An exclusive interview with General Manager Katja von Raven underlines Rubbermaid’s commitment to supporting the healthcare cleaning sector
Keeping a healthcare environment clean is of paramount importance to the safety and wellbeing of patients. Manufacturers of cleaning equipment have realised their significant role in providing the healthcare industry with the right tools for keeping a hospital environment clean. Katja von Raven, sheds some more light on how leading manufacturers see this vital area of responsibility where cleaning has to help in infection control.
How does Rubbermaid see the needs of the healthcare sector with respect to cleaning issues?
The need for hygiene is increasing everywhere in the world and in every facility that we go into. From the hygiene perspective, we would rather not touch anything and a touch-free washroom would be ideal, but healthcare has needs beyond that. Healthcare is not just about hygiene, about looking clean, being clean but about killing bacteria and making the environment safe for the patient. The worst thing that can happen in a hospital is for someone to get sicker due to hospital acquired infections.
Are nosocomial illnesses (hospital acquired infections) a global problem? It happens all over the world, which demonstrates it’s not a specific hygiene problem, pertaining to only a less hygienic environment. The problem persists in advanced countries as well with highly developed hygienic systems, though the problem is compounded in lesser developed nations with poor hygiene. The US can be considered a leader in terms of hygiene, but it has the same issues with people being admitted to hospitals and coming out sicker and dying through infections. Hence, Rubbermaid has identified the need for specific systems to remove bacteria, where the environment does not only look clean, but is clean from a bacteria-free perspective.
Why cannot hospitals control the spread of nosocomial illnesses?
There are different elements to a hospital environment: cleanliness of the actual structure of the building, which includes the ceiling, floors walls, etc; personal and hand hygiene of the nursing staff and doctors; and the sterility of the actual medical instruments.
Having sterile tools is a standard almost all over the world, leaving out a few developing countries. With regard to hand hygiene, a stringent protocol has to be in place with frequent hand washing, use of the right type of hand sanitiser and the right type of hand drying method. Last but not the least, is the removal of bacteria on the surfaces which falls under cleaning protocols.
Even if all three protocols are followed stringently, you can dramatically reduce the risks throughout the environment. It is a lot easier for hospitals to control hand hygiene and instrument sterilizing protocols which is generally not the case for surface cleaning protocols. General cleaning of the hospital building is mostly outsourced to a cleaning contractor, which makes it harder for hospitals to control that element and make the contractor actually perform.
What are the challenges to be faced when a hospital outsources to a cleaning contractor?
There are companies just trying to cut cost and provide the cheapest possible service vis-à-vis very premium companies using very stringent protocols and wanting to maintain and build high standards. The problem can be solved if the specifications match. The hospitals have to be specific on setting a high standard of cleaning and be willing to pay the premium price for high quality service. If a hospital is going to contract a cheap company, then they are going to get sub-standard service quality with non-appropriate material, non-use of protocols, high staff turnover, untrained staff, etc.
However, at Rubbermaid, we follow a policy of imparting proper training on the use of our products. As product developers, we are probably the right people to train others on their use. If all protocols are followed, you will leave an environment behind that is 99.9 percent germ-free.
Do you have a structure in the Middle East where you can impart training?
Yes we do. For instance, our office in Dubai does have a training facility. Rubbermaid believes in the ‘snowball’ effect where training is concerned. We identify the ‘key drivers’ within the cleaning contractors’ workforce and train them. He/she could be the head of the cleaning staff or the hospital nurse, who in turn will train the rest of their staff on a regular basis.
Do you charge the cleaning contractor for training?
If a contractor has won a contract for cleaning a hospital and if he is committed to our healthcare solutions, then he gets the training along with our products as a package deal. We also offer a DVD on training separately for those who need to know the right cleaning protocols in a healthcare setting. We have recently started this scheme in the US and want to take it to other regions as well.
Is the awareness low on the right cleaning protocol?
You could say that the awareness is low, but the real problem is the matching of the solutions with the needs, which is difficult for the end-user to understand. The user could turn to the distributor for help but a hospital environment is so specialized that proper training is required.
