With evolving hygiene regulations, sustainability goals, and operational challenges, selecting the right cleaning services provider is crucial to maintaining safe, healthy, and compliant work environments. Facilities Managers must evaluate certifications, service flexibility, sustainability initiatives, and regulatory compliance to ensure they partner with a provider that meets their needs. Here’s how delegates at the FM Forum are to choosing their partners…
1. Verifying Industry Certifications and Compliance
A reputable cleaning contractor should have proper industry certifications and compliance with UK hygiene regulations. Key accreditations to look for include:
✔ British Institute of Cleaning Science (BICSc) Certification – Ensures the provider follows best practices in commercial cleaning standards.
✔ ISO 9001 & ISO 14001 Accreditation – Guarantees quality management and environmental responsibility in cleaning operations.
✔ Control of Substances Hazardous to Health (COSHH) Compliance – Ensures safe handling of cleaning chemicals and disinfectants.
✔ Food Standards Agency (FSA) Hygiene Standards – Essential for foodservice and catering facility cleaning.
Choosing a certified provider reduces compliance risks and ensures cleaning practices align with regulatory and industry standards.
2. Prioritising Service Flexibility and Customisation
Every facility has unique cleaning needs, requiring a provider that offers customised service plans. Key factors to assess include:
✔ Scalability – Can the provider handle multi-site cleaning contracts and adapt to business growth?
✔ 24/7 Availability – Does the provider offer emergency cleaning, deep cleaning, and out-of-hours services?
✔ Sector-Specific Expertise – Do they specialise in office cleaning, healthcare sanitation, industrial deep cleaning, or educational facility hygiene?
A provider with flexible service offerings ensures facilities maintain high hygiene standards without disrupting operations.
3. Evaluating Green Cleaning Capabilities
With growing sustainability targets and corporate ESG commitments, facilities managers should partner with a cleaning provider that prioritises eco-friendly practices. Look for:
✔ Biodegradable, non-toxic cleaning agents – Reduces chemical exposure and improves indoor air quality.
✔ Water and energy-efficient cleaning methods – Supports sustainable facility management.
✔ Waste reduction and recycling programs – Helps meet net-zero and carbon reduction goals.
Choosing a green cleaning provider enhances environmental responsibility while maintaining workplace hygiene.
4. Assessing Technology and Innovation
The best cleaning services providers leverage technology-driven solutions to improve efficiency. Look for:
✔ IoT-enabled cleaning systems – Smart sensors track hygiene levels and automate cleaning schedules.
✔ Electrostatic disinfection & UV-C light cleaning – Advanced sanitation methods for high-touch surfaces.
✔ AI-powered workforce tracking – Ensures real-time service monitoring and quality control.
Tech-driven cleaning solutions improve efficiency, safety, and service quality.
Choosing the right cleaning services provider requires a strategic approach. Facilities managers should prioritise certified providers with flexible service options, green cleaning capabilities, and technology-driven solutions to maintain safe, compliant, and sustainable environments. Investing in the right cleaning partner ensures long-term hygiene excellence and operational efficiency.
Are you searching for Cleaning & Hygiene solutions for your organisation? The Facilities Management Forum can help!
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