Broadlex

The cleaning industry is varied and segmented, and most companies supply components of these segments. While “cleaning” and “property maintenance” are fairly standard services, large commercial cleaning companies will also have the resources and manpower to offer “ancillary services.” Ancillary services are specialised, ad hoc tasks that fall outside a standard cleaning or maintenance service. In simpler terms, they are any extra “odd jobs” that a client might need done. However, the tasks involved in ancillary services often require their own skill sets, which is why not every cleaning company are able to offer them.

Here at Broadlex, we have the resources and ability to perform these specialised jobs for our clients if the need arises. In fact, we integrate ancillary services with our core offering of cleaning, property maintenance, and site management. By responding to all of our clients’ cleaning needs in this way, Broadlex alleviates any worries on their behalf.

In this post, we have outlined the types of tasks that can be classified as ancillary services.

Maintenance work

This category encompasses any ad hoc, external work that may not be necessary for every client. When assessing the need for these kinds of services, factors such as space, budget, and length of the contract are taken into account.

• Pest control
• Landscaping
• Gardening and trimming
• Waste reduction and recycling programs

Needs-basis services

Like the name suggests, these tasks are done only when required. Usually, they are staggered and done at various intervals throughout the year. This applies to tasks like pressure washing or carpet cleaning. Otherwise, they are done in response to special and emergency cleaning circumstances. This includes tasks like graffiti removal.

• Special event cleaning services
• Carpet cleaning
• Window cleaning
• Blind cleaning
• Upholstery cleaning
• Computer room services
• Escalator cleaning
• Food service sanitation
• Surface floor care and slip testing
• Pressure washing
• Graffiti removal
• Quick response cleaning
• Sanitary services
• Disaster recovery services – i.e. cleaning up after floods or fires

Commercial cleaners offer these kinds of labour-intensive services in order to maintain the cleanliness and image of their clients’ properties. From a client’s perspective, ancillary services offer a sense of security and support that their contracted cleaning company will be able to cater for any cleaning requirement the company may require.

Cleaning accreditations are all about defining and recognising quality, safety, and excellence. Accreditation schemes detail the skills, knowledge, and code of conduct required by commercial cleaning services. These accreditations are like qualifications, and they instill confidence in the client when they are searching for a new commercial cleaning contract. For cleaning companies and staff, accreditations are treated as professional achievements.
Standards
Most importantly, accreditation schemes establish the high standards that cleaners should work towards. By setting standards in this way, commercial cleaning companies are aware of the expectations placed on them, and the quality of work they should aim to achieve. These standards also benefit clients, as they can be assured that their accredited cleaners will act professionally and lawfully. While the names of accreditation schemes do vary, some of the most common and vital ones include Occupational Health and Safety, Environmental Management, and Quality Assurance.
Credibility
Certification relates to credibility, and as such, accreditations contribute to a company’s reputation. They also attest to the cleaning provider’s resources, capability, and skill set. On a more implicit level, they promote the company’s trustworthiness, integrity, and ability to comply with the law. Commercial cleaning companies have to prove their eligibility for certification. The process to become accredited isn’t always easy, so every client should rest easy knowing that such certifications need to be earned.
Third party involvement
Accreditations are assessed by international, national, and private certifiers. The involvement of these types of third parties is important for cleaners and clients. Clients have the knowledge and peace of mind that their cleaners are overseen by a strict board. Furthermore, they know that they can confidently contact a third party if any issues or problems arise.

Development
From a Sydney commercial cleaner’s perspective, being involved in an accreditation scheme is invaluable. If they can maintain an accreditation, a commercial cleaning company will be conveniently updated on new techniques, legislation, and initiatives, thus keeping them at the forefront of their industry.
A breakdown of Broadlex’s accreditations
• Broadlex has a certified Quality Assurance program in accordance with AS/NZS ISO 9001:2008. Basically, this means that the quality of our work has been recognised as being consistently high. It is set to ensure business performance as well as client confidence.
• Broadlex has an accredited Work, Health and Safety Management System (WHS) in compliance with AS/NZS 4801-2001 and an Occupational Health & Safety System (OH&S) as certified by Global-Mark. These accreditations mean that we continue to provide safe working environments, equipment, and materials, as well as appropriate training.
• Broadlex also has a certified Environmental Management System. We manage our business in such a way as to protect our staff and the public as well as avoid any adverse effects on the environment. As well as complying with the government systems, Broadlex is also an active member of the Green Building Council of Australia.
• Finally, Broadlex conducts risk assessments and manages risks in accordance with AS/NZS 4360:2004. Because we work in commercial areas that are used by the public, it is vital that risks are identified and controlled.