Dirty, dark and unpainted ceilings in factories,
plants and warehouses can be dangerous. They are known to be great hiding
places for contamination and can cause spontaneous combustion due to oil residue,
paper dust, ink and solvents generated during the manufacturing process. These
and other remnants make their way up to the ceiling where they settle. An
unclean ceiling can contaminate products during the manufacturing process with
dirt or particles falling down into the production line.
When it comes to ceiling cleaning, the most
challenging area to care for is in the restaurant or hospital kitchen. Grease
spots and spatters on the ceiling are common. Commercial kitchen ceiling
structures require a more intense cleaning method due to the effects of cooking
oils being heated to the point that they become fume and rise with the air.
Once they come into contact with a surface, they accumulate and cool. These are
organic substances and contain sufficient moisture to be an attractive medium
for microbial growth. Bacteria and mold spore exist everywhere at all times
without exception. The only possible way to control their levels is to control
the moisture required for them to grow. If oils are allowed to accumulate, the
condensation from the hot oils provides sufficient moisture making it a good
source of organic material used as a food source by microbes.
Why Clean Ceilings?
A 2009 study showed that a more open, light and
spacious work environment presented many benefits to most employees. First, it
improved group collaboration and productivity. Second, it increased employee
pride in the workplace which leads to a sense of job satisfaction. Third, it
enhanced work effectiveness and results. Lastly, company morale and individual employee
satisfaction were also significantly increased. A bright and clean work area is
necessary for both working in and for proving to customers that your company is
capable of completing its jobs.
Cleaning Challenges
Dirt and grime on windows, walls and ceilings 40ft
and higher presents a real challenge in cleaning which depends upon the type of
ceiling and dirt deposits. An extension ladder is not considered a good option
here while cranes and scissor lifts in shop floors, warehouses and factories limit
maneuverability.
Telescopic Poles
The telescopic poles are often made up of high
grade aluminum are light weight, easy to maneuver and are expandable. When
folded they occupy less space and are easy to transport. These are also durable
and come at a fraction of cost of ladders or lifts. The user of these poles
usually stays on the ground while cleaning and therefore is safe.
Poles can reach as far as 60ft from ground enabling
various operations including dusting, window cleaning and cobwebs & ceiling
fan cleaning. The user can use various attachments like wall brush, fan brush,
cobweb brush, pipe brush, proflat duster and wool brush. Some of these brushes
have Microfiber for hygienic & best results besides adhering to the green
cleaning norms.
If the ceiling is a suspended one, a quality proflat
duster or static duster can be used across the suspended ceiling, paying
special attention to corners. Cheap static dusters can become snagged and leave
behind tiny fibres on the surface. Disposable dusting cloths should not be used
as they can snag on textured surfaces, and may actually make tiles dirtier by
grinding in the dust.
Tips to remember while cleaning the ceiling
Protect furniture, fixtures and floors with drop
cloths or plastic covering. Ceilings should be washed before cleaning walls and
floors, to prevent soils from falling on them. Before washing the surface,
duster brush should be used to clean the dry dust accumulated.
User should wear rubber gloves with cuffs, goggles
and protective clothes when using liquid cleaning products on ceilings. Drops
of cleaning agents/water should not be allowed to run down walls or drop onto
furniture, fixtures or floors. Ceilings covered with wall coverings like paper,
vinyl coated paper or vinyl cloth should not be washed but should be cleaned by
using microfiber cleaning tools and spraying cleaning solution with least
moisture content on them.
The
user should divide the ceiling into strips or areas and progress from one to
the next in order to thoroughly cover the ceiling. If chemicals or detergents
are being used then these should be spot tested in a hidden area for
colourfastness. Cleaning a wall starts at the top of the wall, then from side
to side and top down. Always overlap cleaning area and never use heavily soiled
cleaning cloth. If cleaning solution becomes soiled, change it for fresh. The
physical removal of surface material or substances from cooking service ceiling
area is done using hot water and microfiber washer or wipes and suitable
detergent if required.
