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Delux D7150 Diaphragm PumpMax Flow: 7 GPMMax: 100 PSILiquid Temperature: 140°F (60°C) Max.Delivery Type: DemandPriming Capabilities: 14’ (4 m)Inlet/Outlet Ports: 1/2” NPTWeight: All models: 10 lbs(4.5 kg)

Delux D5360 Diaphragm PumpOpen Flow: 5.3 GPMPressure: 100 PSI 4.1 BarLiquid Temperature: 140°F (60°C) Max.Delivery Type: DemandPriming Capabilities: 14’ (4 m)Inlet/Outlet Ports: 1/2” NPTWeight: All models: 8 lbs(3.62 kg)

Rust RemoveR Plus™A great choice for removingrust stains from paintedsteel, brass, copper, wood,concrete, stone and ceramicsurfaces. Just spray it ontoa dry surface and watch therust stains disappear in minutes,with just one application.Concrete and stone willhave a bright clean new lookwhen the product is dry.

Clearly Clean Xtreme™A crystal clear, heavy duty concrete cleaner designed to be used in sensitive areas where colored chemicals might draw unwanted attention. It has deep penetrating properties to lift out heavy oil, grease, soil, and grime found on concrete. Sold as a highly concentrated powder so it can be strong enough for any job.

Pink Thunder Truck Wash SoapSafe on all surfaces, painted or otherwise. Better results will be obtained with hot or warm water. However, it works well in cold water. It removes road film, grease, dirt, bugs and will leave the surface shining without polishing.

Fresh WashAdding 1 - 5 ounces of Fresh Wash to a sodium hypochlorite based cleaning solution will augment cleaning results by: • Allowing surface tension to be broken on the cleaning surface.• Allowing the sodium hypochlorite reaction to happen at a lower overall

bleach concentration.• Allowing cleaning products to dwell longer.It also includes rinsing agents, and a masking scent.

5 Managing Your Fleet: An Interview with Tanya Weger of Madison Window Cleaning Company, Inc., Madison, Wisconsin

10 GCA Largo Announces Skid Giveaway at the 2015 Pressure Washing & Window Cleaning Convention, August 7-8, Washington, D.C.

20 When & Where to Use Hot Water Degreasers, by Paul Horsley, PWNA Board Member

18 PWNA National Convention Registration Opens July 1, Early Bird Price thru July 31

24 Doug Rucker Named New UAMCC President

29 New Product: Introducing the Eco Blaster, from the Manufacturers of the World’s Greatest Graffiti Removal System

26 What the New GHS Compliance Requirements Mean for Pressure Washing Businesses, by Clyde Hemminger, PowerWash.com

In This Issue:www.eCleanMag.com Issue 34

13

21

Cover Photo courtesy of Tanya Weger, Madison Window Cleaning Company, Inc.,www.MadisonWindowCleaning.com

eClean Magazine is published monthlyPublisher/Editor: Allison Hester, allison@ecleanmag.com eClean Magazine 12300 Nebraska Ave. N Little Rock, AR 72118 (501) 251-6054

13 Are You Prepared for a Scratched Glass Claim? Guidance from Michael Draper of Glass Grinders

Shop By Brand | Shop By Industry | Shop By Department | Sales & Clearance | Training

THE CONTRACTOR’S #1 SOURCE FOR COMMERCIAL PRESSURE WASHERS, PRESSURE WASHER SUPPLIES & TRAINING!

TM 1.800.433.2113

Save$20

Reg $239Sale $219

Expires 08/01/15

Save$20

Reg $159Sale $139

Expires 08/01/15

Delux D7150 Diaphragm PumpMax Flow: 7 GPMMax: 100 PSILiquid Temperature: 140°F (60°C) Max.Delivery Type: DemandPriming Capabilities: 14’ (4 m)Inlet/Outlet Ports: 1/2” NPTWeight: All models: 10 lbs(4.5 kg)

Delux D5360 Diaphragm PumpOpen Flow: 5.3 GPMPressure: 100 PSI 4.1 BarLiquid Temperature: 140°F (60°C) Max.Delivery Type: DemandPriming Capabilities: 14’ (4 m)Inlet/Outlet Ports: 1/2” NPTWeight: All models: 8 lbs(3.62 kg)

Rust RemoveR Plus™A great choice for removingrust stains from paintedsteel, brass, copper, wood,concrete, stone and ceramicsurfaces. Just spray it ontoa dry surface and watch therust stains disappear in minutes,with just one application.Concrete and stone willhave a bright clean new lookwhen the product is dry.

Clearly Clean Xtreme™A crystal clear, heavy duty concrete cleaner designed to be used in sensitive areas where colored chemicals might draw unwanted attention. It has deep penetrating properties to lift out heavy oil, grease, soil, and grime found on concrete. Sold as a highly concentrated powder so it can be strong enough for any job.

Pink Thunder Truck Wash SoapSafe on all surfaces, painted or otherwise. Better results will be obtained with hot or warm water. However, it works well in cold water. It removes road film, grease, dirt, bugs and will leave the surface shining without polishing.

Fresh WashAdding 1 - 5 ounces of Fresh Wash to a sodium hypochlorite based cleaning solution will augment cleaning results by: • Allowing surface tension to be broken on the cleaning surface.• Allowing the sodium hypochlorite reaction to happen at a lower overall

bleach concentration.• Allowing cleaning products to dwell longer.It also includes rinsing agents, and a masking scent.

21 The Wonderful World of Certificates by Darla Renk, Joseph D. Walters Insurance

30 What’s in a Vacuum?, by Rick Meehan, Marko Janitorial 31 Calendar of Events, July thru November

By Allison Hester

”Managing Your Fleet” 5

Your vehicles are one of the biggest investments you will make into your company, and your fleet is one of your largest expenses. Going from one vehicle to two, or three, or 10 opens a whole array of costs and areas requiring close management. Vehicle payments, insurance, maintenance and fuel are all added expenses – so do you have a plan in place on how to handle these issues, or are you just figuring it out on the fly?

Even more, adding vehicles means giving your technicians more freedom and responsibility. And responsibility without accountability can be pretty expensive, even with great employees.

This was a lesson Kash and Tanya Weger of Madison Window Cleaning (MWC) Company, Inc., in Madison, Wisconsin, learned in 2008 when they installed a telemetric (fleet tracking) system in their vehicles without telling their employees.

“We didn’t believe that certain jobs were taking as long as our technicians said they were, but there was no fail proof way to verify if they were telling us the truth,” she explained. “It was becoming a routine issue and causing some problems.”

After having their first system installed, they kept quiet and observed their crews’ behavior for a couple of weeks – and they were surprised by what they learned. Long lunches. Unauthorized pit

Managing Your FleetAn Interview with Tanya Weger,

Madison Window Cleaning Co., Inc.

stops. Indirect routes. Excessive idling. Speeding. And the list went on.

After two weeks of collecting data, Kash announced to his crews they had a tracking system installed and had been monitoring them – and that he’d be talking one on one with some of them afterwards. “It sent a pretty strong message.” Tanya said. Some warnings were issued and the behaviors did change going forward.

