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US 13346

Level 3 Credits 8 Name

Workbook Clean carpets

Issue 1.1 – Jan 2013 13346 Clean carpets 2

Clean Carpets

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Workbook Graphics

Write

Discuss (Talk to another trainee)

Read

Follow the instructions

? Need More Help

In this workbook, you will notice some extra colour coded information. Vocabulary is in pink tables that look like this: Vocabulary Word Meaning Example

Procedure A list of steps you must do. What is the procedure for putting out a warning sign?

Assessor A person who decides if you have passed a test or unit standard.

An Assessor will watch you clean and ask you questions to find out if you know the information.

Procedures are in green boxes that look like this:

Prepare and Perform Carpet Cleaning 1. Prepare for carpet cleaning. 2. Perform carpet cleaning. 3. Complete job-related tasks. ? Need More Help

Read the next two (2) pages to learn how to get the most from vocabulary tables and procedures.


Vocabulary In this workbook, you will learn some new cleaning industry words (vocabulary). New words are in pink tables. At the beginning of each reading, there is a list of vocabulary or words that you need to know to do your job as a cleaner. The words are always in a pink table.

The Vocabulary Table has three (3) parts 1. Headings

The headings go across the top of the table.

A cleaner puts a cordond th h h i

Things with a cord or line b t th t t

Cordon

A cleaner puts up a warning sign before mopping the floor.

A sign that tells people to be careful of something dangerous.

Warning Sign

ExampleMeaningWord

2. A list of words (vocabulary) The list of words goes down the left

hand side of the table.

A cleaner puts a cordonaround the area where he is working, before vacuuming the floor.

Things with a cord or line between that separate an area from people.

Cordon



Warning Sign

ExampleMeaningWord

3. Information about each word The information about each word

goes across the table. Read the Meaning of the word Read it carefully. You may need to read it more than one time.

Then read an Example sentence that uses the word to talk about cleaning.

A cleaner puts a cordonaround the area where he is

Things with a cord or line between that separate an

Cordon



Warning Sign

ExampleMeaningWord



Cordon



Warning Sign

ExampleMeaningWord



Cordon



Warning Sign

ExampleMeaningWord

A cleaner puts a cordonaround the area where he is working, before vacuuming the floor.

Things with a cord or line between that separate an area from people.

Cordon



Warning Sign

ExampleMeaningWord


A Procedure A Procedure Cleaners need to read about many different procedures. In this workbook all procedures are in a green box □. You need to read a procedure carefully and thoroughly. In this workbook you will need to learn many different procedures to pass the unit standard. Sometimes the assessor will watch you do a procedure. Sometimes the assessor will ask you to say a procedure. Here is an example of a procedure.

4. Remove the warning sign, when the floor is dry.3. Clean up the spill.

2. Put up a warning sign.1. Warn the public, that there is a spill

To stop people from slipping and falling, the cleaner should:

A procedure has two (2) parts. 1. A title The title gives the name of the

procedure.

4. Remove the warning sign, when the floor is dry.

3. Clean up the spill.

2. Put up a warning sign.

1. Warn the public, that there is a spill


2. Some steps This procedure has four (4) steps. Each step has a number.

4. Remove the warning sign, when the floor is dry.

3. Clean up the spill.

2. Put up a warning sign.

1. Warn the public, that there is a spill


Some procedures don’t have numbers, they have bullets instead. Some examples of bullets are:

•, –, , , .

• Remove the warning sign, when the floor is dry.

• Clean up the spill.• Put up a warning sign.

• Warn the public, that there is a spillTo stop people from slipping and falling, the cleaner should:

© Careerforce – Issue 1.1 – Jan 2013 13346 Clean carpets 6

Contents Page Introduction ........................................................................................... 7 Part One: Conduct a Risk Assessment of a Worksite ......................... 8 How to read a risk assessment table (chart) .......................................................... 10 Part Two: Demonstrate Knowledge of Carpet Construction, Fibres and Textures ........................................................................................ 14 Natural fibres ............................................................................................................... 15

Synthetic fibres ............................................................................................................ 18

Using industry standard tests to identify different types of fibres ........................ 20

Loop pile and cut pile carpet textures ................................................................... 24

Different types of carpet construction .................................................................... 25 Part Three: Select Carpet Cleaning Method ..................................... 27 A maintenance programme for carpet care ....................................................... 27

What is restorative or corrective cleaning? ........................................................... 32

Selecting the most suitable cleaning method ...................................................... 33

Reporting the results of the assessment………………………………………………34 Part Four: Prepare for Restorative Carpet Cleaning ......................... 35 Prepare for restorative carpet cleaning ................................................................. 36 Part Five: Perform Carpet Cleaning ................................................... 47 Perform restorative carpet cleaning ....................................................................... 48 Part Six: Complete the Carpet Cleaning Process ............................ 52 Complete the carpet cleaning process ................................................................. 52 Part Seven: Complete Job-related Tasks .......................................... 55 Complete job-related tasks ...................................................................................... 55

Caution Signs: Fire ...................................................................................................... 57

Caution Signs: Caustic ............................................................................................... 58


Clean Carpets under Supervision

In this workbook you will learn:

• How to conduct a risk assessment of the worksite, under supervision.

• To identify carpet cleaning equipment and chemicals

• How to prepare for carpet cleaning.

• How to perform carpet cleaning.

• How to complete job-related tasks.

Introduction to Clean Carpets This workbook will focus on commercial carpet cleaning techniques for a carpet maintenance programme and a carpet restoration programme. After completing this unit standard, you will have a good knowledge of carpet construction. You will also be able to identify different types of carpet fibres and piles. Before you study this unit standard, you must complete:

Unit Standard 25918 – Follow safe work practices in the carpet cleaning and restoration industry. It is also recommended that you complete the following two (2) unit standards, before doing this unit standard:

• Unit Standard 13345 – Clean carpets under supervision. • Unit Standard 13347 – Treating spotting and staining on carpets.


Part One: Conduct a Risk Assessment of the Worksite In Part One, you will learn how to complete a risk assessment of a worksite.

Here is a list of vocabulary (words) used in this part. Vocabulary Word Meaning Example

Hazard Anything with the possibility of causing harm.

Electricity, poor ventilation and noise are examples of typical hazards.

Risk How likely it is that damage, loss or injury will be caused by a hazard and how severe the outcome may be.

There is a high risk that the public may slip on wet floors.

What is risk? Hazards and risks go together. A hazard is anything that could cause harm. Risk is the chance of something happening. Your safety depends on identifying hazards and controlling the risk as much as possible. What is a risk assessment of a worksite? A risk assessment is an organised way of looking at work activities to see how safe they are. You write down every possible hazard. For each hazard, you need to think about who might be affected. This may include employees, contractors, temporary workers and the public. For each hazard, you also need to identify if it can be eliminated, isolated or minimised. Then you write down the actions that will be taken during the job to manage the hazard and any further steps that may need to be taken. In some risk assessments, you will be asked to assess the risk. You say what the risk will be. When you assess the risk you say what the chance is that it will go wrong and how bad it will be if it does go wrong (the severity). Give a copy of the written risk assessment to the client to sign so that they fully understand and accept the risk assessment.

You must do a risk assessment, before you begin every stain removal or carpet cleaning job.


What does a risk assessment look like? Here is an example of a risk assessment table for stain removal at a client’s office: Hazard (in order of risk)

Location Eliminate Isolate Minimize/Mitigate

Slip or Fall Any areas where carpet meets hard-floor surfaces.

