“It is crucial that businesses understand that, in order to reduce risk and run sustainable operations, their cleaning workforce should be highly skilled in all areas of safe and environmentally friendly cleaning practices,” stated Lennox Institute’s CEO Elaine Torode. That was her key message at the inaugural CleanEnviro Summit Singapore (CESS), which was held 1 to 4 June at Sand Expo & Convention Center, Marina Bay Sands, Singapore.
Invited to present her views on the challenges faced by training organisations in Australia and, in particular, how changes to funding is requiring the industry to develop more collaborative partnerships with suppliers and employers, Torode presented as part of a panel session at the Summit that attracted more than 18,000 delegates from 104 countries/regions around the world.
Titled ‘Smart Cleaning Workforce in a Growing Affluent Society’, the panel discussed different approaches, framework and programs, including the training framework and apprenticeship schemes to build competencies within the cleaning workforce in a more affluent society while meeting increased public expectations.
“There is no doubt that a workforce that is competent, trained and skilled will be able to effectively perform cleaning tasks that will meet a high standard of quality, in turn providing a great return on investment to businesses across the globe,” stated Torode.
“The Summit has set benchmarks in skills requirements within the cleaning industry and has been long overdue. The Summit afforded experts from around the globe to come together and discuss issues of mutual interest,” added Torode.
“I am encouraged that this Summit has truly placed a focus on the standards of training required in the cleaning industry. I was very honoured to be part of this event and trust that the information shared and awareness created will propel the need for efficient and effective training to new heights.”