At that time, MWC had four vehicles. The cost of the fleet tracking system was around $250 a month. Initially, it was a hard investment to make, but Weger said she saw the benefits instantly – and with it came huge monetary savings.

Putting numbers to paper, she realized that if she could correct misbehavior that wasted just 30 minutes per day per truck, she would gain back two hours of billable time per day – not to mention eliminating wasted time she was paying her technicians. Two hours per day times five days gave her back 10 hours per week. “The positive side of regaining that time back is thousands of dollars monthly,” she added “The more trucks and employees you have, the bigger these numbers are.” Suddenly, the $250 per month didn’t seem like much.

As Weger points out, having a fleet management system installed helps keep people honest. “If you truly want to know what your

FEATURED

technicians are doing in your vehicles, you need to know where your vehicles are every moment of every day…very specifically. Otherwise, even your best employees can take advantage of the system.”

Some employers are uncomfortable playing “big brother” to their employees – especially when those employees are friends or family members. But that’s not the only reason to use a telemetric system, and you can explain this to your staff. And it’s certainly not the only important factor you need to keep an eye on when managing your fleet.

Five Keys Areas for Managing Your Fleet

One of the biggest mistakes company owners make when adding a fleet is not having a management plan in place. While a telemetric system can greatly help, it is not a requirement. However, you do need to have a plan, then you need to work that plan.

1. Your Acquisition PlanBuying a truck and building a fleet can be one

of the most rewarding aspects of your cleaning business. Too often, however, contractors find themselves in a pickle and they have to make rash decisions. Their vehicle poops out. It’s going to take too long or cost too much to repair. They need a truck NOW so they buy something – anything – to get back on the road. And without a plan in place, they later regret their buying decision.

If you have a vehicle acquisition plan in place, however, you’re going to be much more likely to make a smart buying decision. Research your options, and then make a plan.

• Do you want to buy new or do you prefer

used? What are the benefits/disadvantages of each, and which option fits you better?

• What size vehicle do you need? Are you thinking not only about what services you offer now, but what services you may want to offer in the future?

• Can you retool this vehicle if needed? For example, can a ladder rack be added later? Will it meet future weight requirements?

• Are you going to purchase based on life cycle or on need?

Weger suggests not purchasing all your vehicles at once because they all age out or start having issues at the same time down the road. Another suggestion is to purchase the same make so that they can all go to the same dealership for maintenance and/or warranty repairs.

This is also important for image. Weger said all their trucks are white Ford F150’s. They all have the same graphics package. When they are seen around town people state, “I see your trucks everywhere!” Think of some of the fleet vehicles for various companies you see around town – you tend to notice them more if you see the same thing over and over. Really helps boost brand recognition.

2. Your Maintenance Plan“If you think your employees will make it a

priority to tell you when it’s time for the next oil change or that the brakes are squeaking, or it has a hard pull to the left, or is leaking oil in the customer’s driveway, you are mistaken. But you still need to be asking them,” Weger explains.

She points out different trucks may have different maintenance issues. “My route truck puts on fewer miles, but its brakes wear out faster because it’s in-town, stop-and-go traffic. My residential truck, on the other hand, puts on more miles and requires more oil changes.”

This is another advantage of having a telemetric system as it will alert you when certain metrics – such as mileage or time – are met, and when it’s time to have routine maintenance done.

Again, you don’t have to have telemetric system in place. You can use a calendar to remind you when oil changes, etc., are due. Or you can require your drivers to hand in a weekly check sheet that includes the current mileage (among other things) before you give them their paychecks.

To keep up with this information, Weger suggests keeping a separate folder on each vehicle,

6 eClean Magazine

DOLLARS AND CENTS

2 Technicians - 30 Minutes - 20 Miles

Item Daily Monthly Annually

Wages $24.00 $520 $6,240

Billable Work $40.00 $867 $10,400

Fuel $2.75 $59 $715

Net Profit $30.75 $667 $7,995

Using telemetric, Tanya Weger discovered even just saving 30 minutes per day would save almost $8,000 in net profit each year, per vehicle.

keeping all records separate and organized. “It’s all about creating a habit and a routine so

your trucks don’t break down when you need them most,” Weger explains. “I can’t even remember in the last six years when I’ve had to go after a broken down truck for any reason, and we do have used vehicles that are 10 years old.” She feels it is far easier and less costly from several perspectives to maintain a vehicle than to replace or repair one. Tracking that expense from a profit and loss and balance sheet perspective has proven it to be true.

3. Your Fuel PlanWho on your crew is allowed to refuel the

vehicles? When and where? How do they pay?These are questions you need to figure out.

MWC’s technicians refuel the trucks right before coming back to the shop. “It’s the end of the day and the team wants to go home, so they don’t dilly dally.” Also, at the end of the day there are no customers waiting for them to arrive.

For the past decade, MWC’s employees have fueled up at the gas station down the street from their shop. Weger has set up a no fees, no credit card, no interest plan where certain employees are allowed to go in and refuel the vehicles. “We have a signature process in place. We get the receipts and the signature sheet at the end of the month to make sure there were no unauthorized charges, then we just pay that bill once a month.”

Weger likes this method for several reasons, including the fact that her crews don’t have to keep up with credit cards. “Of course, some companies like credit cards because they can accumulate points. That’s great too,” she stresses. “Again, the key is to have a plan that works for you.”

Second, do you have a budget for fuel? This can be difficult to determine, as you don’t know exactly how many miles your team will drive or what the price of gas will be. However, if you have a system in place, you can go back and see how many miles you drove during the same time period last year to give yourself a basis for a budget.

“Some months my fuel bill goes up by several thousands of dollars. I’d like to know that in advance,” Weger adds so it’s a planned for expense.

4. Your Driver Safety PlanSeveral years ago, one of MWC’s vehicles was

broadsided. The truck was totaled. The driver and passenger both injured. While the accident could have been avoided yet could have happened

to anyone, Weger admits if you don’t have a good driver selection and safety plan in place this type of scenario may be more likely to occur. Weger has worked with her insurance company, which has several resources to help in the driver selection process. When interviewing for new hires, a motor vehicle abstract will be pulled, either by having the potential hire provide it or they must sign a release form that allows them to get a copy. Then their insurance agent reviews it against their point system for violations. “They either pass or fail based on this point system,” she explained.

The process continues after employees are hired. “Just because they’re clean coming in doesn’t mean they stay clean. That’s why we have a policy in place that says if you get in trouble outside of work, you need to let us know.” She further commented, “Usually they don’t want to tell you because they don’t want to lose their job.” You can also have your insurance pulls records periodically to monitor the status of the driving record and activity.

That said, Weger adds that it is hard to find someone with a squeaky-clean driving record. Rather, she’s more concerned with looking out

“Managing a Fleet” 7

8

for either more severe violations or multiple violations that occur within a short period of time. She’s looking for something that indicates that they do not practice safe behaviors or are poor drivers. Bottom line is we don’t want anyone hurt or property damaged.