Prevent Public Access to site. Use Evolution™ type (carpet/hard floor) type wand to remove overspray ASAP. Or use hand towels/mop to immediately dry hard floors.

Use walk-on/walk-off mats.

Place “Caution Wet Floor” signage.

Trip and Fall

Any area between equipment and operator or machine and outlet where hoses/leads placed.

Prevent Public Access to site.

Run hoses/leads along walls as much as possible.

Place “Watch my Hoses” signage. Or tape/cover leads near doorways.

Hazardous Chemicals

Vehicle shelving or Carpet Spotting Kit.

Vehicle should be locked at all times or chemicals kept in a “Lock Box”.

Spotting Kit should have child proof lid. Additionally ventilation (such as air movers) used to remove fumes etc…

All bottles must be labelled correctly. Appropriate SDS available in vehicle First Aid Kit (with Eye Bath) in vehicle. Fire Extinguisher available in vehicle. Appropriate PPE available in vehicle.

Electric Shock

Power Leads/Equipment on damp surfaces.

Use RCD’s. Ensure 6 monthly electrical certification of all electrical equipment done.


How to Read a Risk Assessment Table (Chart) The top row of the table gives the headings. To find out more information about a hazard and how to manage it, you read across a row.

To find out how many hazards there are, you read down the hazard column.

In this table, there are __________ workplace hazards.

Hazard (In order of risk)

Location Eliminate Isolate Minimise

Slip or Fall

Trip and Fall



Slip or Fall

Trip and Fall



Slip or Fall Trip and Fall Hazardous Chemicals

Electric Shock

Every hazard (thing that can cause harm) is listed.

Things you can do to eliminate the hazard.

Where you can find the hazard

Things you can do to minimise the hazard.

Things you can do to isolate each hazard.


To find the hazard with the highest chance or likelihood of happening, look at the top of the hazard column. This hazard is a high risk. Accidents caused by this hazard are very common. To find the hazard with the lowest chance or likelihood of happening, look at the bottom of the hazard column. This hazard is a low risk. Accidents caused by this hazard are not common. Instructions for Reading a Risk Assessment Table (Chart) To find out more information about a particular hazard and how to manage it, you read across one row. You can make a sentence or group of sentences to explain all the information in a row. This is called a document statement. Here is a document statement for this risk assessment chart: The words in brackets (), are the table headings.

____________________________ is a high/medium/low risk hazard. (Hazard) We can find this hazard, ____________________________________________ (Location) We can eliminate this hazard by _____________________________________ (Eliminate) OR IF We cannot eliminate this hazard. We can isolate this hazard by ________________________________________ (Isolate) We can minimise this hazard by ______________________________________ (Minimise)



Slip or Fall

Trip and Fall

Hazardous Chemicals

Electric Shock

Very Likely (high risk of happening)

Not Very Likely (low risk of happening)


Here is the document statement for electric shock. Words from the table replace the headings in brackets shown above.

Electric shock is a low risk hazard. We can find this hazard, when power leads/equipment is on damp surfaces. We cannot eliminate this hazard. We can isolate this hazard by using RCDs (Residual Current Devices). We can minimise this hazard by ensuring 6 monthly electrical certification of all electrical equipment is done.


Now it’s Your Turn

Use information from the Risk Assessment Chart below to complete the document statement for Trip and Fall. Hazard (in order of risk)

Location Eliminate Isolate Minimize/Mitigate

Slip or Fall Any areas where carpet meets hard-floor surfaces/


Use walk-on/walk-off mats

Place “Caution Wet Floor” signage.

Trip and Fall Any area between equipment and operator or machine and outlet where hoses/leads placed.


Run hoses/leads along walls as much as possible.

Place “Watch my Hoses” signage. Or tape/cover leads near doorways.

Hazardous Chemicals

Electric Shock Power leads/ equipment on damp surfaces.

Use RCD’s. Do 6 monthly electrical certification of electrical equipment.

Is a risk hazard. (Hazard) high/medium/low We can find this hazard,(look under Location)

We can eliminate this hazard by (look under Eliminate)

We can isolate this hazard by (look under Isolate)

We can minimise this hazard by (look under Minimise)


Part Two: Demonstrate Knowledge of Carpet Construction, Fibres and Textures

In Part Two, you will learn:

• To identify natural fibres.

• To identify synthetic fibres.

• To identify loop pile and cut pile textures.

• How to do industry standard tests for identifying different fibres.

• About the different ways that carpets are made. Here is a list of vocabulary (words) used in this part. Vocabulary Word Meaning Example

Identify Recognise and name something, say who or what they are.

You will be able to identify the different types of carpet cleaning equipment.

Natural Coming from nature. Made from plant or animal products. Not man made.

Woollen carpet is made from a natural product.

Synthetic Man made. Made from chemical substances.

Nylon is a synthetic material which is often used to make carpets.

Fibre Thread made from natural or man-made substances used for making rope and/or cloth.

The mat was made from flax fibre.

Resist Not harmed or damaged by something.

The carpet resists stains well.

-Resistant Flame resistant Stain resistant

Not damaged by the thing mentioned.

Wool carpet is flame resistant. This means it is not easily damaged by fire.

Dissolve To remove or destroy something, especially by a chemical process.

Bleach dissolves woollen carpet.

Absorbent Able to take in something easily, especially liquid.

Wool carpet is very absorbent, so it takes a long time to dry.

High traffic areas

Floor areas where people walk most often.

High traffic areas get dirty more quickly.

Low traffic areas Floor areas where people don’t often walk.

Low traffic areas don’t get very dirty.

Resilient Returning to its original shape after being bent, stretched, or pressed.

Nylon carpet is resilient. It bounces back into shape after being walked on.


Sheen A soft shine on the surface of something.

Polyester carpet has a beautiful sheen.

Colour-fast A carpet that does not lose its colour when chemicals are used on it is colour-fast.

Olefin carpet is very colour-fast.

Float To stay on or near the surface of a liquid and not sink.

Olefin fibre floats in water but the other synthetic fibres sink.

Sputter/splutter Make short, sudden, loud sounds.

The fire sputtered then went out.

Ash The grey or black powder that is left after something has burnt.

After sisal is burned, all that is left is grey feathery ash.

Pile The short threads, pieces of wool, etc that make up the soft surface of carpets.

There are loop pile and cut pile carpets.

Carpet Fibres Carpets are made from fibres. There are two groups of carpet fibres:

• Natural fibres – found in nature. • Synthetic fibres – man made. Natural Fibres Examples of natural carpet fibres are wool, cotton, sisal and jute.

Wool fibre and wool carpet Cotton fibre and cotton chenille carpet

Sisal fibre and sisal carpet Jute fibre and jute carpet


Wool carpet Wool is an animal produced fibre and comes from the fleece of lambs or sheep. • It is the most common natural fibre

carpet. • It is a high quality fibre and produces

some of the best carpets in the world. • Wool carpets are more expensive than

synthetic carpets. • The fibre is strong and hard wearing. • The fibre is flame resistant – this means that it does not catch fire easily. • The fibre is stain resistant – it does not stain easily. But because it is a

protein it will be more affected by protein stains. • It is a good insulator of heat. This means it holds heat well. • It cannot be treated with chlorine bleach. Bleach will dissolve the fibres. • It is very absorbent so it takes a very long time to dry. Cotton Carpet • Cotton is a soft, fluffy fibre that grows around the

seeds of cotton plants. • Cotton is often used for rugs. • It is used as a weft yarn in woven carpets. • Cotton fibre flattens and crushes easily. • Cotton is very absorbent. This makes the fibre

very difficult to clean. It also takes a long time to dry.

