Correctional Facility Showers

Best Practices for Cleaning Correctional Facility Showers

Guidelines for Healthy, Sanitary Correctional Facility Showers

Showers areas of correctional facilities are of special importance when it comes to keeping a healthy, sanitary house. They see a lot of traffic when many high-contact areas which makes them highly susceptible to colonies of bacteria and viruses. They also tend to stay wet or humid which gives these pathogens a hospitable environment in which to grow. Fungi like ringworm and athlete’s foot are all too common in the showers of jails and prisons. It’s absolutely essential that janitorial crews meticulously clean these areas in order to maintain health. The following are some best practices for cleaning correctional facility showers.

Stock the Right Supplies

Cleaning correctional facility showers starts with having the right tools for the job. You’ll need a good all-purpose cleaner and disinfectant powerful enough to handle all the bacteria, viruses, and fungi that may be proliferating. Bioesque’s Botanical Disinfectant Solution kills 99.9% of bacteria in two minutes, 99.9% of fungi and molds in three minutes, and 99.9% of viruses in four minutes. It also features a 55-second kill-time against the SARS-CoV-2 virus (COVID-19). It’s a powerful, all-purpose solution capable of cleaning, sanitizing, and deodorizing all in one step.

Know Your Problem Spots

These are going to be your high-touch areas. Fixture handles, railings, any benches, and sinks are just a few examples. All of these areas see a lot of bare skin contact which makes them prime areas for the spread of pathogens. After taking care of these, turn your attention to the biggest high contact area of all: the floor. If possible, blast the floor with high pressure water to loosen any soils. Next, apply your cleaning and disinfectant solution and allow to dwell according to manufacturer’s directions.

A Smarter Way to Clean

Bioesque Solutions was founded on one simple principle: there must be a smarter way! We are a pioneer in the development and distribution of disinfectants and cleaning products. Bioesque Solutions specializes in bringing the benefits of nature to address the demanding and ever-changing needs of commercial customers across various industries, including correctional facilities, public transportation, health care, food service, janitorial, and restoration.

Avoiding Outbreaks in Correctional Facilities

Avoiding Outbreaks in Correctional Facilities

Cleaning to Avoid Outbreaks in Correctional Facilities

Correctional facility populations have exploded over the last four decades, from 500 thousand in 1980 to over 2 million in 2016. As a result, prisons and jails are being pushed to capacity. Compounding the issue is the fact that most inmates come from socioeconomic segments with limited access to healthcare. This means correctional facility populations have higher rates of physical and mental health issues than the general population. With existing health problems and a crowded population, it is essential to make cleaning a top priority to avoid outbreaks in correctional facilities.

 

Develop and Implement a Cleaning Plan

The nature of correctional facilities makes them a challenge to keep clean. In addition to the crowded population and turnover, facilities are also like cities unto themselves. There are classrooms, offices, infirmaries, kitchens and dining areas, and more. It requires careful planning and organization to make sure each area’s needs are being met in a safe and efficient manner. Many areas of correctional facilities are often cleaned by inmates, many of whom are inexperienced. Consider implementing a training program to make sure each task is done to spec.

Use Quality Supplies and Tools

Make sure supplies closets are stocked with quality supplies. Bioesque’s Botanical Disinfectant Solution kills 99.9% of bacteria in two minutes, 99.9% of fungi and molds in three minutes, and 99.9% of viruses in four minutes. It also features a 55-second kill-time against SARS-CoV-2 virus (COVID-19). It’s a powerful, app-purpose solution capable of cleaning, sanitizing, and deodorizing all in one step. Furthermore, it doesn’t require rinsing or the use of personal protective equipment.

Know the Difference Between Cleaning and Disinfecting

 While cleaning surfaces followed by disinfection is a best practice measure to prevent outbreaks in correctional facilities, there is a difference between the two. Cleaning can remove germs but primarily reduces surface dirt and other impurities where germs like to congregate and fester. Disinfecting actually kills the germs on surfaces and objects and this works best after surfaces are properly cleaned.

