What to Look For in an Industrial Cleaning Company

Time to find an industrial cleaning company: where to start?

If you need industrial cleaning services on site, finding the right cleaning company can be a daunting task. Especially if you have a big job that needs doing, how do you decide who to trust to get it right? 

There are several factors that should influence your decision on who to contact for an industrial cleaning quote. We’ve noticed trends over our many years in business about the main areas that customers are concerned with when hiring an industrial cleaning contractor. 

This guide provides practical advice to help you evaluate your options and make an informed decision. 

Here are some factors that you should take into consideration when searching for a cleaning company. Of course, every industrial site is different and will require different things, so it’s important to find the right company for you. 

1. Look for their industry expertise and experience

A simple and obvious point to start. Does the cleaning company have experience in your type of industry? Whether it’s food production, chemical manufacturing, pharmaceutical manufacturing, etc- different sectors will need different types of cleaning or different levels of regulatory compliance. It’s important to find a company that has worked in your industrial sector and has the right experience. 

2. Do they offer the services you need?

Industrial cleaning goes beyond wiping surfaces. There are many different methods and types of equipment used in industrial cleaning. Even if you have a problem and you don’t know what type of cleaning you need, make sure that the industrial cleaning company clearly states the types of cleaning and services they offer.

Of course, if you’re unsure of what you need, get in touch. A good industrial cleaning company should help you through the process and be able to offer a solution that works for your situation. This could include a test patch or samples to ensure the right cleaning method. 

3. Location, location, location

Of course, partnering with a local industrial cleaning company is going to incur less costs than a company who is based across the country, who will have travel and accommodation costs. 

However, there are also many benefits to looking further afield. Depending on the type of cleaning you need, there may be the need for a more specialist approach. This narrows the potential net of companies who are capable of getting the job done, so hiring a company that works nationwide mitigates this limitation.

4. Check for flexibility and customisation

Every factory is different. A one-size-fits-all approach won’t cut it. Look for a cleaning provider that takes the time to understand your facility’s layout, production schedule, health and safety needs and any site-specific considerations. The right company will tailor their cleaning plan to minimise downtime and disruption. 

5. References, reviews and case studies

A solid company will be happy to provide testimonials or have case studies for you to explore. They should also be happy to connect you with past clients.

6. Consider cost, but don’t compromise on quality, logistics or a better cleaning method

While budget constraints are real, and often there are many people involved in making a decision, the cheapest option isn’t always the best one. Cheaper companies can lead to subpar results, hidden costs down the line or shortcuts with Health & Safety. Instead, focus on value for money. Look for detailed quotes that clearly outline what’s included in the price, so you’re not caught off guard. 

Some companies may also suggest a different working method that works better for your site or particular situation. For instance, planning to use MEWPs instead of fixed scaffolds (for the mobility benefits), or offering a logistically better solution to prevent disruption on site. 

7. Training and accreditation

Safety is obviously paramount in industrial settings. Ensure the cleaning company holds employee and site safety in high regard by both meeting and exceeding relevant regulations. They should provide training certificates for their team, relevant accreditations and detailed Risk Assessments and Safe Systems of Work.

8. Ability to schedule a site visit or sample test patch

When you have been impressed by a company that meets all of the above, it’s worth getting in touch. Before committing, it’s best to invite potential cleaning providers to visit your site. This helps them assess your needs and propose an appropriate cleaning plan. 

Ensure that you are appointed a designated Operations Manager who will project manage the job from start to finish, which also gives you a direct point of contact for easy communication. 

If your job is a bit more complicated, it may be prudent to organise a sample or cleaning trial to ensure that the correct method or chemical can be found. This allows both yourself and the company to be confident that the job will produce the right result before committing to the whole project.