What is ISO 14001? ISO 14001 is an internationally agreed standard that provides guidelines for establishing and maintaining an environmental management system (EMS). It helps organizations of all types and sizes enhance their environmental performance by promoting efficient resource use, waste reduction, and continuous improvement in their approach to environmental concerns. Get In Touch Previous Next Brewery & Distillery Cleaning What Exactly Is ISO 14001? ISO 14001 is an internationally agreed standard that establishes the criteria for an environmental management system (EMS). It is designed to help organisations of all types and sizes enhance their environmental performance by promoting the efficient use of resources and minimising waste. By implementing ISO 14001, organisations can achieve a competitive advantage and earn the trust of stakeholders, including customers, regulators, and the community. The ISO 14001 standard provides a framework for organisations to follow in order to create, maintain, and improve an EMS. It is based on the Plan-Do-Check-Act (PDCA) methodology, which encourages continuous improvement in environmental performance. By adhering to the requirements of ISO 14001, organisations can demonstrate their commitment to reducing their environmental impact and complying with relevant laws and regulations. What Is An Environmental Management System? An environmental management system (EMS) is a structured approach that helps organisations identify, manage, monitor, and control their environmental issues in a holistic manner. It takes into account various environmental aspects, including air pollution, water and sewage issues, waste management, soil contamination, climate change mitigation and adaptation, and resource use and efficiency. ISO 14001 is an international standard that provides guidelines for establishing and maintaining an EMS. It is suitable for organisations of all types and sizes, whether they are private, not-for-profit, or governmental. ISO 14001 is designed to integrate easily with other management systems standards, such as ISO 9001 for quality management and ISO 45001 for occupational health and safety, as they all use a High-Level Structure. Like all ISO management system standards, ISO 14001 emphasises the need for continuous improvement in an organisation’s systems and approach to environmental concerns. The standard has undergone revisions, with key improvements including increased prominence of environmental management within an organisation’s strategic planning processes, greater input from leadership, and a stronger commitment to proactive initiatives that enhance environmental performance. By implementing an EMS based on ISO 14001, organisations can demonstrate their commitment to reducing their environmental impact and complying with relevant laws and regulations. The key improvements in ISO 14001:2015 include: The prominence of environmental management within the organisation’s strategic direction: The updated standard emphasises the importance of integrating environmental management into the core strategy and decision-making processes of the organisation. Greater commitment from leadership: Top management is now more actively involved in setting and reviewing environmental objectives and ensuring the EMS is effectively implemented, demonstrating organisational commitment to environmental performance. Proactive initiatives for environmental protection: ISO 14001:2015 encourages organisations to implement initiatives that focus on sustainable resource use, climate change mitigation, and the prevention of environmental degradation. Life-cycle thinking: The standard now requires organisations to consider the entire life cycle of their products and services, from development to end-of-life, to minimise their environmental impact at every stage. Stakeholder-focused communication strategy: The revised standard emphasises the importance of effectively communicating with stakeholders, such as customers, suppliers, and regulators, about the organisation’s environmental policies, objectives, and performance. Easier integration with other management systems: Thanks to the adoption of a common High-Level Structure, terms, and definitions, ISO 14001:2015 can be more easily integrated with other management system standards, such as ISO 9001 for quality management and ISO 45001 for occupational health and safety. These improvements ensure that ISO 14001 remains relevant and effective, helping organisations enhance their environmental performance, reduce risks, and strengthen their relationships with stakeholders. FAQs about Industrial Cleaning and Air Quality What is industrial cleaning? Industrial cleaning is a specialized type of cleaning that is designed to remove pollutants and contaminants from the air in industrial settings. It involves the use of specialized techniques and equipment to improve indoor air quality and create a safer, more productive work environment. Why is good air quality important in the workplace? Good air quality is important for a number of reasons. It can improve the health and well-being of workers, leading to increased productivity and reduced absenteeism. Poor air quality, on the other hand, can lead to a range of health issues for workers and reduced productivity. Good air quality can also save money in the long run, as it can reduce the need for repairs and maintenance on equipment and improve overall efficiency. What are some common pollutants in industrial settings? Common pollutants in industrial settings include dust, chemical fumes, and other particulates. These substances can be harmful to workers and can lead to a range of health issues, including respiratory problems and allergies. How does industrial cleaning improve air quality? Industrial cleaning uses a variety of techniques to remove pollutants and contaminants from the air, including HEPA filtration, ventilation cleaning, and surface cleaning. By using these techniques, industrial cleaning can significantly improve the air quality in industrial settings, leading to a safer and more productive work environment. What are the benefits of improved air quality in industrial settings? Improved air quality in industrial settings can bring a range of benefits, including improved health and well-being for workers, increased productivity and efficiency, and potential cost savings for companies. Free Site Visits Experienced Cleaning Technicians ISO and ISSA Accredited Outstanding Service Quality With ISO 9001/14001/45001 COSHH Compliance ULV Fogging Technology ISSA, PASMA and IPAF Accredited On-site Within 24 Hours Free Site Estimates and AdviceList Item