A Smarter Way to Clean

Bioesque Solutions was founded on one simple principle: there must be a smarter way! We are a pioneer in the development and distribution of disinfectants and cleaning products. Bioesque Solutions specializes in bringing the benefits of nature to address the demanding and ever-changing needs of commercial customers across various industries, including correctional facilities, public transportation, health care, food service, janitorial, and restoration.

Correctional Facility Kitchens

Improving Sanitation in Correctional Facility Kitchens

Keeping Correctional Facility Kitchens Clean and Safe

Keeping correctional facility kitchens clean is important to prevent an outbreak of foodborne illness in the facility’s population. However, solid cleaning practices and protocols can also greatly improve the safety of those working in the kitchen. It starts with quality products, getting organized, having a plan, and getting all workers on the same page. To this end, here are a few easy ideas for improving safety and sanitation in correctional facility kitchens.

Get the Right Supplies for the Job

Keeping a clean kitchen starts with having the right supplies for the job. First, invest in a good all-purpose cleaner and disinfectant that’s safe for food service. Bioesque’s Botanical Disinfectant Solution kills 99.9% of bacteria, viruses, fungi, and molds and cleans, disinfects, and deodorizes all in one step. Furthermore, it’s safe for use on food contact surfaces with no rinse required. You’ll also need a good heavy duty degreaser for the tough grease and oil buildup that’s so common in kitchens. Finally, make sure your mops, brooms, and buckets are durable and in good condition, and don’t hesitate to replace them as needed.

Get the Supply Closet Organized

Having a well-lit, well-organized supply closet means everyone can find and will use the right products for the job. Additionally, it will discourage the proliferation of pests. However, take your organization to the next level by color-coding your supplies. For example, red towels and buckets could be for vegetable prep areas while blue would be used for dining area cleanup. The purpose is to reduce the risk of cross-contamination.

Have a Plan and the Team to Carry It Out

Grills, prep areas, floors, dishes – at the end of the shift, everything needs to be cleaned. As a result, that means every worker needs to chip in. Assign each a task and make sure everyone knows what’s expected of them. This will ensure that nothing gets missed and your kitchen is spotless at the end of every shift.

A Smarter Way to Clean

Bioesque Solutions was founded on one simple principle: there must be a smarter way! We are a pioneer in the development and distribution of disinfectants and cleaning products. Bioesque Solutions specializes in bringing the benefits of nature to address the demanding and ever-changing needs of commercial customers across various industries, including correctional facilities, public transportation, health care, food service, janitorial, and restoration

Deep Cleaning a Correctional Facility

Deep Cleaning a Correctional Facility

Deep Cleaning a Correctional Facility Presents a Particular Set of Challenges

The challenge of deep cleaning a correctional facility lies in the wide variety of tasks at hand as well as the special circumstances of the work. Jails and prisons consist of cells, offices, break areas, showers, kitchens, dining areas, and more. Each area presents its own necessities and particular set of challenges. Add to that the secured and restricted elements of the job and it’s clear that cleaning jails and prisons require a bit of planning. Here are a few tips on deep cleaning a correctional facility.

Coordinate with the Correctional Officers

Before deep cleaning a correctional facility, it is absolutely essential to coordinate with the correctional officers. They know the inmates, the schedule, and how the jail operates so they’re your best resource for designing a place that’s both safe and efficient. With their help, you can devise a plan that will maximize the downtime of each area of the facility.

Stock, Check, and Re-Check

Again, this is a matter of logistics. In other cleaning jobs, say an office building, forgetting to bring enough disinfectant means a quick trip back to the truck. However, cleaning a correctional facility means secured areas and limited time to take care of them. As a result, it’s wise to make sure you’re stocked up beforehand and have everything you need. Your supplies will vary depending on your needs but here are a list of a few helpful items:

It’s also very important that you coordinate with the corrections officers to have them check your inventory on the way in and the way out of the facility to make sure nothing gets left behind.

