Healthier-Environments.com Blog

Apple: Think Different

2010-05-21T21:09:00.002-04:00

You know it is interesting what your kids can teach you. My son is a huge Apple Computer fan and recently posted on twitter an old Macworld Keynote by Steve Jobs. In that keynote, he said you had to think different about computers and referenced big computers that occupied big rooms. You had to think different when you bought a Mac because it was a totally different computer and it worked in a totally different way. It used a totally different part of your brain and it opened a new world for a lot of people.

Why all the Apple reference? Well the "green" cleaning approach is much like this. We need to think different. We have done things for years because that is the way we did it. We got okay results and we learned to live with that. Now however, we have new challenges and new technology and we need to think different. I am amazed at the results we see everyday the cost savings, the health savings, the ease of use, and great results yet we are so slow to change.

Apple has it right. Think different. We can change save and grow with new technology in the cleaning industry with great results if we could think different. Here at Healthier-Environments and Fuller Paper Company we think different and we can help change the world we live and work in with safe, healthy and effective new products. Thanks for the reminder Steve Jobs and thanks Jarrett for the twitter link.

Five Guys Burgers

2010-05-06T19:30:00.002-04:00

We figure our best salesman is our customer. Treat that person right, he’ll walk out the door and sell for you. Good products and good service!

IDP FLOOR SYSTEMS

2009-02-06T08:58:00.002-05:00

We are hearing some great feed back on the IDP Floor Systems. The Floor Treatment can be used on "traditional" waxed floors as a cleaner and maintainer. The results are amazing! On one floor that was just cleaned, an autoscrubber and the IDP Treatment was used on half the hall. The IDP Treatment made that half of the hall look so much cleaner it looked like a different floor! In another situation, it was used on a floor over "traditional" wax and the floor just popped. It had an amazing wet look.

IDP Floor Systems can save time and money and improve the appearance any facility. The beauty of the wax is that once applied it never has to be stripped again. Just maintain it! That is a tremendous savings for any facility. An added benefit is that these are safe products.

If you are looking for great results, look at IDP. The benefits are tremendous and the savings are huge.

GnX2 is Amazing

2009-01-26T10:15:00.002-05:00

How often do you find a company that makes their product better because they want to and not because they have to? The only one that comes to mind is Apple. One of Apple's many strengths is when they bring a product to market they change the direction of that market. Great examples are the ipod and the iphone. Then they continue to improve it while everybody else tries to catch up. Envirox is doing the same thing with the GnX2 technology! They already have a great product in the Concentrate 117 (H2Orange2) but they went ahead and made it even better. Not only did they make it better they made it safer and even more environmentally friendly. To go a step farther they introduced ReRite which takes care of those tough marks without the toxic smells and residuals. If you want to improve your cleaning and improve the health and safety for your staff, think about Concentrate 118. It's that much better. Watch this video from Envirox. Watch GNx2 Technology Devour Dirty Motor Oil

Earth Friendly Products

2008-11-19T15:05:00.002-05:00

We are looking at the Earth Friendly Products Line! Any comments on these products?

The Battle against MRSA Continues

2008-09-30T09:46:00.006-04:00

With the beginning of school, the threat of disease transfer increases dramatically. Sani Shield is one way to help greatly reduce that threat. Unfortunately, news of MRSA continues to plague our schools. While there are many good products out there, maybe it's time to take a serious look at new technology to help win this war. Everyone is aware of cost and cost constraints and several new products can help reduce overall costs. Unelko's Sani Shield and Sani Scrub is just one example. Here is a bulletin from December 2007.

Educational Bulletin: November 14, 2007

MRSA and Disinfectants

Fact, Fallacy and New Technology

“Flesh Eating Bacteria! News at Eleven!”

There is much hysteria surrounding the recent awareness of infections from bacteria known “MRSA”. Newscasters and headlines scream out the dangers, inciting fears. Some companies, looking to capitalize on those fears, are adding to the confusion and ignorance by claiming that they have the only product that will work on one type of MRSA called “CA-MRSA”. The purpose of this bulletin is to calmly outline the facts about disinfectants and expose the fallacy, as supported by the “Guidelines for Infection Control” published by the Centers for Disease Control (CDC). We are also presenting a new breakthrough technology that offers a proactive option for preventing surface contamination, as supported by independent laboratory tests.