What is GBAC Star Accreditation? The GBAC STAR Accreditation is a performance-based program designed to help facilities establish and maintain a comprehensive cleaning, disinfection, and infectious disease prevention system. This accreditation demonstrates a commitment to maintaining a hygienic indoor environment, with trained professionals employing proper cleaning protocols and disinfection techniques. It ensures that facilities are equipped to respond effectively to biorisk situations like disease outbreaks or contamination events. Get In Touch Previous Next Brewery & Distillery Cleaning What is GBAC® STAR Accreditation? GBAC® STAR Facility Accreditation is the only accreditation program in the cleaning industry that focuses on outbreak prevention, response, and recovery for facilities. Established by the Global Biorisk Advisory Council® (GBAC), a division of ISSA, this comprehensive training program teaches the proper protocols, correct disinfection techniques, and best practices for cleaning in biohazard situations, including those involving SARS-CoV-2, the virus responsible for COVID-19. Successful GBAC® STAR facilities must demonstrate that they have the appropriate work practices, procedures, and systems in place to prepare for, respond to, and recover from outbreaks and pandemics. Since its inception in May 2020, over 1,900 facilities in more than 80 countries across six continents have earned this prestigious accreditation, with over 3,000 facilities currently in the process of seeking accreditation The GBAC® STAR Service Accreditation In addition to facility accreditation, the GBAC® STAR Service Accreditation program provides third-party validation for building service contractors (BSCs) and other outsourced cleaning service providers. GBAC-designed protocols and procedures position these providers as strategic partners against COVID-19 and other infectious diseases. The GBAC® STAR Service program is performance-based, grounded in quality management system principles, and is similar to other relevant industry programs like ISO 9001, ISO 45001, and ISO 35001. It also complements the ISSA Cleaning Industry Management Standard (CIMS), which outlines the primary characteristics of well-run, quality cleaning organisations. What is GBAC STAR Accredited Facilities Accreditation? The GBAC STAR Facility Accreditation is the gold standard for high-performance cleaning and maintenance in institutional and commercial facilities. Accredited facilities commit to maintaining a hygienic indoor environment through proper cleaning protocols, disinfection techniques, and work practices. The program is performance-based, with a comprehensive assessment and tailored cleaning regimen that contributes to reducing pathogen load. The 20-element quality management program is science-based, supporting best practices in cleaning and disinfection. How Do You Become GBAC Star Registered? To qualify as a GBAC STAR Registered Technology, applicants must provide a list of claims and problem statements addressed by their offering, demonstrate its effectiveness in supporting a hygienic indoor environment, and show its advantages over existing solutions in terms of claimed effectiveness, cost savings, and user health and safety. For GBAC STAR Registered Program eligibility, applicants must demonstrate the program’s alignment with the GBAC STAR Facility Accreditation program, specifying which of the 20 elements it supports. The application must include evidence confirming the program’s performance, contribution to a high-performance cleaning regimen, and advantages over existing offerings in terms of effectiveness or cost savings. GBAC STAR Registered Technology or Program status indicates that the offering has been evaluated by the GBAC Advisory Council Scientific Board for scientific validity, usability, practicality, safety, and effectiveness. Registered companies can use the GBAC STAR Registered Seal on their product or program documentation, providing assurance to customers and manufacturers. CICS and the GBAC STAR Facility Accreditation Program CICS Ltd. is an active participant in the GBAC STAR Facility Accreditation Program, a performance-driven initiative that helps facilities create and implement a thorough cleaning, disinfection, and infectious disease prevention system for both their staff and premises. The program’s primary objective is to support organisations in preparing for, responding to, and recovering from various biorisk situations, such as disease outbreaks or contamination events. The COVID-19 pandemic has highlighted the importance of GBAC accreditation, as it ensures effective, safe, and qualified decontamination practices across a wide range of work sectors and communities. By adhering to the stringent standards set by the GBAC program, facilities can maintain a hygienic and secure environment for their employees and visitors, minimising the risk of infectious disease transmission. Some of the key features of the GBAC STAR Facility Accreditation Program include: Comprehensive assessment: The program provides a detailed evaluation of a facility’s current cleaning and disinfection protocols, identifying areas for improvement and recommending best practices to maintain a hygienic indoor environment. Customised approach: The accreditation process is tailored to each facility’s unique needs, taking into consideration factors such as size, type, and specific requirements. Ongoing support: GBAC offers continuous assistance to ensure that facilities stay up-to-date with the latest cleaning and disinfection practices, helping them adapt to new challenges and maintain their accreditation status. Recognition and credibility: Accredited facilities gain the trust and confidence of their clients, employees, and stakeholders by demonstrating their commitment to maintaining a high standard of cleanliness and safety. For more information about the GBAC STAR Facility Accreditation Program and how it can benefit your organization, visit the official website at https://gbac.issa.com/. Get a Quote FAQs about Industrial Cleaning and Air Quality What is industrial cleaning? Industrial cleaning is a specialized type of cleaning that is designed to remove pollutants and contaminants from the air in industrial settings. It involves the use of specialized techniques and equipment to improve indoor air quality and create a safer, more productive work environment. Why is good air quality important in the workplace? Good air quality is important for a number of reasons. It can improve the health and well-being of workers, leading to increased productivity and reduced absenteeism. Poor air quality, on the other hand, can lead to a range of health issues for workers and reduced productivity. Good air quality can also save money in the long run, as it can reduce the need for repairs and maintenance on equipment and improve overall efficiency. What are some common pollutants in industrial settings? Common pollutants in industrial settings include dust, chemical fumes, and other particulates. These substances can be harmful to workers and can lead to a range of health issues, including respiratory problems and allergies. How