on the appropriate cleaning techniques, usage of cleaning agents, and handling of sensitive equipment.

A well-trained, knowledgeable, and experienced vendor is essential for working in these high-tech areas. Look for a provider experienced in subfloor/plenum cleaning, floor cleaning, and surface cleaning. Special care must be taken to ensure that sensitive technology is handled carefully to prevent damage. The cleaning requirements for data centers include the use of anti-static cleaning solutions and equipment, as well as regular maintenance schedules to prevent the buildup of contaminants.

Healthcare Centers

Healthcare facilities have stringent cleaning requirements to prevent the spread of infections and ensure patient safety. Gone are the days when a mop bucket and a rag were all that was needed in a hospital cleaning toolkit. Today, hospital cleaning services use high-tech systems that not only target visible dirt and grime but also the microscopic contaminants that hide beyond the naked eye. Hospital-grade disinfectants are formulated to kill pathogens for up to 24 hours after application. New technologies include ultraviolent light irradiation and disinfection robots that can access hard-to-reach spots.

Because of the high level of disinfection required in healthcare facilities, cleaning crews should be continuously trained in the latest techniques and equipment, including bloodborne pathogen disposal, proper handwashing, two-pass disinfection protocols, and airborne and contact precautions. Make sure to inquire about this type of training when vetting potential janitorial services providers.

How to Work with Your Janitorial Services Provider

Once you’ve chosen a janitorial services provider, effective collaboration is essential to ensure that your facility’s cleaning needs are met.

Communication is Key

Clear and open communication is the foundation of a successful partnership. Regularly check in with your provider to discuss any concerns or changes in your cleaning needs. This ongoing dialogue helps ensure that your facility remains clean and well-maintained at all times.

Request a Designated Contact

Having a designated contact person within the custodial service provider’s organization can streamline communication and ensure that your requests are handled promptly. This person should be someone who understands your facility’s needs and can manage the cleaning crew effectively—and will be available after hours in an emergency.

Emergency Protocols

Establishing protocols for emergency situations in advance is critical. For example, if there is a sudden outbreak of illness, you’ll need to ensure that your provider can respond quickly with enhanced cleaning and disinfection measures. Discuss these protocols with your provider to ensure they are prepared to handle any unexpected situations.

Spell Everything Out in the Contract

To avoid misunderstandings, make sure that all of the provider’s responsibilities are clearly outlined in the contract. This includes the scope of work, frequency of cleaning, and any specific requirements you may have. A detailed contract protects both you and the provider and sets clear expectations for the partnership.

Tips for Productive Custodial Visits

Maximize the effectiveness of custodial visits by preparing in advance. Provide clear instructions on any areas that require special attention and make sure that the cleaning crew has access to all necessary areas. Remove clutter from workspaces and common areas. These few simple steps will help your janitorial services provider do its job more efficiently, ensuring you get the services you’re paying for.

Expert Cleaning for All Types of Facilities

Looking for a cleaning service with a proven track record for safety, reliability, and cost-effectiveness? At PRIDE Industries, we clean more than 26 million square feet of facilities every day, including offices, hospitals, data centers, and more. Call today to see what we can do for you.

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It may be gradual, but it is happening. Organizations are implementing return to office (RTO) policies that ask employees to be in the office at least a few days a week.

After the COVID-19 era of fully remote work led to downsizing and vacancies in the commercial office space, emerging RTO policies are now causing work schedules to shift again. While it’s true that many businesses have embraced remote work schedules, most companies now require employees to be in the office for at least part of the week. Only 4% of companies say they expect to remain fully remote in the future.

But while workers are coming into the office more often than before, it’s not like companies have rolled back the clock to the pre-pandemic era. Heightened employee expectations, along with a labor shortage that makes hiring and retention a priority, mean that facilities management teams need to be more flexible than ever before.

Smart facility executives and property managers are taking note of changed expectations and are working with company leadership to ensure building services and amenities are conducive to an office environment that “earns the commute”—whether employees are in the office two days a week or five.

Heightened employee expectations, along with a labor shortage that makes hiring and retention a priority, mean that facilities management teams need to be more flexible than ever before.

With that in mind, we look at three ways that facility managers and property owners can keep employees and tenants happy as companies implement or expand their RTO policies.

