Overview
High rates of repetitive motion and lifting injuries are associated with the use of traditional hand mopping and bucket systems. Fortunately, there have been some improvements made that include: lightweight mop handles and heads, built-in handles and drains, and bucket inserts for clean and dirty water. Unfortunately, there continues to be a significant amount of physical work involved when mopping by hand. Motorized mopping units are capable of doing the same job while reducing injuries by eliminating repetitive motion and heavy lifting. Motorized mopping units are preferred from an ergonomics and injury prevention point of view.
Decision-makers should review the following considerations.
- Space: Area(s) where the mopping system will be used. Is the mopping system the right size for the job and will there be obstacles or furniture to navigate?
- Surfaces: Type of surface(s) the mopping system will be used on. Will you need to navigate bumpy areas or various types of transitions?
- Users: The physical characteristics of the worker. Can the mopping system be used by different height users?
- Storage: The mopping system will need to be stored somewhere. Is there storage space in an existing custodial closet or storage area?
- Portability: Ease by which a user can get the equipment to the job site. Is there elevator access?
- Maintenance: What type of regular maintenance is needed? Is a special tool needed for regular field maintenance?
- Power: Access to power. If using a powered unit, they can be corded or battery-powered. Are there outlets available? Is the cord long enough? Is the battery capable of lasting the entire shift on a single charge?
- Testing and Feedback: Demo the product. What was the users’ feedback on the unit after trying in the work environment?
Recommended Automated Mopping Systems
Mfr. & Model |
Kaivac
|
Tennant
|
Criteria Rating |
★★★★★ |
★★★★☆ |
Photo |
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Review |
For medium to large areas and hallways Eliminates the awkward postures and lifting associated with hand mopping. Suited for areas with minimal obstacles to navigate. The unit has flexible power options and multiple modes of operation: spread only, vacuum only, or spread and vacuum. Most applications do not require a pre-dust or trail mop. |
For small to medium-sized hallways and 1-2 stall restrooms. Eliminates the awkward postures and lifting associated with hand mopping. Can navigate tight spaces and obstacles. Requires minimal physical force to operate. Decreases overall cleaning time. Approximately 60 minutes of operation on a single charge. Extra batteries may be desired to support extended cleaning needs. |
UC Supplier |
Waxie | Maintex |
Specs |
CFM: 90 Water Lift: 92" Airwatt: 974 Weight: 115 lbs Cord: 100' Battery: 90 min ♠ Decibel: 75 dB Solution Tank: 10 gal Vacuum Tank: 10 gal Vacuum Hose: 15' Dump Hose: 26" Wheels: two 5" rear, two 3" front Cleaning path: 28" Down Pressure: N/A HEPA Filter: N/A Onboard training tablet: Yes ♠ |
CFM: N/A Water Lift: N/A Airwatt: N/A Weight: 57 lbs Cord: N/A Battery: 60 min ♠ Decibel: 79.6 dB Solution Tank: 1 gal Recovery Tank: 1.5 gal Vacuum Hose: N/A Dump Hose: N/A Wheels: two 3" rear Cleaning Path: 18.1" Down Pressure: 48.4 lbs HEPA Filter: N/A Onboard training tablet: No |
Resources |
Omniflex Website |
Recommended Traditional Mopping Systems
Mfr. & Model |
Rubbermaid
|
Rubbermaid
|
Criteria Rating |
★★★☆☆ |
★★☆☆☆ |
Photo |
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 |
Review |
Long-lasting Down Press Wringer This unit has a down press wringer with a bent handle which requires less force than a side press wringer. The wringer will stand up on its own when emptying the bucket. The bucket has integrated handles, sink ledge, pour spout, and WaveBreak technology that reduces splashing. An optional dirty bucket insert is available. |
Side Press Wringer A small step up from traditional mopping buckets. This unit has a side press wringer which requires more force than a down press wringer. The wringer will stand up on its own when emptying the bucket. The bucket has integrated handles, sink ledge, pour spout, and WaveBreak technology that reduces splashing. An optional dirty bucket insert is available. |
UC Supplier |
Waxie | Waxie |
Specs |
Length: 20.1” Width: 15.7” Height: 36.5” Weight: 21 lbs Capacity: 35 qt Wringer: Down press Freestanding wringer Molded-in pour spout Integrated handles Optional dirty water bucket |
Length: 18.88” Width: 16.63” Height: 23.50” Weight: 20.67 lbs Capacity: 26 qt Wringer: Side press ⚠ Freestanding wringer Molded-in pour spout Integrated handles Optional dirty water bucket |
Resources |
Products are rated on a 5-star scale based on the Criteria Rating - ★
The product specification exceeds minimum UC Criteria - ♠
The product does not meet minimum UC Criteria - ⚠
