Traditionally, cleanliness in facilities, whether it’s a workplace, school, hospital, or senior living facility, has been associated with visible standards—gleaming floors, clear windows, and surfaces free from visible dirt. However, the understanding of what constitutes a healthy indoor environment has expanded significantly. Today’s definition of health and safety includes the quality of the air occupants breathe, calling for a comprehensive strategy that integrates cleaning practices, air quality management, and regulatory compliance to support occupant health, well-being, and productivity. Understanding the indoor environment Buildings operate like complex ecosystems, with multiple interconnected factors influencing indoor air quality (IAQ). Building materials, ventilation systems, cleaning products and practices, occupant behaviors, and even furnishings all play a role in the indoor environment. Each of these elements can introduce or mitigate exposure to invisible pollutants, including allergens (e.g., pollen, dust mites, and mold), volatile organic compounds (VOCs), particulate matter, and airborne pathogens. The National Institutes of Health reports that 50% of illnesses are either caused or worsened by poor IAQ. Individuals with respiratory conditions such as asthma, or vulnerable sectors of society like children, are especially susceptible. Over 50% of U.S. homes contain at least one elevated indoor allergen, and buildings designed for energy efficiency without proper ventilation can trap hundreds of chemicals indoors, contributing to sick building syndrome (SBS). A term coined in the 1970s, SBS described the health problems caused by inadequate ventilation and pollutant buildup in tightly sealed office buildings. Though the term is less commonly used today, the underlying issues remain, manifesting in symptoms such as eye irritation, dizziness, and respiratory symptoms, which often resolve once a person leaves the affected building. The consequences of poor IAQ go beyond physical health. Occupants in buildings with high levels of VOCs often have lower performance scores on cognitive tests, up to 61% lower compared to occupants in low-VOC environments, according to a study in the journal Building and Environment. In contrast, occupants in green-certified buildings, which typically feature superior ventilation and material choices, have shown a 26.4% improvement in cognitive test performance, another study in the same journal reported. Emerging regulations, such as the American Society of Heating, Refrigerating and Air-Conditioning Engineers’ (ASHRAE) Standard 241, emphasize the importance of managing infectious aerosols and enhancing ventilation strategies, guiding facility managers toward healthier indoor environments. Standards such as this encourage facility managers to adopt evidence-based approaches to improve IAQ proactively. Interestingly, ASHRAE 241 is the first consensus-based, code-enforceable standard to address building preparedness and airborne infection risk reduction directly. Cleaning for air quality Traditional cleaning routines often fall short of addressing the root causes of poor IAQ, or worse, may contribute to poor IAQ. Many products and practices redistribute allergens into the breathing zone and release VOCs, negatively affecting air quality. Effective cleaning requires the selection of products that minimize chemical emissions and actively remove allergens. Low-VOC cleaning products, scientifically tested and independently verified through credible third-party programs like the Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America’s Asthma & Allergy Friendly® Certification Program, offer reliable solutions while supporting better IAQ. Effective ventilation, filtration, and humidity control are also essential considerations. Simple steps, such as regular maintenance of HVAC systems and timely replacement of HVAC filters, can greatly influence indoor environments. Choosing certified HVAC filters and air purification systems also can play a key role in reducing indoor pollutants. The use of verified systems ensures products have undergone rigorous, independent testing proving that they effectively remove allergens and particles without introducing harmful by-products, ensuring real-world performance and subsequent health benefits. Differentiating between certifications and selfie seals In today’s crowded marketplace, health claims, certifications, and seals are everywhere, but not all are created equal. Amid a sea of marketing claims and loosely defined standards, it’s essential to recognize the programs that go beyond surface-level messaging to deliver real, evidence-based assurance. Genuine third-party certifications provide transparency, accountability, and confidence. Programs like the Asthma & Allergy Friendly® Certification Program, the U.S. Green Building Council’s Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) rating system, and the International Well Building Institute’s WELL Building Standard® (WELL) set high standards, supporting informed decision-making for facility managers who seek products that are proven to contribute positively to occupant health. Backed by accredited laboratories like Airmid Healthgroup, these programs help facility managers make informed choices that align with both health goals and regulatory expectations. Certified products must pass scientifically validated protocols that assess performance in real-world conditions, not just ideal scenarios. This level of scrutiny stands in contrast to what are often referred to as “selfie seals”—unverified labels that appear to suggest third-party