Custodial Green Cleaning

Custodians, janitors and housekeepers have the highest rates of work-related asthma and relatively high injury rates such as chemical burns, much of which are due to toxic chemicals found in cleaning products. Since indoor concentrations of pollutants are often 3 to 5 times higher than outdoor concentrations, choosing less toxic cleaning products and implementing improved practices can positively impact worker health.

We have developed an extensive product list at SF Approved, which helps San Francisco City Staff, San Francisco Green Businesses and large organizations to choose environmentally preferable and green products. While there has been much focus on greener products and several 3^rd party certifications to help consumers identify greener products, it is equally important to follow safer cleaning practices. Studies have shown that nearly half of the benefits of using green cleaning products results from the process in which they are mixed and used, which speaks to the tremendous need for education and training.

Along with our partners in the custodial community, we are developing a green cleaning program for custodial staff in commercial and municipal facilities, which includes multilingual training videos and fact-sheets on best green cleaning practices. Commercial janitorial companies, who participate in the green cleaning program, will also be eligible to participate in San Francisco's Green Business Program, which helps San Francisco businesses operate in an environmentally responsible manner and recognizes them for their efforts.

Our multilingual green cleaning program covers topic areas such as:

• Benefits of green cleaning

• How to choose green cleaning products

• Green cleaning procedures for surfaces, floors, common areas, restrooms, food areas and other procedures

• Proper disposal of waste and hazardous waste

Check out our green cleaning training videos in English, Spanish and Cantonese

If you are a custodial/janitorial company interested in becoming a Green Bussiness, please register and apply here.

If you are interested in learning more, contact us at (415)-355-3700