• Cotton carpet may shrink. • It is not flame resistant – this means it will catch fire. Sisal Carpet • Sisal fibre comes from the leaves of the

agave plant (cactus). • The fibre is hard wearing. It is a good

choice for high traffic areas. • It is a good insulator of heat. This

means it holds heat well. • The fibre resists dust mites, moths and

rot. • The fibre stains easily. It needs to be treated to make it resistant to dirt

and spills. • Sisal is quite expensive, although it is cheaper than wool.


Jute Carpet • Jute fibre comes from the stems of a

tropical plant. It is commonly used for making rope, mats and as carpet backing material.

• The fibre is softer than other natural carpet fibres.

• It is not hard wearing. • It can be easily damaged or worn. • It is best used in low traffic areas. • Jute is not expensive.


Synthetic Fibres Examples of synthetic carpet fibres are nylon, polyester, acrylic, polypropylene and olefin. Nylon carpet • Nylon is the most popular man-made fibre for carpets. • It is usually dyed with an acid dye system. • It can be damaged by acid based spills, pesticides and peroxide. • It dissolves in formic acid. • The fibre is strong and hard wearing. • It is recommended for high traffic areas. • The fibre is resilient – this means it springs back after being crushed or

walked on. Nylon carpet has improved over the years. Each major improvement is called a “new generation”. There have been six (6) generations of nylon carpet, so far.

First generation: Dirt and soil showed up on the carpet due to the round, clear fibre.

Second generation: The fibre was delustered – this means it was changed so that it didn’t look shiny. The cross-section shape of the fibre was changed.

Third generation: Static control was added – to stop electrical charges or shocks.

Fourth generation: Stain repelling chemicals were added to resist staining.

Fifth/Sixth generation: Added acid dye resisters to stop staining from food and drink.

“Soft Nylons” The latest improvement is the introduction of “soft nylon” carpets. The fibres are smaller and finer and feel much softer. It takes a lot more of this fibre to make a carpet compared to a traditional nylon carpet. Soft nylon carpets are more expensive than traditional nylon carpets.


Polyester Carpets (PET) • It is not very common. • It holds its colour well. It does not fade. • It is usually dyed with a disperse dye. • It is stain resistant. • It is one of the best looking carpets because of its sheen (its soft shine on

the surface of the fibre). • It has poor resiliency. This means it is not very resilient. So, it crushes easily

and does not spring back well when it is walked on. • It can suffer from pile reversal. Pile reversal is where the carpet surface

looks like it has dark and light patches or shadows. The Newest Polyester Fibre Carpets Polyethylene Terephthalate (PTT) Fibre is the newest type of polyester fibre. • It is very resistant to stains. • PTT fibre is stronger than traditional polyester fibre. • It has a higher melting point compared to traditional polyester fibre. • In New Zealand it is also referred to as Ecostrand TM Acrylic Carpet • Acrylic fibre looks like wool and has some of the qualities of wool. • Acrylic carpet is not very common. It was sold mainly in the 1950’s and

1960’s. • There were some problems with 100% acrylic carpets. The surface of

acrylic carpet can become damaged. It can become pitted or matted.

• Now it is most commonly mixed with wool to improve the colour of a carpet.

Polypropylene/Olefin • It is usually solution dyed. • Polypropylene/Olefin is the least absorbent of the synthetic fibres. • It is very stain resistant. • It is very colour-fast. The colour does not run or fade. • Because it doesn’t absorb water and it is colour-fast, it is suitable for

outdoor areas and wet areas. • It loves oil. (It absorbs oil into the fibre.) • It is not resilient. So it does not spring back when it is crushed or walked

on. • It doesn’t wear as well as other synthetic carpets. So it is best used for

light traffic areas indoors. • It melts at a low temperature. • It floats on water. • Olefin is a cheap fibre.


Using Industry Standard Tests to Identify Different Types of Fibres You will need to identify the type of fibre used to make the carpet, if you need to treat a stubborn stain or before cleaning the carpet. Knowing the fibre type will help you to choose the correct cleaning agents. There are three different tests you can do to identify the type of carpet fibre. 1. The Burn Test 2. Chemical Tests 3. The Float Test 1. The Burn Test

Take a small sample of the fibre. Use a butane lighter to burn the fibre because butane doesn’t have a smell. (If you use a match, it may interfere with being able to smell the burning fibre). The burn test will give you a lot of information. It will tell you: • If the fibre is flammable or flame resistant. • How quickly the fibre burns/melts. • If the fibre has a smell, when it is burning. • What the flame looks like – what colour the flame is, if it burns strongly or

sputters. • If there is a lot of smoke. • What the fibre looks like after it has been burned. • What the ash looks like.

Cotton, Sisal and Jute Cellulosic fibres, such as cotton, sisal and jute catch fire quickly. Once in the flame, the fibre burns rapidly with yellow flame. When pulled out of the flame, it continues to burn rapidly with a red afterglow after the flame has burned out. It smells like burning paper. After the test, all that is left is a gray to charcoal coloured light feathery ash, which easily crumbles.


Protein Fibres: Wool Protein fibres such as wool, burn and the ash crumbles. Wool chars and curls away from an approaching flame. Once in the flame, wool burns slowly and unevenly. When pulled out of the flame, the fire goes out by itself. It smells like burning hair. After the test, all that is left is a brittle, irregular black ash which easily crumbles.

You can also do a chemical test on wool. Wool dissolves in undiluted chlorine bleach.

Nylon: Nylon melts and shrinks from an approaching flame. Once in the flame, nylon melts and burns slowly and is smoky. When pulled out of the flame, nylon burns slowly and tends to go out by itself. Burning nylon smells like celery. After the test, a hard, shiny brown or gray bead is all that is left. Polyester: Polyester melts and shrinks from an approaching flame. Once in the flame, polyester melts and burns slowly. When pulled out of the flame, polyester burns slowly, melts and drips. Burning polyester has a slightly sweet smell. After the test, a hard, shiny black or brown bead is all that is left.


Acrylic: Acrylic melts and shrinks from an approaching flame and catches fire quickly. Once in the flame, acrylic burns rapidly with bright, sputtering flame with a lot of smoke. When pulled out of the flame, acrylic continues to burn, melt, and drip. It has a sharp, unpleasant smell. After the test, a hard, irregular black bead is all that is left. Polypropylene (Olefin): Polypropylene (olefin) melts and shrinks from an approaching flame. Once in the flame, polypropylene (olefin) melts and burns. When pulled out of the flame, polypropylene (olefin) continues to burn. Burning polypropylene (olefin) smells like candle wax. After the test, a hard, tan (light brown) bead is all that is left.

You can also do a float test on olefin. Olefin is the only fibre that floats in water. To test, simply place some fibre in a glass of water. Hold it under the surface of the water, and squeeze out all the trapped air, and let go. If the fibre floats, it’s olefin!


2. Chemical Tests

Chemical test for wool Wool will dissolve in undiluted chlorine bleach. Chemical test for Nylon Nylon dissolves in formic acid. Nylon loses colour when tested with chlorine bleach.

3. The Float Test Olefin carpet fibre is easily tested for – it is the only fibre that floats in water! − To test, simply place some fibre in a glass of water. − Hold it under the surface of the water, and squeeze out all the trapped

air, and let go. − If the fibre floats, it’s olefin!

If the fibre is olefin: If you’re planning on using chlorine bleach, test the olefin with chlorine bleach in case this is a nylon-olefin blend.