Every surface has a special need to be dealt with. For instance, the operation room requires a different cleaning procedure from the hallway, which is different from the reception. In the operation room, they have a cleaning procedure after each surgery and the end of the day; they are obliged to clean all surfaces, the ceilings, walls, floor, the beds, the instruments, in fact, every single surface.
Different cleaning tools are required for different surfaces like ceilings, walls and for cleaning up after an operation. It
is important for the manufacturer to recognize the needs of the end user and give him the training that goes with the product.
Rubbermaid products
at Interclean
For the healthcare environment
Rubbermaid Commercial Products and Technical Concepts showcased their products side-by-side at a European trade show for the first time at ISSA Interclean since RCP’s acquisition of TC in 2008.
The new Rubbermaid Hygen System, a microfibre cleaning system designed for proven performance in the healthcare environments was launched at Interclean. The system includes textiles for dry and wet microfiber cleaning. The Hygen microfibre material is capable of trapping and holding 95 percent of bacterial micro organisms and can withstand up to 500 launders under normal conditions, and 200 launders with bleach. The system also has the patent-pending Flexi Frame, which adapts to the shape of the cleaning surface, and Quick-Connect Handles and Poles, make hard-to-reach areas easier to clean, saving time and money.
Environmentally sustainable solutions
The Rubbermaid Web Foot Shrinkless Wet Mops, a sustainable and launderable 4-ply wet mops were introduced at Interclean. Complying with a growing industry need for environmentally-friendly products, Web Foot is made of fully recycled materials. Featuring a balanced blend of cotton and synthetic yarn, Web Foot Mops are able to withstand repeated launders without shrinkage. The Web Foot Mops’ antimicrobial protection inhibits the growth of bacterium that cause odours and stains.
Innovative washroom
technology
Rubbermaid Commercial Products and Technical Concepts showcased automated washroom dispensing technology that eliminates the need to touch potentially unclean surfaces. The automatic sensors that trigger controlled dispensing help to control consumption, improve operational efficiency and reduce cross contamination. The AutoFoam Soap system provides reliable metered dispensing using box-free refill pouches that reduce packaging waste by up to 80% over standard bag-in-box systems.
Programming technology using micro-chip circuitry allows dispensers to be programmed at timed intervals, with optional visual and audible warning indicators providing an alert to battery and refill replacement requirements. The Microburst Duet - a new duel refill air freshening system designed to deliver high-impact odour controlling fragrance.
The TCell™ Air Care system pioneered the use of alternative power technology to deliver continuous air freshening and odour control.
Recycling solutions
The new Element Indoor Recycling Stations, containing centralised collection points for multi-stream waste and recycling. Available in one, two, three, or four waste-stream configurations, Element Indoor Recycling Stations offer a versatile option for almost any recycling requirement. In the four-stream configuration, the Element products can hold up to 266 litres of waste and recyclable materials at any one time. Made of post-consumer recycled material, Element Indoor Recycling Stations are fully recyclable when they reach the end of their usable life.
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UK’s Care Quality Commission releases report on NHS performance ratings
Report shows improvement in compliance with hygiene code and reductions in MRSA and C. Difficle; Cleaning and Support Services Association urges NHS to use its expertise to improve cleaning
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Transguard signs housekeeping contract with Radisson Blu Hotel and Park Inn on Abu Dhabi’s Yas Island
UAE-based Transguard Group, part of the Emirates Group Company, has signed a housekeeping contract with the newly-opened Radisson Blu Hotel and Park Inn on Yas Island in Abu Dhabi.
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Total Care Cleaning: Serving the challenging retail environment at Mirdif City Centre
Clean Middle East finds out how a contract cleaning company can provide valuable cleaning support to a retail environment
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The Address Downtown Burj Dubai Laundry: a profit centre offering five-star quality service
Asfia Khan visits the laundry to see how it is able to offer quality service and also maintain profitability
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Tennant sponsors Climate Action platform
Tennant sponsors Climate Action platform
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Technical Chemical Laboratories wins Coral Group Middle East contract
Sanitation and hygiene products to be provided to all the hotels under the group in the Middle East
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Tasjeel to test and approve food transport vehicles for Dubai Municipality
Inspectors from the municipality’s Food Control Department will ensure that the vehicles adhere to the hygiene requirements depending on the types of food they transport.
