How to Train Your Staff on Efficient Use of Consumables
Building the foundation: understanding the importance
To foster a culture of responsible usage of consumables – such as cleaning chemicals, personal hygiene products, paper towels and more – in the workplace, it's essential that your staff understand and are on board with your company’s policies and position. Efficiency in using cleaning supplies contributes directly to your company's financial health by reducing operating expenses. It also contributes to staff safety and wellbeing, and limits environmental harm that can arise from the overuse or inappropriate disposal of chemically laden products. Discussing these issues and their consequences at the beginning of your training programme can provide staff with the necessary motivation to adopt efficient usage habits.
With that in mind, we’ve compiled a comprehensive guide on how to train your staff to administer consumer products efficiently in your workplace.
Developing an appropriate training programme
Once the groundwork is laid, it's time to dive into the specifics. A training programme that is comprehensive and appropriate to the staff at which it is aimed, featuring practical information about the different products at their disposal, is crucial. This programme should go beyond basic usage instructions. It should clarify any policies in place – such as those that cover appropriate usage, frequency of use, recording of information and so forth. It should also note how these products work, what they are designed for, correct proportions, and the potential hazards associated with misuse. Where appropriate, hands-on training components where staff can practice their new skills are also useful to ensure theoretical knowledge is effectively translated into practical application.
Diving Deep: Enhancing Product Knowledge
Understanding the nuances of each cleaning product – particularly with regard to cleaning consumables – is key to efficient use. This is where thorough product knowledge comes into play. Staff should be equipped with the knowledge of which product is needed for which task, the optimal quantities, how to dilute concentrates, and how to handle and store each product safely. Training sessions should also dispel common misconceptions, such as 'more product equals more cleanliness.' Encourage staff to use just what they need to do the job effectively and no more.
Promoting Sustainable Practices with Green Products
The move towards eco-friendly practices is increasingly important in today's world. Green cleaning products, which typically have less environmental impact and are safer for staff, should be incorporated into your cleaning regimen. Discuss the benefits of these products, their active ingredients, and their efficiency in cleaning. This will not only help to reduce your organization's environmental footprint but can also lead to better health outcomes for your staff due to reduced exposure to harsh chemicals. Encourage staff to think economically when using consumables to conserve supply and help reduce the amount of wastage within your premises.
Optimizing Storage Methods for Product Longevity
Even the best cleaning products can become ineffective or unsafe if stored improperly. Your training programme should therefore include a segment on optimal storage practices. This involves explaining the importance of storing products at the correct temperature, segregating incompatible substances, preventing exposure to sunlight or extreme temperatures, and ensuring products are tightly sealed to prevent evaporation or spillage.
The Feedback Loop: Monitoring, Evaluating, and Adapting
Training shouldn't end when the session concludes. For the programme to be effective, a feedback loop needs to be established. Regularly monitor the usage of cleaning consumables, observe the cleaning processes, and evaluate the outcomes. Provide constructive feedback and hold review sessions to discuss areas of improvement and share best practices. This process will help staff understand the practical implications of their training and continually improve their performance.
Continuous Learning: Keeping up with Industry Developments
The cleaning industry is continually evolving, with new products and technologies being developed all the time. Organising periodic refresher training sessions and introducing new products as they come to market will help ensure your staff keep up to date. Continuous learning should be at the heart of your training programme, fostering an environment of growth and adaptation.
At phs Direct, we aim to not only supply the most efficient products to our customers, but to provide you with the latest advice and recommendations to help you stay up to date on best practice.
Towards a Sustainable Future
Efficient use of cleaning consumables is a small but significant step towards a healthier business and a more sustainable future. It's not merely a cost-saving strategy—it's a chance to instill the principles of responsibility, sustainability, and efficiency in your staff. This mindset can then permeate every facet of your business operations, contributing to a healthier bottom line, a happier workforce, and a greener planet. This comprehensive approach to training your staff in the efficient use of cleaning consumables is sure to pay dividends for years to come.
phs Direct can supply you with everything you’ll need to put your training programme into action. Explore our full range of cleaning and hygiene consumables at phs Direct and enjoy great service and prices from one of the UK’s leading suppliers of cleaning products and equipment.