Here is a summary of the qualities of four of the main types of carpet fibres Qualities of Fibre

Nylon Polypropylene/ Olefin

Polyester Wool

Methods used to Identify fibre

Dissolves in formic acid. Is smoky when burnt. Extinguishes. Burns to a hard, black bead.

Floats in water. Burns to a round, hard, tan bead.

Burns to a hard, shiny black or brown bead.

Dissolves in chlorine bleach. When burned, smells like burned hair. Burns to black crumbly ash.

Moisture absorption

4.2 – 4.5% 0.01% 0.04 – 0.08% Up to 30%

Colour- Fastness

Very good Excellent Good Good

Stain Resistance

Poor 5th generation Very good

Excellent Excellent Very Poor

Stains attracted to fibre

Acid dyes (except 5th generation fibres)

Oil based stains Oil based stains Protein, urine, blood, meat juices


Loop Pile and Cut Pile Carpet Textures What is pile? The pile is the short pieces of wool or other fibres that make up the soft surface of carpets. The way the pile is treated will change the look of the carpet. Loop pile carpet

Loop pile carpets are created using a series of uncut loops. The series of loops are created using weaving machinery. The loops can be one height. Or, the machinery can be set to create a pattern of different heights which is used to make a design on the carpet.

There are several advantages to loop pile carpet. It is easy to clean. The loops can help prevent spills from soaking deep into the carpet. Loop pile carpet also copes well with professional carpet cleaning even when strong cleaning agents are used. Cut pile carpet

To create a cut pile carpet, the loops created during the weaving of a carpet are cut to the same height and tufted slightly. A cut pile carpet will look soft and very dense and feel very soft under foot.

On the down side, cut pile carpets show footprints more easily than loop pile carpets. Cut pile carpets will also develop lighter or darker patches over time. This is called “shading”, “puddling” or “watermarking”. It is caused by the permanent bending of the carpet pile fibres which then reflect the light differently.


Different Types of Carpet Construction There are different ways to make carpet from yarn. Carpets can be woven, tufted, needle punched or fusion bonded.

Woven Carpet

Woven carpet is made on a loom using the weaving process. Face yarns are held in place by weaving them with warp and weft yarns. Warp yarns are yarns that run lengthwise (up and down). Weft yarns are yarns than run width wise (side to side).

Tufted carpet Tufted carpet is a type of carpet where little pieces of cut or looped yarn poke up through a backing. It is created on machinery. Tufted carpet is very strong and wears well for a long time. Berber carpet is an example of a tufted carpet.

Needle punched carpet Layers of loose fibre called batts are punched by needles into a synthetic backing. The pile looks like felt. Needle punched carpet made with polypropylene is often used as outdoor carpeting. Needle punched carpet is sometimes coated with latex.


Fusion bonded carpet Fibres are stuck to a single, six foot wide backing using a vinyl adhesive compound (glue). This technique is used to make carpet tiles.


Part Three: Select Carpet Cleaning Method Part Three describes:

• The parts of a maintenance programme for carpet care.

• Restorative or corrective cleaning.

• How to assess a carpet to select the most suitable cleaning method.


Maintain To keep a machine, carpet etc. in good condition by checking, looking after, or repairing it regularly.

You can maintain the quality of a carpet by vacuuming it regularly.

Maintenance Keeping something in good condition by checking, looking after or repairing it.

You should develop a maintenance programme to care for your carpet.

Restorative To bring something back to its earlier condition.

Restorative or corrective carpet cleaning helps to improve the look and condition of the carpet.

Assess Make a judgement about the quality, value or condition of something.

You need to assess the condition of the carpet before you clean it.

Pre-existing From an earlier time. The carpet had two (2) pre-existing problems: mould and split seams.

A Maintenance Programme for Carpet Care Carpets need to be maintained so that they continue to look good. There are three parts to a maintenance programme. These are: 1. Vacuuming. 2. Spot Removal and Stain Treatment. 3. Surface Cleaning. 1. Vacuuming

Vacuuming is a major part of a carpet maintenance programme. Carpets need to be vacuumed regularly. Vacuuming removes dry particle soil or particulate soil. Particulate soil is dirt that has sharp edges. Stones or pebbles are examples of particulate soil. It is important to remove particulate soil because it can scratch the carpet fibres and make the carpet look dull.


Guidelines for a Vacuuming Programme • In moderate and high traffic areas vacuum every day (daily). • In low traffic areas vacuum 2 – 3 times a week. • Vacuum cleaners should have a power head (beater bar head) that is

properly adjusted. • The vacuum needs a high efficiency collection bag to collect dirt and

soil down to 2 microns. (A micron is a measure for very small things that cannot be seen with the human eye).

• The collection bag should be changed when the airflow is reduced (when the bag is about two-thirds (2/3) full).

• It is recommended that you use a vacuum cleaner with a high efficiency (HEPA) filter that can trap very small pieces of dirt.

• The vacuum needs to spend enough time on the carpet to remove all the dirt. − When vacuuming make 4 to 7 passes with the vacuum cleaner. − This means go backwards and forwards slowly and carefully over

each area 4 to 7 times. Make more passes in moderate and high traffic areas.

• On cut pile or cut/loop carpets, use a special pile lifter vacuum cleaner, to lift the pile of the carpet. A pile lifter vacuum helps to maintain the carpet and removes dirt that is deep down in the carpet.

• Use a pile lifter: − Once a month in high traffic areas. − Once every 3 months in moderate traffic areas. − Once every 6 months in low traffic areas.

Equipment used in a carpet maintenance programme • Vacuum with a power head (beater bar head) • Pile lifter

Power head attachment for vacuum cleaner Pile Lifter


2. Spot Removal and Stain Treatment

Spots and stains should be treated as soon as they appear. Look at a spot removal chart to find out which method is best for each type of spot or stain. The equipment you will use includes: • A stain removal chart. • A stain removal kit (choose a kit that has a child-proof lock or is

lockable). • Cloths. • Gloves. • A respirator. • An air mover.

A stain removal chart A stain removal kit (spotting kit)

A respirator An air mover


3. Surface Cleaning

Surface cleaning is sometimes called appearance retention carpet cleaning. Surface cleaning is used to maintain the look of the carpet instead of just waiting until the carpet needs a restorative clean. Surface cleaning is suitable for soiled or dirty areas of carpet or carpet in high traffic areas. Surface cleaning can be done quickly and usually has quick drying times. However, surface cleaning will not remove the same amount of dirt, soil or contaminants as restorative cleaning does. There are different methods of surface cleaning. These include: • Dry foam shampoo. • Absorbent compound. • Rotary brush shampoo/extraction. • Absorbent pad spin bonnet. • Surface hot water extraction. a) Dry foam shampoo

Using a special foam machine, a foam detergent is applied to the carpet and worked in with a brush. The foam and dirt can be removed while wet with a wet vacuum or after drying with a dry vacuum. This method has a very short down time. This means the carpet can be used very soon after cleaning.

b) Absorbent compound

A special powder is sprinkled on the carpet. The powder contains dry solvent, detergent and moisture. The powder is brushed evenly through the carpet. It is dry vacuumed to remove dirt and any remaining powder. The carpet can be used immediately after cleaning. A high powered vacuum cleaner is needed, if you use this method because it is important to remove all of the absorbent compound from the carpet. This method should not be used on carpets that are not colour-fast.


c) Rotary brush shampoo/extraction This method uses a low speed rotary machine and a rotary brush. A foaming detergent is applied and the carpet is agitated with a rotary brush. The detergent and dirt is extracted from the carpet. This method covers a large area at a time. However, if you are not careful the brushes can damage the carpet by making it “fuzzy”. Be careful using this method on wool or Berber carpets.

d) Absorbent pad spin bonnet This method uses a rotary machine with a bonnet (cotton or rayon) pad. Solvent/detergent is sprayed onto the carpet. The carpet is buffed with a bonnet pad. The pad needs to be changed when it stops absorbing dirt. This method covers a large area in a short time. Good quality detergents/solvents produce better results.

e) Surface hot water extraction

A self-contained walk behind extractor is used. The detergent solution is injected into the carpet. The dirt (mixed with the detergent solution) is removed from the carpet by wet vacuuming extraction.