It’s also important to keep driver safety on the top of your employees’ minds. “Motor vehicle safety is as important as fall safety. Employees are in that truck one-fourth of their day, and a driving accident can kill you too,” Weger explains. Address driver safety in your meetings and toolbox talks. You want to discipline or hold accountable those who have infractions and reward or recognize those who don’t.

Speaking of accidents, do you have an accident policy in place? With MWC, if an employee has an at fault incident causing any type of property damage, s/he is responsible for paying up to the first $500 in damages (basically the companies out of pocket deductible). (Weger stresses you need to check with an attorney to find out if this policy is legal in your area. A written policy and signed acknowledgment needs to be in place first and foremost.) Having employees know they will be held accountable to pay for a portion of the damages, just as they would if it was their own property, reinforces the desire to avoid accidents and think and act in a more caring manner. The last thing MWC wants to do is be charging and employees for damages; however, they are firm believers in accountability.

Again, having a fleet management system in place is a great way to keep an eye on how your employees are driving. You can set up alerts – such as speeding or hard starts and stops – and your system will alert you when your drivers are practicing unwanted behaviors. “You may not want to watch these things all the time, so you can turn them off and on, just checking in on your crews every once in awhile.”

5. Your Fleet Tracking PlanWhen Weger first installed the telemetric

system, she noticed some of her crews would always swing by a local convenience store/deli on their way out – often wasting a good 15 minutes. It turned out they were stopping for coffee, breakfast and a newspaper. To top it off, they’d leave the vehicle running while they ran in.

In another situation, one crew would always go through town rather than take the beltway.

Kash and Tanya Weger are the third generation to run Madison Window Cleaning Company, Madison, Wisconsin, which has been in business for 85 years. In their peak season – which runs eight months of the year – MWC has between 10 to 13 technicians. All technicians are cross trained in both residential and commercial applications, and three are IWCA (International Window Cleaning Association) certified in RDS (rope descent systems). “If it’s got glass, we clean it

Kash and Tanya Weger are the third generation to run Madison Window Cleaning Company, Madison, Wisconsin, which has been in business for 85 years. In their peak season – which runs eight months of the year – MWC has between 10 to 13 technicians. All technicians are cross trained in both residential and commercial applications, and three are IWCA (International Window Cleaning Association) certified in RDS (rope descent systems). “If it’s got glass, we clean it.”

because they said it was shorter. It was stop and go traffic and took them longer to get to their destination...and it allowed them to look at the pretty college girls at the local university on their way by.

When choosing between the shortest route and fastest route, Weger says always take the fastest route. “Your technicians’ pay is costing you more than their fuel.” By installing telemetric, you can make sure your crews are going where they are supposed to the way they are supposed to.

If they happen to get lost, a telemetric system will help you guide them back to where they need to be. Additionally, when customers call to see when your crews should be arriving, telemetric let you see exactly where they are in route to the customer’s property.

Finally, while Weger does not allow their technicians to take vehicles home, a lot of companies do. By using telemetric, you can know for certain whether or not your employees are using your vehicles for their personal purposes.

Worth the InvestmentThere are several reasons why companies with

fleets don’t invest in a telemetric system. Probably the most common concern is the cost. Again,

Weger quickly discovered that the lost time they gained by adding telemetric pays for itself many times over each and every month.

Another concern is the amount of time that goes into setting up the system. “Once I got the initial system set up, I really haven’t had to do much else,” she adds. “The system does the rest.”

Finally, some employers are concerned about offending their employees by adding a telemetric system. Again, in addition to watching their behavior, telemetric can make their jobs easier. It helps you keep their vehicles running. It helps ensure their safety through smart driving decisions. It keeps you from having to contact them to ask where they are or when they will be at a customer’s property. It also helps you save money, which leads to their job security as well.

As Weger concludes, “Adding a telemetric system is absolutely worth the investment. It’s worth making people a little uncomfortable by making them more accountable. And it’s an Investment you will see an immediate return on in so many ways once you put the processes in place.”

If quality seminars, fantastic networking, a massive trade show floor, and noted keynote speaker Howard Partridge have not yet convinced you to attend the industry’s largest event of the year, how about the chance to win a $10,000+ skid from Platinum Sponsor GCA Largo?

GCA Largo Industries, Inc., has generously agreed to donate a Model 5535HZH Skid with SS Cover to the Pressure Washing Resource Association (PWRA) as the grand prize giveaway at the 2015 Pressure Washing and Window Cleaning Convention, August 7-8 in Washington, D.C.

The Horizontal Coil Skid will feature:• 21 HP Vanguard Engine• TS2021 General Pump• 12VDC Beckett Burner• 50 ft R2 Wash Hose• 4ft Insulated Wand• Trigger Gun• Spray Tip PackGCA Largo is donating the skid and all its

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strong supporters of the PWRA since our first event three years ago. I am very excited that one of this year’s attendees will go home with such an amazing win,” said Thad Eckhoff. “Please be sure to stop by the Largo booth and thank them for their donation, and take a look at the fantastic equipment that they offer.”

Since 1987, GCA Largo has been recognized for its quality equipment, which is built in-house from the ground up using only the highest quality components. To learn more about all of GCA Largo’s Products, visit their website at www.GCALargo.com.

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GCA Largo Announces Skid Giveaway

Drawing to be held at the 2015 Pressure Washing & Win-dow Cleaning Convention, August 7-8, Washington, D.C.

ASSOCIATION NEWSAssociation News

My machine is a Largo. It’s almost 14 years old and still going strong. That machine

has been a work horse. I would buy another one in a

heartbeat!

– Scott Karvonen, Karvonen’s Pro Clean

“

”

About the Author

YOU THINK YOU’REINSURED FOR THIS

Are you insured if you scratch glass?

But you’re only

covered for this?

National Service• Scratched Glass Repair• Acid Damage Repair• Insurance Mitigation• Damage Consultation• Glass Forensics

309-530-1215Call us today for a consultation!

Mike@glass-grinders.comwww.glass-grinders.com

YOU THINK YOU’REINSURED FOR THIS

Are you insured if you scratch glass?

But you’re only

covered for this?

National Service• Scratched Glass Repair• Acid Damage Repair• Insurance Mitigation• Damage Consultation• Glass Forensics

309-530-1215Call us today for a consultation!

Mike@glass-grinders.comwww.glass-grinders.com

“If you haven’t scratched glass yet, you haven’t cleaned enough glass.”

This is a lesson Michael Draper has learned personally and witnessed time and again by window cleaners across the country.

“It’s going to happen, and when it does, it won’t matter how professional you are, how big or how small you are, how long you’ve been in the industry. It can be a big deal that may very well put you out of business, or it can be just another insurance claim.”

For this reason, Draper – who has over 25 years window cleaning experience, including his role as national sales director for J. Racenstein – decided to start Glass Grinders in 2014. Glass Grinders is a consulting company that can help window cleaning companies get prepared for when that scratched glass claim arises, or potentially help them remedy a bad situation after the scratching occurs.

Primary Causes of Window Scratches

Scratched glass is a controversial subject in the window cleaning industry. “Everyone wants to know, ‘Why did the scratch happen?’”

