ECJ EUROPEAN Cleaning Journal

The Metro system in New Delhi, India, is to benefit from new investment in the cleaning operation - with the introduction of state-of-the-art machines and formal training of cleaning staff.

The management aims to ensure cleanliness meets international standards so supervisors and teams will receive British Institute of Cleaning Science (BICS) training at Gurgaon.

BICS accredited training is an internationally recognised standard offered by BICS International, which operates in countries throughout the world.

"In order to maintain world class cleanliness standards at Metro stations and surroundings, we have decided to re-work its cleaning and housekeeping practices by using advanced machines, and we are also conducting a specialised training programme for our staff," the statement from Delhi Metro said.

Scrubber dryers, backpack vacuum cleaners, disposal of waste in biodegradable rubbish bags and the use of environmentally conscious cleaning chemicals are all part of the new cleaning regime.

The Delhi Metro currently deploys around 3,500 housekeeping staff at its 137 stations, working three shifts of eight hours each.