BSW Service Level Expectations

I’m documenting this message to keep everyone updated on the status of BSW service levels for our buildings, to manage expectations for cleanliness, and to provide a mechanism for continuous and meaningful feedback. Under normal circumstances, the full scope and frequency of cleaning services are detailed here on their departmental site: Building Service Workers (illinois.edu). Below are some common requests for clarification that I receive:

• Office vacuuming and sweeping
  • Only permanently installed carpet gets vacuumed 2x monthly; any loose or personal rugs are the occupant’s responsibility
  • Hard floors are swept 2x monthly; the presence of personal rugs can limit their ability sweep the floor adequately
• Office trash
  • Personal office bins are emptied 1x weekly; please make sure to place food waste in corridor or bathroom receptacles for daily disposal
  • Office recycle bins are NOT emptied; occupants should utilize common area recycle receptacles 
    • Cardboard boxes should be broken down and left near/behind common area recycle receptacles
• General room cleanliness
  • BSWs should be dusting windows, windowsills, radiators, baseboards, and conduits 1x weekly; any other surface is the user/occupant’s responsibility
• Classrooms
  • Whiteboards are cleaned 3x weekly
  • Wiping down tables and chairs—curiously—is not listed among their services; our helpdesk students wipe them down as they are able

That being said, I’m sure many of you have noticed that some of the items above are routinely being missed. I can assure you that our facilities are not alone in this regard. F&S administrators are aware of the issue and have asked for patience and understanding as they navigate options to increase staffing levels and stabilize their consistency. In the meantime, we can be part of the solution by documenting our concerns as they arise and communicating them appropriately so that our BSW colleagues can best align their efforts with our needs. Whenever you notice a lack in service for any of the items described or linked above, please fill out the short online form linked below:

(click or scan QR code to follow link)

There’s an option to upload a picture, which is often a superior means of documentation. An email receipt will be provided with each submission, and I will send a weekly summary directly to the BSW forepersons and superintendents responsible for our buildings. PLEASE do not hesitate to fill out this form at every opportunity—I would be thrilled to pass along a mile long list of documented concerns—as it will only serve to help prioritize our buildings while F&S explores a permanent resolution.

FOR ITEMS REQUIRING IMMEDIATE ATTENTION: such as a spill in the corridor, clogged toilet, etc., send a ticket to support@education.illinois.edu and we can have a team dispatched to address it.

Thank you for your understanding and participation as we navigate this issue together. Let me know if you have any questions,