A lot of the times window scratches get blamed on fabricating debris, and there are times when this could be the cause. However, Draper adds that there are times when scratches are caused by other issues. “We see a lot of different types of scratching occurring. Different characteristics define possible reasons for scratching.”

In particular, there are three types of situations where window cleaners are more likely to scratch glass.

• New Construction. These windows are exposed to a lot of dirt, debris, concrete, sand, etc. – all of which can cause glass to scratch. With these situations, Draper says that you really need to “clean the glass before you clean the glass.” In other words, take a water fed pole and rinse off any contaminants,dirt, debris, airborne particles, etc., that may be on there before ever trying to remove construction debris from the glass.

• Razors. While razors are still the preferred method for removing debris, caution needs to be taken when using this tool, especially on certain types of windows, such as tempered, exposed low-e coating, and self-cleaning glass. If you plan to use razors – or any method that goes against the glass manufacturer’s recommendations – Draper highly recommends having a scratch waiver in place.

All glass manufacturer’s have cleaning recommendations, and window cleaners often go against those recommendations. This is not only true with the use of razors, but even mop and squeegee. “Manufacturers’ specs often say you can only use a micro fiber towel.” So, to protect yourself in case of damage, you have two options: follow manufacturer guidelines or have your customer sign a waiver stating the way you will clean the glass as opposed to the way the manufacturer recommends.”

“Otherwise, if you use razors and the manufacturer guidelines say don’t use razors, you could be viewed as the incompetent one and this could affect the outcome if it were to go to court,” Draper stressed. As an IWCA board member, he

Are You Prepared for YOUR Scratched Glass Claim?

Guidance from Michael Draper of Glass Grinders

By Allison Hester

“Scratched Glass” 13

FEATURED

14 eClean Magazine

Almost every other General Liability policy out there will specifically exclude damage to the windows they are washing. They will call it ‘faulty workmanship’ or ‘negligence’ or other ugly words like that. By adding the care, custody and control endorsement, we make sure they are covered for what is, after all, the most likely claim they may face. Just makes sense, right? – Darla Renk Joseph D. Walters Insurance

“

”also points out that the IWCA provides sample scratched glass waivers to its members and is working hard to provide more education to window cleaners in the future.

“There are a lot of products out there to help remove debris – cleaning products, steel wood, magic erasers, and others – and although they take a little longer, they generally work well. If there’s a way to avoid scraping tempered glass, I would recommend using another method.”

• Lack of Education. Sometimes window cleaners don’t take time to learn about the different types of glass and coatings. Draper stresses that it’s imperative for window cleaners to become educated if they want to protect themselves and their customers.

“There are too many types of glass out there, and too many potential problems for window cleaners to ignore,” he stressed. “Education on these types of issues is what really separates professional window cleaners from the rest.”

Preventative MeasuresGlass Grinders offers two types of consultative

services. The first is preventative, and is something he highly recommends window cleaners consider, whether they use his services or not.

During these consultations, he looks at three areas:

1. Processes: How are you cleaning windows and what types of jobs do you do?

2. Risk Tolerance: If you caused damage, how much would you feel comfortable writing a check for in order to make the situation go away?

3. Insurance: What insurances do you have in place? Are they going to protect you when you have a claim?

For example, if a window cleaner is doing a high level of construction cleaning and has a very low risk tolerance (e.g., $500 out of pocket maximum), but his insurance has a $5000 deductible, and he doesn’t have certain coverages in place, he’s hugely exposed and is not prepared for the potential that can happen.

Another example is if a window cleaning company lands a larger scale job than what they’re used to, or is doing a construction cleaning for the first time. “We have done as much as gone on site to help walk them through the job and lay out a specific plan of action so that things are in place,” Draper said. “It’s nice to sometimes have a separate set of eyes. We are trying to mitigate risk.”

Having the Right InsuranceWhen looking at insurance, Draper stresses

the importance of “Care, Custody and Control” coverage – something a lot of window cleaners do not have. “Insurance is so key, yet it often does not get talked about like it needs in our industry,” he added.

As Draper points out, Joseph D. Walters Insurance realized years ago that when a pressure washing contractor went across a driveway and damaged the concrete, that damage was not covered under general liability. Most insurance companies look at that as being your responsibility because the work was being done under your care, custody and control. However, that’s the coverage pressure washing contractors needed, so Joseph D. Walters went to their underwriters and helped develop a special plan for the pressure washing industry.

The same situation can be applied to window cleaners. General liability insurance does not cover scratched glass. “That’s the side of the story that often doesn’t get told. There is care, custody and control insurance out there for window cleaners. In fact, we carry over a million dollars in Care, Custody and Control ourselves,” Draper added.

Draper adds that he doesn’t have “any real

connection” with Joseph D Walters except that he thinks “what they did was very smart.” He does recommend, in almost every one of his consultations, that some sort of Care, Custody and Control be in place, “then we compare that with risk tolerance. I try to help them determine how much they need. But any window cleaner without Care, Custody, and Control is more than likely going to be held responsible for the damage.”

For the record, Joseph D. Walters Insurance also offers Care, Custody and Control for window cleaners as well as power washers. “For window washers, the most likely thing to happen is damage to the window. And almost every other General Liability policy out there will specifically exclude damage to the windows they are washing. They will call it ‘faulty workmanship’ or ‘negligence’ or other ugly words like that,” explained Darla Renk, Certified Insurance Service Representative and Account Manager for Joseph D. Walters Insurance. “By adding the Care, Custody and Control endorsement, we make sure they are covered for what is, after all, the most likely claim they may face. Just makes sense, right?”

Post Damage ConsultationsGlass Grinders often works with clients after the

damage has been done. Draper explains that these cases can go one of two ways.

“If you’ve taken preventative measures – and I keep close tabs on those I’ve consulted with – the situation is fairly simple. Since I know they took my guidance and they have Care, Custody and Control coverage, I tell them to call their insurance company and let them know they need to file a claim. Then they can call me back if they want to put in a repair claim. The insurance company comes out, takes quotes (repair or replacement), and they take care of it. The customer is happy because although you did the damage, you also took care of the problem.”

Unfortunately, too often this is not the way the situation is handled. Instead, after the damage occurs, the window cleaner calls Glass Grinders in a panic needing help. There is no Care, Custody and Control policy in place, so the insurance company will deny the claim.

Now the window cleaner has to decide what to do. Are they going to litigate this? Are they going to pay Glass Grinders to come in and repair it? Do they want Glass Grinders to sell them the Glass

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Renu tools and try to teach them how to repair the damage themselves? Are they going to pay someone to replace the glass? Or are they going to simply file bankruptcy?

“It’s ugly,” Draper stressed. “It’s never a $100 claim or a $500 claim. It’s a multiple thousands of dollars claim. Most people are forced into either trying to litigate it or walk away because they can’t afford to pay out of pocket.”

