Spring Cleaning in Manufacturing Plants

Elizabeth Ruiz, Editor, Maintenance World

Posted 3/5/2025

Introduction

It’s finally getting warmer! That means it’s time to start thinking about spring cleaning in manufacturing plants. No matter the type of organization, regularly maintaining the cleanliness of equipment is essential to operational excellence and safety. Let’s see what the experts have to say about well-cleaned equipment and why it is important in your reliability and maintenance program.

The Importance of Cleaning in Manufacturing Plants

According to Winston Industrial Maintenance (WIM),

A clean and organized workplace is vital for any industrial setting. It not only improves the overall aesthetics but also has a direct impact on employee productivity and safety. By following this comprehensive checklist, you can ensure that every nook and cranny of your facility is thoroughly cleaned, reducing downtime and enhancing operational efficiency. (1)

Dust, dirt, and debris can accumulate in work areas and equipment which leads to a decline in efficiency. It promotes productivity; clutter-free = distraction-free. Clean workplaces also provide a safe environment due to the reduction of risk of accidents and injuries. Additionally, cleanliness helps to extend equipment lifespan and cut down on expensive repairs and downtime. Keeping your plant, mill, or mine clean will save money in the long run. (1)

Benefits of Cleaning in Manufacturing Plants

Employees are happier, more professional, and take more pride when working in a clean facility.
Efficiency is improved when employees spend less time searching for tools, equipment, or documents. When everything is in the right place, your team can get to it at the right time.
Dust, allergens, and bacteria can be harmful to health. Reducing them improves the health of your team.
Visiting clients and potential business partners are more impressed and happier with clean environments. (1)

Safety Tips

Assess potential electrical or mechanical hazards and take necessary precaution
Follow proper lockout/tagout procedures to prevent equipment accidentally starting up and injuring a team member
Provide proper PPE and training
Establish clear and open communication among team members involved in cleaning (1)

Quick Tips for Manufacturing Plant Spring Cleaning

WIM and EHS Insight suggest the following quick tips for keeping equipment clean all year:

Always report and clean up spills
Create and keep up with cleaning and maintenance schedules
Reduce movement of people, equipment, and vehicles around the plant as much as possible
Maintain the HVAC system to reduce dust
Provide the correct cleaning supplies and tools needed (2)
Sweep and mop, scrub and sanitize, and polish and seal surfaces
Check for damage, clean and lubricate, and calibrate and test your equipment
Identify, separate and label, and dispose of hazardous materials properly
Promote a cleanliness culture
Inspect regularly for equipment and facility cleanliness (1)

Manufacturing Plant Schedule – A Complete Guide

This infographic from Kingfisher Industrial Services breaks down the tasks and frequency of performing them to maintain a properly cleaned manufacturing plant. (3) Click the link to view it!

guide to cleaning in manufacturing plants

Conclusion

Spring cleaning in manufacturing plants isn’t just about aesthetics—it’s a crucial part of a strong reliability and maintenance program. A clean facility enhances safety, boosts efficiency, and extends equipment life, ultimately reducing costly downtime. By making cleanliness a priority year-round, organizations can create a safer, more productive work environment while protecting their bottom line.

Sources – Cleaning in Manufacturing Plants

(1) The Ultimate Industrial Spring Cleaning Checklist: Boost Productivity and Efficiency! Winston, Robert. Winston Industrial Maintenance blog post. April 2, 2024

(2) How to Create a Clean Manufacturing Environment. Tims, Catherine. EHS Insight blog post. November 6, 2023.

(3) How to Plan a Foolproof Factory Cleaning Schedule: A Complete Guide [Infographic]. Leeder, Leonie. Kingfisher Industrial Services blog post. September 12, 2023.

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Spring Cleaning in Manufacturing Plants