Hoteling, Hot Desking, and the Hybrid Schedule

Most companies understand that return to office policies will be most successful when a carrot and not a stick is used to get valued employees back in the office. And the carrot for many employees these days is a hybrid work schedule. This is why, according to CBRE Global Workplace & Occupancy Insights, less than 10% of organizations require employees to be in the office five days a week.

While some companies have tried to mandate that their employees return to the office five days a week, this policy has mostly backfired. Businesses that offer hybrid office schedules are able to fill jobs twice as fast as those who require full-time attendance, according to Fortune magazine, making it clear that the hybrid workplace is here to stay. That explains why the CBRE study found that 90% of RTO policies offer a hybrid option.

And while some CEOs grumble about hybrid work schedules, the fact is that companies can realize significant savings by embracing this model. It costs about $8,000 to maintain an office desk. If adopting a hybrid schedule enables a company to move from a one-to-one worker-to-desk ratio to a two-to-one ratio, that can translate into significant savings. For this reason, savvy organizations are introducing desk hoteling, a system in which workers reserve a desk ahead of time through desk booking software or a mobile app. Another popular option is hot desking, where employees grab a desk on a first-come, first-serve basis when they arrive in the office.

To accommodate desk-sharing workspaces and create an efficient hybrid return to office transition, facility leaders need to consider changes on several fronts.

Create Equal Spaces

Is hot desking revealing that certain desks in your office are constantly occupied, while others are consistently empty? To ensure that workers aren’t battling for the same few desks while others are left underutilized, facility managers should investigate the reasons some workstations are shunned. Is the desk in a Wi-Fi dead spot? Is there insufficient light? A lack of electrical outlets?

And there’s another consideration that has nothing to do with the workstation itself. The real estate maxim—“location, location, location”—applies to desks as much as houses. A third of workers report that their incentive to come into the office is to be around coworkers. Given that preference, it’s clear that outlying desks are going to be ignored in favor of workstations that are located in the center of the action. Facilities managers can respond to this preference by placing workstations in grouped configurations.

Leverage IoT

To reduce energy consumption, use IoT-enabled building automation systems to monitor and control energy use. This smart technology can optimize energy consumption by adjusting cooling systems, turning off lights, or automatically closing blinds against direct sunlight. As the fixed workday disappears, take advantage of the data gathering and analytical capabilities of automated systems to optimize how space is used. Statistics from desk booking apps can show desk occupancy, and occupancy sensors can reveal room utilization in communal areas. This data can then be used to make decisions about space allocation, improve occupant comfort, and control building costs as work schedules fluctuate.

Optimize Wireless Technology

Seamless wireless connections are vital for productive in-office work. Remote work has increased the use of technology for meetings and presentations, and this will remain as workers return to offices. Having excellent wireless presentation capabilities, interactive whiteboards in meeting rooms, and similar productivity-enhancing technology will make it easy for those workers who are in the office to collaborate with those who aren’t—a necessity with hybrid work. And for those workers who are in the office on any given day, smart switches and fixtures that control lighting intensity and color can facilitate greater productivity, and go a long way in keeping employees and tenants happy.

Updating Spaces for the Hybrid Worker

Organizations are reevaluating the quality of office environments, and many are finding that improved amenities and more welcoming spaces are a good way to entice employees to make the commute to the office. Now may be time for the tiny chair-less kitchen or drab windowless lunchroom to be transformed into a more inviting space. In addition to rearranging office spaces and creating flexible seating arrangements that align with hybrid work schedules, adding or upgrading amenities is another way to keep employees happy and productive.

Provide Options

Comfortable communal spaces with soft furnishings are great as collaboration hubs for impromptu meetings or brainstorming sessions, and can even lead to better teamwork and morale. At the same time, many employees report the need for quiet in order to focus, which is why it’s equally important to provide rooms or booths that are at least partially soundproofed.

Use Natural Light

Natural light has been shown to improve well-being among employees. It’s also a great way to reduce energy consumption. If your facility doesn’t already have daylight sensors, consider installing them. Reducing or eliminating artificial lighting whenever natural light is available can introduce significant cost savings—and make the workplace ambiance more inviting. In areas where less natural light is available, consider alternative lighting options such as focused task lighting or softer ambient lighting, instead of banks of unforgiving fluorescent lights as the sole source of illumination.