That being said, Glass Grinders does offer repair services – primarily using the Glass Renu system (although they use a couple of others in certain situations) – and they’ve traveled to several states for scratch removal and glass restoration jobs. They are also a certified Glass Renu reseller, so they can sell the equipment and train them as well. They do work with insurance companies, and have been hired by insurance companies on several instances to come repair the damage. “We are anywhere from 40 to 60 percent the cost of replacing glass, and if it is something we can repair our lead time is much less than ordering new,” Draper added.

Glass ResearchGlass Grinders has also retained a forensic

lab in Michigan to help them constantly do glass research. “We’ve documented and developed some interesting things, which we hope will help prove or disprove fault in future situations,” Draper said. Everyone who consults with Glass Grinders are kept up to date on new finds in research.

“We’re not in the litigation business. We’re not in the insurance business. But I’ve been around for many years, I’ve dealt with these things myself, and know what needs to happen to mitigate these risks. I’ve seen many companies go out of business due to scratched glass. The gravity of the situation is real. Our goal is to help save companies from future bankruptcy.”

Preventative consultations generally cost between $150 and $325. The initial call is free.

To learn more about Glass Grinders, visit their website at www.Glass-Grinders.com.

Use Coupon Code“ECLEAN” & Save $25

Off Your Registration

•

Registration opens July 1 for the Power Washers of North America (PWNA) National Convention and Trade Show, November 12-14, in Charlotte, North Carolina. Register by July 31 to save $50 off your registration fee. Plus, be one of the first 50 registrants in July and you’ll receive one free breakfast during the event, an $18 value.

For 23 years, the PWNA has hosted this popular event, which has become known for its professionalism and the transparency in networking. Annually, people from across North America (and beyond) representing all power washing industries come together for continuing education, networking, opportunities to see old friends and make new ones, and to see the latest in equipment from distributors and suppliers on display and in action.

In a few fun days, you can learn what has taken others a lifetime to learn. “The PWNA Convention exceeded my expectations. I never dreamed everyone would be so open and honest with the information they gave me. There were no secrets,” said Warren Harrison of Mr. Busy II Pressure Washing.

This year’s convention will again feature a variety of certification classes (Flat Surface Cleaning, Fleet Washing, Roof Cleaning, House Washing and Wood Restoration), as well as additional educational classes, outdoor demos, snack ‘n chat round tables, vendor auctions, and tons of giveaways, including the grand prize – a brand new Hydro Tek Skid.

PWNA Convention Registration Opens July 1

Early Bird Price Thru July 31

Hydro Tek Skid GiveawayThis year, the PWNA is excited to

announce it will again be giving away a Hydro Tek skid – valued at $10,595 – to one lucky contractor at the convention. Winner must be present at the time of the drawing.

Here are the details about this year’s incredible Hydro Tek skid:

• Model SC35006KG• 3500psi, 5.5gpm• 725cc Kohler gas engine• General triplex belt drive pump• 115v Beckett burner system• Adjustable thermostat, up to 250

degrees• Onboard 115v generator for auxiliary

power• SpiraLast coil with lifetime warrantyComponents were donated by Beckett

Burners, General Pump and Kohler Engines.

The PWNA wants to thank Hydro Tek for once again supporting the association members through this fantastic donation.

•

Rick Hurst, Rick’s Quality Pressure Washing

Kit Claytor, Claytor Painting & Pressure Washing

Michael G. Reome & Megan N Babcock, Simply Clean Powerwash

Gary Riley, ShipShape Power Washing LLC

Dan Gomez, Hot Shots Mobile Power Washing LLC

Asif Choudhry, Orange Banana Tank, Inc.

Duong Tang, TBD

Mark Mikkelson, ABC Fire & Safety

Bobby Davis, Pinnacle Power Washing Systems

Ruben Muñoz, TBD

Jonathan Milliken, Milliken & Connors Inc. dba Hydroblast West

Bruce Keiver, Alcor Facilites Management Inc.

Stanislav Mazurenko & Chedric B. Jordan, BKSS

New PWNA MembersRefer a Friends, Save $25PWNA members can now save $25

off their renewal fee simply by referring friends to the PWNA. For every referred friend who joins the association, the referring PWNA member will receive a $25 discount off their renewal rate – up to the full cost of their renewal. Refer enough friends and you can renew for free!

The new member will also receive a $25 discount off of their joining fee.

To learn more about or to register for this year’s PWNA Convention, go to

www.PWNA.org.

•

Grease is more than just a cosmetic flaw. It easily transfers to other surfaces, can go unnoticed and may hinder the performance of equipment. Power washing companies often use hot water degreasers to quickly and effectively dissolve and clean oil. Keep in mind that you should only pressure wash grease if you have received the proper training.

Why Pressure Washing Is EffectiveWhen you use a hot water pressure

washer on grease and oil stains, the hot water lifts the oil from the surface. The degreasing agent emulsifies the oil, making it simpler to flush.

Use degreasing equipment to eliminate oil and grease stains from areas, such as:• Parking lots • Concrete pavement• Sidewalks • Driveways• Garage floors • Machinery• Ship decks • Engines• Tires • Metal surfaces• Areas with rubber burns• Kitchen range hoods

Degreasing equipment is also beneficial when cleaning and preparing surfaces that you intend to paint or coat with a protective finish.

Types of Hot Water DegreasersTo effectively remove grease and oil

stains, you need to use the right type of degreasing product with your pressure washer. Common degreasers are butyl-based that are diluted with water, such as: • BD-3-C: Uses an organic solvent to dissolve oil and grease. It works well as a pre-cleanser and to wash certain types of painted metal. • BD-5-C: Good for cleaning commercial vehicles, such as cranes, bulldozers and lifts. • BD-10-C: Used for washing the exterior of buildings, recreational vehicles, trailers and trucks. The cleaner is also effective on counter tops, engines, stainless steel, floors, vinyl, walls and tires.

ConsiderationsBefore using a degreaser to

clean grease and oil stains, read the manufacturer’s instructions regarding safety precautions and areas to avoid. In addition, keep the following in mind: • Not all degreasers work well on stained or painted surfaces. • Do not use alkaline degreasers on chrome, aluminum, brass or other surfaces that are alkaline-sensitive. • Test the product in an inconspicuous area. • Some degreasers may dissolve protective coatings and sealants. • Water surrounding plants, grasses and shrubs before and after using degreaser

PWNA Safety ProceduresThe Power Washers of North America

is a group that informs members on best practices for safety in pressure washing. Make sure your technicians are ready for work, wearing appropriate clothing and operating power washers in a safe manner. Take time before each project to train our pressure washing crews on safety issues.

When & Where to Use Hot Water

Degreasersby Paul Horsley, PWNA Board Member

The Wonderful World of Certificates

As your spring and summer seasons finally get underway, we have been getting lots and lots of requests for Certificates of Liability Insurance. This is a common issue that most of our customers face, some a few times a year, and some hundreds of times. Whether you are a small company doing an occasional HOA job, or a large contractor running five crews and multiple jobs at a time, Certificates of Insurance (COIs) are something you should understand.

First and foremost, a “certificate” is provided to certify something. That means that it can only be provided by and filled out by or on behalf of a licensed insurance agent. We cannot provide you with a blank copy that you can fill in as needed. Nor can we put all your coverages on one certificate if they are with other agencies. We cannot “certify” coverage that is not under our control.