A Smarter Way to Clean

Bioesque Solutions was founded on one simple principle: there must be a smarter way! We are a pioneer in the development and distribution of disinfectants and cleaning products. Bioesque Solutions specializes in bringing the benefits of nature to address the demanding and ever-changing needs of commercial customers across various industries, including correctional facilities, public transportation, health care, food service, janitorial, and restoration.

property management cleaning products

Restoration Tips for Property Managers

Property management of multi-family residences is a full-time job. Rent must be collected, repairs made, neighbor disputes resolved…the list is seemingly endless. On top of this, the property manager is often the first contact in the event of a disaster, which is a huge responsibility. In these cases, it’s best to make detailed records when possible and contact the appropriate professionals. However, preventative measures and post-cleanup work fall back to the property manager. Here are some restoration tips to keep your buildings safe and looking brand new.

Water Damage Restoration

Water damage can be an absolute disaster for property managers and owners. Tenants are displaced, causing a loss of revenue, and it can cause permanent structure damage and mold growth if it’s not taken care of quickly and efficiently. The first concern, then, in the case of water damage is to act fast and call trusted professionals. It may be tempting to take on the project yourself in an effort to save on cost. However, for example, that water that seems to be gone from the flooring has most likely seeped in somewhere underneath. Furthermore, it will continue to weaken the structure of your property, threaten the electrical system, and create an environment hospitable to mold growth until it’s properly dried. The dollars you save on the front end could easily multiply in cost down the road.

Mold Remediation and Restoration

Once everything is probably dried, you may want to consider a good mold resistant coating to prevent the proliferation of fungi. Bioesque’s Mold Resistant Coating is available in clear and white finishes and features an EPA-registered fungicide in a 100% acrylic water-based coating to ensure long-term protection. It’s also worth considering as you’re restoring a property in between tenants. Mold can be a health hazard for residents and can cause litigation problems for you down the line. Know the signs of mold, for example dark colored grouting or dark spots on the wall. Be sure to sanitize after a move-out inspection. Bioesque’s Botanical Disinfectant Solution kills 99.9% of mold in just three minutes of dwell-time. Meanwhile, our Mold and Mildew Stain Remover can take care of unsightly spots once the area has been properly disinfected. In the case of a large outbreak, again, it’s best to call in professionals.

Fire Damage Restoration

Fire is another nightmare when it comes to property management. The structural damage, the water damage that follows, and soot residue are all costly and disrupt lives. Like water damage restoration, the best thing you can do is act quickly and leave the work of rebuilding to trusted professionals. However, even after the pros leave, you may be left with units that continue to smell like smoke. The Bioesque Smoke & Odor Encapsulant is a water based protective coating that can be used to paint over existing fire and smoke damage on most surfaces to eliminate odors and block stains. Our advanced odor encapsulants treat malodors at the source and prevent them from ever returning.

A Safer Way to Clean

Cleaning chemicals like bleach, chlorine, and ammonia are very effective, but come with an added cost: they’re harsh, toxic, and terrible for the environment. Bioesque Solutions was founded on the principle that there must be a safer way to clean without sacrificing the power of these chemicals. With a formula that is free of bleach and other harsh chemicals, Bioesque’s full range of cleaning products is a great choice for hazard-conscious or environmentally sensitive settings.

Property Management Checklist

Property Management Between Tenants: A Checklist

A Transition Checklist for Property Management

Handling the transition from old tenants to new ones can be one of the toughest and most time-consuming jobs a property manager faces. Even with years of experience managing multi-family residences, a change in tenancy always seems to bring new challenges. To make things easier, we’ve compiled a checklist for property management between tenants.

Show Up for the Move-Out Inspection

Being there in person for a tenant’s move-out inspection can save on hassles and headaches down the road. This can minimize haggling with property damage disputes and help you to avoid paying for repairs you weren’t responsible for. And remember to pick up all sets of keys!

Take Plenty of Pics

Along with being present for the move-out inspection, this is your best way to defend yourself against damage disputes. It’s also a good way to keep track of the appearance of your property over time and see how things are trending.

