Written By Anthony Pasquale
Operations Manager
Boston Cleaning Company, Inc.
January  8, 2008
Green Cleaning/LEED Certification:
One of the hottest topics in the facilities maintenance industry today.
It is true, that if you work with your cleaning company, the nine cleaning related points needed
towards LEED Certification can be met.
Nine Points That Need To Be Met:
* Institute the use of environmentally-preferable and/or bio-based and reduce –risk
   cleaning chemicals
* Install and use a closed loop chemical management dispensing system, minimizing
   human exposure
* Use concentrated cleaning chemicals, and dilute accurately via a chemical
   management system
* Institute the use of environmentally-preferable paper products throughout the facility
* Institute the use of environmentally-preferable plastic refuse bags
* Install walk-off mats at entry-ways
* Use micro-fiber mops and cloths
* Use energy-efficient vacuums with filters
* Utilize a chemical management software program to manage, monitor and supply
   documentation
However! There are still almost thirty more points pertaining to the operation of the lighting,
plumbing, electrical, hvac and design and function of your facility. Depending on the level of
LEED Certification you are seeking, it may take several months and even several years before

you get that highly desired LEED Certification.
During that time, you will have to document the use of the chemicals, equipment and procedures
that your cleaning firm will require. The procedures will have to be sustained through the interim
waiting period and then audited after your facility receives LEED Certification.
It will be quite beneficial to choose a cleaning firm that will document the use of and have access
to third party certified green cleaning products and equipment.
I would suggest using a larger cleaning firm as they will have greater access and purchasing
power with the green cleaning supply distributors. These products are not so cheap, so larger
purchasing power will help. Furthermore, many green cleaning products do not work that well,
so you must have someone with a proven track record. Make sure to request MSDS sheets and
product use and effectiveness.
For further information you can contact Andrew Pabian, Account Executive/VP Sales TOLL
FREE at 1-800-834-9995 ext 202.