verification, but lack substantiated evidence, leading to consumer confusion and potential regulatory pushback. Regulatory bodies, including the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) and the European Commission, increasingly target these misleading claims, resulting in significant fines and consequential reputational damage for companies. Educating for action Despite growing awareness around IAQ, there remains a significant knowledge gap among cleaning and maintenance professionals, perhaps due to limited access to specific training. Tailored education programs are a fundamental tool in bridging this gap. One notable initiative is the Healthier Buildings Awareness training course, developed by the iAIR Academy in partnership with ISSA’s Global Biorisk Advisory Council (GBAC). Specifically designed for facility management professionals, the course addresses a broad array of factors relating to IAQ, including the impact of pollutants on respiratory health, the science behind pathogen control, and the opportunity for becoming an indoor air specialist. This educational support means professionals are equipped with practical knowledge, empowering them to implement efficient cleaning routines and select appropriate products that support a healthier indoor environment. For organizations that adhere to environmental, social, and governance (ESG) guidelines, the use of certified products contributes positively to their objectives, highlighting a commitment to occupant well-being and sustainability. Rethinking clean A genuinely effective approach to healthy buildings requires integrating building science, medical insights, and operational best practices. Implementing a holistic IAQ strategy involves careful selection of certified cleaning products and green building materials, rigorous adherence to improved cleaning protocols, and comprehensive staff training. Regular IAQ
Proactive facility managers, custodial teams, and building service contractors are gearing up for that time of year again: cold and flu season. The season usually runs from October through May—peaking December through February. The sooner you implement enhanced cleaning and disinfection protocols, the more successful you’ll be in reducing absenteeism, maintaining healthier indoor environments, and reassuring occupants that their well-being is a top priority. Why disinfecting matters Cold and flu viruses can survive on surfaces for hours or even days, making shared spaces a major factor in spreading illness. High-traffic facilities, such as schools, offices, and healthcare centers, are especially at risk. Ensuring these facilities are stocked with high-quality products, such as hospital-grade disinfectants, can help prevent the spread of germs and keep building inhabitants safe and productive. Effective disinfection is not about appearance; it’s about stopping the spread of germs. The lifespan of flu viruses varies from surface to surface. For hard, nonporous surfaces (like metal door handles, stainless steel, plastic): Influenza viruses can survive for 24 to 48 hours in measurable amounts. Infectious particles are strongest in the first two to eight hours, but traces can linger up to two days. The virus typically survives for only eight to 12 hours, sometimes less, on porous surfaces like fabric, paper, or tissues. Flu viruses can live on hands for up to five minutes after contact with a contaminated surface, which is why handwashing is critical. Unfortunately, common disinfection practices, like “spray and wipe,” often fall short. For disinfectants to work effectively, surfaces must stay visibly wet for the product’s required dwell time—usually between 30 seconds and five minutes, depending on the Environmental Protection Agency- (EPA) registered, hospital-grade List N disinfectant. Disinfectant wipes often offer better coverage because they naturally keep the contact time needed to kill pathogens. Best practices for high-touch surfaces Since restrooms receive most of the attention when it comes to cleaning and disinfecting, other common high-touch and high-use areas are often overlooked. These include: Door handles and push bars Light switches Water fountains and hydration stations Product dispensers Shared equipment and communal surfaces Be sure to disinfect these areas more frequently throughout the day during the cold and flu season. Posting signs and providing hand sanitizer at entrances or throughout buildings can help remind and motivate everyone to do their part in reducing the spread of illness. Partnering with your cleaning staff Whether working with in-house custodial teams or outside contractors, it’s essential to establish clear expectations about disinfection priorities. Consider increasing cleaning schedules and frequency during peak months, and communicate which areas require extra attention. At the same time, encourage personal responsibility. Simple messages like “If you’re sick, stay home” and reminders to wash hands regularly can have a measurable impact. According to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), proper handwashing can reduce respiratory illnesses by 16 to 21%, while the World Health Organization (WHO) reports that hand hygiene can reduce the spread of infections by up to 50% in healthcare settings. Ultimately, minimizing the impact of cold and flu season requires a multi-layered strategy: using appropriate products, applying them correctly, concentrating on high-touch surfaces, and encouraging personal hygiene. When all these elements work together, facilities can protect occupants, lower absenteeism, and show a clear commitment to health and safety.