Staphylococcus aureus: Also known as “Staph”, this is the “SA” in MRSA. They are “gram-positive” bacteria and are easily killed by virtually all types of low level hospital grade disinfectants. Most, if not all, commercial disinfectants sold today are registered as effective against Staph. Staph infections can attack many parts of the body including organs, bones, skin, etc. For many years Staph has been successfully treated with antibiotics, mostly Methicillin.

Methicillin resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA): Some strains of Staph have developed resistance to Methicillin, as well as other antibiotics. This has created a challenge for healthcare providers and has resulted in more severe outcomes in those infected, included a higher incidence of fatalities. However, it is important to know that, according to the CDC, MRSA is not resistant to disinfectants. It is still Staph and is still easily killed on surfaces. This is a direct quote from the CDC: “Additionally, both VRE and vancomycin-sensitive enterococci are equally sensitive to inactivation by chemical germicides, and similar observations have been made when comparing the germicidal resistance of MRSA to that of either methecillin-sensitive S. aureus (MSSA) or VISA. The use of stronger solutions of disinfectants for inactivation of either VRE, MRSA, or VISA is not recommended based on the organisms’ resistance to antibiotics.”

Community acquired Methicillin resistant Staphylococcus aureus (CA-MRSA): Until the late 1990’s, MRSA was most often associated with hospitals settings. Since then, MRSA has been reported in community settings, most notably in places where people come in close contact such as locker rooms of sports teams, health clubs, etc. The strain of MRSA that occurs in the community is different from the one that occurs in healthcare settings. Consequently, one is now referred to as “hospital acquired” (HA-MRSA), and the other is called “community acquired” (CA-MRSA). While both strains exhibit resistance to antibiotics, neither is resistant to disinfectants.

Disinfectants and MRSA: EPA registered disinfectants with label claims against Staph are effective against all Staph including both types of MRSA; hospital acquired (HA-MRSA) and community acquired (CA-MRSA). Those manufacturers that have gone to the time, effort and expense of getting those specific claims on their label have not brought new disinfectant technology to the industry. Those products are not significantly different formula than those with an overall Staph claim. So why do they do it? One reason is the “one-upmanship” contest that exists between manufacturers. The other reason is that they decided it is easier to go to the trouble of getting specific claims on a label than it is to train their sales force and educate customers on disinfectants and resistant bacteria. Brady Industries is committed to bringing well supported information to our customers that allows them to make informed decisions.

Limitations of disinfectants: the EPA requires that disinfectants are used according to label instructions. This refers to dilution rates, and most importantly, dwell time. This leads to the first major limitation of disinfectants. Most concentrated disinfectants require that they remain wet on the surface for five to ten minutes. On vertical or uneven high-touch surfaces, such as hand rails, door knobs, handles, etc. this is simply not possible. Even the best ready-to-use disinfectants will have dwell times that range from thirty seconds to ten minutes depending on the target organism. Unfortunately, the most contaminated surfaces are electronic devices such as telephones, computer keyboards, remote controls, slot machines, ATM and vending machine buttons, etc. Getting them wet with disinfectants for even a short time can severely damage them. That is why most of the time these surfaces are merely wiped down with a damp cloth or wiper. Without proper dwell time, they are not being disinfected, no matter what product is used. The second major limitation to disinfectants is that none of them have residual activity. Once they are dry they stop killing germs. After that, every time someone or something touches the surface it is being contaminated with new germs that quickly multiply. Even dust settling on a surface will contaminate it. It is simply not possible to disinfect every surface before and after everyone touches it. That is why the CDC puts so much emphasis on washing or sanitizing hands. Unfortunately, very few people, even in healthcare settings, practice hand hygiene effectively.

Microbial Shield – A new breakthrough technology: At Unelko Corporation, we have done extensive research and are now bringing to market a new line of products called Sani-Shield. These products are not registered disinfectants and are not intended to replace disinfectants. They perform three key functions:

1. They deep clean the surface with hydrogen peroxide based cleaner.

2. They protect the surface with a microscopic seal that reduces the adhesion and buildup of dirt, oils, scale, soap scum, etc.

