BBB San Francisco Bay Area & Northern Coastal CA: Having a successful janitorial company

Owning and operating a janitorial company in California has unique challenges and opportunities. To thrive in this competitive industry, it's essential to focus on providing quality service, maintaining compliance with state regulations, and building strong customer relationships. 

Here are some valuable tips to help have a successful janitorial company: 

1. Adhere to all state regulations: California has strict labor and environmental regulations that janitorial companies must follow. Ensure compliance with:
   • California Department of Industrial Relations - This license is mandatory for janitorial businesses and requires annual renewal.
   • Follow Occupational Health and Safety Administration (OSHA) guidelines – These regulations help safeguard employees from workplace hazards, particularly in cleaning chemicals and machinery.
   • Labor Laws and Employee Rights: Stay informed about California labor laws, including wage requirements, breaks, and other employee rights relevant to janitorial staff, available through the California Department of Industrial Relations.
   • Environmental standards: California has specific regulations regarding using certain chemicals. Exploring the use of green cleaning products can help meet state standards for environmental safety. Information on these regulations can be found through the California Environmental Protection Agency. 
   • Waste Disposal Compliance: It’s important to comply with state and local regulations on properly disposing of cleaning waste. Follow waste guidelines through the California Department of Resources Recycling and Recovery (CalRecycle).
2. Invest in employee training and development: Well-trained employees are crucial to delivering high-quality service. Invest in comprehensive training programs that cover:
   • Cleaning Techniques: Train staff on the latest cleaning methods and use of equipment.
   • Customer Service: Teach employees the importance of professionalism and effective communication with clients.
   • Safety Protocols: Regularly update training on safety procedures and emergency response.
3. Reporting and record keeping: Maintain accurate records of employee hours, incidents, and health and safety training compliance. This not only aids in regulatory compliance but is also essential for audits and inspections.
4. Stay informed and adaptable: The janitorial industry is constantly evolving. Stay informed about industry trends and adapt your business strategies accordingly:
   • Industry associations: Join professional organizations like the Better Business Bureau, local chambers, and cleaning associations.  
   • Continuous learning: Attend workshops, seminars, and online courses to update your skills and knowledge. Visit BBB Learning and browse through hundreds of online courses.  
   • Feedback integration: Regularly incorporate client and employee feedback into your business practices. 

By following these tips, janitorial companies in California can improve their service quality, ensure compliance, and build a strong reputation in the market.