Case Study: Education Floor Care Program
Transforming Floor Care in Education – A Sustainable, Cost-Effective Solution
The History
Dustbane and our distribution partner initiated a pilot project in collaboration with a School District. Despite an existing government-awarded contract, several schools within the district were sourcing floor care products independently due to brand preferences and local distributor relationships.
The main objective of this project was to ensure consistent chemical products across all schools within the district by encouraging them to purchase from our partner, who has been awarded the contract. By supporting this established contract, we are committed to providing reliable and sustainable solutions for the school district.
Our first step was to evaluate the condition of their Floor Care Program in many schools. Numerous schools were not properly stripped in the last 10-15 years.
Our immediate observation was that the contracted floor stripper (Dynamite) was inadequate for the task. Unfortunately, it did not meet the sustainability goals as it was not an Ecologo-approved product. Moreover, the use of this product would lead to increased consumption and labour.
Additionally, due to the increased labour and summer vacations, the schools would not receive the proper stripping and finishing they require.
The Limitation
Embracing change and sustainability, the custodial teams had been using a powerful solvent-based product for years. However, in a time of limited resources, they were doubtful if an Ecologo Stripper (Time Out Plus) could deliver the same results while saving on much-needed labour.
Accustomed to their long-time vendor, they hesitated to try something new. But the solution was right in front of them, waiting to be proven.
The Objective
We did a demonstration at the schools, we compared the effectiveness of a Green Certified Stripper, Time Out Plus, against Dynamite without a contract. The results were clear - Time Out Plus outperformed Dynamite at a dilution ratio of 1:10 compared to 1:4. Not only did it save on labour, but it also covered more area.
To ensure we provide the most cost-effective solution, we conducted a thorough cost analysis based on dilution rates. The results showed that using Time Out Plus was a more affordable option, especially for schools dealing with multiple layers of floor finish.
Moreover, the Time Out Plus product aligns perfectly with their sustainability program. Time Out Plus is certified as an Ecologo green product.
The Solution
Our solution provides clarity and effectiveness. Not only does it enhance the user experience for custodial teams, but it also offers the added benefit of being scent-free, eliminating any unpleasant fumes.
As a result, we have implemented a comprehensive program across the entire School District, ensuring all products have safety features and clear instructions. The teams are delighted with the outcomes, and the school board is also pleased with the cost savings. This not only leads to a more sustainable solution but also reduces the number of vendors, promotes contract compliance, and establishes a reliable partnership that truly lives up to its promises.
The Results
- District-wide implementation of a standardized floor care program
- 30–40% savings in labour and product usage (based on demo metrics)
- Custodial staff satisfaction due to ease-of-use, safety, and no harsh fumes
- Board approval based on cost savings and sustainability outcomes