This method is not as effective as high performance hot water extraction used in restorative cleaning because surface hot water extraction only uses low pressure, low vacuum and warm water.


What is Restorative or Corrective Cleaning? Restorative or corrective cleaning is the removal of soil and dirt that is deep down in the carpet. Restorative cleaning helps to maintain a healthy indoor environment by removing contaminants from the carpet. Restorative cleaning also helps to increase the life of your carpet. The best method of restorative cleaning is by using a high performance hot water injection and extraction (“steam”) carpet cleaning machine. These machines can be portable (able to be carried and moved around) or truck mounted.

A portable hot water injection and extraction carpet cleaning machine.

A truck mounted hot water injection and extraction carpet cleaning machine.

A portable hot water injection and extraction carpet cleaning machine A portable hot water injection and extraction carpet cleaning machine has:

1. A body which has a liquid storage tank and a recovery tank. • The storage tank is for clean, hot water and cleaning solutions that

are injected into the carpet. • The recovery tank is for dirty water extracted from the carpet.

2. A pump and nozzle to spray cleaning solution onto the carpet.

3. A vacuum system to remove water and soil.

4. A cleaning head or wand (with or without brush). A truck mounted hot water injection and extraction machine A truck mounted hot water injection and extraction machine is more powerful. It will have more powerful vacuum and airflow. It may also have


high energy water heating abilities and may have a large water recovery storage tank or a waste recovery filtration and pump out system. Selecting the Most Suitable Cleaning Method Before cleaning a carpet, the most suitable cleaning method must be chosen. You will need to decide whether to use surface cleaning methods or restorative cleaning methods. To make a decision, you will need to assess the carpet’s location and condition. When you assess the carpet, you will be looking at: Traffic patterns

Is it a low, moderate or high traffic area? Level of wear

− What is the condition of the carpet? − Are there any pre-existing conditions? These may include split

seams, moisture, soiling, stains and mould. These are described in more detail in Part Four.

Level of soiling

How dirty is the carpet? Level of staining

Does the carpet have spots or stains? Residues or Biohazards

Does the carpet contain chemicals or any hazardous biohazards that could be harmful to humans or animals?

Desired appearance

How important is it that the carpet looks its best? Hygiene needs

What quality of clean does the client want? How important is it for the carpet to be free of contaminants and residues?

Contract specifications

Is there a carpet maintenance schedule in the contract? How often should surface cleaning be undertaken? What method should be used? How often should corrective or restorative cleaning be undertaken?


Reporting the Results of the Assessment Results of the assessment and recommendations for cleaning of carpets need to be written down in a report. The assessment is then shown to the client for agreement before the job is started. Carpet Condition Assessment Report Customer name Address

Date Technician name Carpet Fibre and Construction

Traffic patterns

Low Moderate High Other

Level of wear (Pre-existing conditions)

Seams Moisture Stains Mould

Level of soiling

Low Moderate Heavy Other

Level of staining

Stains Spots Other Other

Residues or biohazards

Chemical residues

Biohazard residues

Other Other

Hygiene needs

Contract Specifications

Desired appearance

Notes

Customer Signature and Date


Part Four: Prepare for Restorative Carpet Cleaning In Part Four, you will learn a procedure for preparing for restorative carpet cleaning.


Colour-fast test A test you do with a cleaning agent to check that it will not take the colour out of the material, carpet or floor.

Always do a colour-fast test before you use a cleaning agent.

Chattels Personal belongings (not land or buildings). E.g. chairs, tables etc

Move the chattels from the room before you start cleaning the carpet.

Pre-existing From an earlier time. The carpet had two (2) pre-existing problems: mould and split seams.

Visible Can be seen. Do not colour-fast test the carpet in a visible place. Test it in a place that cannot be seen.

Apply To put or spread something such as paint, cleaning solution onto a surface.

Apply the carpet cleaning solution to the carpet.

Application Putting or spreading something onto a surface.

You may need to put more than one application of cleaning solution on the carpet.

Dwell time The amount of time you must wait for a cleaning solution or chemical to work, before you start cleaning.

The dwell time for this pre-spray detergent is 15 minutes.

Temperature The measurement in degrees of how hot or cold a thing or place is.

Make sure the hot water in the tank is at the correct temperature.


In this part, you will learn the procedure for preparing for restorative or corrective carpet cleaning using a hot water injection and extraction carpet cleaning machine. The procedures for surface carpet cleaning are not discussed in this workbook. There are fourteen (14) steps in the procedure for Prepare for Restorative Carpet Cleaning.

Prepare for Restorative Carpet Cleaning

a. Assess the condition of the carpet and report the results to the client. b. Put on appropriate Personal Protective Equipment (PPE). c. Identify the type of carpet fibre by doing an industry standard fibre

identification test. d. Select and prepare the cleaning solution in accordance with

manufacturer’s recommendations. e. Select and safety check your equipment. f. Put out warning signs. g. Colour-fast test the cleaning solution. h. Spot remove any spots or stains. i. Move chattels in accordance with client requirements. j. Avoid damage to area by minimising overspray. k. Make sure the conditions for safe carpet cleaning are met. l. Clean loose litter from the surface of the carpet. m. Apply pre-spray detergent. n. Fill the carpet cleaning machine with hot water and cleaning solutions.

Let’s look at each step in more detail.

a. Assess the location and condition of the carpet and report the results to the client. Assess the location and condition of the carpet before it is cleaned. When you assess the condition of the carpet, you look for any pre-existing problems. These include:

• Split seams, where carpets come

apart at a join. • Moisture (water) damage – caused by damp, floods or over-


wetting of the carpet. • Soiling – earth and other dirt walked into the carpet which

can be removed by vacuuming or rinsing with water. • Stains - A stain is a substance such as mud, liquid, food that is

on a fabric or material and is not able to be removed by normal cleaning. A stain can also be an area on the carpet that is a different colour from the rest of the carpet. For example: a brown stain on a blue carpet.

• Mould. Mould is a fine, soft, green, grey or black fungi (plant-like substance) that grows on old food or on objects that are left in warm, wet air. Depending on how bad the mould is, it may be possible to treat it with a mould killer for carpets.

• Biohazards. Does the carpet contain biohazards? Bio is short

for biological and biohazards are hazardous substances which can injure or kill people or animals. Examples of biohazards are medical waste, viruses, bacteria and toxins.

After assessing the condition of the carpet, write up a report on the findings for the client. The report will include a description of the location and condition of the carpet and recommendations for treatment.

b. Put on appropriate Personal Protective Equipment (PPE).

Put on your Personal Protective Equipment (PPE), before you prepare the cleaning solutions you will need for carpet cleaning. You will also need to wear Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) while you are carpet cleaning.

You should always wear gloves. You should also wear a respirator if you are preparing hazardous (toxic) chemicals that can affect your breathing.