Cosmetic improvements

Just because an upgrade is easy or inexpensive doesn’t mean it’s not effective. A coat of paint, plenty of plants, and new decor in dull areas can make a big difference to the office ambience. This goes for hallways and bathrooms too.

Service Amenities

Employee surveys show that workers appreciate amenities like gyms, cafés, outdoor trails, and roof gardens. But not every company can afford a café on the roof or a fully outfitted gym. In that case, consider smaller, less expensive improvements, like upgrading the seating in an outdoor patio. Even little changes can make a difference.

Customer Service for the Return to Office Naysayers

While many executives want to bring employees back to the office five days a week, a high percentage of employees do not share that sentiment. In fact, according to Forbes Advisor, 98% of workers want to work remotely for at least part of the week.

The reasons for this preference vary. Some employees do not want to return to the office because their WFH (work-from-home) setup is better. Many have caregiving responsibilities that require flexible schedules. Some employees are simply more productive, and more likely to work longer hours, when at home. Others have concerns about viral exposure.

These are all valid concerns, and they can be addressed by providing excellent facility management services.

Responsiveness

Workers are not willing to make the commute to a building where the thermostat is broken or there are unresolved plumbing issues in one of the bathrooms. Here’s where CMMS software can make a real difference, enabling you to stay on top of these inevitable issues in a timely manner. These software systems also make it possible to engage in predictive maintenance, so that you catch issues before they happen.

Show Off Your Cleaning

Buildings with efficient and timely janitorial protocols will make employees feel less stressed. Consider scheduling some janitorial services during work hours. This will not only save on labor costs, but will also reassure building occupants that high standards of cleanliness are being met. Making janitorial staff visible during the workday has been shown to reduce employee complaints, perhaps because it provides visual proof that the building is being properly maintained.

Even though the pandemic is over, COVID-19 and other viruses are still circulating. Letting employees know that sanitation protocols are still in effect, and letting them see for themselves that these protocols are being carried out by the janitorial staff, can go a long way in providing peace of mind.

Facilitate Communication and Community

Incorporating digital signage to show who is in the office and where they are working can be a great way to increase community among employees. And always be sure to communicate to occupants when significant maintenance is being performed, so that they know what to expect in advance. For significant projects, communicate well in advance—through email and physical signage—so that building occupants can plan for any disruptions to their routines.

Facility Managers Can Ease the Return to Office

Office schedules and leasing may have been upturned due to the pandemic, but the RTO trend is continuing to bring workers back to the office—albeit a different kind of workplace.

New office configurations and technology will be crucial for meeting the demands of hybrid work schedules, as will agile facility services that emphasize excellent customer service. By working cross-functionally with company leadership, facility managers can play a key role in creating a workplace that runs smoothly and makes employees happy to be back in the office.

Your Return to Office Facilities Partner

Optimize your office operations for RTO success with our award-winning facility management services. With more than 140 million square feet of facilities under management, and over 35 years of experience, PRIDE Industries can help you create an office environment that’s both efficient and welcoming.

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Professional facility managers know that regular commercial building inspection is not optional but crucial to ensure facility occupants are safe and all building structures are sound.

Although inspections vary in scope across industries, BOMA (Building Owners and Managers Association International) recommends an annual “roof to floor” inspection for building envelopes, and OSHA suggests quarterly, monthly, or even weekly “self-inspections” for buildings, depending on the industry and potential facility hazards.

Whether you inspect once a year or once a quarter, tackle the entire facility in one go or break it up into sections, it can take a lot of labor hours and experienced personnel to carry out a thorough inspection.

The good news is that innovative, time-saving tools are becoming more accessible for inspection tasks, enabling efficient, informative, and reliable checks and monitoring.

Here are some of the tools being used for building inspections by facility managers looking to stay current and ensure that essential inspections for safety and building longevity can be conducted effectively.

Some companies are capitalizing on the fact that FAA rules don't apply to indoor drone use, and using these devices for interior inspections of industrial plants, greenhouses, warehouses, and other buildings.

