Going Beyond Floors

Key Takeaways: 

• Consistent use of wet floor signage, routine inspections, and prompt hazard removal are essential for keeping entryways safe and reducing liability.
• Effective entryway maintenance extends beyond floors to include doors, windows, waste receptacles, and exterior walkways that shape visitors’ first impressions.
• Regular inspections of entryway infrastructure, combined with staff training and sustainable cleaning practices, help protect building security, safety, and appearance.

 

Another safety consideration for entryways is the use of temporary signage when flooring conditions may be hazardous. 

“I believe that when weather is bad, wet floor signs are a must,” says Flug. “Most facilities will use signage, and even if they have a day porter, they will make it part of their hourly rounds to keep the area safe and free of slip hazards.” 

Wet floor signs should be placed whenever there is a risk of slipping due to wet surfaces, such as after mopping, if spills occur, or during rainy or snowy weather. The simple act of properly placing a wet floor sign can ensure occupant safety and reduce departmental liability.  

Maintenance staff should be assigned to monitor entryways for spills or wetness throughout the day and trained in the proper placement of signage. Cleaning teams should also be schooled on when to remove floor safety signage—as soon as the impacted surface(s) are dry or cleared of hazards. Failure to remove signs once the hazard is gone can lead to indifference from facility occupants, opening the door to future accidents.  

More Than Floors 

As visitors approach and enter a facility, their initial impressions and sense of safety are formed by more than the condition of entrance mats and flooring. The best-looking mats and clean, dry floors will be overlooked if windows, doors, and door handles are dirty, scuffed, or broken; if waste receptacles are overflowing; or if leaves, litter, dirt, cigarette butts, and other debris have collected in the entryway. 

“Exterior entryways and walkways must be routinely inspected and kept clear of debris,” Martinez says. “This includes removing trash, broken glass, and any signs of vandalism or graffiti as soon as they are identified. Maintaining these areas in a clean and orderly condition is essential for both safety and appearance.” 

Martinez directs his staff to ensure that surfaces such as windows, glass panels, and door frames are thoroughly cleaned and maintained regularly for a professional and welcoming appearance. He also puts a strong emphasis on the doors themselves.  

“They never cleaned the actual doors. So, you've got this clean and great-looking window, but you've got all this dirty grime all over the door,” he laughs. 

Flug agrees that cleaning teams should pay close attention to entryway doors, windows, and window tracks. He says that “cobwebs can quickly build up in these often-overlooked nooks and crannies, but regular maintenance and inspection will create positive first impressions for building occupants and visitors.” High-touch areas such as door handles and entryway railings, he adds, should be disinfected daily.  

Physical Inspections 

In addition to cleanliness and general upkeep, ensuring that all building entry points are fully functional and secure is essential for the safety of occupants and protection of the facility. The cleaning staff should routinely inspect entryway components—doors and door hardware, hinges, railings, windows, caulking/weather sealing, paint, lighting, signage—for damage or excessive wear. 

“Our supervisors will inform building owners when they do inspections. That’s part of the process,” Flug affirms.  

A checklist can support the inspection process, thereby enhancing building security. 

“Custodial staff complete a daily inspection checklist that includes verifying the condition and functionality of door locks, ADA-accessible door operators, windows, and door structures,” Martinez says. “They also confirm all doors close and lock properly, as intended. This level of inspection is just as important—if not more important—than routine cleaning maintenance, as it directly supports the building’s overall security posture.” 

Although entryways are an integral part of a facility's infrastructure, the cleaning programs, products, equipment, and the corresponding training are not unique to ensure proper entryway maintenance.  

“Typically, we try to standardize our equipment across the company based on types of floors,” Flug says. “Most equipment can handle all types of entryway floors.” 

He offers floor tech training on this equipment to ensure proper use. This education on equipment should be one part of general training offered to cleaning teams, and entryway cleaning and maintenance should be another. In fact, in terms of offerings, Martinez adds that sustainability should also be discussed when addressing entryway cleaning programs. 

 “Our chemicals are either green or close to green, less toxic as possible,” says Martinez. “It’s safer for students, teachers, and staff because of all the asthma and allergy triggers that are in school buildings.” 

Overall, first impressions are important, making entryways essential to public perception. 

“Custodial staff should keep in mind that the building’s entrance is the first impression visitors, employees, and staff receive,” Martinez comments. “As such, it should consistently reflect a high standard of cleanliness, care, and professionalism that represents the organization well.” 

Shannon O'Connor is a freelance writer from Mason, Ohio with over 40 years of editing and writing experience. She has written for Facility Cleaning Decisions, Sanitary Maintenance, and Contracting Profits for over five years. As a frequent contributor, she has covered a wide range of cleaning topics, including floor care, infection control, and restroom care. Shannon graduated from Keene State College with degrees in English, Clinical Psychology, and Music Education. 

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Stopping Dirt at the Door