We get it. You just want the paper to say what your customer wants it to say so you can get the job. But the certificate can only say things that are supported by the

coverages provided by your insurance and the language found in the policy contract. Therefore, there are some things that we just can’t say on your certificate because the policy language doesn’t support it.

Let’s look at some of the more common cert requirements found on vendor contracts:

Insurance company rating of A or better: All insurance companies are rated by financial services companies and given a grade based on their financial stability. If you are insured with our agency, you are safe here because we only do business with insurance companies that are rated A (excellent) or better. If you want to check your insurance company’s financial rating, check companies such as AM Best Company (www.ambest.com) or Standard & Poors (www.standardandpoors.com).

Additional Insured: This is the most common request regarding special certificate wording. Adding another person or entity to your policy as additionally insured means you are sharing your

Insurance

By Darla Renk, Joseph D. Walters Insurance

“Certificates” 21

occurrence limit. Further, he has also given away part

of what you may have available for future claims, since anything paid out on this claim reduces your policy aggregate limit as well.

Sometimes we will be asked to provide a certificate of insurance (COI) in favor of a long list of entities. For example, let’s say you are going to clean the exterior facade and windows for Abe’s Tasty Pastry Bakery, located in a strip mall. Abe’s lease says he has to ask for a COI that protects not just him, but the shopping plaza owner, the developer, the property manager, all their partners, affiliates, managers, employees, officers, directors, etc, plus all the other tenants in the plaza, and their home offices, managers, directors, officers, employees, etc. That’s a lot of people and entities that want to share your available coverage limits. While it is possible to do so, please consider how thinly that policy limit will be required to spread if a claim occurs.

If your client also wants additional insured status for “Completed Operations”, he is saying he wants coverage under your policy for a claim that arises from your work but occurs after the job has been completed. This would also need to be endorsed on to the policy, and is a different endorsement than the additional insured for ongoing operations. There is usually additional premium involved in adding it.

Waiver of Subrogation: Subrogation is a process by which an insurance company will seek to recover funds it has paid out for which another party may be responsible. Usually, in conjunction with the additional insured endorsement, the waiver of subrogation assures your client that not only will your policy pay the whole claim, but they won’t come back and try to recover any of what was paid from the client’s insurance company.

Primary and Non-Contributory: Insurance policies are usually considered either primary or excess. A primary policy pays first, where an excess policy only pays if the primary policy is exhausted or not applicable. If you are asked to have your certificate of insurance show this provision,

coverage with them. If there is a claim, you agree that your policy will cover your share of the responsibility and theirs. A standard General Liability policy does not include this provision. It must be endorsed on to the policy.

Typically, this additional insured status can be limited to apply only with respect to the ongoing operations of the named insured (you), which means that it only applies to an occurrence arising out of your work, and only while you are there doing the work.

It’s fairly common to be asked for this when bidding a commercial job, and not unheard of even for a residential one. But you should know what you are giving away. You and your customer are now insured jointly, but have the ability to settle the claim against you individually. And your client may decide to settle rather than litigate, and he has just given away part of the insurance limit available to you. Regardless of how many “insureds” are covered, this is still only one “occurrence” and is therefore subject to the per

22 eClean Magazine

it means that your policy will pay first and not ask for contributions from other insurance policies that may have otherwise responded to this claim.

30-Day Cancellation Provision: When you see this requirement on your vendor services contract, you are being asked for your insurance carrier to provide your client with 30 days advance notice if your insurance policy is going to cancel. Most insurance contracts have built-in cancellation provisions stating under what circumstances your policy may be canceled and how much notice the insurance company must give you before doing so. By agreeing to this provision, you give up your right to cancel your policy by your request. You are restricting your right to go elsewhere, to cancel because you have retired or sold your business, or because

you no longer need the coverage for any other reason.

And, because the insurance company is not required by law to give 30 days’ notice for cancellation for nonpayment of premium, you would be required to pay your policy in full before this provision could be added to your policy. This is an example of a request that is not supported by the policy contract. But if you are doing a 1 or 2 day job for them, is this really relevant to you?

Overall, certificates are an important and necessary part of your business. If you can’t provide the certificate, you don’t get the job. But it is more than just a piece of paper, or a means to an end. It may help to have a conversation with your client about the scope of your work and which requirements are applicable to what you will be doing for them. Sometimes they will waive certain requirements that are excessive for the job at hand.

We find that most property managers, or their vendor services departments don’t understand the coverages they are requesting. If you do, it gives you a leg up over them in negotiating a contract that makes sense for the job you are bidding.

Don’t be intimidated because they have an official looking pre-printed form. While the insurance policy and certificate of insurance are documents with limited wiggle room, the contract between you and your client is much more flexible and the insurance requirements section of that contract can be tailored to match the nature of the job.

Darla Renk is a Certified Insurance Service Representative and Account Manager for Joseph D. Walters Insurance, America’s #1 insurer of power washing contractors. To learn more and to download your free guide to power washing insurance, visit www.JosephDWalters.com

About the Author

“Certificates” 23

Earlier this month, Ron Musgraves announced that his time as president of the United Association of Mobile Contract Cleaners (UAMCC) was ending, and that association Vice President Doug Rucker would be taking the reins. Musgraves will, however, continue in his role as UAMCC Executive Director. “Ron’s continued involvement and participation in the day-to-day operation continues to be a huge help and example to the UAMCC membership and Board of Directors (BOD),” said Rucker.

Rucker started in the pressure washing industry as a high school student back in 1979, working for a company called Master Kleen out of Clearwater, Fla. “I worked in the warehouse doing anything from mixing chemicals, to helping put machines together, keeping the warehouse clean, washing the boss’s car and the company vans, trucks, etc. Pretty much anything I was told to do I did. We also cleaned parking garages and fleets at nights and on weekends.”

In 2008, Rucker opened his current pressure washing business, Clean and Green Solutions, in Kingwood, Texas. A couple of years later, he began his pressure cleaning school .

Then in 2011, at a time when the UAMCC was on the edge of closing its doors, Rucker was presented with the opportunity to run for the role vice president. “After much discussion with Ron Musgraves about what the vision and future of organization could be, I agreed to run,” Rucker explained.

In a little over three years, the UAMCC has grown from around 12 contributing members

to almost 500 (plus over 2,000 free members). “The neat things about this is it’s not just the BOD or a few people that caused this. It’s the entire membership, or as I like to refer to them, the entire ‘ownership.’ Our members have done a great job in helping us get the word out.”

Being a UAMCC board member has been a life-changing experience for Rucker, and one he looks forward to continuing under his new role. “Being involved with a not-for-profit organization that represents our industry has helped my business secure larger commercial and residential contracts, and helped us establish credibility and trust with our customers. Our customers really do care if we are actively involved in the UAMCC.”

Personally, the UAMCC has impacted Rucker through his experiences at several events where he met and networked with contractors from around the country. “Many are startup companies or are fairly new, and being able to watch them grow their business with the UAMCC’s help has been very satisfying. Also, watching UAMCC contractors help other contractors – whether they are members or not – has been an awesome thing to witness. Whenever I am at events and even on our social media sites, the UAMCC really has that family feel to it.”