Thermal Imaging Inspections

Thermal imaging is a non-invasive infrared (IR) technology that has been around for decades, but now sophisticated handheld devices are readily available to assist facility technicians and maintenance workers in inspecting and troubleshooting building assets.

The technology works by picking up differences in temperature with the use of mid- or long-range IR waves and creating a visual heat map of the object it is pointed at. (This is different from IR imaging or night-vision cameras that use short-range infrared waves.) By measuring temperature variations, and showing results on the monitor, thermal imaging devices identify hot spots that can indicate overheating components, or cooler areas that may signal energy loss or water intrusion.

With handheld thermal imaging tools, technicians can simply point the device toward an asset—such as an HVAC system—to identify potential overheating. Directed at a building’s doorways, windows, or refrigeration entrances, the imaging tools can reveal insulation weak spots. Thermal imaging can even produce results in poorly lit areas, making it ideal for building diagnostics and commercial building inspection.

What are the Advantages and Disadvantages?

Speed -Thermal imaging is a great timesaving tool that can quickly identify problems not visible to the human eye.

Convenience – The technology can be used without operation disruptions and does not need direct contact with the asset, creating safer conditions around electrical inspections.

Humans Needed – On the downside, it’s important to remember that it is only a tool, and still requires expertise from engineers or trained professionals for the best results.

Beyond handheld devices, thermal imaging can be even more effective when combined with another technology that’s rapidly gaining interest in commercial building inspection—aerial drones.

Commercial Building Inspection from the Top Down

Love them or hate them, drones—also known as unmanned aircraft systems (UAS)—are becoming increasingly useful as tools for commercial building inspection, due to their ability to access upper floors, rooftops, and other hard-to-reach places.

Now, the integration of AI software has resulted in smarter drones with expanded data collection and analytic capabilities. These newer drones can also handle larger payloads, enabling them to carry more equipment. And they can be equipped with thermal imaging systems, 4K aerial cameras, sensors such as LiDAR (Light Detection and Ranging, for use in surveying), and even robotic claws.

These capabilities are changing the nature of commercial building inspection. Equipped with thermal imaging, a drone can quickly scan a building’s facade and get up close to a suspected leak, for example, and take a picture at the optimal angle to provide a clear and unobstructed view of the problem area—something that is often difficult or hazardous for technicians to do from the ground, or even from a platform or window of the building.

Other tasks—such as conducting roof inspections to identify inadequate insulation, unwanted moisture, and structural damage—can all be done in minutes using drones. Areas such as parking lots and pools can be surveyed while simultaneously collecting and capturing data and images in real time.

But as with most technology, there are pros and cons.

What Are the Advantages and Disadvantages?

Safer – The power of accessibility that a drone brings to inspections eliminates many safety hazards. It saves technicians from climbing on to roofs using ladders or platforms, for example. Even single-story buildings can have different roof slopes, angles, and surfaces that create a hazardous terrain for technicians using binoculars and a camera, making drones a useful tool even for smaller facilities.

Speedier – The speed at which a drone can access a site and deliver information saves time and money. Using a drone, capturing images and analyzing them can take as little as a day, compared to weeks with traditional, human-only visual inspections.

Smarter – Enhanced with AI image processing capabilities, drones can provide real-time monitoring, analyze safety risks, and offer insights that can aid decision-making in determining budget or resource allocation.

The drone space is constantly changing, and with that will come improvements, but there are a few downsides to consider.

Expense – Hobby drones may be inexpensive, but the type of drones needed for commercial building inspection are not in the same league and do not come cheap. Add to that the cost of operator training, and taking on a drone program may be outside of many facility budgets.

Privacy – Most drones are manufactured in China, which may raise concerns about data privacy—and for good reason. It’s estimated that 80 percent of the commercial drones sold in the U.S. are made by Chinese companies. And some of the largest of these companies have been funded by the Chinese government—meaning that sensitive data on U.S. infrastructure may be making its way to Beijing.

This threat is being taken seriously by the U.S. government. In February 2024, the American Security Drone Act was signed into law, banning the federal government from buying Chinese or other foreign-made drones. Some experts argue that the business community would be wise to do the same.

