09 May An Interview with Roger Simpson of KISS Janitorial

In today’s marketplace, selecting a janitorial company can be a difficult decision because of all the choices out there. However, with the help from Roger Simpson of KISS Janitorial (Klean Image Service Specialists), we can better understand the reasons why we should choose a “green” janitorial service.

Michelle: What is green cleaning? 

Roger Simpson: Green cleaning is defined as cleaning to protect health without harming the environment.

Michelle: What should be a goal of a green janitorial company?

Roger Simpson: Green cleaning is the use of those products and services that have a lesser or reduced impact on human health and the environment when compared with competing products or services that serve the same purpose.

Michelle: What is one benefit of green cleaning?

Roger Simpson: You can extend the life of your home or building.  Proper green cleaning maintenance by a trained and certified cleaning company extends the longevity and performance of buildings and their furnishings by preventing damage and premature aging.  This in turn, reduces waste and unnecessary spending.  It is good for your health, your pocketbook and the planet.

Michelle: Tell me about KISS Janitorial.

Roger Simpson: KISS Janitorial is a full-service locally-owned commercial janitorial company that specializes and is CERTIFIED in "green cleaning" by the Green Clean Institute & the Green Business League.  KISS has a Texas-wide reputation for innovation, early adoption of new technology and the world’s best green cleaning practices.  We have been in the market for 19 years.  We recycle and use biodegradable, zinc-free, non-toxic products whenever possible.  We do not use chlorofluorocarbons, which are destroying our earth’s protective ozone layer.  Taking care of the environment is on top of our list. 

Michelle: One last question, how can we make sure that we are hiring a true, practicing green janitorial company?

Roger Simpson: Many janitorial companies and maid services have jumped on the “Green bandwagon”, because GREEN SELLS.  There are a lot of green pretenders out there and green washing is all across the board, not just in my industry.  I tell people they should look for a companies certifications (Kiss Janitorial is "certified" in green cleaning -at the present time one of seven in the State of Texas, I am a Certified Green Consultant, as well as an ISSA Green Cleaning Professional) and experience (1993).  There are a lot of policies and procedures that go with it.

A good Green Cleaning Program (GCP) goes way beyond chemical & equipment choices. It includes policies, procedures, green training & shared responsibility efforts that minimize the impact of cleaning materials on the health of building occupants, the building & protects the environment as a whole. Some people say current products, processes and procedures aren’t necessarily bad. They are wrong. Newer technologies & processes make it possible to clean more effectively, more efficiently & with fewer chemicals.

A little about Roger Simpson:

Roger Simpson

Vice President

Klean Image Service Specialists

www.kisscleaning.com

Certifications: Certified Green Consultant

ISSA Green Cleaning Professional

GBL Green Executive Professional

Member of the United States Green Building Council Green School & Advocacy Committee

Chairman of the Sustainability Committee for the International Facility Managers Association Austin

Partner of the Texas Association of Environmental Professionals & Union of Concerned Scientists