3. The microscopic seal is a barrier coating that prevents bacteria, mold or mildew from growing on it for at least seven days in-between cleaning.

The antimicrobial shield claim is supported by independent testing conducted by Legend Technical Services, Inc. After treating surfaces with Sani-Shield, they were inoculated with different types of bacteria including E. coli and Staph over the five days. The surfaces were tested 24 hours after each inoculation and the tests confirmed the efficacy of Sani-Shield.

For the first time, Unelko Corporation now offers products that not only clean and protect; they also prevent the growth of germs, including MRSA, between cleaning and disinfecting for at least five days! Best of all, they work on all high-touch surfaces such as telephones, keyboards, etc. that are not currently being disinfected. Also, the MSDS’s reveal that these products are completely non-toxic, environmentally friendly and safe on virtually all surfaces.

Sani-Shield 3 in 1 Surface Care: An all purpose ready to use liquid in quart bottles. It is safe and effective for all surfaces including glass, porcelain, ceramic, marble, granite, plastics, chrome, etc.

Sani-Shield 3 in 1 Wipes: The same as liquid Sani-Shield but in an individually packaged pre-moistened 9”x10” wipe.

Sani-Scrub 3 in 1 Surface Care: This is a cream cleanser for heavily soiled surfaces such as sinks, tubs, showers, toilets and counters that require restorative cleaning. It provides the same protection against soil and germs as Sani-Shield.

Stainless Shine 3 in 1 Surface Care: A water based stainless steel polish with all of the benefits of Sani-Shield.

This document provided courtesy of:

Sani-Shield ®, Sani-Scrub® & Stainless Shine® are patented & patent-pending products manufactured by:

Unelko Corporation

14641 N. 74th Street, Scottsdale, AZ 85260

Tel. 480.991.7272 / 800.528.3149 / Fax 480.483.7674

Healthier Schools/Healthier Students

2008-08-04T15:03:00.003-04:00

Sani Shield is a great way to protect students from spreading disease and colds. It is a patented, non toxic, watered based, green product that can be sprayed or wiped on almost any surface and bacteria will not grow for 7 days or longer. It establishes a barrier coating on the surface and protects with a non leaching antimicrobial.

The most contaminated surfaces are telephones, desks, keyboards and computer mice. Sani Shield can help protect your equipment, your students, and facility. It will help reduce absenteeism, and teacher sick days.

Look at what Rockwood School District is doing.

2008-07-20T15:28:00.005-04:00

Pioneers In Hydrogen Peroxide Technology

EnvirOx, LLC

Ten years ago, no one had heard of hydrogen peroxide cleaning technology. Well, no one except for Patrick Stewart, CEO of EnvirOx, LLC. Stewart embarked on a research project in early 1995 to find a less toxic and less complicated way for cleaning professionals to do their job. It resulted in the development of hydrogen peroxide cleaning technology, which EnvirOx introduced in 1998 in the form of H2Orange2 Concentrate 117 Multi-Purpose Cleaner-Sanitizer-Virucide.

Some laughed at the concept of this new technology, a few embraced it, and many doubted it. How could one product be healthier, safer, and more effective than traditional cleaners? Ultimately, the proof was in the performance and, as seasoned professionals experienced first-hand results, their attitudes changed. As time progressed, not only were attitudes changed, but the industry was changed.

Influencing Change
In 2003 EnvirOx’s product was the first hydrogen peroxide cleaner, and one of just a few products, to obtain Green Seal certification. Today, there are 44 companies offering a total of 56 different hydrogen peroxide-based products. Although companies have tried to duplicate EnvirOx’s hydrogen peroxide-based technology, the formulation’s patent guarantees that it will never be copied. Ultimately, EnvirOx’s environmental influence helped encourage 133 companies to currently have Green Seal certification for 554 different cleaners.