You may also need to wear some or all of the following Personal Protective Equipment:


Write the correct name of the Personal Protective Equipment under each picture. The first one is an example answer.

Overalls or a uniform Glasses or Goggles Ear muffs

Head Protection Gloves Respirator (breathing mask)

Footwear (closed) Ear plugs A face mask

gloves


c. Identify the type of carpet fibre by doing an industry standard fibre identification test.

There are three different tests you can do to identify the type of carpet fibre. These are discussed in detail in Part One.

1. The Burn Test 2. Chemical Tests 3. The Float Test

d. Select and prepare the cleaning solution in accordance with

manufacturer’s recommendations. • A range of different cleaning solutions may be used when

cleaning carpets. These include: • Spot or stain removers to remove difficult stains. • Pre-spray detergent solution. It is also called a Traffic Lane

Cleaner or a pre-conditioner. The pre-spray detergent is sprayed on the carpet before cleaning to help trap and remove dirt. There are three main types of pre-spray detergents: neutral pre-spray detergent, acid pre-spray detergent, alkaline pre-spray detergent. It is important to choose the correct pre-spray detergent for the type of carpet and for the type of spots and stains on the carpet.

• A rinsing detergent solution –This is added to the tank of the carpet cleaning machine. Make sure you follow the instructions for preparing and using the detergent solution correctly, so that it doesn’t damage the carpet fibres, carpet backing and adhesive (glue).

• Sanitising solution – to kill germs. • Deodorant – to remove odours (smells). • Defoamer – to prevent foam (soap and water) building up in

the carpet and the recovery tank of the hot water injection and extraction machine.

• You need to be very sure that you choose the best carpet cleaning chemicals for the conditions and type of carpet. If you choose the wrong chemicals, they may damage the carpet or void the warranties for the carpet.

• If you need to prepare a cleaning solution, follow the instructions on the label of cleaning agent or on a stain removal chart.


e. Select and safety check your equipment. The equipment you will use includes: • Carpet sweeper. • Power head vacuum cleaner. • Vacuum cleaner. • Hot water injection and extraction machine. • An air mover • A carpet rake or groomer or brush • Pump-up pump or pressurised spray wands. • Power safe cut-out protector. (An RCD) • Fibre ID kit. • Spotting chemicals.

Do a safety check for warning signs, a respirator, a carpet sweeper and for electrical equipment (this includes: air movers, power head vacuum cleaners or vacuum cleaners and carpet cleaning machines).

• All equipment must be clean and in good working condition. • All electrical equipment must have a current electrical safety

certificate.

Safety check for signs

a. Check that the hinge works. (The hinge is at the top, the hinge joins the two parts of the sign).

b. Check that the sign is clean and easy to read.


NEVER share your respirator with someone else as this is extremely unhygienic (germy). It is your personal equipment and you are responsible for it.

Safety check for respiratory equipment

• Check all cartridges and attachments for fit. • Ensure valves are clean and function correctly. • Check the moulded face plate for leaks or cracks. • To double check that your respirator is working regularly smell a strong

odour (such as a petrol tank) while wearing it. If you can detect the smell it may indicate that the canisters require immediate replacement or the fitting needs adjustment.

Fit-Testing Without a proper fit you are not protected. There should be no air leaks around the face mask. Adjust any headbands carefully to obtain a good seal. Facial hair can prevent a correct fit. Fit-testing is most important. A fit-test needs to be done every time the mask is taken on or off! To check for proper fit do the following tests: • Inhalation test: Place the palm of the hand over the

cartridge inhalation points and breathe in. If you cannot feel air enter the mask and the face plate collapses slightly, there is a proper fit and the exhalation valve is functioning properly.

• Exhalation test: Completely cover the exhalation valve with the palm of your hand. Breathe out enough to cause slight pressure inside the face plate. If no air escapes from around the face plate, it is fitted properly and the inhalation valve is functioning correctly. Adjust straps if air leaks.


Safety Check for Electrical Equipment This includes: air movers, power head vacuum cleaners or vacuum cleaners and carpet cleaning machines.

1. Always check the Electrical Safety Certificate first.

AS26949AS26949

15/04/09

If the Electrical Safety Certificate is current, it is Ok to use the equipment. If the Electrical Safety Certificate is out-of-date, you must not use the equipment.

2. Check the cord

Do not use if the cord is cut or damaged.

3. Check the plug

The three (3) prongs must be straight not bent.

straight

bent

4. Check the motor

The motor must be quiet when turned on. Do not use, If the motor is very noisy or smelly.

5 Check hoses.

Check vacuum and solution hoses.

Do not use, if the hoses or fittings are leaking.

If the Electrical Safety Certificate is out-of-date:

1. Do not use the equipment

2. Write a fault label and tie it on the equipment

3. Put the equipment away. Keep it separate from the good equipment.

4. Tell your boss (supervisor) immediately.


f. Put out warning signs. To warn the public, put out a warning sign, cordon or barrier.

Make sure that you put a warning sign in a place where people can read it.

Make sure you put it in a place that will not cause a hazard.

g. Colour-fast test the cleaning solution. Do a colour-fast test, before you use a cleaning solution.

Apply a small amount of cleaning solution to a small area of carpet that is not visible.

Follow the instructions on the label. The instructions will tell you how long to leave the cleaning solution on. If the carpet changes colour, the colour runs (bleeds), or the pile of the carpet is damaged, do not use the cleaning solution on the rest of the carpet.

h. Spot remove any spots and stains.

• Identify the stain.

• Then apply the appropriate stain remover to the stain, following the directions on the label carefully.

You may need to use one of the following stain removers:

Volatile solvent, non-volatile solvent, neutral detergent solution, alkaline detergent solution, acid detergent solution, enzyme digester, chewing gum remover, rust remover, cordial or dye stain remover, ammonia.

• Neutralise and rinse the stain remover from the carpet, once the stain is removed.

• If you cannot identify the stain, you will need to do a spot-test on the stain.

i. Move chattels in accordance with client requirements.

Chattels is another word for furniture and other household items. Before cleaning the carpet, you need to remove as much of the furniture as is possible, from the room being cleaned. Follow the client’s instructions on where to store these chattels.


Remember to look after your back, if you have to bend or lift.

How Do You Bend, Lift and Carry Safely? Before lifting something, think about what you are going to do. Can you minimise any hazards, before you start? means Do Not, Don’t, or Never means Do or Always

• DON’T carry things up and down

stairs, if possible. Use the lift.

• NEVER carry things a long way. Use a trolley.

• NEVER carry things if they are too big or too heavy. Use a trolley.

• ALWAYS check the floor.

o Is the floor clear of things you can fall over?

o Is the floor dry?

• ALWAYS wear shoes that will not slip.

• ALWAYS check the thing you are going to carry.

o Is it safe to carry?

o Wear gloves to help you hold it.

j. Avoid damage to area by minimising overspray.

To prevent water damage from the pre-spray detergent, use masking tape to seal the edges of the room.

Use plastic sheeting to cover any carpet and flooring areas that are not being cleaned.

Place plastic sheeting under all furniture which is not being moved, so the furniture and carpet is not damaged by cleaning solutions and over-wetting.


k. Make sure conditions for safe carpet cleaning are met. • Make sure the worksite is well ventilated (aired).

Open windows or use an air mover to keep fresh air moving into the area.

• Make sure you are not working near fire or flames. The area must be No Smoking.

• Do not breathe in chemical fumes.

Use a respirator and/or air mover when working with chemicals.

• Do not get chemicals/cleaning agents in contact with your skin and eyes.

l. Clean loose litter from the surface of the carpet.

