By Gregory Venter

As a leading supplier of industrial equipment solutions, we at Goscor Cleaning Equipment (GCE) understand the significance of industrial warehouse cleaning. I am of the view that a clean warehouse is not only important for your business, but also for the health and motivation of the workforce who are there all the time.

Cleanliness is no longer an added incentive for your business – it’s one of the basic requirements. As business gets more competitive there is very little margin for carelessness. First impressions count and are formed in a matter of seconds.

In a busy warehouse or distribution centre, time is money – so you can’t afford inefficient processes. The right mix of cleaning equipment helps you keep your facility running without interruption from debris, clutter and dirt.

To apply that efficiency to your workspace, (be it a warehouse, office area, breakroom or any other area in your care), take inventory of your space, see what needs to be done, estimate how long it will take and what the cost will be, and then work towards streamlining the process.

Below are a few tips to get started:

• In your warehouse areas, estimate how frequently you need to clean to help contribute to efficient business operations. Take notice of aisle widths, hard to reach areas and sanitary strips around the perimeter.

• In offices and reception areas, note the ratio of carpet to hard floor surfaces, and the percentage of open space that can be cleaned with a larger piece of equipment versus obstructed areas that require a smaller, nimbler machine.

• On loading docks and in parking lots, assess the extent to which a large sweeper or sweeper-scrubber will reduce the amount of dirt and debris that gets into your facility. Consider sweepers with dust control in warm, dry climates and scrubbers with water recovery for rainy or snowy climates.

• Learn more about the impact that dirt and debris have on your company’s efficiency, and what you can do about it, by using a strategic mix of cleaning equipment.

In conclusion, it’s important to note that the market for industrial cleaning equipment is huge, but with so many brands to choose from as well as all the different technology and machinery available, it can be confusing to determine what equipment best suits you and your facility’s needs.

The most important factor in selecting industrial cleaning equipment for your warehouse is to know your facility and your needs. Armed with this knowledge and insight into the equipment available, you will be better positioned to partner with the right provider and to make the best equipment purchase to achieve your business and cleaning objectives.

Apart from the product itself, consider how much support you will want or need from your provider once the equipment is purchased as this should play a significant role in the equipment you choose. Questions to bear in mind: Does the equipment come with a maintenance plan? Will the supplier provide much-needed on-site training? Is there an established aftersales service and general product support? Partnering with a provider who remains involved and engaged after the purchase, like GCE does, will ensure your equipment is well maintained and operating to its fullest potential, which will ultimately maximise your uptime and significantly lower your total cost of ownership.