Exterior cleaning

Cleaning is carried out at each nook and cranny of the Akshaya Patra Foundation buildings-windows, panels, switch boards, light bulbs, ventilators, exhaust fans, insecticutors, glass racks, ceilings, public bathrooms, tiles, etc. Public areas like reception, corridors, staff canteen and public toilets are kept clean and well arranged on day-to-day basis. The housekeeping supervisors verify the maintenance of the public areas and ensure that they are clean and as per the standard.

An integrated pest management (IPM) program is in place in TAPF. All the deliveries are checked before they enter the store. The shipments that have signs of pest infestation are rejected. All the exterior openings are closed tightly. The doors are checked for proper fit as part of the regular cleaning schedule. Strategic enty strip curtains are used to prevent the entry of pests. Any openings, cracks, broken seals, or other opportunities for pest infestation are reported to the Kitchen Supervisor. The garbage is disposed off quickly and correctly. Spills around garbage containers are cleaned immediately. The containers are washed, rinsed, and sanitized regularly. The recyclables are stored in clean, pest-proof containers away from the building. All the raw material and supplies are stored as quickly as possible and kept at least six inches off the floor and six inches away from walls. FIFO (First In, First Out) inventory rotation is used. Wet towels and mop heads should be taken to the cleaning area at the end of each shift to minimize the risk of infestation by pests.

The facility is cleaned and sanitized thoroughly and regularly. Careful cleaning eliminates the food supply for pests, destroys insect eggs, and reduces the number of places pests can take shelter. IPCA certified pest control agency is chosen to work with. The pest control operator (PCO) are trained to determine the best pesticide for each pest, and how and where to apply it. The PCO should store and dispose off all pesticides used in the facility. Review infestation and control issues are with PCO.

“Contamination is out of question in Akshaya Patra and there is no compromise on quality and hygiene. Here, we don’t merely want to provide a meal; we want to provide health, hope and above all, happiness to the millions of children who are in need of it. And we are committed to doing it in a safe and sustainable manner, which will survive the challenges of the future.”