Q. Why do I need to clean and maintain blinds? Workplace blinds collect dust and other pollutants in the atmosphere. Fabric blinds accumulate mould, bacteria and other harmful germs resulting in a health hazard as well an unsightly detraction from workplace premises. Conventional office cleaning does not remove these problems and in the wrong hands, can be wholly detrimental to the blinds. Bright A Blind uses advanced processes to ensure that blinds are thoroughly cleaned to optimum standards of hygiene and condition. Q. What is the relevant Health & Safety legislation? All premises occupiers must conform to the minimum statutory requirements of the EC Health and Safety Directive 90/27/0. Section 2 in the annex relating to the requirements to be fulfilled by display screen workplaces states: “Windows shall be fitted with a suitable system of adjustable window coverings to attenuate daylight that fall onto the workstation.” Those responsible, who do not comply with the directive face the risk of prosecution by the Health & Safety Executive (HSE). Fines for non-compliance with H&S legislation are 40% higher in 2002 according to the HSE than in 2001. Q. How are different types of blinds cleaned? Venetian blinds are cleaned by Bright A Blind using specialist ultrasonic cleaning, which thoroughly cleans both back and front, as well as the hidden mechanisms where dust and debris accumulates to the detriment of the blind and its operation. We also clean all cords and sashes in order that they are sanitised for all users. Vertical fabric blinds are increasingly cotton, linen, glass fibre, polyester or draylon. A new feature to these fabrics is the increasing popularity of a solar backing. Bright A Blind has adapted its service to use machine washing for these blinds rather than ultrasonic techniques in an automated process involving a pre-treatment, machine wash and final rinse. The service ensures consistent results and reacts appropriately to varying degrees of contamination. Q. Why is Planned Preventative Maintenance better than Reactive Maintenance? Planned preventative maintenance minimises risk and reduces expenditure. By ensuring that blinds are in constant working order and at good standards of cleanliness, PPM programmes reduce the risk of accidents or other H&S issues, and avoid the costs of replacements. Frequently, replacements of older models are unavailable meaning that premises managers are forced to buy new and mismatched blinds which detract from the polish of the workplace. PPM programmes also help to forecast expenditure. Entering into a partnership with Bright A Blind means that facilities and premises managers are able to accurately predict the amount of money needed for maintenance and cleaning over the contract term. Q. What are the Health & Safety risks associated with blind maintenance and cleaning? Clearly there is a risk with handling and lifting blinds but our health and safety commitment, alongside our training programmes, ensures that we reduce all identified risks. We provide company trolleys and the necessary staff to minimise handling at all times. All our staff are trained in the appropriate use of equipment, approved for this type of work. However, we ask all our customers to advise us of any potential hazards that may give rise to a risk that they are aware of. Q. Why is Bright A Blind the right choice? Bright A Blind is distinguished by its expertise, approach and commitment to customer service. We offer 12 years of experience working with every type of blind and every type of customer organisation. But we believe our customers are our best reference. Return to top   Copyright © Bright A Blind Ltd.