As parts of the economy prepare to leave lockdown, many organisations are considering whether they should undergo a deep clean and if so, how and when it should be done. ODS, Oxford Direct Services, which provides services for Oxford City Council, is one of the most experienced professional cleaning organisations in the south-east.

Shaun Hatton, Head of Operations, warns people to be aware of rogue traders offering deep cleaning services, who may not have the necessary experience or health and safety standards.

“Many organisations plan to undertake deep cleaning as part of their preparation to re-open. The lowest price might not be the best for you or the environment so I urge people to check for proper health and safety certification and documentation, at the same time as scrutinising costs when commissioning deep cleaning services.

“Some companies are purchasing demisting equipment and offering deep cleaning or decontamination services.  Most of these will be completely legitimate and handled appropriately, but it’s important to this check first.”

Oxford Direct Services is a local authority trading company which means it is wholly owned by Oxford City Council, with the largest skilled workforce in Oxford.  Because its remit spans every sector of the environment, it has extensive experience to draw on, and a requirement to meet the highest standards in all areas of its operation.  

For example, ODS carries out the deep cleaning and waste management of all the parks and public toilets across Oxford City, and has recently switched from ‘cleaning streets to cleaning sheets’, as it helped keep homeless hostels clean and safe during the lockdown.  

The quality of workmanship and kindness of its street cleaning operatives was recently featured in the TV series ‘Grime and Punishment,’ filmed before any of us had heard of COVID-19,  but it also works for many commercial organisations including hotels, cafes, schools and colleges in some of Oxford’s finest heritage buildings.

Shaun Hatton, director of operations at ODS issued this statement: “It is quite understandable that people want to find a quick cleaning solution, but I would urge businesses to take the time to thoroughly check the supplier and service being offered. Look for experience and reputation and most of all don’t be rushed into a decision.”

Shaun suggests the top four things to look for are:  

  • Case studies of deep cleaning at similar properties or locations, from within the last two years, to ensure up to date knowledge and procedures.
  • Certificates of health & safety for contractors and staff including occupational health and safety compliance certificates and environment policies.
  • Proof of staff training in the correct use and availability of PPE.
  • Evidence of employer and public liability insurance