As president, Rucker says he would like to see the UAMCC reach the 500 member goal. He also wants to make the national convention, which will take place September 10 through 12 in Charleston, SC, the best it can be. “There’s lots of behind-the-scenes work involved in assuring that all who attend have the best experience possible.”

Doug Rucker Named New

UAMCC PresidentBy Allison Hester

24 eClean Magazine

Association News

Want moreResidentialWork?

Contact us to learn more:800.311.8360

www.PerfectPowerWash.com

We are hiring subcontractorsin your area. Just sign up,show up, clean, and get paid!

Additionally, Rucker says he plans to continue promoting the UAMCC to customers. “We want the public to know all about the UAMCC and the many professional quality contractors available through our organization.”

Lisa Seitz Named to BOD

In early June, Lisa Seitz of Liberty SoftWash Roof and Exterior Cleaning was also named to the UAMCC BOD, making her the first female board member. “Being appointed to the

BOD is a great honor to me. As a woman in the industry, it’s good to know that my efforts to help the pressure washing industry have not gone unrecognized,” she said. “I would love to see more women become involved

with all aspects of their pressure washing business. I feel a good way to accomplish this is for women to attend educational events, and participate on industry related forums and Facebook groups.”

Since joining the association back in 2012, Seitz says that the UAMCC has “helped us grow our business by putting us in contact with many successful business owners who are willing to share things that have made them a success. Our membership has greatly cut down the learning curve in a lot of different aspects of our business.”

She adds that the UAMCC has helped her grow as a person as well. “Attending events, talking with colleagues on the phone and interacting via social media has really helped me become educated and well spoken about all aspects of the pressure washing industry, which has been key for my success as a salesperson for our business.”

To learn more about the UAMCC, visit their website: www.UAMCC.org. For information on the UAMCC National Convention, visit www.UAMCCEvents.com.

26 eClean Magazine

What the New GHS Compliance

Requirements Mean for

Pressure Washing Businesses

You may be aware that there are new GHS compliance requirements for chemical labels and Safety Data Sheets to be followed by chemical manufacturers, packagers, and transporters. This new standard, known as the Globally Harmonized System, has already become mandatory in many countries, and will soon be adopted worldwide.

The subject matter herein is a bit dry, but YOUR business could be at risk if you are not in compliance with these new standards (although you have a little time). You are required by paragraph (f )(6) of the new GHS standard to ensure that containers of hazardous chemicals in your workplace are properly labeled.

When is the deadline for GHS compliance?The deadline for compliance was June 1st, 2015,

for manufacturers and importers. Distributors have until December 1, 2015, to get rid of old inventory with old labels. PowerWash.com has already been in motion to update ALL of their product labeling and safety data sheets to meet the new GHS compliance requirements.

Employers (i.e., contractors) have until June 1, 2016, to get into full compliance with GHS. This means making all necessary updates to your hazard communication programs, training your employees on new hazards identified in the reclassification process, updating workplace labels, etc., required by HazCom 2012.

More specifically, when you receive new labels/forms, you need to update them. You can keep your old forms/labels until then, or until the June 1, 2016 deadline, whichever comes first.

Why are the new GHS compliance requirements necessary?

The new GHS compliance requirements are the result of a worldwide agreement that, in order to avoid risks to human health and the environment, chemicals should be classified and labeled in a way that can be universally understood. GHS replaces the many national and regional standards that previously prevailed.

How are the new GHS compliance requirements different from the old system?

The new GHS compliance requirements will force chemical manufactures to re-label and re-document all of their chemical products before the deadline dates set for the countries to which they sell. This re-documentation applies to product labels (including shipping labels on cartons and packages) and Material Safety Data Sheets (MSDS – now called Safety Data Sheets or SDS). Both have to comply with the new GHS warning symbols, color codes, product identifiers, numbers, hazard statements, and precautionary statements.

What information should appear on GHS compliant labels?

“OSHA has updated the requirements for

By Clyde Hemminger, PowerWash.com

16 eClean Magazine

labeling of hazardous chemicals under its Hazard Communication Standard (HCS). As of June 1, 2015, all labels will be required to have pictograms, a signal word, hazard and precautionary statements, the product identifier, and supplier identification.”

• Product identifier: OSHA defines this as “any chemical, common, or trade name or designation that the chemical manufacturer or importer chooses to use on the label.”

The Product Identifier must match what is printed on the Safety Data Sheet (SDS).

• Signal word: There are two signal words used in the GHS standard. Danger is used for more severe hazards; warning is used for less severe hazards.

It is important to note that a product is hazardous no matter which signal word is used.

• Hazard statements describe the hazards in a simple, direct manner.

“There is a hazard statement for each hazard category of a hazard class, and it will vary depending on the degree of hazard.” (OSHA.gov)

“As with the signal words, this information conveys the relative severity of the hazard, which impacts how it is handled and controlled.” (OSHA.gov)

• Pictograms on chemical labels will be black symbols on a white background with a red diamond border.

There are nine pictograms that may appear on hazardous chemical labels. Eight pictograms represent hazard categories. The ninth represents an environmental risk, but it is not mandatory under the OSHA standard since OSHA does not regulate environmental hazards.

Pictograms can be used to represent several different hazardous effects.

A separate set of 14 pictograms is used on shipping containers for transportation purposes. Both sets are diamond shaped, but the DOT system uses different backgrounds.

If the shipping container is also used as the primary jobsite container, DOT pictograms may be used in place of the OSHA symbols to represent the same hazard.

• Precautionary Statements: “A precautionary statement is a phrase that describes recommended measures that should be taken to minimize or prevent adverse effects resulting from exposure to a hazardous chemical, or improper storage or handling.” (OSHA.gov)

There are four types of GHS compliant precautionary statements: Prevention, Response, Storage, and Disposal.

Which containers are required to have a label according to the new GHS compliance requirements?

“Under paragraph (f )(7), employers may use signs, placards, process sheets, batch tickets, operating procedures, or other written material instead of affixing labels to individual stationary process containers, as long as the alternative method identifies which containers it applies to and conveys at least general information regarding the hazards of the chemicals. Paragraph (f )(8) of the standard also addresses portable containers into which the hazardous chemicals are transferred from a labeled container, and which are for the immediate use of the employee who performs the transfer. These portable containers do not have to be labeled.” (OSHA.gov)

What information should appear on GHS compliant data safety sheets?

In addition to maintaining your chemical labels, you must also maintain GHS compliant Safety Data Sheets for every hazardous chemical you use. The new Safety Data Sheets have been divided into an internationally agreed upon 16- section format with standardized section headings that must be presented in a specific order.

