As part of our social & economic responsibility and commitment, we pride ourselves on our CIMS Green Building and Leadership in Energy & Environmental Design (LEED) certifications. When possible, we try to avoid the use of harmful chemicals, especially toxic ones, to ensure that safety and health remain a priority in our facilities.
Often, you’ll see cleaning products being recalled due to toxicity and mislabeling. Toxic substances are found in many of our everyday products, which can often be the cause of mysterious health issues. Did you know? According to Environmental Working Group, the average home contains up to 62 toxic chemicals, which is more than a chemistry lab at the turn of the century! Unfortunately, toxicity levels are only tested in less than 2 percent of all synthetic cleaning chemicals. Scary! So, why take the chance in using these chemicals when we have the option to use very high-quality green-certified cleaning solutions in our facilities?
An EPA survey found that indoor air quality is three to seventy times more polluted than outdoor air. The main culprit for this is chemically made cleaning solutions, plus poor ventilation. Cleaning products that are sprayed into the air and are filled with chemicals goes straight to our lungs when sitting in an enclosed space. We are breathing these chemicals on a daily, which is very harmful to our respiratory system. Using green certified cleaning solutions will make facilities healthier for everyone.
Buildings that are LEED certified have to meet certain requirements for construction materials, energy usage and cleaning procedures. However, products used within buildings, from paper towels to disinfectants, also need to be environmentally friendly. In order to meet LEED for Existing Buildings: Operations and Maintenance standards, building owners need to ensure that even their cleaning products are sustainable, according to the U.S. Green Building Council.
By implementing a green cleaning program, facilities managers will not only help the environment, but the health of maintenance workers, building staff and visitors.
