Valuable support from BOMA in the hospital cleaning sector
Today, we have the pleasure of interviewing Fanny Mertz, who has been in charge of cleaning at MontLégia, in Liège, since it opened. Fanny has worked for the CHC healthcare group for 23 years and began her career in cleaning as a surface technician. Over the years, she became team leader, then assistant and eventually department head.
What are the biggest challenges in hospital cleaning?
Fanny Mertz explains,
"The biggest challenge is ensuring high-quality cleaning while following hygiene procedures and staying within the budget we're given. It's not always easy because we have to be creative and constantly adapt.
Our challenge is to abide by the standards despite the constraints we face. Especially since the COVID-19 pandemic, safety measures have been stepped up and we have to adjust things accordingly.
A second challenge involves the social aspect of our line of work. We're facing a staffing shortage. Cleaning is not a very attractive job, especially in hospitals where we work 24/7. We don't have any convincing arguments to attract candidates. Our challenge is to spark interest in our profession."
How does BOMA support you in these challenges?
Fanny Mertz explains,
"Today, BOMA provides valuable support on many levels. First and foremost, by making the job easier for cleaning staff. That's a huge benefit. They provide us with all the equipment we need to ensure that our cleaning staff is able to work under the best possible conditions. BOMA also helped us choose highly ergonomic tools, offering a wide selection of products and equipment. We are very well equipped in this regard.
Beyond that, BOMA is there for us in our work. They come on-site to train our teams and take a warm, respectful, and nonjudgmental approach to our staff They speak our language, understand our specific needs, and are there to support us every day."
What BOMA product could you not do without?
Fanny Mertz replies,
"The product we absolutely can't do without is the TZ500. It's an innovation that allows us to prepare cleaning supplies in advance. It's our flagship product. It plays a crucial role in our organization. We'd be in real trouble without it."
What added value does BOMA bring to your team?
Fanny Mertz's answer:
"BOMA's added value lies in their kindness, their nonjudgmental attitude, and their day-to-day support. They're not here to tell us how to do our job because we already know that. Instead, they support us and help us find the best cleaning solutions tailored to our specific needs. Their approach is one of understanding and respect for our profession, and their support is essential in helping us tackle the challenges of hospital cleaning with both efficiency and professionalism."