Regulations and Restrictions – Commercial drones are considered aircraft and fall under the jurisdiction of the FAA. This means that businesses using drones for commercial building inspection must hire trained pilots that hold an FAA license and commit to abiding by the FAA’s rules on drone use.

The use of drones indoors is an exception to the above rule, however, and some companies are capitalizing on this fact. Many businesses have found drones to be valuable tools for interior inspections in industrial plants, greenhouses, or warehouses. Drones can also aid in managing inventory, monitoring hazardous chemical areas, and even responding to medical emergencies.

But what if you want to use a drone for exterior inspections, and don’t want to hire a professional pilot? In that case, consider using a drone service to conduct inspections. Drones-as-a-Service (DaaS) providers offer turnkey services that include trained pilots, drones, ancillary equipment, and software to do the job you need. Of course, as with any service, be sure to thoroughly vet your DaaS provider, and be clear about liability and data privacy protections.

Indoors or outdoors, as a service or in-house, it’s worth bearing in mind that the lack of privacy and other regulations regarding the use of drones and AI leaves the door wide open for facility managers’ liability. So do your research, and proceed cautiously when using this technology for inspections.

Scoping Out Tight Spaces

While drones can fly into some difficult-to-reach spots, there are some spaces that are just too tight for even the smallest craft. In those cases, a different tool is needed.

Referred to as borescopes, endoscopes, video scopes or just “scopes,” these inspection devices, just like their medical cousins, are ideal for getting into narrow and difficult-to-access spaces. These devices have come a long way since the borescope was introduced in the 1960s, and are now an important tool in commercial building inspection.

A scope consists of a long, flexible probe or rod that has a lens at one end and attaches to a handheld device or monitor at the other. (Technically, an endoscope has a flexible tube attachment, whereas a borescope can have a rigid or flexible attachment.)

The attachment probe can be pushed inside small and compact spaces. Technicians can then steer and control the direction and angle of the probe, allowing the tool to maneuver through tight and complex spots. With adjustable LED lights for better vision in dark areas, together with miniature, high-definition (HD) cameras, detailed visuals of the interior space can be seen on the monitor, allowing for a comprehensive inspection.

What are the Advantages and Disadvantages?

Flexibility – The ability to get visuals inside a wall cavity or conduits, to assess integrity and wiring reliability, to inspect ductwork, or identify the origins of piping or electrical issues without having to dismantle or tear down walls make the scope invaluable as a non-destructive inspection tool.

AI Provides Consistency – As with other tools, AI is being integrated into the various inspection scopes. The aircraft industry is already using borescopes that utilize AI algorithms for automated defect detection and analysis. AI-powered software can detect anomalies, such as cracks or corrosion, enabling objective assessment and consistent evaluation.

Handle with Care

Borescopes can be prone to damage if handled incorrectly inside metal pipes or across rough surfaces, so it’s important to use the device cautiously in these situations. And as with any technical device, a scope provides the greatest advantage when in the hands of an experienced technician.

Robotic Ground Inspections

When the space being inspected doesn’t warrant a tiny scope but is still too small or hazardous for humans, there are inspection robots. Referred to as bots, rovers, or unmanned ground vehicles (UGVs) these tools offer a safer and more efficient option than manual inspection.

UGVs for commercial building inspection vary in type, function, and autonomy. For tasks such as inspecting HVAC ducts or entering crawl spaces under buildings, small 4-wheel drive or tracked (tank-like) vehicles (usually around 12–14 inches in length) are typically used for the job.

These rovers can be controlled remotely and run on batteries for several hours. They efficiently capture photos and video and are capable of zero degree turns—a big plus in tight spaces.

What Are the Advantages and Disadvantages?

Efficiency – Rover robots can travel through HVAC ducts faster than a human worker. They don’t get tired and can continue working without getting distracted.

Safety – Rovers can be sent into hazardous areas (where there may be unstable construction or toxic chemicals) and either survey the area before workers enter or take photos of damaged structures and other risks.

Limited Tasks – Currently most robots are designed for a particular monitoring or inspection task; not all types of inspection can be performed by the same robot. But that may be changing. Researchers and manufacturers are aware of this issue, and are developing multi-ability learning robots that can turn their hands (or wheels) to many tasks.

