If you are a building service contractor or facilities manager, it is important to understand what a CIMS certification is and why it is important. If you are considering outsourcing your cleaning operation, you should only consider contractors who have this certification. If you are a BCS, then you should seriously consider pursuing a CIMS certification.  

In short, what CIMS certifies is that the cleaning organization is committed to industry standard guidelines and protocols that help them serve their customers. The cleaning industry is different because it affects the health and well-being of people which is why certifications should be taken seriously.  

Below we will discuss what a CIMS certification is, how it is obtained, and what it means for your cleaning operation.   

What is a CIMS Certification? 

"CIMS" stands for "Cleaning Industry Management Standard." This is the foundational certification for cleaning operations, internal or outsourced. The certification means that the organization is committed to high-quality standard procedures designed to protect the wellbeing of the facility they are contracted to service.  

CIMS addresses six areas of the best management practices:  

• Quality Systems: This establishes a framework that fosters efficient operations with a focus on continuous improvement. 
• Service Delivery:  Creates guidelines for the establishment of procedures necessary to deliver high-quality cleaning services.
• Human Resources: Promotes the best practices for hiring, employee orientation, training, management training and executive development within your organization. 
• Health, Safety, and Environmental Stewardship: Addresses regulatory requirements and compliance within an organizational environmental policy. 
• Management Commitment: The cleaning organization must demonstrate that it has developed internal management systems that will support planning, communications, risk management, and other factors.  
• Green Building: This section addresses the CIMS Green Building requirements.  It contains specific guidelines for the implementation of green cleaning practices. 

How Does an Organization Earn a CIMS Certification? 

The certification process is relatively straight-forward, but it does require a commitment. First, management must submit written documentation of your organization's compliance with the CIMS standard. This documentation must demonstrate that the organization is 100% compliant with the six required elements listed above. There are also recommended elements of each above category that your organization must prove it is 60% compliant with.  

Once your documentation has been reviewed, a third-party ISSA-accredited assessor will conduct an audit of your systems, processes, and documentation. They will be looking to validate your compliance with the above elements on-site. They may also visit the locations of your contracted operations to ensure that you are also compliant in the field.    

Finally, the assessor will provide feedback to your organization. You will either be awarded the CIMS certification or be provided with feedback on the areas of your operation that require improvements.  

What Does a CIMS Certification Mean for Your Cleaning Operation?  

If you are a CIMS certified cleaning operation, then you can proudly display the logo on your website. That proves to potential clients that you are committed to the best industry standards of cleaning, are compliant will all regulations, and that your cleaning operation has an established green-cleaning program.  

Facilities today are extremely committed to the health and well-being of its inhabitants. The pandemic has introduced many new necessary policies and regulations to the cleaning industry. Companies like Supreme Maintenance Organization have proven their commitment to high-quality service by obtaining a CIMS certification.  Facilities should only consider CIMS-certified BSCs to handle their cleaning operations.  

If you need a customized service solution for your business that is cost-effective, contact Supreme Maintenance Organization today. Read about SMO's CIMS certification here.