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Speed Cleaning Company
Reacting just-in-time to changing
market forces
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Special cleaning equipment designed to clean the world’s tallest skyscraper
The maintenance teams faced the daunting task of cleaning 24,830 reflective glass panes to prepare the 828 feet Burj Khalifa for the opening
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Shamiana becomes UAE’s first Quick Service Restaurant to become Menu-Safe compliant
Shamiana, the flagship Indian Quick Service Restaurant (QSR) brand of Hotbrands
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Seven Stars-Buzil adopts go-green stance to cleaning
Sadhvi Sabherwal talks to Isabell Wagner, Managing Director of Buzil-Werk Wagner GmbH on Buzil’s Planta edition
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Serbot launches Gekko robot facade cleaning system
Robots slated to be cost-effective alternatives to traditional cleaning with the help of building maintenance units and abseilers
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Saudi Arabia’s King Saud hospital successfully deploys AiroCide air purifying technology
The NASA-developed AiroCide technology uses innovative various pathogen-killing techniques based primarily
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Saudi Arabia calls for stricter safety and quality standards in juice production
The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia (KSA) has called for stricter food safety and quality practices in the global juice manufacturing industry, according to local reports. .....
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Sage Sanitizing Wash receives Dubai Municipality’s seal of approval
Sage Sanitizing Systems offer cleaning, sanitizing and hygiene solutions for commercial and institutional facilities.
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Ras Al Khaimah’s Food Control Lab increases capacity
Inspections of supermarkets in Ras Al Khaimah are now more effective
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QInvest acquires stake in UAE’s Intercat Hospitality and Butlers Dry Cleaning and Laundry Services
QInvest acquires stake in UAE’s Intercat Hospitality and Butlers Dry Cleaning and Laundry Services
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Prime Automatic Laundry installs Abu Dhabi’s first tunnel washer
The laundry also has the UAE’s first hot oil boiler
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Nilfisk Advance: Advancing technology where green meets clean
Jorgen Jensen, President and CEO of the Nilfisk-Advance Group explains the group’s aim of providing sustainable, practical solutions that clean
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Newmatic launches Girbau’s new 6 Series washers
Available in two versions- HS and MS series, it combines innovation with a simple control system
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Newmatic brings the new PulseFlow technology for tunnel
Newmatic brings the new PulseFlow technology for tunnel washers to the Middle East
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New food safety law to come up in Egypt
Alexandria Chamber of Commerce holds lecture to provide more information on new food safety law
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New cleaning and hygiene products dominate FM and Hotel Show
The close nexus between the facilities management sector and the cleaning industry stems from the fact that cleaning is one of the important services provided by an FM service provider.
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MT Khoory appointed as distributor for Nilfisk-Advance sweepers
Nilfisk-Advance and MT Khoory & Sons Waste Management Division (MTK) have entered into an agreement to provide outdoor cleaning equipment in the UAE.
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Mobile Gastro Konzepte brings Delabie taps with kitchen applications to the region
Armani Hotel Dubai is first to install Delabie taps which are fitted with an anti-Legionella flush system to inhibit bacterial growth
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MBM wins massive contracts to clean schools and mosques in Abu Dhabi
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Lower cleaning cost with proper training
Asfia Khan speaks to Elizabeth Baumholzer, author of time studies conducted in Germany’s cleaning sector, shows how a little training can go a long way to create a more productive and cost-effective workforce
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Local HVAC system cleaning contractor achieves NADCA certification
Local contractor James Day of Smashing Cleaning Services has successfully completed the examination process to be certified as an Air Systems....