Before cleaning, vacuum the carpet thoroughly to remove loose litter. Loose litter is any soil, dirt or other small pieces of rubbish that is on the surface of the carpet. Equipment used to vacuum the carpet includes: A carpet sweeper, power head vacuum cleaner, or a vacuum cleaner.

m. Apply pre-spray detergent.

• Use a pressure sprayer to apply pre-spray detergent. This is the application part of the process.

• Fill the pressure sprayer with pre-spray detergent.

• Apply pre-spray detergent to the whole area of carpet to be cleaned. This is the application part of the process.

• Apply more pre-spray detergent to soiled areas and to spots and stains that are still visible. Do not over wet the carpet.

• For best results the pre-spray detergent should be brushed into the pile in heavily soiled areas with a broom or carpet rake.

• Allow the pre-spray detergent to work. Check on the label for the recommended time (between 5 and 20 minutes) before cleaning the carpet with the carpet cleaning machine. This is called the “dwell” time.


n. Fill the carpet cleaning machine with hot water and cleaning

solutions. • Fill the tank of the hot water injection and extraction machine

with hot water. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions on the temperature of water needed.

• Add detergent to the tank along with any other chemicals required such as sanitising solution, or deodorant. Make sure solutions are at the correct temperature.

• If required, add defoamer to the recovery tank. The recovery tank is where the dirty water extracted from the carpet goes.


Part Five: Perform Carpet Cleaning In Part Five, you will learn a procedure for performing restorative or corrective carpet cleaning.

In this part, you will learn the procedure for performing restorative or corrective carpet cleaning using a hot water injection and extraction carpet cleaning machine. Here is a list of vocabulary (words) used in this part. Vocabulary Word Meaning Example

Agitate To make something, especially a liquid, move around by stirring or shaking it.

Agitate the carpet fibres to help to loosen the dirt.

Agitation Stirring or shaking something. Agitation is one part of the carpet cleaning process.

Extract To take or pull something out. The hot water injection and extraction carpet cleaning machine extracts dirty water from the carpet.

Extraction Removing or getting something from something else.

The carpet cleaning equipment has an extraction system for removing dirt and dirty water from the carpet.

Moisture Very small drops of water that are present in the air, on a surface or in something.

After cleaning, try to vacuum as much moisture out of the carpet as possible, so that it will dry quicker.

Rinse/Rinsing To wash something with clean water only, not using soap.

After cleaning the carpet, rinse it with clean water.

Neutralise/ Neutralising

To stop something (for example, a cleaning agent) from continuing to work.

Neutralise the cleaning agent, after you have finished cleaning the carpet.

Excessive Greater than what seems reasonable or appropriate.

If there is excessive heat, the carpet may get damaged. So make sure the solution temperature is not too hot.

Groom To brush something. After cleaning, groom the carpet with a carpet rake to make it look better and dry quicker.


Let’s look at this procedure in more detail. It has six (6) steps. Perform Carpet Cleaning a. Follow health and safety practices throughout the cleaning process.

b. Use cleaning equipment and apply cleaning solution in accordance with manufacturer’s recommendations.

c. Ensure potential damage to carpet is recognised and avoided.

d. Groom the carpet in accordance with industry best practice.

e. Dry the carpet in accordance with industry best practice.

f. Dispose of soiled solutions.

a. Follow health and safety practices throughout the cleaning process. These practices are discussed above in Part Four. To review this section, go to Part Four:

k. Make sure conditions for safe carpet cleaning are met.

b. Use cleaning equipment and apply cleaning solution in accordance with manufacturer’s recommendations.

Always follow the manufacturer’s recommendations for using the carpet cleaning machine.

Here is a general procedure for carpet cleaning using a hot water injection and extraction carpet cleaning machine:

1. Start cleaning, by running the cleaning head or wand backwards across the carpet slowly and evenly. Gently agitate the carpet fibres using the cleaning head or wand to help to loosen the soil and dirt. Do not agitate the carpet too much as this can damage the carpet fibres. This is the agitation part of the process.

2. Clean in straight lines where possible. Overlap each stroke to prevent line marks.

If using a wand, work in small rectangular shaped sections.

3. Only use as much detergent as needed to clean well. Do not over-wet the carpet fibres and carpet backing.

4. Immediately after cleaning, go over the same area again with only the vacuum system turned on. This will extract (suck up) more moisture from the carpet and make it dry more quickly. This is the extraction part of the process.


5. After cleaning, empty the detergent tank. Refill with clean water, Rinse the carpet. Add a neutralising agent, if required. This is the rinsing and neutralising part of the process.

6. Only use as much rinse as needed to clean well. Do not over-wet the carpet fibres and carpet backing.

7. Immediately after rinsing, go over the same area again with only the vacuum system turned on. This will suck up more moisture from the carpet and make it dry more quickly.

8. Repeat cleaning, in areas where the carpet is still dirty. Do not over-wet with solution.

9. Clean edges, corners and carpet under furniture with a suitable tool fitted to the hose of the carpet cleaning machine.

Follow the manufacturer’s instructions, If you are cleaning shag pile or open weave carpets.

c. Ensure potential damage to carpet is recognised and avoided.

• The following conditions can cause damage to carpet and need to be avoided:

• Excessive agitation - rubbing the carpet too hard with the cleaning head or wand. This can damage the surface of the fibres and cause them to fuzz.

• Excessive heat – the water temperature or solution temperature is too hot. This can damage and may even melt or dissolve the carpet fibres.

• Too acidic. Check the manufacturer’s instructions to make sure you use the correct chemicals to suit the type of carpet fibre.

• Too alkaline. Check the manufacturer’s instructions to make sure you use the correct chemicals to suit the type of carpet fibre.

• Too wet. Do not over wet the fibres and the carpet backing as this can cause wicking.

• Colour run and streaking of carpet. Always do a colour-fast test before using chemicals on the carpet.

• Bleaching. Some carpet fibres may become bleached by some carpet cleaning chemicals. Check the manufacturer’s instructions to make sure you use the correct chemicals to suit the type of carpet fibre. − DO NOT use chlorine bleach on nylon or wool carpets. − Chlorine bleach will bleach or take the colour out of nylon

carpet fibres.


− Chlorine bleach will dissolve wool carpet fibres. • Condition. Always read the assessment and recommendations

before starting to clean the carpets. Make sure you follow the recommendations for treating pre-existing conditions.

• Damage to seams. If there is pre-existing damage to seams, the carpet cleaning operator needs to be careful not to make the damage worse. Check the assessment and follow any recommendations.

• Damage from furniture. Try to avoid putting furniture back on damp carpet. Place protective material under the legs of furniture to prevent the furniture from marking the carpet.

• Cellulousic browning. This is caused when natural gum in jute, sisal or cotton is dissolved after over wetting. The gum comes to the surface of the fibre and causes a brown stain. Cellulousic browning can be avoided by not over wetting the carpet. Alkaline pre-conditioners can make the browning worse and should be avoided. The carpet should also be dried as quickly as possible. If browning still occurs a browning corrector product can be applied to remove the browning.

d. Groom the carpet in accordance with industry best practice.

Immediately after you have finished cleaning the carpet with the carpet cleaning machine, you need to groom the carpet. Grooming is done with a rake, groomer or brush depending on the type of carpet. − Grooming makes the carpet look better. − Grooming also helps speed up drying time.

e. Dry the carpet in accordance with industry best practice.

