How to Take Advantage of Factory Shutdowns with Industrial Cleaning

Make the most of planned factory shutdowns

In the world of industry and manufacturing, maximising productivity is always the goal (while also prioritising safety). One of the most effective ways to do this is by making smart use of planned downtime, which can in turn reduce the risk and length of unplanned downtime. This often-overlooked opportunity can be a game-changer for keeping your equipment and infrastructure in top condition without compromising on production. 

One powerful strategy is scheduling industrial cleaning during planned downtime—when machinery is already offline for maintenance or other scheduled stops. This approach offers numerous advantages for both industrial managers and cleaning companies, creating a win-win situation for all parties involved.

Why schedule industrial cleaning during factory shutdowns?

We find that the best way to tackle factory shutdowns is to optimise planned downtime while preventing unplanned downtime. Thankfully, industrial cleaning helps with both of these goals. 

1. Minimise disruptions to production 

For the most part, competent industrial cleaning companies will work with their clients to avoid disrupting daily operations as much as possible. However, there are some cleaning projects that can only take place during planned shutdowns, i.e., lifting floor plates to clean underfloor trenches, deep cleaning production machinery, etc. Obviously, these kinds of cleans are best booked while the factory is shut down anyway to avoid unnecessary shutdown time. 

2. Optimise equipment performance and avoid residue build up

Dust, grime, and residue buildup on industrial machinery can significantly reduce its performance and lifespan. When neglected, dirt can lead to equipment malfunctions, overheating, or even complete breakdowns. It also doesn’t look great for any visitors or clients visiting your site; it can look as though you don’t take care of your industrial space. Performing deep cleaning during scheduled downtime aligns with preventative maintenance goals and reduces the likelihood of emergency repairs.

3. Enhance Workplace Safety

Industrial environments can be hazardous, with the buildup of debris or spilled substances increasing the risk of accidents. Properly timed cleaning ensures a safer environment for workers by removing contaminants that could lead to slip-and-fall incidents or other safety issues. Cleaning during planned downtime also means fewer people in the area, reducing the risk of exposure to cleaning chemicals and equipment.

4. Cost-Effective Approach

Planning ahead allows for better resource allocation. Booking cleaning services in advance means that industrial cleaning companies, like us at Kingfisher, can prepare the right equipment and personnel for the job. We can also offer more competitive pricing when we have the flexibility to schedule our team in advance. This foresight results in cost savings for our customers and helps us manage our resources more efficiently.

5. Compliance with Regulatory Standards

Many industries are subject to strict cleanliness and safety regulations. Failure to adhere to these standards can lead to costly fines and reputational damage. By integrating cleaning into your planned downtime, you can stay compliant without impacting your production schedule. It ensures you’re always audit-ready, with a documented plan for regular cleaning and maintenance.

6. Get to areas that aren’t accessible while production is running

There may be areas of your site that can’t be accessed to clean during operational hours, or at the very least, could be accessed but with a great deal of obstruction and inconvenience. For instance, underfloor trenches or pipes, furnace chambers, inside machinery, etc. For the safety of industrial cleaning operatives, these select projects need to be scheduled during shutdown periods. 

How to take advantage of factory shutdowns for cleaning

1. Plan ahead and book early

The first step is to identify your planned downtime and coordinate with an industrial cleaning company as early as possible. The more advance notice you provide, the more likely you are to secure your preferred time slot and avoid last-minute rush fees. Early booking also allows for a more comprehensive cleaning plan tailored to your specific needs.

2. Coordinate with maintenance teams

If maintenance is already scheduled during your downtime, coordinate the cleaning activities to take place in conjunction with or immediately following these tasks. This approach ensures that the entire area is clean and ready for operation once maintenance is complete. It’s an opportunity to make sure every nook and cranny is accessible, especially when equipment is already disassembled.

It’s also handy to co-ordinate with any teams that would be required on site during the cleaning project, for instance those responsible for electricity isolations for example. 

3. Prioritise high-traffic or high-risk areas

Not all areas of a facility require the same frequency of cleaning. Focus on equipment that is crucial to production, or areas where dirt buildup could pose safety risks or isn’t readily accessible day-to-day. This targeted approach can ensure the best value and bang-for-your-buck with scheduled downtime cleaning. 

4. Leverage professional expertise

Choosing a professional industrial cleaning company brings expertise and specialised equipment that may not be available in-house. At Kingfisher, we use advanced equipment and cleaning solutions designed specifically for industrial environments, ensuring thorough cleaning in a competitive timeframe to reduce machine downtime. 

Don’t wait for an emergency to initiate a cleaning plan. Contact us today to schedule industrial cleaning for your next planned downtime and ensure your equipment stays in peak condition year-round.