Keeping a factory clean is a monumental task that requires diligent planning and execution. Facility managers must implement comprehensive cleaning checklists to ensure all areas are properly maintained. This allows workers to operate in a safe, sanitary environment while upholding company standards.
In this guide, we’ll explore creating effective factory cleaning checklists. We’ll cover scheduling, task delegation, supplies and equipment, areas to clean, safety protocols and quality control. Follow these tips to develop robust checklists that keep your facility sparkling.
Crafting Your Factory Cleaning Schedule
The foundation of any cleaning checklist is the schedule. Build a master calendar indicating daily, weekly, monthly and annual cleaning tasks. Here are some suggestions:
Daily
- Empty trash cans and recycling bins
- Sweep and mop floors
- Sanitise restrooms
- Tidy breakrooms
- Dust furnishings
- Spot clean walls, windows and machinery
Weekly
- Scrub floors
- Sanitise all surfaces in restrooms
- Dust overhead pipes, vents and light fixtures
- Clean interior glass
- Sweep shipping/receiving docks
Monthly
- Shampoo carpets
- Wash walls and partitions
- Clean exterior windows
- Dust warehouse racks
- Detail clean breakroom appliances
Annually
- Strip and wax VCT floors
- Clean HVAC systems
- Wash building exterior
- Clean warehouse racking
- Scrub grout lines
Align tasks with production schedules. Clean noise-intensive areas like warehouse racks during off-hours. Schedule thorough cleans when production halts, like over holidays.
Delegating Cleaning Tasks
Once the schedule is set, delegate tasks among your cleaning staff. Create separate checklists for each zone like offices, breakrooms, restrooms, production floors, warehouses and exteriors. Assign these to specific cleaners.
List tasks from top to bottom in order of completion. This allows cleaners to methodically work their way through their checklists. Provide estimated times for each task to keep them on track.
Consider staggering cleaner schedules so thorough cleans can occur without production disruption. Also budget extra staffing time for seasonal deep cleans.
Gathering Supplies and Equipment
Provide cleaners with all the tools and products needed to fully complete checklists. Standard supplies include:
- Brooms, mops and vacuums
- Cleaning solutions and disinfectants
- Microfiber cloths and sponges
- Dusting tools
- Gloves and goggles
- Trash bags
- Floor signs and mop buckets
Stock enough supplies to avoid shortages as cleaners work. Separate general cleaning tools from restroom-specific gear to prevent cross-contamination.
Areas to Cover
Comprehensive factory cleaning extends well beyond just floors and trash. Checklists should include all areas throughout the facility, such as:
Offices and Breakrooms
- Vacuum carpets
- Mop hard floors
- Sanitise sinks, tables, appliances
- Restock paper products, soaps
- Take out trash and recycling
Restrooms
- Scrub toilets, urinals, stalls
- Clean mirrors, counters, faucets
- Refill paper, soap dispensers
- Empty trash cans and sanitary bins
Production Floors
- Sweep debris and dust
- Mop hard floors
- Remove oil drips from machinery
- Spot clean walls
- Dust overhead pipes and fixtures
Warehouses
- Sweep dust and debris from floors
- Mop hard floors
- Dust racks and shelves
- Spot clean walls and pillars
Exteriors
- Police debris and litter
- Pressure wash docks
- Hose down dumpsters
- Clean entryways and sidewalks
Implementing Safety Protocols
Lean manufacturing hasStrict safety precautions enable cleaners to work securely among machinery and chemical hazards. Key protocols include:
- Use wet floor signs when mopping
- Cordon off cleaned areas until completely dry
- Follow chemical handling and dilution instructions precisely
- Wear gloves and goggles when using cleaning products
- Take lifting precautions when moving heavy loads of trash
Only allow certified staff to clean areas with exposure dangers like chemical tanks. Schedule this work during downtimes when machinery and systems are shut down.
Performing Quality Checks
Verify cleaning quality through periodic inspections. Facility managers should perform spot checks while cleaners work and upon completion. Look for:
- Dust, dirt, debris or stains missed during cleaning
- Soap scum or hard water buildup
- Trash cans not fully emptied
- Floors not evenly vacuumed or mopped
- Smudges on glass or mirrors
- Odors in restrooms or breakrooms
Address any issues immediately with the assigned cleaner. Retrain staff on proper procedures to prevent recurrences.
Comprehensive cleaning checklists are essential for factory managers seeking cleaner, safer facilities. Develop master schedules then delegate tasks to cleaning staff. Equip them fully then implement safety protocols. Perform regular quality checks to ensure proper completion. Enlist Eco Cleaning Brisbane for professional factory cleaning services in Brisbane. Their skilled cleaners follow proven checklists to deliver immaculate results. Maintain high company standards by making cleaning checklists a top priority.
FAQ
✓How often should factories undergo deep cleaning?
Factories should undergo periodic deep cleaning every 3-6 months. This allows a thorough scrubbing of floors, machinery, shelves, walls and air handling systems. Schedule deep cleans during seasonal shutdowns or holidays for minimal disruption.
✓What are the most important daily cleaning tasks?
Daily factory cleaning priorities include removing trash, sweeping floors, mopping high traffic areas, tidying restrooms, wiping machinery and spot cleaning walls and windows. These simple tasks prevent buildup that leads to more intensive cleaning later.
✓How can I motivate my factory cleaning staff?
Recognize stellar performance through small rewards like gift cards or lunches. Conduct regular inspections and provide positive feedback on jobs well done. Foster camaraderie through team meetings and group lunches. Create contests for best kept areas.
✓What safety gear should factory cleaners wear?
Provide cleaners with slip-resistant shoes, gloves, dust masks and eye protection. Require hearing protection when working near loud machinery. Ensure adequate ventilation when working with chemical cleaners. Provide lifting aids for emptying heavy trash and recycling bins.