Double Check the Utilities

Assuming that residents closed their utility accounts can be a problem for you down the road. Make it part of the move-out process to receive proof of closed accounts or consider retaining control of utilities and charging tenants with their rent.

Take Care of the Walls

Walls are bare when a new tenant moves in so dings and scuffs leap out at them and look terrible. Patching and painting walls are one of the simplest and most cost-effective ways of keeping a unit looking fresh and increasing its appeal to potential residents.

Give the Plumbing a Once Over and Respond Accordingly

This is possibly the single most important step you can take to ensure your property’s wellbeing and save on costs in the future. Make sure you check the plumbing in each unit thoroughly and make all necessary repairs. Leaks and floods can turn into disasters for multiple units in a short period of time.

Stay on Top of the Landscaping

This should be routine but it’s important enough to mention here. The property’s landscaping is the first impression for prospective tenants, so regularly scheduled visits from a professional landscaping company are a good investment. It will also keep you in line with local ordinances and help you avoid violations and fines.

Make a Decision on Carpeting

After tenants move out, it’s time to either replace the carpets or clean them. If you opt for the latter, Bioesque Carpet Cleaners feature an eco-friendly deep cleaning formula that effectively removes tough spots and stains while simultaneously deodorizing.

The Deep Clean

Make sure you have a detailed checklist covering the entire process to make sure nothing gets missed. Do a walkthrough, clean, and then do another and clean again, paying special attention to the kitchen and bathrooms. Bioesque’s Botanical Disinfectant Solution is an all-purpose formula capable of cleaning and disinfecting in one step without the use of personal protective equipment.

A Safer Way to Clean

Cleaning chemicals like bleach, chlorine, and ammonia are very effective, but come with an added cost: they’re harsh, toxic, and terrible for the environment. Bioesque Solutions was founded on the principle that there must be a safer way to clean without sacrificing the power of these chemicals. With a formula that is free of bleach and other harsh chemicals, Bioesque’s full range of cleaning products is a great choice for hazard-conscious or environmentally sensitive settings.

Common Cleaning Pitfalls

Common Cleaning Pitfalls for Property Managers

Be Upfront with Your Tenants and Avoid These Common Cleaning Pitfalls

It’s usually the tenants’ responsibility to give the unit a thorough cleaning when they move out. However, most of their attention is focused on moving their belongings, so this can sometimes fall by the wayside. Another instance is when residents spend time cleaning but don’t get a deposit back because the property manager wasn’t clear about their expectations. These headaches can be avoided by being upfront with tenants about their responsibilities upon moving out. Offer them a checklist detailing everything you expect of them to make the transition as smooth as possible. The following is a list of common cleaning pitfalls for property managers. Use it to help compile your move-out checklist as well as a cleaning guide before showing a unit to potential residents.

Stay on Top of the Property’s Condition with Pictures

Make sure to do a complete walkthrough of the property before a new tenant moves in and document everything with pictures. This protects both you and the new tenant. The photos can easily solve any disputes that may arise later and provide you with a bigger picture of how the property is trending.

Don’t Forget the Windows

These are often a problem area with tenants moving out. Additionally, prospective residents often check here when moving into a place to get an idea of overall cleanliness. It’s a detail you don’t want to miss. Be sure to check the windowsill for dead bugs and dust and make sure the windows are spotless.

Remember the Baseboards

Another problem spot. Dirt and dust just seem to gravitate to these so be sure to check them and give them a good wipedown before new residents tour the unit. It can make a world of difference.

Clean the Oven

The kitchen is one of the first places potential tenants will check during the walkthrough and opening up the oven to find grease and burnt food can ruin the deal. Buy some oven cleaner and make sure the oven looks brand new.

Check and Double-Check for Mold

Mold can endanger the health of residents and bring up litigation issues for property managers. When you’re doing your walk-through, be on the lookout for mold, especially in bathrooms. If you do find a small outbreak, clean the area with a good disinfectant. Bioesque’s Botanical Disinfectant Solution kills 99.9% of mold after just three minutes. You may also want to consider treating problem areas with Mold Resistant Coating.

