The surge in remote work has revolutionized the traditional office landscape, leading to a reevaluation of commercial space maintenance practices. As businesses adapt to the changing work environment, the need for sustainable and cost-effective solutions for maintaining clean and healthy workspaces has become more critical than ever.

This article explores the impact of remote work on commercial space maintenance, which now requires a dynamic and adaptive approach. By embracing flexible cleaning schedules, enhanced sanitation measures, technological integration, sustainable practices, and regular maintenance audits, businesses can ensure that their physical workspaces remain vital and supportive of a changing workforce.

The impact of remote work on commercial space maintenance

Reduced Foot Traffic and Wear and Tear:

One of the most immediate effects of remote work on commercial spaces is the significant reduction in foot traffic. With fewer employees physically present in the office, common areas, hallways, and workstations get less wear and tear. This shift presents both challenges and opportunities for facility managers. On one hand, maintenance can be more targeted and efficient. On the other hand, areas that are typically overlooked may now demand more attention.

The decrease in on-site personnel has necessitated a reassessment of cleaning protocols. Traditional daily cleaning routines may no longer align with the new patterns of space utilization. Facility managers are tasked with optimizing cleaning schedules to address specific needs while avoiding unnecessary disruption. This adaptability ensures that resources are allocated where they are most needed, promoting efficiency and cost-effectiveness.

Focus on Health and Safety:

The global pandemic has elevated the importance of health and safety measures in commercial spaces. Even with reduced occupancy, maintaining a clean and sanitized environment remains paramount. Businesses are investing in enhanced cleaning practices, with a particular emphasis on high-touch surfaces and shared spaces. Regular disinfection and the availability of sanitation stations have become integral components of commercial space maintenance.

The rise of remote work has also accelerated the integration of technology into commercial space maintenance. Smart building solutions, occupancy sensors, and data analytics are being employed to monitor and manage spaces more effectively. These technologies provide valuable insights into space utilization, allowing facility managers to tailor maintenance efforts based on real-time data.

Financial Considerations:

With remote work reshaping the traditional office model, businesses are reevaluating their budgets, including those allocated for maintenance. Reduced on-site presence has prompted organizations to seek cost-effective solutions without compromising the quality of maintenance services. This financial scrutiny encourages innovation and the adoption of sustainable and efficient practices.

As the demand for office space fluctuates, businesses are negotiating more flexible maintenance contracts. Service providers are adapting their offerings to align with the evolving needs of clients, offering customized solutions that cater to the current state of commercial spaces. This flexibility ensures that businesses receive value for their investment in maintenance services.

How to develop a cleaning and sanitation plan for commercial spaces that are not fully occupied

As remote work becomes a permanent fixture, commercial spaces should be designed with adaptability in mind. Space designers can implement modular and flexible workspace configurations that can easily be adjusted to accommodate changing needs. This flexibility not only caters to a hybrid workforce but also facilitates more efficient maintenance practices, allowing for quick reconfigurations and updates.

Smart cleaning systems leverage data and automation to optimize cleaning processes. Companies are incorporating sensors and Internet of Things (IoT) devices to monitor occupancy, track cleaning patterns, and identify high-traffic areas. This data-driven approach enables more targeted and efficient cleaning efforts, reducing unnecessary resource consumption and ensuring that cleaning activities are aligned with actual usage patterns.

Facility managers should incorporate environmentally friendly practices into commercial space maintenance. From using eco-friendly cleaning products to implementing energy-efficient systems, businesses can contribute to sustainability efforts. This not only aligns with corporate social responsibility (as a part of ESG) but also appeals to employees who prioritize environmentally conscious practices.

The integration of green cleaning technologies in office spaces represents a holistic approach to both environmental sustainability and employee well-being. In recent years, there has been a growing awareness of the environmental impact of traditional cleaning solutions. Many companies are now seeking sustainable alternatives to reduce their ecological footprint. One such innovative solution gaining traction is electrolyzed water, a powerful and eco-friendly cleaning agent.

Electrolyzed water (e-water) is produced through a process called electrolysis, which involves passing an electric current through a water and salt (sodium chloride) solution. This process results in the separation of salt molecules into two components: hypochlorous acid (HOCl) disinfectant and sodium hydroxide (NaOH) multi-purpose cleaner and degreaser.

E-water has applications in a wide range of industries as well – in manufacturing and industrial settings, where cleanliness is crucial for quality control, companies are leveraging its cleaning and sanitizing properties to maintain a sterile environment in production areas and on equipment surfaces. Hospitals and healthcare facilities are increasingly adopting electrolyzed water as a disinfectant to combat pathogens. It provides a safe and efficient way to sanitize patient rooms, medical equipment, and common areas. It’s also finding more adopters in office spaces as well, with the increasing focus on creating sustainable and healthy work environments, many companies are turning to electrolyzed water for cleaning. E-water helps maintain a clean workspace without compromising indoor air quality or exposing employees to harmful chemicals.