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LG launches new set of air purifiers
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Lack of food safety measures in Algeria leading to health hazards
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Kimberley Clark launches global green initiative
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Kiehl organizes workshop for cleaning professionals
Kiehl Middle East organized a workshop on 4-5 May, 2010 at the Crown Plaza Yas Island in Abu Dhabi. The two-day workshop was organized by Kiehl Middle East
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Kärcher’s cleaning
Equipment for industrial applications gaining ground
As Dubai continues to abound in warehouses and industries in the region continue to grow, Kärcher reports a 50 percent growth in this business field over a period of three years
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Kärcher launches new class of cold and hot water ultra high-pressure cleaners
The machines enable cleaning and renovating at 600 to 2500 bar pressure
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January 22 is deadline for Amsterdam ISSA
INTERCLEAN Innovation Award entries
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International Centre for Food Safety initiates distinctive food safety course with Canadian University of Dubai
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Intercare to supply Taylor Continental waste bins
Intercare to supply Taylor Continental waste bins
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Intercare takes on Dubai Metro challenge
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Innovative and ecological cleaning power from Gregomatic
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Hygienilac Middle East opens office to distribute new biocidal range
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Hospital cleaning:In-house versus outsourcing
Dr Sohayb Al-Niaimi (BDS, MSc) Vice President of
Sahba Technology Company talks about the pros and
cons of in-house cleaning versus contracting out, in
the third of a series of articles on hospital cleaning
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Holiday Inn Al Barsha awarded with HACCP system certificate
Holiday Inn Dubai - Al Barsha has been awarded the HACCP System certificate,
signifying that the hotel operates in line with the top health and hygiene
regulation for hospitality services.
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Hilton Dubai Jumeirah adopts JohnsonDiversey's Microfibre Cleaning System
The Jonmaster system triggered a reduction in water by six percent and chemical usage by 60 percent
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HEALTHCARE
Cost per user is
what matters most
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Heading towards sustainable growth of the laundry industry
As the laundry industry continues to remain
in the grip of market-driven factors,
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HACCP Menu-Safe system arrives in the UAE
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Green Technologies forms tie-up with
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Food safety training in the Middle East can now incorporate certified qualifications by HABC
The certified courses from HABC have been ratified by the Government of Dubai’s Knowledge and Human Development Authority (KHDA)
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Food Safety Conference to deliberate on enhancing food safety culture
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Food safety at the centre of Al Manzil and Qamardeen kitchen operations
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Excel International group launches environment-friendly facade cleaning solutions from Baudoin Wash-Systems, Netherlands
Clean Middle East attends the launch following week-long demonstrations across Dubai
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Epsco to launch Sebo’s Dart 3 vacuum cleaner in the Middle East market
Epsco to launch Sebo’s Dart 3 vacuum cleaner in the Middle East market
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Epsco organizes campaign to underline
Epsco organizes campaign to underline
importance of clean HVAC systems
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Emirates Model Building Maintenance opens new headquarters in Abu Dhabi
Emirates Model Building Maintenance (EMBM), a provider of total integrated facilities management solution, set up its new headquarters in Abu Dhabi.
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Elgin street sweepers deployed to keep Qatar clean
Elgin street sweepers deployed to keep Qatar clean
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Economic report lauds hospital cleaners and waste management staff
A study by UK’s New Economics Foundation quantifies the social, environmental and economic value of hospital cleaners and waste management staff
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Dulsco conducts food hygiene campaign for blue-collar employees
Dulsco, a UAE-based company offering human resource solutions and waste management services to customers in the UAE and Qatar
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Dubai’s Professional Housekeepers Group discusses sustainability with Diversey Gulf
Issues such as green check lists, waste management and recycling were discussed at the roundtable meeting held at The Palace, The Old Town hotel
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Dubai Taxi Corporation upgrades vehicle cleaning facility
New technology enables cleaning of 50 vehicles per day with the use of limited amounts of water
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Dubai Municipality uses GPS for food inspection operations
The Food Control Department of Dubai Municipality is currently using GPS devices
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Dubai Municipality updates inspection system for food institutions
In the framework of the efforts made by the Dubai Municipality to develop and raise the technical and health level of the food institutions and keep up with global developments in the inspection, Engineer Khalid Mohammed Sharif Al Awadhi, head of Dubai Municipality’s Food Control Department called for forming a team to update the inspection system for food institutions.
