Thinking of implementing a green cleaning program?
First Image will help your company go green efficiently by implementing our proven processes. No two clients are alike, and we customize commercial, eco-friendly cleaning programs that address your specific needs—even if they are unusual or challenging. Providing cleaning strategies and complete earth-friendly janitorial and maintenance services are proven to yield optimal results.
Environmentally friendly cleaning chemicals are our promise you.
First Image uses general purpose, washroom, glass and carpet cleaning products that meet Green Seal's Standard for Industrial and Institutional Cleaners (GS-37). These will clean effectively while helping to reduce toxic pollution and waste, conserve resources and habitats, and minimize global warming and ozone depletion.
We use hand soaps that do not contain antimicrobial agents.
Except where required by law or regulations (i.e., healthcare or food preparation), employing a strong antibiotic agent such as triclosan for every day use is not recommended. It kills some of the harmful microscopic organisms, but it also destroys beneficial bacteria. These friendly bacteria are necessary in our bodies and environment; for example, they aid metabolism and inhibit the invasion of harmful pathogens.
We believe in microfiber dusting cloths and flat mops.
Microfiber material used in mops and dust cloths have microscopic "hooks" that act as claws, scraping up and holding dust and dirt. The material is very effective for commercial cleaning because the fibers quickly and easily capture dirt rather than just moving it around. Microfiber, which can absorb up to seven times its weight in water, is sometimes described as having a magnetic attraction to dirt and dust.
Cleaning with microfiber products is environmentally-friendly because chemical use can be minimized. Microfiber products are lint-free, extremely soft, and do not scratch surfaces, yet they are sturdy and tough on dirt. Test results show microfiber can reduce bacteria levels by 96%.
We understand that enviornmentally friendly carpet cleaning extends the life of your carpet.
For environmentally friendly carpet cleaning, we use Carpet & Rug Institute approved (“Green Label”) vacuum cleaners. These highly efficient, pollutant-capturing vacuums improve indoor air quality and increase the life span of carpets. Another environmentally-friendly carpet cleaning option includes the use of carpet extractors that reduce water consumption. Our carpet cleaning methods meet all industry requirements for soil removal, dust containment, and appearance retention. Ultimately, better performing vacuums provide a greater return on investment and ensure a healthier indoor environment.
We believe in high efficiency HVAC systems that utilize HEPA filters.
High-Efficiency Particulate Air (HEPA) filters are proven to remove a minimum of 99.97% of contaminants at 0.3 microns in size. In comparison, a human hair is about 60-75 microns in diameter. Particles less than 35 microns can't be seen with the naked eye and particles under 5 microns can penetrate deep into the lungs. Highly-efficient HVAC systems with HEPA filters can remove pollen (10-100 microns) and dust (.5-5 microns).
Proper door mats and entry systems are always recommended.
Most pollutants in buildings are brought in from outside and spread throughout, so capturing contaminants at entryways is an easy way to keep the building clean. Cleaner buildings mitigate the need for the use of harsh chemicals and help maintain air purity. The most effective mats have rubber-reinforced face nubs and a crush-proof waffle design. A raised-rubber "water-dam" border traps dirt and water, keeping carpets and floors clean by working double duty, absorbing water while scraping shoes.
We encourage efficient lighting solutions.
Energy-efficient lightbulbs, occupancy sensors, and daylighting can help commercial businesses see a cost-savings on energy consumption. Using the latest technology in lighting can reduce energy consumption by up to 75%. Additionally, these techniques are proven to improve absenteeism in the office, help shoppers linger longer, and help students perform better on tests.
We believe in eco-friendly paper products and the proper dispensers to optimize usage.
Our recycled paper products, such as tissue and paper towels, meet the EPA's Comprehensive Procurement Guidelines and Green Seal's Standards for Tissue (GS-1) and Towels (GS-9) for recycled content in janitorial paper products bleached without the use of harmful chlorine or its derivatives.
The dispensers for these products are as important as the products themselves. Our products are dispensed from large rolls to minimize packaging and waste. We discourage the use of folded paper towels and recommend hands-free paper towel dispensers. These devices reduce the potential for cross-contamination, control the amount of paper used, minimize waste, and reduce maintenance time.