Best practices for maintaining commercial spaces in a work-from-home era

The seismic shift brought about by the work-from-home era has fundamentally changed the way some businesses operate, challenging conventional norms surrounding office spaces. With a significant portion of the workforce embracing remote work or hybrid models, the maintenance of commercial spaces demands a fresh perspective.

In the quest for sustainability and environmental responsibility, the green cleaning movement has gained significant momentum. Companies and consumers alike are increasingly drawn to eco-friendly cleaning technologies as a means to reduce their ecological footprint. However, it’s crucial to recognize that not all green cleaning technologies are created equal, and the seemingly virtuous label of “green” can sometimes mask the true environmental impact of these solutions.

The green cleaning trend has been fueled by a collective desire to minimize the use of harsh chemicals and reduce the environmental impact of cleaning practices. Many companies have embraced this movement, incorporating eco-friendly technologies and products into their cleaning routines. From plant-based cleaners to enzymatic solutions, the market is flooded with options that claim to be the sustainable choice.

While the intention behind green cleaning is commendable, not all products labeled as “green” or “eco-friendly” live up to their claims. In some cases, the focus on presenting a positive environmental image may overshadow the actual efficiency of the cleaning technology.

To truly embrace sustainable cleaning practices, it is imperative to move beyond the surface-level allure of green cleaning and delve into the efficacy of the technologies being employed. There are key considerations for evaluating the efficiency of green cleaning solutions that should be kept in mind when taking this approach.

1. Look for third-party certifications such as the Environmental Protection Agency registration and Green Seal certification. These certifications provide assurance that the product has undergone rigorous testing for both environmental impact and cleaning performance.

2. Seek out independent reviews and studies that assess the real-world performance of green cleaning technologies. User feedback and scientific evaluations can provide valuable insights into a product’s effectiveness.

By scrutinizing certifications, seeking independent evaluations, and conducting comparative analyses, consumers and companies can ensure that their commitment to green cleaning goes beyond a cosmetic veneer, delivering tangible benefits for both the environment and cleaning efficiency. Ultimately, the true success of green cleaning lies in striking a balance between environmental responsibility and practical effectiveness.

Green cleaning goes beyond technology and extends to the products used in the process. Companies are increasingly opting for biodegradable and eco-friendly cleaning solutions. These products are formulated with ingredients that break down naturally, reducing the ecological footprint. Not only are they gentle on the environment, but they also contribute to maintaining indoor air quality, creating a healthier workspace for employees.

In the pursuit of creating safer and more efficient work environments, companies are also increasingly turning to on-site production of solutions, such as those produced through the electrolysis of salt and water (electrolyzed water).

Producing e-water cleaning solutions on-site offers a cost-effective alternative to purchasing commercial cleaning products. The raw materials for e-water production—salt, water, and electricity—are readily available and relatively inexpensive. This not only reduces the overall expenditure on cleaning supplies but also minimizes the environmental impact associated with the production, packaging, and transportation of commercial cleaning products.

Traditional cleaning products often contain harsh chemicals that can be harmful to both the environment and the health of individuals in the vicinity. On-site produced e-water cleaning and disinfecting solutions eliminate the need for such chemicals, offering a safer alternative for office occupants. This is particularly crucial in shared workspaces where employees may have varying sensitivities to chemical cleaning agents. For example, shared desks should be cleaned and disinfected more frequently and it is critical that facilities use safe alternatives for these high touch point surfaces.

Traditional cleaning solutions and fragrances used within them often contain volatile organic compounds (VOCs), such as ammonia, bleach, and formaldehyde. These VOCs can release harmful fumes into the air, leading to respiratory problems. Asthma is a notable consequence, with prolonged exposure to these substances exacerbating symptoms and potentially causing the development of asthma in individuals not previously afflicted. They can also contribute to respiratory issues, skin problems, allergies, and other bodily harm.

Electrolyzed water cleaning solutions are versatile and can be used for a wide range of applications. Companies can apply these solutions not only to surfaces but also to improve indoor air quality. Hypochlorous acid (HOCl), the disinfectant solution produced by the electrolysis process, has the ability to neutralize airborne pathogens, contributing to a healthier workspace.

By producing e-water cleaning solutions on-site, companies are taking a proactive step towards sustainability. This method reduces the need for single-use plastic packaging and transportation associated with commercial cleaning products. The localized production of e-water solutions aligns with corporate sustainability goals, demonstrating a commitment to environmental responsibility.

As remote work continues to shape the commercial landscape, the maintenance of commercial spaces must evolve to meet the changing needs of the workforce. Developing a cleaning and sanitation plan that utilizes on-site produced all-natural solutions is a sustainable and economically viable approach. By embracing these practices, businesses can contribute to a healthier work environment while aligning with the global movement towards sustainable and eco-friendly operations.

By Joshua Schwartz, President and Co-Founder of Viking Pure Solutions

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