How long a carpet takes to dry depends on a number of different things: • Ventilation. (the movement of air) • Humidity. (the amount of water in the air) • Carpet cleaning technique used, and so on. However, it is best practice for carpets not to take more than 12 hours to dry. Carpets can get dirty again very quickly, if they are wet or damp. To speed up drying, you can use air movers. The air mover blows air across the top of the carpet which helps it to dry.


f. Dispose of soiled solutions. Cleaning solutions should be disposed of down a cleaners’ sink or down the toilet.

DO NOT empty cleaning solutions down storm water drains or in the gutter.

Your assessor will ask you to describe the key parts of the carpet cleaning process. Make sure that you understand these steps in the process. • Application • Dwell time • Solution temperature • Agitation • Extraction • Rinse • Neutralising


Part Six: Complete the Carpet Cleaning Process In Part Six, you will learn a procedure for completing the carpet cleaning process.

In this part, you will learn a procedure for completing the carpet cleaning process. Let’s look at this procedure in more detail. It has four (4) steps. Complete the Carpet Cleaning Process a. Chattels are replaced in a way that meets the client’s requirements.

b. Furniture is replaced in a way that prevents damage.

c. Potential damage to carpet or health due to slow drying is minimised.

d. All work is completed according to the schedule in the contract specifications.

a. Chattels are replaced in a way that meets the client’s requirements.

Discuss with the client, where they would like the furniture and chattels put, after cleaning.

Follow the client’s instructions.

b. Furniture is replaced in a way that prevents damage caused by contact with damp carpet.

Place protective material (plastic, foil or polystyrene) under the legs of furniture and under other chattels to protect them from damage caused by being placed on damp carpet.


c. Potential damage to carpet or health due to slow drying is minimised.

It is best practice for carpets not to take more than 12 hours to dry. Carpets can get dirty again very quickly, if they are wet or damp. If carpets are over wet for too long, this can lead to: • Wicking, or • Cellulousic browning in some natural fibres. There is more information on wicking on the next page. To speed up drying, you can use air movers. The air mover blows air across the top of the carpet which helps it to dry.

d. All work is completed according to the schedule in the contract specifications.

After finishing the job, review the contract. Check that you have done each task mentioned in the contract to the standard required.


More Information on Wicking (Recurring Stains) Recurring stains are stains that go away during cleaning but then mysteriously come back after the carpet or soft covering is dry. The stain can return because of “wicking”. Wicking is when moisture flows up the fibre to the surface during drying. If the stain has not been completely removed, it can be carried through the fibre during drying and suddenly appear again on the surface of the carpet or soft covering. How to Prevent Wicking and Recurring Stains 1. Use the correct stain removal agent. Don’t use too much stain removal

agent. Neutralise the stain removal agent from the stain after treating. 2. If cleaning carpet, don’t wet the backing when applying stain removal

agent. This will prevent wicking because if the backing is dry, any stains trapped in the backing will not be able to flow to the surface of the fibres during drying.

3. Use air dryers to dry the area quickly. If you dry the carpet or soft

covering quickly this helps to prevent wicking because there is less time for the stain to “wick” up to the surface.

4. Use a white towel, to remove any remaining stains from the carpet or soft

coverings after treating the stain. • Fold the towel and lay it on top of the cleaned stain. • Put a weight on it. • Let the carpet or soft covering dry. • Any remaining stains will come off onto the towel.


Part Seven: Complete Job Related Tasks In Part Seven, you will learn a procedure for completing job related tasks.

In this part, you will learn the procedure for completing job related tasks. Here is a list of vocabulary (words) used in this part. Vocabulary Word Meaning Example

Outstanding Not done, not solved. The only outstanding problem is one stain that we couldn’t remove.

Fittings A small part on a piece of equipment or furniture.

Cover any fittings that could be damaged during polishing.

Fixtures A thing such as a toilet that is fixed in a house and that you cannot take with you when you move.

Do not damage the fixtures when using a high speed polisher.

Secure To protect something so it is safe and difficult to attack.

Secure the building by locking the doors and putting on the security alarm.

Premises The building and land that a business owns or uses.

The premises are protected with a security alarm and security guards.

Let’s look at this step in more detail. It has five (5) steps. Complete Job Related Tasks a. Provide written report to client for approval and sign off.

b. Process job related documentation.

c. Complete carpet cleaning without damage or risk to technician, client, furniture, fixtures or fittings.

d. Clean and store PPE and Equipment.

e. Secure the premises.


a. Provide written report to client for approval and sign off.

Write a report on the results of the carpet cleaning to give to the client to sign their approval.

In this report, write down any outstanding problems. For example, any stains or spots that you were unable to remove.

You may also wish to include recommendations for stain prevention treatments and recommendations for carpet cleaning maintenance (how often the carpet should be cleaned professionally).

b. Process job related documentation.

This includes the written report to the client (as above) and any service reports required by the cleaning company.

c. Complete carpet cleaning without damage to carpet cleaning

technician, client, furniture, fixtures or fittings.

Follow health and safety practices to keep you and the client safe.

Follow manufacturer’s recommendations for using carpet cleaning machines and cleaning solutions to avoid damaging the carpet.

Follow industry best practice to avoid damaging furniture, chattels, fixtures and fittings.

d. Clean and store PPE and equipment.

Clean the carpet cleaning machine. • Wipe down the machine.

• Wind up the cord.

Store solvents safely • Store solvents in an area that has a flammable chemical sign.

• Store solvents in a separate area from other cleaning agents.

e. Secure the premises.

Follow the supervisor or client’s instructions to lock up the worksite after you have completed the job.


Caution Signs: Fire Cleaners need to understand and use caution signs at work. Here are some fire warning signs you may see on bottles of cleaning agents.

Caution sign

There are different types of workplace signs. A yellow triangle with a black border with a picture or words inside is a Caution or warning sign. It warns you about danger. It means look out, or watch out, or be careful!

This is the FIRE symbol. The fire symbol can be different colours and inside different shapes. The fire symbol means the substance can catch fire easily.

Some fire signs use pictures only.

This is an international warning sign for fire.

Some fire signs use pictures and words.

Some signs may say Fire Risk. Risk means that it is possible that something bad may happen in the future. If there is a fire risk, it is possible that something may catch fire sometime.

Some signs use the word Flammable or Inflammable. Flammable and inflammable both mean the same thing. They tell you that something can catch fire very easily.

Do not store a flammable cleaning agent near heat (in a hot place) or open flames.


Caution Signs: Caustic Cleaners need to understand and use caution signs at work. Here are some caustic warning signs you may see on bottles of cleaning agents. If a cleaning agent is caustic, it can burn, eat away or destroy your skin and body. Caution sign

There are different types of workplace signs. A yellow triangle with a black border with a picture or words inside is a Caution or warning sign. It warns you about danger. It means look out, or watch out, or be careful!

This is the caustic symbol. The caustic symbol may be different colours, and inside different shapes. The caustic symbol means the substance can burn, eat away, damage or destroy your body. The picture shows a hand burned by a caustic solution.

Some caustic signs use pictures only.

This sign is a caution sign for caustic.

Some caustic signs may just use words.

This is another type of caution sign you may see. It uses the word danger.

This caution sign uses !. !means warning, caution, be careful.

Both signs mean the same thing:

be careful with caustic, it may burn or damage your body.


Some caustic signs use pictures and words.

This is a caution sign for caustic.

Here is another sign. This is an international warning sign for caustic.

Corrosive is another word for caustic.

Some signs tell you what Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)you must wear when you are handling caustic solutions.

You must always wear gloves.

Issue 1.1 – Jan 2013

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