Implementing Cobotics: Five Considerations for Facilities Managers

The adoption of technology – specifically automation – within cleaning regimes can be transformative for facilities managers looking to optimise cleaning effectiveness, boost their bottom line and manage staff shortages.

One such approach that is reshaping the industry is automated floor cleaning machines. In this feature Kristal Goodwin, national sales manager at Robert Scott, presents five key considerations for facilities managers looking to implement these cobotic solutions.


1. ADDRESSING STAFF SHORTAGES

The nationwide shortage of staff to fulfil cleaning roles is well documented and many facilities managers are actively seeking solutions to this problem.

The British Cleaning Council’s (BCC) 2022 report showed that the cleaning, hygiene and waste sector is one of the ten biggest industries in the UK, worth nearly £59bn and employing 1.47m. Yet, despite year-on-year growth, the industry faces challenges – including pressures caused by rising energy costs and severe staff shortages.

“While the pandemic has taken a backseat, challenges exist within the UK cleaning industry, with rising numbers of job vacancies (an estimated 225,000 of them) causing the biggest concern among industry heads.”

Industry experts agree that recruitment within cleaning is much harder today. And, while the BCC predicts the UK cleaning industry will generate 93,000 new jobs by 2024, it also predicts that 29% of those jobs will be ‘hard to fill’. That’s another 27,000 jobs unfulfilled.

Cobotics can help to narrow this gap – autonomous floor cleaning machines can tackle large, open spaces without the need for human monitoring. You can simply start the machine and get on with other tasks. This in turn frees up human time for spot cleaning, disinfecting and deep cleaning.

This not only addresses current resource issues, but also positions the cleaning industry for a more fulfilling and efficient future.

2. EMPOWER YOUR WORKFORCE

While many cleaning operative jobs remain unfilled, it’s important that businesses give their existing staff reasons to stay by making them feel valued and empowered.

By implementing cobotics, human cleaning teams can move away from monotonous and lengthy tasks, such as mopping, to focus on tasks that have a greater impact. Comprehensive training programmes and support will upskill cleaning staff and equip them to better handle the evolving demands of keeping large facilities clean.

3. ENHANCE THE BOTTOM LINE THROUGH DATA

One of the most significant advantages of cobotics in facilities management is the real-time, transparent, and reliable data it provides. Investment in automated floor cleaning machines can both improve cleaning efficiency, while also contributing to the bottom line.

Facilities managers can quantify cleaning performance, monitor machine efficiency, and make more effective decisions driven by data. This level of insight not only enhances accountability but also enables continuous improvement in cleaning operations. In addition, it is helpful for providing a value-add to the end customer too.

4. CHOOSE YOUR TECH PARTNER WISELY

The success of cobotics in facilities management hinges on the reliability of the machines. Facilities managers should collaborate with a supplier that not only provides cutting-edge technology that is truly built with cleaning quality in mind, but can also provide robust servicing and maintenance support.

Regular upkeep ensures that machine downtime is minimised and the machine works as it should day-in, day-out to deliver an optimum clean.


5. COMMUNICATE THE STRATEGY

Implementing cobotics isn’t just about introducing a new piece of machinery; it’s a strategic shift in how facilities are managed. Facilities managers should communicate this strategy effectively to gain understanding and buy-in from across the business.

From cleaning operatives through to upper management, everyone should be clear on the benefits and long-term goals of incorporating cobotics. This not only fosters a sense of unity but also ensures a smooth transition and integration of the technology into daily operations.

In conclusion, the integration of cobotics into facilities management requires careful planning and execution, but done right, it can help to unlock better service and performance overall. Welcoming technology into the facilities you manage will elevate the standards of cleanliness, bring added commercial benefits to your business, and importantly, improve the careers of so many cleaning operatives.

The era of cobotics is upon us, and those who embrace it stand to gain not only in operational efficiency but also in positioning their businesses at the forefront of the evolving cleaning industry.