Take Care of the Carpets

Carpets should be shampooed at the very least. Bioesque Carpet Cleaners feature an eco-friendly deep cleaning formula that effectively removes tough spots and stains while simultaneously deodorizing.

Clean and Disinfect Bathrooms and Kitchens

These areas are the benchmarks upon which the cleanliness of your unit will be judged. Make sure they’re spotless and sanitized. Bioesque’s Botanical Disinfectant Solution is an all-purpose ready-to-use cleaner that’s capable of cleaning, disinfecting, and deodorizing in just one step.

Make the Appliances Shine

While you’re in the kitchen, take an extra moment to make the appliances look brand new. The Bioesque Stainless Steel Cleaner & Polish easily eliminates fingerprints, streaks and smudges with our non-abrasive, non-toxic and biodegradable formula.

A Safer Way to Clean

Cleaning chemicals like bleach, chlorine, and ammonia are very effective, but come with an added cost: they’re harsh, toxic, and terrible for the environment. Bioesque Solutions was founded on the principle that there must be a safer way to clean without sacrificing the power of these chemicals. With a formula that is free of bleach and other harsh chemicals, Bioesque’s full range of cleaning products is a great choice for hazard-conscious or environmentally sensitive settings.

multifamily cleaning products

Spring Cleaning Checklist for Property Managers

A Spring Cleaning Checklist for Your Multi-Family Residence

Spring is the season when new life begins again with everything turning green as the temperatures start to rise. It also marks the time of year when everyone gets rid of the clutter and gives everything a good once over by spring cleaning. Property managers can look at this time of year as an opportunity to make sure their properties are in the best condition they can be. With this in mind, here is a spring cleaning checklist for property managers.

Consider Starting a Newsletter

A newsletter is a good way to build a sense of community in your multi-family residences, helping tenants to feel included and that you care. It’s also a way keep them informed about any changes that you’re making to the property, including any construction or inconveniences in the weeks to come. By the same token, it’s a chance to open the dialogue and let them know you’re available for any concerns they may have. When the community sees you putting this kind of effort into your properties, they are much more likely to match it.

Make a Good First Impression

When people are talking about your properties, one of the first images that will pop into their heads is your signage and entryways. Those signs and gates are also the first the prospective residents see when they come to tour a unit. This spring, take a little extra time to make sure all signage is repaired and clean, the gates are in good shape, the front landscaping is cared for, etc.

Safety First

Things like fire extinguishers, smoke and carbon monoxide alarm batteries, and burglary alarms often need to be checked at least once a year. This spring, talk a walk around the property and make sure everything has been inspected and supplied with fresh batteries. Filters and fans often need to be cleaned and replaced, too, so make sure those are also on your list. A few extra moments of preventative measures and maintenance can save a lot of headache and heartache down the road.

Make Sure to Stock Up on Supplies

Spring is a busy time of year for property managers as many people are moving during this time. Walls need to be patched and painted, carpets need to be cleaned or replaced, kitchens and bathrooms need to be spotless and sanitized. Keep a regular inventory and make sure your supply closets are stocked. Bioesque Solutions offers a complete range of cleaning and restoration products like our Botanical Disinfectant Solution, Mold Resistant Coating, Carpet Cleaner, and more. Bioesque Solutions was founded on the principle that there must be a safer way to clean – while still delivering powerful, professional-grade results.

Cleaning and Disinfecting Product Guidelines

Cleaning and Disinfecting Products Guidelines for Public Transit

Guidelines for Choosing the Right Cleaning and Disinfecting Products

A few months into the Coronavirus pandemic, the America Public Transportation Association issued guidelines for cleaning and disinfecting vehicles and facilities to combat the spread of COVID-19. As companies became more efficient in carrying out these various tasks, and as public awareness about the spread of germs increased, many of these practices became the new normal. As we move into a post-COVID era, customers still want to know that companies are doing everything they can to keep them safe. This article will go over some of the highlights of the aforementioned cleaning and disinfecting products guidelines to ensure your riders and employees are healthy and happy.

