Building cleaning
In the context of buildings, cleaning refers to the regular removal of dust, dirt, waste, and contaminants from a building's interior and exterior spaces, fixtures, and systems, ensuring they remain safe, hygienic, functional, and presentable. It is a core part of facilities management and building operations and applies to all types of buildings—commercial offices, schools, hospitals, housing, industrial premises, and public buildings.
Reason for cleaning include:
- Health and hygiene. Reduces the spread of bacteria, viruses, mould, and allergens, supporting occupant health.
- Safety. Removes trip hazards, spills, and dust build-up that could cause slips, falls, or fires.
- Aesthetic appeal. Maintains a clean, professional, and welcoming environment for occupants and visitors.
- Preservation of Assets. Protects surfaces, furnishings, and building fabric from deterioration caused by dirt or grime.
- Productivity and wellbeing. Clean environments improve occupant morale, wellbeing, and work efficiency.
- Compliance. Ensures compliance with workplace health and safety laws (e.g., COSHH, Health and Safety at Work Act).
- Reputation management. A visibly clean building enhances the reputation of businesses or landlords.
- Pest control. Prevents infestations of rodents or insects by removing food waste and hiding places.
- Operational efficiency. Regular cleaning reduces the need for more intensive maintenance or repairs.
- Sustainability. Sustainable cleaning practices reduce water, energy use, and chemical consumption.
Articles about cleaning on Designing Buildings include:
- Chemical cleaning
- Cleaning brickwork, faience and terracotta
- Cleaning concrete
- Cleaning masonry
- Cleaning up air quality and the Environment Act 2021
- Concrete Patio Cleaning: Tips and Techniques
- Don’t Look Down! – Skyscraper window cleaning through the ages
- Facade cleaning
- How to clean the concrete pump
- Keeping chimneys and flues clean
- Membrane separation cleaning chemicals
- Professional home based window cleaning services
- Self-cleaning glass
- Training for pre-commissioning cleaning of pipework systems
- Window cleaning services using pure water
NB The term 'clean' can also be used to refer to sustainable technologies, such as clean energy.
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