Why is the pH scale useful to know and understand? In fact, by knowing the pH scale well, we can ensure that we don't damage surfaces! So, I'm going to try to explain this concept to you as simply as possible. First, pH is the potential of hydrogen and it measures the acidity, neutrality or alkalinity of a product. The pH scale is divided into 14 levels. 0 is the most acidic level and 14 is the most alkaline level. 7 is neutral, where pure water falls.
Neutral means you won't damage a surface. If you pour pure water on your arm, it won't do anything, and the same goes for a surface. Remember, anything that is not neutral, must be rinsed to become neutral again. Otherwise, the acid or alkaline solution, will continue to act. Many floors, tables and sinks have been permanently damaged simply because the product dosage was not followed. We recommend neutral cleaner on any floor with a floor finish or even wood floors.
Below 7, we will say that the solution is acidic.
We find all the toilet cleaners, THE calcium removers, rust and limescale. Be sure that if you pour it on your arm, it will start to sting. You will need to rinse your arm thoroughly. When using an acidic detergent, you must also rinse the surface. Therefore, you must observe the correct time and dosage recommended by the manufacturer. They test the products thoroughly, and the dosages must therefore be respected for safe use. They also test the detergents to ensure they are effective.
Note that ceramic, for example, is a very porous material, which I compare to a sponge. It's difficult to rinse a sponge when it's too soaked in soap, isn't it? So it's the same principle for ceramic!
Above 7, the solution is alkaline
All the degreasers, strippers And carpet shampoo finds its way there. In many ways, degreaser is thought to be harmless. I can assure you that if you pour some on your arm and don't rinse, it will burn you very soon! These products are effective in their scrubbing or floor stripping functions. So, imagine what it can do to your arm if you don't rinse!
Don't use a degreaser on asbestos tiles if you don't want to scrub them, even if you only leave it on for 5 minutes! You'll remove some of their shine and a thin layer of finish.
Anything greasy, such as in a kitchen, needs an alkaline product to be effective.
How do you know if a product is acidic, alkaline or neutral?
Here is a short video showing you how litmus paper can help you determine the pH of a product: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tSBeGM7BAvY
Note that when talking about alkalinity, we often use the term basic. This is the case in this video.
The charter of products, accessories and equipment
What better way than to develop a complete charter of authorized products, accessories and equipment on each of your buildings, including dilution and organization methods! Find a complete article on the subject here. Because using the wrong product for a surface can damage surfaces. Or even the respect for dilutions which is just as important. In this regard, I would even say that it is the number 1 difficulty for cleaning employees. Not knowing how to use the products, on the right surface, in the right dosage and using which method!
Health and safety issue
Never mix 2 products together, you might be very surprised at the chemical reaction that can follow!
We make sure to wear the applicable PPE. PPE (personal protective equipment) are indicated on the chemical product containers. In addition, they are also indicated on the product safety data sheet.
So, I regularly see employees who decide to improvise as chemists themselves. Never use a product in its pure form.. If the product does not work to your liking, it is because you don't have the right product, the right method, the right duration or concentration to let the product work.
Most of the time when surfaces are damaged, it is because employees have not been trained on the products and their use. Train employees in the right methods, so it's a winner and even a profitable one! health and safety in housekeeping should also be one of your priorities? Contact us for more information.