A Maintenance Partner You Can Rely On

Are you looking for a forward-thinking, tech-savvy partner for building inspections and maintenance? PRIDE Industries has been providing facilities services for over 35 years and continues to bring innovation and expertise to customers across multiple industries.

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For much of human history, little was known about the spread of disease. In fact, modern germ theory wasn’t widely accepted until the late 19^th century. Prior to this time, few doctors washed their hands between patients nor were hospital surfaces cleaned with disinfection in mind. Even at the start of the modern era, hospital cleaning services were about keeping up appearances, not mitigating disease.

Things have come a long way since then. Gone are the days when a mop bucket and a rag were all that was needed in a hospital cleaning toolkit. Today, hospital cleaning services use high-tech systems that not only target visible dirt and grime, but also the microscopic contaminants that hide beyond the naked eye.

Trends in Hospital Cleaning Services

Advances in technology and data-driven, targeted approaches to hospital cleaning can reduce the risk of healthcare-associated infections.

Advances in technology and data-driven, targeted approaches to hospital cleaning can result in reduced risk of healthcare-associated infections among both patients and staff. These advances, combined with a greater understanding of disease mitigation, are driving seven important trends in hospital cleaning services.

Targeted Pathogen Cleaning

Historically, cleaning and disinfecting environmental spaces in a hospital setting meant killing any and all potential pathogens, including viruses, bacteria, fungi, and others. However, the misuse of antibiotics has led to the rise of antibiotic-resistant pathogens, including Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) and Vancomycin-resistant Enterococcus faecalis/faecium (VRE). MRSA and VRE are especially concerning in a hospital setting, as both can be spread via contaminated objects. It’s essential to target these specific pathogens when cleaning.

Some of the most common chemicals that are approved by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) to kill both MRSA and VRE are quaternary ammonium, sodium hypochlorite (bleach) and hydrogen peroxide, all of which can be found in numerous brands of commercial cleaning products. These products have a minimum kill time for each pathogen, meaning they must remain on the surface for a specified amount of time in order to be effective, typically 2–10 minutes. Another common pathogen in a hospital setting is Clostridium difficile (C. diff). Outside the body, C. diff takes the form of spores, which can be killed with EPA-approved chemicals, including sodium hypochlorite.

Continuous Active Disinfection (CAD)

Traditional cleaning usually involves applying disinfectant to a surface and repeating as necessary. It comes as no surprise that in a healthcare setting, surfaces become re-contaminated very quickly, calling for frequent reapplication of disinfectants. This requires not only a great deal of labor, but also means the areas being cleaned must be off-limits during the cleaning time.

To address this challenge, many healthcare facilities have adopted continuous active disinfection (CAD) protocols. These protocols rely on the use of disinfectants that have been formulated to kill pathogens for up to 24 hours after application. (These disinfectants work by leaving behind a polymer-based, multi-layer pathogen-neutralizing film.) Because patient and procedure rooms are cleaned and disinfected between patients, these products are more likely to be used in common areas such as waiting rooms, which see higher use and where cleaning occurs less frequently.

If you want to know more about a particular cleaning product, the EPA has a tool that can be used to look up an individual product by its registration number, which is required on all packaging. The tool includes data about the product’s EPA test results for specific contaminants, recommended contact times, and uses. The EPA has only recently released guidance for products adding residual efficacy claims, so that data may not yet be available for all listed products.

Advances in UV Technology

The use of ultraviolet light in hospital disinfection isn’t new. One technology—ultraviolet germicidal irradiation (UVGI)—has been around for more than a century. This technology uses specialized lamps to administer UV light (more specifically, UV-C light), which damages the DNA of bacteria, viruses, and other pathogens.

In the early 1900s, UVGI was used to disinfect the water supply in Marseille, France. In the 1930s, it was used in Philadelphia schools to disinfect the air and prevent a measles outbreak. It has also been used in hospital settings to prevent tuberculosis. This particular UVGI application, known as upper-room UVGI, uses specialized UVGI devices to eradicate airborne pathogens. With this technique, air flows into UVGI devices from fans or open windows (or today, from HVACs). The UV energy kills the airborne pathogens and returns the clean air to the space.