Green from Production to Pallet
“We have a purposefully narrow focus at EnvirOx,” states Stewart. “We only formulate, manufacture, and market products that are healthier alternatives for users, facilities and the environment while remaining true to our sustainable principles.” As an example, installing an energy efficient furnace, air conditioning system and lighting fixtures at the company headquarters reduced energy use by 60%. EnvirOx products are packaged in recyclable bottles produced with 25% post-consumer recycled plastic and corrugated boxes are recycled to conserve landfill space. Raw materials that are captured in machine rinses following a production run are re-circulated into subsequent runs. On the production floor, the drains are sealed so nothing is put into the water supply. All materials produced during the blending and packaging process are recycled back into the production stream. Why place such commitment to sustainability? EnvirOx does it because it’s the right thing to do. “We believe in ‘Doing Well by Doing Good.’ This is the foundation that EnvirOx is built upon and is the mantra that sustains our corporate culture. When this company was first created, we decided we would not follow, but would forge a new path while doing what is right. We continue on this path today, by operating our business in a way that maximizes positive influence on our community and minimizes our footprint on the environment. Everyone here at EnvirOx is humbled and proud that our hydrogen peroxide technology has been a positive influence for change in our industry. We are excited about the possibilities and opportunities in our industry to help make our world a better place.”

Patrick Stewart
CEO, EnvirOx

Sanitary Maintenance Magazine
April 2008

2008-07-15T10:25:00.006-04:00

Do we need to change what we are doing?

Over the past 25 years, due to our chemicals and procedures, we have created mutated forms of bacteria called “superbugs”. These creatures such as MRSA, C-dif and Norovirus can survive on surfaces for days if not weeks. They survive in the biofilm that is deep in most surfaces. When we are not using our chemicals effectively these superbugs can appear. The label on most cleaning/disinfecting bottles say (1) pre-clean the surface, (2) spray or wet and allow to set for 5-30 minutes, and (3) rinse or wipe off. Does this happen with all that needs to get done? What typically happens is wetting, wiping, and running. Necessary disinfectants & sanitizers are only a one-time solution. Surfaces can be re-contaminated quickly.

Do we need to change the chemicals we are using?

Many of the chemicals are destroying the surfaces being cleaned. Many chemicals are harmful to the user. Many chemicals are single task, which results in excessive cost because multiple chemicals are needed. Many chemicals make risk management difficult.

SaniShield Products from Unelko provides the Motivation to Change!

SaniShield is a patented, non-toxic, water-based, green technology that can be sprayed or wiped on any surface and bacteria will not grow for 7-days or longer.

SaniShield is an all-purpose 3-in-1cleaner. It cleans with the power of hydrogen peroxide, shields by establishing a barrier barrier on the surface and protects against re-soiling.

SaniShield lowers cleaning costs, lowers contamination risks, and simplifies cleaning training.

SaniShield protects your equipment, protects your customers, and protects your employees.

Why not give it try!

Floors and Bugs

2008-07-07T13:09:00.004-04:00

Healthier environments in our work place and schools is beneficial to everyone! Major advances in cleaning technology has provided safer and more effective products to clean and protect our buildings.

Summer is a time when schools are able to do deep cleaning and redo the floor finish. This is usually a time consuming task and one that is not real fun. If the weather is hot and humid, it often takes longer or fans are put out to help the dry time between coats. But what if we eliminate the need to strip and re-wax the floors every year? What would the labor savings be? What else could the staff do if we eliminate this process every year?

These are great questions and fortunately we can help! IDP has a floor system that never has to be stripped! After stripping the old wax from the floor, IDP One Step Prep can be applied. A great benefit of the One Step Prep is that it dries in 5-10 minutes. Depending on the gloss you desire,it is helpful to burnish after the 1st and 3rd coat. If you need it with less gloss, just let it dry! Another great benefit of One Step Prep is that if you accidentally put a foot print in it, you either mop it out or just blend that area...no need to strip the floor again. That's it for waxing!

After that, all you need to do is treat the floor with One Step Treatment. Regular maintenance will keep you floor clean and eliminate the need to ever strip it again.

Summer is also a time when bugs can be very annoying. EcoSmart has developed some great bug sprays that are environmentally safe. They are safe around children and pets and don't have that over powering insecticide smell. In fact they have a cinnamon and peppermint smell.

It is great to have some products that are safe and work!