What has the cleaning industry learned as it transitioned from the first pandemic year to the second? In this episode of BioTalk, a GBACtv production, learn the details about what went well and what didn't in 2021, and what we as an industry need to know right now. Infection prevention experts Patty Olinger, the executive director of the Global Biorisk Advisory Council (GBAC), a division of ISSA, and Dr. Paul Meechan, the former head of safety with the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and who now serves on the GBAC scientific advisory board, discuss these topics with ISSA Media Director Jeff Cross. This webcast also digs into the science and the layered support when it comes to cleaning, disinfection, and air purification, and how the omicron variant shouldn’t be considered just another type of “cold”. Olinger and Meechan also discuss the possibility of the end of the pandemic. This webcast is brought to you by our sponsor Breezy.
On Tuesday, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) issued a health advisory to share information and notify clinicians, public health authorities, and the public about recent New World screwworm (NWS) animal cases in the Mexican state of Tamaulipas, which shares a border with Texas. No NWS infestations related to this outbreak have been identified in people or animals in the U.S. as of Jan. 20. However, given the potential for geographic spread, CDC issued the Health Advisory to increase awareness and summarize recommendations for U.S. clinicians and health departments on case identification and reporting, specimen collection, diagnosis, treatment of NWS, and guidance for the public. NWS is a devastating pest, the CDC said. NWS infections occur when flies lay eggs in wounds or other body cavities with mucus membranes, such as the nose, ears, eyes, or mouth. The eggs develop into parasitic larvae (maggots) that feed on living flesh and burrow into it. Although they primarily affect livestock, such as cattle and horses, the flies can also lay eggs on people and other warm-blooded animals, both domestic and wild. Cases of NWS in people can be fatal if left untreated. An outbreak of NWS infestations in people and animals has developed across Central America and Mexico. During this outbreak, more than 1,190 cases and seven deaths in people have been reported as of Jan. 20. Mexico has reported 24 hospitalizations among people and 601 active cases among animals. (An animal case is defined as “active” at the time of diagnosis and becomes inactive if officials verify the absence of new wounds or larvae after 15 days.) The Mexican state of Tamaulipas reported eight active animal cases. Still, the risk to people in the U.S. remains low, the CDC said. People might be at increased risk for developing NWS if they spend time in geographic areas where NWS flies are present and: Have an open wound, including scratches, cuts, insect bites, or surgical wounds. Have a medical condition that might affect how quickly a wound heals, or that may cause bleeding or open sores (e.g., skin cancer, psoriasis, or eczema). They are very old or very young. Experience malnutrition. Sleep outdoors, especially during daytime hours when NWS flies are more active. Live, work, or spend an extended amount of time near livestock or other warm-blooded animals in these areas. The treatment of NWS in humans is the removal of all eggs and larvae, which may require surgical extraction if the larvae are deeply embedded in tissues, the CDC said. No studies have proved that any specific medication helps treat humans. Patients with secondary infections or additional symptoms may need supportive care.