Historically, UV light has been administered via low-pressure mercury-vapor lamps. But advances in technology mean it can now be administered via light-emitting diodes (LED), which are believed to be safer. It should be noted that UVGI does not replace traditional cleaning methods; rather, it complements them.

Robots and Automated Systems

One of the challenges of effective hospital cleaning is ensuring every nook and cranny is cleaned and disinfected. Cleaning robots have made this easier, as these machines can be used for cleaning floors, ducts, windows, and more. In a hospital setting, disinfection robots can also be used to get to spots that human beings can’t. These programmable, remote-controlled devices can use chemicals or UV light to disinfect areas with potential pathogens without risking the health of cleaning personnel.

For example, some hospitals now use rolling, autonomous towers equipped with circulating, vertically set UV-C lamp tubes on all sides to destroy pathogens via ultraviolet radiation. These towers have a wheeled base that enables them to roll through patient or procedure rooms on their own, eliminating any potential risk of UV light to humans. Similarly, programmable, fog-disinfection robots use a retractable, chimney-like spout to spray a fine disinfecting mist throughout a space.

Data-Driven Hospital Cleaning Services

Despite all of the advances in technology, the use of solid data to inform cleaning procedures remains one of the most important trends in hospital cleaning services. Having the proper procedures in place is essential, but understanding whether those procedures are working is even more important. Internet-connected cleaning devices, facility management software, and other smart technologies work in unison to provide real-time information and improved efficiency.

High-tech dispensers can notify staff that hand soap is running low in a restroom, providing key data on usage and traffic patterns. Admissions and discharge records can indicate when patient rooms are vacant and therefore available for cleaning. This real-time data can help facilities managers adjust staffing and prioritize tasks, thus reducing the frequency of static cleaning in disused areas.

Eco-Friendly Options

“Eco-friendly” isn’t a term typically associated with cleaning chemicals. But in truth, the two aren’t mutually exclusive. Concerns over the environmental and health impacts of traditional products has led to a rise in the number of eco-friendly products on the market. Many of today’s products are nontoxic and biodegradable, while maintaining the disinfecting properties of their more toxic counterparts. These products are free of ammonia, phosphates, and volatile organic compounds.

Citric acid, for example, is an effective disinfectant against MRSA and VRE, but isn’t harmful to humans. It’s also rapidly biodegradable in water and soil. Hydrogen peroxide is similarly safe for humans and the planet; it’s a powerful disinfectant but poses no danger if used correctly.

Electrostatic Spraying/Misting Systems

Increasing efficiency and reducing the likelihood of human error is essential in hospital cleaning, and electrostatic spraying checks both boxes. Unlike dry dusting or wet cleaning, electrostatic spraying uses an atomized mist that adheres to surfaces, even in hard-to-reach spots.

The mist can be applied manually by a technician (using a handheld sprayer) or by machine. One system consists of a box-like fogging device that can be placed in a room and turned on remotely. Still others take the form of robots, which can be programmed to move throughout a room while expelling the disinfecting solution.

What to Look for in Hospital Cleaning Services

As cleaning technologies have evolved, so have hospital cleaning services. So how can you find the right service for your healthcare facility? Here are some factors to keep in mind when looking for a cleaning partner.

State-of-the-Art Products

The best hospital cleaning services use modern cleaning products and equipment. Disinfectants must be EPA-registered to kill both bacteria and viruses, including COVID-19. Services should use the latest cleaning technology and all equipment should be in excellent working order.

Sustainability

Cleaning products don’t have to be toxic to be effective. When possible, they should align to the EPA’s Safer Choice criteria to be free of ammonia, phosphates, and volatile organic compounds. In addition, custodial and cleaning protocols should be certified by the Cleaning Industry Management Standards for Green Buildings. And it’s even better if they can help organizations earn points toward Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) certification.

Experience and Expertise

Want the job done right? Hospital cleaning providers should have plenty of experience working in a range of hospital settings. With this experience, of course, comes expertise. Staff should be continuously trained in the latest trends in hospital cleaning and safety, including bloodborne pathogen disposal, proper handwashing, two-pass disinfection protocols, and airborne and contact precautions. They should also be HIPPA-compliant, if and when appropriate.