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Dubai Municipality launches campaign to clean tanks and drinking water coolers
Dubai Municipality launches campaign to clean tanks and drinking water coolers
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Dubai Central Laboratory extends scope of accreditation; number of approved tests rise from 93 to 185
Dubai Central Laboratory extends scope of accreditation; number of approved tests rise from 93 to 185
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Doctors under fire in Scotland for poor hand-hygiene
Incriminating report published by the Journal of Hospital Infection
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DM launches hygiene campaign for beauty parlours
The Public Health and Safety Department of Dubai Municipality has embarked on a health awareness campaign.....
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Diversey Gulf launches new fruit and vegetable sanitizer
The sanitiser called Oxytech D50/500 was launched at the recently concluded Gulf Food exhibition
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Diversey Consulting organizes Saudi Arabia’s First International Food Safety Conference and workshops
The conference was held first in Riyadh followed by Jeddah while the workshops were held in Riyadh, Jeddah and Al Khobar, Dammam
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Diversey and Intercare launch new generation of Taski floorcare machines
Automatic scrubber driers Taski 755B and 150E and Taski upright vacuum cleaners Jet 38 and 50 were presented to industry professionals at the launch
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Danfo pioneering the drive for Multi Automatic Public Toilets in UAE
After the successfully installing a series of Multi Automatic Public Toilets (MAPT) in Abu Dhabi
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CMS Berlin 2009 showcases new and innovative products
Environmental protection and cost saving benefits were the salient features of most of the equipment which set the trend for the show
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Chr Hansen and Fanar Al KHaleej hold seminar for Sharjah Food Control Department
The focus of the event was on the use of natural food colours and the use of probiotics for better health and food safety
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Carbonic International introduces 3G Cryogenic blast cleaning technology to the GCC
UAE-based Carbonic International, a dry ice cleaning solution provider in the GCC, has confirmed itself as one of the first companies in the Middle East to introduce the mobile 3G Cryogenic Blast Cleaning Technology
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Cairo’s growing hotel market reflects positively on Egypt’s professional cleaning industry
As the economy picks up signaling the growth in the hotel market, the presence of major manufacturers of cleaning equipment at Hace Hotel Expo 2009 indicates that the time has come for good business in Egypt
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Burnus wins Linencraft laundry contract
Under the 3-year contract, Burnus will supply Linencraft with laundry chemicals and dosing equipment
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Britain takes the top eight places in a survey of the dirtiest hotels in Europe
Britain takes the top eight places in a survey of the dirtiest hotels in Europe
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Berkeley Group bags Sunset’s cleaning, laundry and support services contract
Berkeley Cleaning Services will function as an integral part of Sunset’s comprehensive facilities management system
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Belhasa Biotek Solutions ties up with Arpal Gulf to market BioSafe in the UAE
Arpal Gulf will be able to offer the UAE market the choice of using an environmentally friendly disinfectant for sanitizing fruits and vegetables versus other traditional methods
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Arab Health 2010 to focus on better air quality and cleaning in healthcare settings
The Arab Health 2010 exhibition will provide the biggest ever interface between the visitors and the exhibitors.
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Al Bariq expands service network in Oman
Al Bariq expands service network in Oman
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AiroCide air purifying systems: resulting in food safety
The photocatalytic oxidation (PCO) technology kills all airborne containments and provides a sterile environment for food, applicable throughout the ‘farm to fork’ supply chain
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Abu Dhabi restaurant shut down after
Tonnes of low quality food destroyed last month
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3M introduces environmentally friendly floor finishing pads
Scotch-Brite Surface Preparation Pads can be used with water-based or oil based finishes and require only neutral cleaners or water to effectively remove floor finish
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3M Innovations for cleaning and maintaining facilities
3M claims that its products have long-term cost benefits for facility management companies and for facility owners alike. Editor Asfia Khan finds out how the products substantiate the claim.
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Meydan Racecourse hosts :Fimap machines spruce up parking area in good time
Cleanco used several Fimap FS 80 Sweeping machines, provided by Al Bariq Cleaning Equipment, to clean the vast parking area behind the grandstands
