The logistics industry, including the essential role of logistics cleaning, is the backbone of the UK economy, ensuring the smooth flow of goods and services. But amidst the hustle and bustle of warehouses, distribution centres, and transportation hubs, maintaining impeccable hygiene can easily take a backseat. This oversight can lead to various problems, from health and safety hazards to decreased overall productivity. According to HSE Statistics (Health and Safety Executive), the transport and storage sector has a higher than average rate of work-related ill health, indicating potential hygiene issues contributing to these illnesses.
At TC Facility Management Ltd (TCFM), we have decades of experience with the unique challenges faced by UK logistics companies and warehouse environments. Drawing on our national cleaning services for the country’s largest logistics operations, our teams identify three common cleaning mistakes that can potentially hinder your logistics operations and, most importantly, how to avoid them.
High Traffic Area Cleaning
Warehouses and distribution centres are dynamic environments with constantly moving goods, people, and parcels. Forklifts, pallet trucks, and foot traffic generate dust, debris, and tyre marks, especially in high traffic zones such as docks, aisles, and staging areas. Neglecting these areas can lead to:
- Increased accidents: Slippery surfaces from spills or accumulated dust increases the risk of slips, trips, and falls, posing a significant threat to colleague safety.
- Compromised inventory: Dust and debris can damage sensitive goods, especially electronics, pharmaceuticals, and food products, leading to costly losses.
- Reduced efficiency: Cluttered aisles and workspaces hinder smooth operations, impacting productivity and order fulfilment times.
How TCFM Can Help:
- Implement a zoned cleaning strategy: Divide your facility into zones based on traffic and usage, with high traffic areas receiving more frequent cleaning and attention.
- Use specialised cleaning equipment: TCFM’s Innovations Forum keeps us at the forefront of identifying the most efficient modern technologies, from industrial grade sweepers and diamond polishing scrubbers to modern high spec vacuums.
- Schedule regular deep cleans: To keep your areas extra clean, we recommend scheduling monthly deep cleans. This helps sanitize those hard-to-reach areas and prevents build-up over time.
Logistics Health and Safety
The logistics sector is subject to stringent health and safety regulations, including the Workplace (Health, Safety and Welfare) Regulations 1992 and the Control of Substances Hazardous to Health (COSHH) Regulations 2002. Failing to comply with these regulations can result in:
- Heavy fines and penalties: Noncompliance can lead to significant financial penalties and legal repercussions.
- Reputational damage: Health and safety breaches can tarnish your company’s reputation and affect customer trust.
- Increased colleague absenteeism: Poor hygiene can contribute to the spread of illness, leading to increased sick leave and decreased productivity.
How TCFM Can Help:
- Compliance: TCFM’s QHSE team ensures compliance with the Workplace (Health, Safety, and Welfare) Regulations 1992 and COSHH Regulations 2002 by conducting regular audits, risk assessments, and policy reviews. They also develop detailed Toolbox Talks and training plans to ensure our colleagues adhere to all relevant regulations.
- Colleague Incident Reporting: TCFM utilise a smart QHSE reporting system that allows our colleagues to implement robust incident reporting and investigation processes to identify root causes and prevent recurrence. This system also allows for anonymous reporting as we uphold a strong and positive incident reporting culture.
- Hygiene Standards: Our teams create a comprehensive plan detailing cleaning procedures, ensuring every step is clearly documented. This plan serves as the foundation for all related training and risk assessments, which are carefully designed and aligned to support its implementation
Logistics Cleaning Products and Methods
Different surfaces and materials require specific cleaning agents and techniques. Using incorrect products or methods can:
- Damage sensitive equipment: Harsh chemicals can corrode metal surfaces, damage electronic components, and degrade flooring materials.
- Reduce the lifespan of assets: Improper cleaning can accelerate wear and tear on equipment and infrastructure, leading to premature replacements and increased costs.
- Create environmental hazards: Incorrect disposal of cleaning chemicals can harm the environment and violate environmental regulations.
How TCFM Can Help:
- Conduct a thorough site assessment: Identify the different surfaces and materials within your facility to determine the appropriate cleaning agents and methods.
- Source ecofriendly cleaning products: Choose environmentally responsible cleaning solutions that are safe for your colleagues, your assets, and the environment.
- Partner with TCFM, a specialist cleaning provider : TCFM has the expertise to select the right cleaning products and implement effective specialised cleaning strategies tailored to your specific needs.
TCFM: Your Partner in Logistics Cleaning
At TCFM, we go beyond basic cleaning. We provide comprehensive facility management solutions designed to optimise your logistics operations, enhance safety, and improve efficiency. Our services include:
- Bespoke cleaning solutions: Tailored to your specific requirements, ensuring optimal hygiene and compliance.
- Highly trained cleaning colleagues: Equipped with the apparatus, skills and knowledge to deliver exceptional results.
- Sustainable cleaning practices: Minimising environmental impact using ecofriendly products and methods.
- Integrated security solutions: Combining cleaning with security services for a cost-efficient approach to facility management.
Ready to Improve Your Logistics Cleaning?
Contact TCFM today for a no obligation consultation and discover how our expert cleaning and security services can benefit your business.