Hospital-Grade Cleaning with a Positive Social Impact

Looking for a healthcare cleaning service with a proven track record for safety, reliability, and cost-effectiveness? At PRIDE Industries, we clean more than 26 million square feet of facilities every day, from emergency rooms to neurosurgery centers to correctional healthcare facilities. Call today to see what we can do for you.

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Since the facility’s opening in 2013, the California Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation (CDCR) has struggled to find and retain a reliable, knowledgeable environmental services workforce for correctional and medical facilities. The unique nature of the organization and its facilities—its mission, its need for confidentiality, its sophisticated training requirements, its stringent cleaning requirements, its security clearance mandates, and the people skills required for patient interaction—presented significant challenges to delivering business excellence with a positive social impact.

A Reliable, Effective Workforce

“Before PRIDE Industries, CDCR used an inmate porter system, civil service personnel, and another contractor, but there were a lot of hiring and retention issues with all three,” said a Correctional Business Manager the department. “Then we found PRIDE Industries. Not only did their experience and expertise stand out, but so did their mission to create employment for people with disabilities.”

Beginning with environmental services at facilities in Stockton and Vacaville, in 2019 PRIDE Industries contract with CDCR expanded to the California Medical Facility (CMF), the healthcare service provider at both sites. CMF had experienced emergency environmental services shortfalls due to staffing shortages and put licensure, inmate and employing safety, and patient care at risk.

The PRIDE Industries team’s efforts and infrastructure also resulted in CMF reaching a Healthcare Assessment Maintenance score of 97.1% as of June 2022. These results point to measurable outcomes which preserve the facility’s licensure and its environment of care for patient housing and treatment, ultimately reducing the spread of disease and infection.

The 70 people with disabilities employed by PRIDE Industries at CDCR look forward to working every day. Unlike so many people with disabilities, workers at CHCR are able to experience the dignity of a paycheck and the satisfaction that comes with meaningful work. They’re inspired, and that inspiration has led to low turnover, low absenteeism, and diligent work practices—in other words, business excellence. Many of these employees have advanced in their careers from entry level roles to manager and director responsibilities.

Below, one of these dedicated employees describes her experience with PRIDE Industries at CMF means to them in her own words.

Patricia’s Story

Patricia Prescott has worked as an EVS technician at CMF since December 13, 2020.

I am an EVS tech. I go into the units that PRIDE Industries my company, cleans. We clean cells, offices, nurse stations, exam rooms and medication rooms, bathrooms. We also clean up floodings, and blood, pepper spray, poop, and on occasion vomit.

I like helping others out. I also enjoy cleaning. It relaxes me and helps me think. It’s also amazing exercise and you learn new things every day.

PRIDE Industries has helped me through some hard times. They’re an amazing company to work for. I am very thankful that they’re patient and understanding with my situation.

Some employers would never think about hiring people with disabilities because in their minds they aren’t capable of doing the job. The word “disability” is off-putting to employers. They have negative thoughts about people with disabilities.

They should take a chance on us and let us prove and show you that we are capable of doing the job. Believe in us, because what if that was you? Wouldn’t you want an employer to take a chance on you?

I am very thankful and appreciate PRIDE Industries. My husband is very sick and he’s in and out of the hospital. PRIDE Industries has been very supportive of me and has helped me out. I continue to have a job and I am able to provide for my family because PRIDE Industries is an amazing company. They understand what I am going through and have programs to help me. They offer me help when I need it. Most important, they hire people with disabilities. This company gives us chances to work, gives us opportunities to put ourselves out there trying new things that we think we were never able to do before.

I never once thought I’d step foot into a prison or let alone be working in one. I love my job and am very happy and thankful for it. I plan on staying and helping PRIDE Industries out just like they have helped me.

Business Excellence with a Positive Social Impacte

In just a few years, PRIDE Industries has helped CDCR and CMF move from having a hard time hiring and retaining employees with service shortfalls that put health, safety, and licensure at risk, to a thriving workforce and a stellar Healthcare Assessment Maintenance record. All the while, employees have experienced life-changing employment experiences.

Looking to make a social impact?

PRIDE Industries builds inclusive, diverse work environments where people with disabilities can thrive. Is your company seeking well-trained, reliable employees? Join our Employment Partner Network today to experience business excellence with a positive social impact.