Last year marked a turning point for ISSA, the Association for Cleaning and Facility Solutions, and its legislative and regulatory advocacy. As the world moved beyond the pandemic and navigated a shifting political landscape, ISSA and its over 11,000 members championed significant advocacy wins for the cleaning industry, including: Congress advancing ISSA priorities in a landmark tax bill: The new law expands 529 accounts to cover post-secondary training and credentialing for cleaning professionals, not just college. It also made the small-business tax deduction permanent, restored 100% bonus depreciation, revived expensing of R&D costs, and created deductions for tip income and overtime pay. The ISSA-backed WIPPES Act passing the U.S. House: A bipartisan vote moved forward legislation to reduce sewer clogs caused by wipes improperly flushed down toilets, protecting infrastructure and supporting responsible product use. Progress in the fight to end period poverty: Alabama and Missouri repealed the tampon tax—another step toward increasing access to essential hygiene products. In addition, ISSA Advocacy reached over 2,600 Advocates for Clean; achieved record attendance at its Clean Advocacy Summit; earned national, state, and local recognition for its industry during International Cleaning Week; and more. What are ISSA’s policy priorities for 2026? Building on these successes, the association unveiled its ambitious list of 2026 Policy Priorities. These priorities aim to foster growth, innovation, and sustainability in the cleaning and facility solutions industry by ensuring cleaner, healthier spaces while advancing the industry’s competitiveness, workforce, and regulatory landscape. ISSA’s 2026 policy priorities: Supporting tax policies that incentivize healthy and clean spaces: Advocate for policies that encourage innovation, investment, and growth in the cleaning and facility solutions industry. This includes sensible, transparent tariff policies, opposition to a sales tax on cleaning services, and support for incentives and policies to promote clean and healthy spaces. Investing in workforce development and training: Ensure the cleaning industry has the workers and proper training it needs to meet growing demand and higher standards. Address the demand for skilled workers, the creation of a new Registered Apprenticeship Program for front-line cleaning professionals, and the expansion of hiring incentives such as the Work Opportunity Tax Credit. Streamlining and funding essential EPA functions: Ensure Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is adequately resourced and effectively maintains science-based regulatory standards that encourage innovation for regulated cleaning products and equipment. Ensuring cleaner, healthier, and more accessible spaces: Promote policies that foster environmentally sustainable cleaning practices and cleaner, healthier, and more accessible spaces for all. Sustainability, robust cleaning standards, and pandemic preparedness are at the forefront. Additionally, increase access to free period products in away-from-home restrooms. Supporting industry best practices: Support policies that advance cleaning industry best practices and industry standards while opposing those that don’t. ISSA opposes policies that undermine scientific cleaning standards and industry best practices. The association supports worker-safety initiatives grounded in science and aims to align sustainability efforts with public health priorities. John Nothdurft, ISSA's Director of Government Affairs, emphasized the importance of these priorities, and said: "The cleaning industry has made huge strides during the last five years in educating and advocating for the industry on topics such as labor, trade, and taxes. Federal and state lawmakers now understand how essential the cleaning and facility solutions industry is to public health and economic growth. These policy priorities for 2026 align with the association’s commitment to innovation and sustainability. They are a reminder to policymakers how essential our industry is in creating cleaner, healthier, and more accessible spaces." ISSA encourages all industry leaders to make their voices heard and engage in advocacy efforts. A prime opportunity to do so is at the 2026 Clean Advocacy Summit, set to take place in Washington, D.C., on March 23-24. This summit will bring together industry experts, policymakers, and stakeholders to discuss the future of the cleaning industry and advocate for policies that matter most. For more information and to get involved, please contact John Nothdurft at johnn@issa.com.
On January 12, a US$3.8 million public restroom in Staten Island, New York, captured the spotlight by winning a coveted 2026 American Institute of Architects (AIA) New York Design Award. The public restroom in Luis Lopez Playground was recognized for its modular construction and could serve as a model for future New York City facilities. As CMM reported earlier this month, New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani launched a new program to expand access to public restrooms citywide, committing $4 million to the effort. A jury of independent architects, educators, and planners from outside New York City selected the 2026 winners of the AIA New York Design Awards. Chosen from over 200 entries, the winning projects span scales and types, from cultural institutions and academic buildings to smaller interventions in public space. The facility was among 24 projects honored by the organization. “We saw this project as taking on a challenge that many people have not solved for decades: How do you provide comfort, rest, and peace in a cost-effective, replicable way across many parks within a system?” asked Brie Hensold, a member of the voting jury, an honored member of American Society of Landscape Architects, and co-founder and principal of Agency Landscape + Planning. “This project considers the needs of caregivers, children, maintenance workers, and the unhoused community and offers a way for people to stay and linger and visit public spaces much longer than they could otherwise. This is proof-of-concept for a system that is modular and can be implemented across a much broader system that could inspire, not just here, but across the country.” According to reporting from the Advance/SILive.com, the shipping container-like restroom was designed in 2021 and unveiled in 2024, and was the first of its kind in NYC. It was manufactured in three pieces at a Pennsylvania factory before it was transported and assembled on-site. This public restroom was designed for NYC Parks as a pilot project using modular construction to deliver a more cost- and time-efficient result. The requirements were based on the current NYC Parks Standard Public Restroom Design for conventionally built restrooms with two restroom spaces and one maintenance and operations space. Based on extensive research into modular construction and its key drivers, a design with optimized modules was developed to enable citywide delivery and installation. This modular design was reviewed and approved by the NYC Public Design Commission for use in other locations throughout New York City. The color of the public restroom's thin brick cladding will be adjusted to match the neighborhood and community it serves. Additionally, the modular design enables quick, affordable expansion of the public restroom supply. NYC plans to build more modular restrooms, including a red, yellow, and orange version. The Parks Department intends to reconstruct 36 of its more than 700 comfort stations and add 46 new restrooms under its Better Bathrooms initiative.
