The BSW Program is Improving the Commercial Cleaning Industry

The commercial cleaning industry is transforming, thanks to the Building Service Worker (BSW) Program.

This initiative, a partnership between ACCESS (Aboriginal Community Career Employment Services Society) and the British Columbia Contract Cleaners Association (BCCCA), is revolutionizing the training and development of workers in the janitorial sector. 

Funded through the Canada-British Columbia Labour Market Agreement, the program is designed to empower individuals, improve workforce readiness, and address critical labour shortages in the cleaning industry.

A Partnership for Success

The BSW Program aims to equip participants with the skills, knowledge, and certifications needed to thrive in the cleaning industry.

Work Experience Placements are a cornerstone of the program.

These placements, hosted by cleaning companies, provide participants with real-world experience while giving businesses access to enthusiastic, pre-trained individuals eager to learn. 

Hosts benefit from the following:

• No Financial Commitment: Participants receive financial support during training and are covered by WorkSafe BC insurance.
• Volunteer Support: Trainees bring enthusiasm, commitment, and industry-relevant skills, making them work-ready upon program completion.
• Community Impact: By hosting trainees, businesses help individuals transition into the labour market, fostering a positive impact on both the workforce and the community.

The program is a way to create a sustainable labour pool, directly addressing the industry’s persistent challenges in attracting and retaining workers.

Addressing Industry Challenges

Labour shortages have long plagued the janitorial industry, and recent trends have exacerbated the issue.

A wage survey conducted by the BCCCA revealed that janitorial workers are among the lowest-paid in service industries, earning less than security guards.

This wage disparity has led to workers leaving for better-paying roles in other sectors, further straining the labour market.

The BSW Program is helping to address this by raising awareness of the value of well-trained, fairly compensated workers.

Data shows that when workers are paid a livable wage, they are more likely to stay in their roles, produce higher-quality work, and require less supervision.

Comprehensive Training for Lasting Impact

The BSW Program’s curriculum is designed to ensure participants are thoroughly prepared for the demands of the cleaning industry.

Over 20 days, participants receive training in essential areas such as:

• Chemical Use and Application
• WHMIS (Workplace Hazardous Material Information System)
• Basic First Aid
• Infection Control
• Equipment Use and Operation
• Floor Care and Carpet Cleaning
• Window Cleaning, Wall Washing, and Washroom Sanitization
• Workplace Practicum

This comprehensive approach combines industry expertise with cutting-edge training materials and experienced instructors.

The program is led by an instructor with over 20 years of experience in the cleaning and maintenance industry.

With credentials that include a British Columbia Instructor Diploma and leadership roles in various organizations, the instructor ensures that participants receive top-tier education and practical insights.

Building a Better Future

The BSW Program is more than a training initiative; it’s a step toward professionalizing and stabilizing the commercial cleaning industry.

By empowering workers, improving job retention, and promoting workplace safety, the program is helping to elevate the industry as a whole.

For businesses, the program offers a pipeline of motivated, skilled workers who are ready to contribute from day one.

For participants, it represents a chance to build a brighter future through meaningful employment.

As Brenda Crump, Job Coach and Program Coordinator, exemplifies with her energy, creativity, and determination, the Building Service Worker Program is making a real difference.

With ongoing support from BCCCA members, cleaning companies, and community stakeholders, the program is paving the way for a stronger, more sustainable commercial cleaning industry.

Here’s to raising our mops in celebration of this transformative program!

Working with Experienced Janitors

Metropolitan Building Maintenance has been offering commercial cleaning services in the lower mainland for over 40 years, with an average customer retention of 14 years. We’re Canadian-owned and operated, and if you’re interested in our services, contact us today for a free quote!