What is ISO cleaning classification? How can a commercial cleaning service help you check the necessary boxes? Here's what to know--and how to start creating a clean and compliant environment.
What is ISO Cleaning Classification?
Many industries have regulations like HIPAA to keep everyone safe and secure. However, for other industries, it's not just about defending data and privacy. Some need to protect physical environments as well--and that's where ISO cleaning classifications come in.
The International Organization for Standardization (ISO) maintains specific standards for cleanliness in any area designated as a "cleanroom" or "clean zone." These standards are based on different levels of contamination, all of which are determined by the number of airborne particles per cubic meter.
There are standards ranging from ISO Class 1 to ISO Class 9. The former is a low-contamination zone likely managed by commercial cleaning experts, while the latter corresponds to average indoor or outdoor city air. If you're required to stay within ISO Class 1 standards, failing to do so could result in anything from a fine to a loss of ISO classification.
How Commercial Cleaning Can Help
Although most industries don't require adherence to ISO Class 1 standards (most are around ISO Class 7 or 8), it's important to know where your company falls on the scale and how to meet those requirements. Luckily, you don't have to do it alone. A commercial cleaning company can help you manage key tasks like these:
Creating a Cleaning Schedule
ISO standards often require regular testing--for example, every six months. To prepare for these tests, it's best to have a regular cleaning schedule. A commercial cleaning company helps you create and adhere to this schedule, often by doing the "heavy lifting" (like deep cleans, everyday cleaning, and more) for you.
Disinfecting Different Work Areas
An ISO Class 1 cleanroom has a variety of surfaces, each in need of its own cleaning approach. The same is true for less regulated industries, too: Your office keyboards and desks need to be disinfected, but the process is quite different from disinfecting bathrooms and kitchens. A commercial cleaning company has all the equipment, supplies, and expertise necessary to handle different work environments while you sit back and relax.
Preventing Particle Contamination
Remember, ISO cleaning standards are based on airborne particles. Commercial cleaning helps reduce the number and size of particles that end up in the air by using rigorous techniques throughout your workspace--like dusting and vacuuming, helping you install or clean air filters, and more.
In conclusion, ISO cleaning classification is an important regulation for many businesses. It's often best to get some help tracking and meeting all these requirements.
Does your workplace have a cleaning checklist you can't tackle on your own? Contact us today to find out what commercial cleaning can do for you.