The information that is most useful to exposed workers is located at the top and more technical information used by environmental safety professions is located in the later sections. Some of the sections are not considered mandatory by OSHA because they present information that is regulated by other government organizations, but the headings for these sections are still required to be present on the SDS. The sections of the SDS are as follows (non mandatory sections have been italicized):

• Identification: Name of the chemical as it appears on the label

• Chemical description or other means of identification

• Name address and phone number of the chemical manufacture

• Emergency contact phone number• Hazard(s) identification• Signal Words• Pictographs• Hazard statements• Precautionary statements• Composition/information on ingredients• Substances should list a chemical name, any

synonyms, CAS number, and any impurities or

stabilizers that contribute to the classification of the substance.

Mixtures must include the chemical names and concentrations (exact percentage) of all ingredients classified as health hazards unless a trade secret claim is made in accordance with paragraph (i) of §1910.1200.

If a trade secret is claimed, a statement that the specific chemical identity and/or exact percentage (concentration) of composition has been withheld as a trade secret is required. (OSHA.gov)

• First-aid measures• Firefighting measures• Accidental release measures• Handling and storage• Exposure control/personal protection• Physical and chemical properties• Stability and reactivity• Toxicological information• Ecological information• Disposal considerations• Transport information• Regulatory information• Other information• Date of preparation or last revision

Where can GHS compliant chemical labels and Safety Data Sheets be Obtained?

Chemical manufacturers and resellers should provide GHS compliant safety data sheets and labels for each chemical they produce or sell. If you do not receive a label or SDS with your first shipment, you must request one as soon as possible. If you cannot obtain a label and or SDS you should contact your local OSHA office. Be sure to check all documents for accuracy and completeness. Most manufactures and resellers will provide new labels and safety data sheets if any information changed, but it is a good idea to obtain new copies on a regular schedule to ensure that the information is current.

Clyde Hemminger is the editor of the PowerWash.com blog, a resource for pressure washing industry professionals seeking in-formation about business development and equipment advice. For more information, visit www.PowerWash.com.

Information for this article was obtained from:https://www.osha.gov/Publications/OSHA3695.pdfHazard Communication: Small Entity Compliance Guide for Employers That Use Hazardous Chemicals OSHA 3695-03 2014 (n.d.): n. pag. Web. 16 Mar. 2015.

28 eClean Magazine

About the Author

NEW ProductUrban Restorations Group,

creators of the World’s Best Graffiti Removal System, introduces the new Eco Blaster, a complete pressure washing system in a box.

These compact, self-contained units can be loaded into any vehicle or garden wagon, and are especially useful for cleaning in locations with limited access to water.

Eco Blaster incorporates the Mi-T-M Work Pro Series Pressure Washer (2700 PSI / 2.4 gallons per minute). It’s powered by a Honda GC 190 Gas Motor with a Mi-T-M Direct Drive Axial Piston Pump with Brass Manifold.

A 10 gallon water tank, 20 feet of high pressure hose and wand are included. Just add water, and you’re ready to rinse.

Blast into summer with the amazing new ECOBLASTER Portable Pressure Washing System and receive a FREE GRAFF- ATTAK- PAK (valued at over $169) plus fixed rate shipping of only $50. Call for multiple unit pricing and free shipping offer on three or more units. Reseller inquiries welcome.

For more information, call 818- 247-2555 or email them at sales@graffitiremovalinc.com.

Introducing the Eco Blaster

From the Manufacturers of the World’s Best Graffiti Removal System

“New Product” 29

A primary tool used in the World of Clean is the vacuum.

Vacuums come in a variety of configurations, from canisters, to uprights, to riders, to wearables. Some will pick up debris while others will pick up liquids. One thing they all have in common: they won’t pull a bowling ball out of a closet. (That’s an inside joke from the sixties…you’re not laughing though.)

Okay, so back to the task at hand.

It’s not easy to pick the right machine for the job, but as I’ve harped on for years, a cleaning service must purchase the proper equipment or spend valuable labor time making up for the difference. The difference usually means a loss of profits.

Here is the short list for picking the proper vacuum for the job:

1. For each facility, determine the square footage of carpet and flat floor surfaces.

a. Carpetingb. Resilient floor coverings2. Determine if the vacuum will be

used in wet areas such as restrooms or shops.

3. Figure out what type of debris or liquid to be removed is most prevalent.

a. Dirtb. Dustc. Sandd. Gravele. Barkf. Various liquids4. The strength and size of the person

using the machine is extremely important.a. Height and weightb. Male or female

By Rick Meehan, Marko Janitorial

Janitorial

WHAT’S IN A VACUUM?

30 eClean Magazine

“Vacuum” 31

Now that you’ve answered the big questions, the next step is to consider the quality of the machine that you wish to purchase. Big names like Hoover and Electrolux don’t mean a thing when it comes to commercial usage – they’re household brands.

If you are a commercial cleaning agency, go for commercial equipment built to withstand constant daily usage. Brands like Advance, Kent, Boss Pullman, Windsor, to name a few, make lines of machines that will hold up for years under difficult conditions.

Fit the equipment to the person as the next step. An upright vacuum weighing 20 pounds will wear out a little elderly church custodian in a hurry, but put her in a hip vacuum weighing only six pounds and she can vacuum all day long without fatigue.

Next, design of a vacuum is important. Every building is different inside and out. Sometimes it is most efficient to have several types of vacuums available. Continuing with the church example, a backpack, hip vacuum, or canister tag-along with a tool set works great in the sanctuary (auditorium). Depending on the size of the facility and the amount of carpet, even a riding carpet sweeper may be appropriate. Choose equipment appropriate for the size of the facility and for the person to get the job done speedily.

Finally, just because you think you have all the equipment you need when it comes to vacuuming, if the machines don’t match the job, vacuums have a tendency to wear out quickly, not to mention the people running them. Maintenance costs mount when the vacuums used are not designed for the tasks to which they are put. In other words, don’t expect a whale of a job out of a minnow. Get the vacuums you really need and save all the headaches.

About the AuthorRick Meehan is the Vice President of Marko Janitorial, a full-service janitorial supplier. To learn more, visit www.MarkoInc.com.

JulyJuly 25: Window Cleaning Network Picnic, Oconomowoc, WI, www.window-cleaning.net/

SeptemberSeptember 10-12: United Association of Mobile Contract Cleaners (UAMCC) 2015 National Convention, Charleston, SC, www.UAMCCevents.org

2015 Calendar of Events (July – November)

August 6: Accelr8 Window Cleaning Training, Washington, D.C., www.Accelr8.training

August 7-8: The 2015 Pressure Washing & Window Cleaning Convention & Trade Show, Washington, D.C., www.TheHugeConvention.com

August

Oct. 9-10: Southside Equipment Networking Event, Louisville, KY, www.SouthsideKY.com

Oct. 20-23: International Sanitary Supply Association (ISSA) 2015 Interclean, Las Vegas, NV, www.ISSA.com

April 22-25: Cleaning Equipment Trade Association (CETA) PowerClean 2015, Las Vegas, NV, www.CETA.org

Oct. 28-31: International Kitchen Exhaust Cleaning Association (IKECA) Technical Seminar, Kansas City, MO, www.IKECA.org

October

Nov. 12-14: 2015 Power Washers of North America (PWNA) National Convention & Trade Show, Charlotte, NC, www.PWNA.org

November