Momentum is building for the 2026 ISSA Clean Advocacy Summit, the premier Capitol Hill fly-in event for the cleaning industry, March 23-24 in Washington, D.C. This year’s summit will be the keystone event taking place during International Cleaning Week. ISSA is co-hosting this year’s summit with the Business Service Contracts Association International (BSCAI); INDA, the Association of the Nonwoven Fabrics Industry; Institute of Inspection Cleaning and Restoration Certification (IICRC); International Franchise Association (IFA); New England Sanitary Supply Association (NESSA); Pacific Association of Business Service Contractors (PABSCO); and the Restoration Industry Association (RIA). “The 2026 summit is a unique opportunity for the cleaning and facility solutions industry to build on our legislative successes in 2025,” said John Nothdurft, ISSA Director of Government Affairs. “The bringing together of so many influential associations gives the industry a bigger voice and more influence on the critical policy issues being debated on Capitol Hill that will impact the industry for years to come. Hearing directly from business leaders firsthand is the most impactful way to advance the industry’s policy priorities and strengthen our collective voice in Washington, D.C.” The 2026 summit will take place at the Royal Sonesta Washington, D.C., Capitol Hill, within walking distance of the Capitol. Attendance will include more than 140 industry leaders representing a cross section of the cleaning and facility solutions industry, including manufacturers, distributors, residential and commercial cleaning companies, restoration cleaning companies, and franchises. “Franchised cleaning brands are directly affected by the labor and regulatory policies shaping today’s business environment,” said Jeff Hanscom, International Franchise Association senior vice president, state and local government relations and policy. “With so many shared members in this space, IFA is proud to support the ISSA 2026 Clean Advocacy Summit and partner with ISSA to ensure policymakers understand how smart policy helps franchise systems grow, support local owners, and create jobs.” “INDA is excited to again partner with ISSA to co-locate our Third Annual INDA Fly-In and Advocacy Summit at the Clean Advocacy Summit, which is quickly becoming one of the premier annual advocacy events in Washington, D.C.,” said Wes Fisher, INDA director of government affairs. “Over the last two years, dozens of INDA members have joined ISSA’s programming and additionally held sessions and congressional meetings specific to the nonwovens industry, including promoting the bipartisan WIPPES Act. As an association representing the manufacturers of many cleaning and personal care products, we look forward to continuing our fantastic partnership with ISSA and the Clean Advocacy Summit.” “The IICRC is proud to once again partner with ISSA for its Clean Advocacy Summit,” added IICRC director of Government Relations, Robbie Bradshaw. “The cleaning and restoration industries are integral to public health, safety, and disaster recovery, and it is vital that our voices are represented and heard in the policymaking process on Capitol Hill.” “United industry advocacy strengthens our collective voice with policymakers, advancing policies that support workforce development, healthy workplaces, and economic vitality for the entire cleaning, restoration, and facility services sector,” said Vince Scarfo, RIA director of advocacy and government affairs. “We are thrilled to work alongside the ISSA team to elevate our industries in a strong collaborative approach.” “NESSA is proud to serve as a supporting organization for the 2026 Clean Advocacy Summit and International Cleaning Week,” added Nicole Bernardo, NESSA executive director. “As a leading representative of the sanitary supply industry in New England, we look forward to elevating our members’ voices and advocating for initiatives that will help shape and advance the future of our industry.” On the first day of the industry’s largest fly-in event, participants will get the “inside scoop” on the key public policy issues facing their business and industry, including labor, supply chain, and tariff challenges; cleaning product regulations; the promotion of healthy workplaces; the end of period poverty; and more. On the second day, participants will apply their new knowledge and skills by heading to Capitol Hill to meet with their congressional delegation to advance the industry. For questions about the 2026 ISSA Clean Advocacy Summit or sponsorship opportunities, please contact John Nothdurft.