Cleaning Products

The APTA recommends that cleaning products be “non-toxic and selected with the intent of cleaning away all dirt, grime and debris from surfaces ahead of the disinfection process”. Cleaning and disinfection are actually a two-part process. Cleaning away the debris prior to disinfection clears away those areas in which pathogens tend to congregate and fester. Once this is done, disinfection becomes more efficient. The APTA also discourages the use of dry cleaning methods as sweepers and vacuums cause infectious particles to become airborne.

Disinfecting Products

The guidelines state that “transit agencies use disinfectant pesticides registered with the EPA and specifically formulated to mitigate against virus transmission”. They also go on to mention the EPA’s List N as a resource. The EPA expects these registered products to “kill all strains and variants of the coronavirus SARS-CoV-2 (COVID-19) when used according to label directions”. Bioesque’s Botanical Disinfectant Solution, included on List N, is a ready-to-use all-purpose solution. It is capable of cleaning, disinfecting, and deodorizing in one step. Furthermore, it is botanically derived, free of bleach and other harsh chemicals. This makes it a great choice for hazard-conscious or environmentally sensitive settings

A Safer Way to Clean

Bioesque Solutions was founded on one simple principle: there must be a safer way! Little did we know when we first started this journey that safer could also be better. We are a pioneer in the development and distribution of our naturally occurring, botanically based disinfectant and other cleaning products. Bioesque Solutions specializes in bringing the benefits of nature to address the demanding and ever-changing needs of commercial customers across various industries, including public transportation, health care, food service, janitorial, and restoration.

Disinfecting Public Transit

Best Practices in Disinfecting Public Transit Systems

The Size and Scope of Public Transit Systems

When we think of public transit, we immediately think of the vehicles. However, we also need to take into account our facilities: the buses and train stations, ticketing areas, restrooms, waiting areas, restaurants and concession areas, and so on. With so many passengers coming in and out every day, any one of these places can become a hotspot for pathogens. That’s why it’s absolutely essential to have everyone on the same page, pitching in, and moving forward together to ensure the safety of riders and employees. Here are some best practices for disinfecting public transit systems.

Create a Daily Checklist

To tackle such a large area, companies and organizations should perform a detailed walkthrough of every facility and vehicle that receives traffic, either by passenger or employee. Make special note of those areas that are high-touch surfaces. These will include countertops, door handles, railing, seats, restroom fixtures, and more. Be sure that these areas are disinfected several times a day, including at the end of each shift, and that each gets checked off.

All Hands On Deck and On the Same Page

The size of public transit operations means that everyone has to be aware of the goals and doing their part to reach them. Even the best janitorial staffs can only do so much. If everyone is pitching in, this will free them up to handle the bigger and more difficult jobs more efficiently.

Choosing the Right Disinfecting Products

There are hundreds of disinfecting products on the market. How can someone be sure they’re choosing the right one for the job? One resource is the EPA’s List N. Quoted from the EPA’s website, the “EPA expects all products on List N to kill all strains and variants of the coronavirus SARS-CoV-2 (COVID-19) when used according to label directions.” Bioesque’s Botanical Disinfectant Solution is included on the list and features a 55-second kill time against SARS-CoV-2 (COVID-19). It also kills 99.9% of bacteria in two minutes, 99.9% of fungi and molds in three minutes, and 99.9% of viruses in four minutes.

A Safer Way for Cleaning and Disinfecting Public Transit Systems

Bioesque Solutions was founded on one simple principle: there must be a safer way! Little did we know when we first started this journey that safer could also be better. We are a pioneer in the development and distribution of our naturally occurring, botanically based disinfectant and other cleaning products. Bioesque Solutions specializes in bringing the benefits of nature to address the demanding and ever-changing needs of commercial customers across various industries, including public transportation, health care, food service, janitorial, and restoration.

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