C&


M Graffiti Removal/Pressure Washers Speed matters


John Crouch, divisional director at REACT, explains how effective graffiti removal is critical to keeping down costs.


We all know that graffiti is an increasing problem in the UK but it is less widely known that it should be removed within 24 hours of its appear- ance to deter further graffiti attacks. A relatively small image or tag can quickly attract further graffiti until a previously clear wall becomes a graffiti-covered eyesore. So, what’s the problem? Isn’t graffiti a fact of life? Well, even the most lovingly crafted designs or the most earnestly conceived messages sprayed in the wrong place can deter customers from


visiting premises and can make buildings unattractive to potential investors or tenants and decrease their resale value. This 24-hour window is critical to preventing a spread. Graffiti also lowers morale of those living or working in the area, it generates a feeling of neglect in the community and can encourage other forms of antisocial behaviour. Facilities managers know the financial cost of graffiti removal all too well, but not all contractors offer the same level of service. It is vital that


your contractor uses a ‘non- damage’ system which removes graffiti from a wide range of surfaces including limestone, sandstone, brick, plastic, perspex, glass etc


without the use of abrasives etc.


Of course, this only applies to paint or ink-based graffiti. Damage caused by scratching into surfaces needs more


drastic attention. For example, scratches on glass need to be removed by specialist polishing


equipment, wood may have to be sanded and treated and masonry may need to be polished.


But it’s not just shiny new buildings or vacant properties that need cleaning. Heritage buildings and monuments are often built of stone and they need to be cleaned without causing further damage or leaving traces of ghosting or shadows. Make sure your contractor doesn’t use abrasives or high pressured jets to clean old stonework - the effects of which could be worse than the original graffiti attack. Racist or abusive graffiti can cause serious damage to businesses and homes and has a devastating affect on individuals. The best way to deal with racist, abusive or vulgar graffiti is quickly and effectively and your contractor should always prioritise any racist or abusive graffiti and respond as a matter of urgency.


You are not BICSc trained until you are BICSc certified!


Removing graffiti is only part of the problem - after removal it is often best to clean the surrounding surface to remove the ‘shadowing’ as the paint may have been removed but the outline may still exist. The graffiti removal products that REACT uses are far more sophisticated than standard


paint removers which can be extremely bad for the environment. REACT understands that graffiti removal from unprotected surfaces can be problematic, depending on the surface material, surface porosity and the type of graffiti paint used. It is advisable that, in these cases, once cleaned an anti graffiti coating should be used for further protection. Of course, it is always better to prevent graffiti attacks through measures like effective lighting, more security or engaging the support of the community to take care of their


environment. However, this is not always possible and we always advise our clients on the best course for removal and how to prevent further attacks.


Although REACT is a deep cleaning and


decontamination specialist, we offer graffiti removal as one of our specialist services because we understand how important presentation is to our clients. Over the past 18 years, REACT has worked tirelessly to establish its reputation of being an innovative company which works closely with its clients to resolve their problems. To do this, we have developed a range of services, which are cost effective,


environmentally responsible & provide exemplary results. www.react-decon.co.uk


The writing’s on the wall for graffiti


The British Institute of Cleaning Science was


founded in 1961 and its vision is to be the natural choice for education and accreditation within the cleaning industry.


The Institute is the awarding body for its internationally recognised qualifications with work place assessment for many types of cleaning environments.


The schemes recognise excellent cleaning practice and are based on the cleaning operatives being able to demonstrate their understanding and knowledge of best practice in all areas of their work.


Training and assessment is delivered by BICSc accredited training providers and centres.


EDUCATION BENEFITS


• Accreditation and certification to a national standard


• Opportunity to join BICSc as a member at the appropriate grade


• Range of training and education material • Invitations to Regional events • Career advancement •Motivated staff • Lower turnover • Quality standards achieved/contracts retained • Compliance with H&S legislation


For information on achieving a BICSc certification, becoming an Assessor or registering as a training provider call 01604 678710, e-mail info@bics.org.uk or visit the website www.bics.org.uk


16 C&M September 2010


Sprint Spitfire from Diversey is a powerful, ready-to-use heavy duty cleaner that is ideal for removing graffiti and other stains from most alkaline resistant hard surfaces. Its powerful formulation is based on a mix of detergents and solvents that quickly and effi- ciently removes mineral and vegetable oils as well as petrol stains. It is also particularly effi- cient for removing stains such as ink, marker, pencil, lipstick, black heel marks, smoke films, greasy food and other tenacious marks.


For light soiling, Sprint Spitfire is sprayed onto a cloth or sponge and applied to the stained surface. It can be left for a short while and agitated if required before the affected area is simply wiped clean. For tougher stains the product is sprayed directly onto the stained area, scrubbed to speed up the cleaning process and allowed to act before wiping clean.


Sprint Spitfire is supplied ready to use in 750ml spray bottles. It is easy to apply, does not require rinsing, except on stainless steel surfaces, and dries quickly without leaving streaks or traces. The formulation is freshly fragranced to create a pleasant odour which means it is suitable for public areas and enclosed spaces.


Chemical-free alternative


When graffiti is present on sensitive surfaces the Taski WipeOut Sponge offers a chemical free cleaning option. This spot clean- ing pad removes stains from surfaces using water alone. The specially designed white polymeric foam cleaning pad is soft, gentle and flexible which means it can be used on many sur- faces safely without the risk of scouring or scratching. Taski WipeOut Sponge is especially suitable for cleaning surfaces such as plastics and ceramics where strong chemicals, abrasive materials or scouring powders could cause damage. Potential applications include the removal of minor graffiti on buses and trains, clearing accidental permanent marker from whiteboards, and cleaning stubborn spots from ceramic cooker hobs.


No sprays or cleaners are necessary because the pad is simply rinsed under a tap, squeezed to remove excess moisture and then rubbed gently over the mark to remove the stain quickly and easily. Rinsing with clean water regenerates the pad which can be used again and again until the white foam has worn away. It can then be disposed of safely. www.diversey.com


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