Commercial and industrial cleaning both focus on maintaining a professional-looking facility that is safe for visitors and staff members.
However, industrial cleaning requires a more complex approach, rigorous safety protocols, and compliance with industry-specific guidelines.
We often see these two cleaning services confused, so our guide will make it easy to understand the differences. By understanding industrial vs commercial cleaning, you can make the right choice for your facility.
Key Summary: Industrial Cleaning vs. Commercial Cleaning At a Glance
| Commercial Cleaning | Industrial Cleaning | |
| Description | Straightforward cleaning and sanitising of public-facing facilities | Complex, specialised cleaning of large-scale facilities |
| Goals | Present a visually appealing space to staff and customers; keep high-traffic areas clean and hygienic | Prevent cross-contamination; uphold maximum safety for staff; eliminate oils, dirt, and contaminants; prevent accidents or sickness in the workplace; keep machines and production lines running smoothly by keeping the facility sanitary and clean; maintain regulatory compliance |
| Common Tasks | Standard cleaning tasks such as mopping, dusting, vacuuming, and washing windows | Cleaning heavy machinery and production lines, degreasing surfaces, sanitising high-touch areas, pest control, waste management, disposal of hazardous materials, mould removal, |
| Types of Facilities Cleaned | Offices, retail stores, schools, strata buildings, hotels | Manufacturing plants, factories, warehouses, distribution plants, power plants, refineries |
| Specialty Techniques and Considerations | Knowledge of proper sanitation techniques and green cleaning practices | Possible exposure to combustible materials, heavy machinery, hazardous substances, and confined spaces in high-risk environments |
| Equipment | Commercial-grade vacuums, mild detergents, hand wipes, microfibre towels, dusters, mops, hard-surface polishes, eco-friendly cleaning solutions | Industrial-strength degreasers and solvents, heavy-duty equipment, such as pressure-washing machines |
| Safety | Adherence to standard safety protocols | Requires regulatory compliance, strict safety protocols, and may require specialised training for working at heights or in confined spaces; PPE or protective gear may be required; must adhere to OSHA and Safe Work Australia if handling hazardous materials during cleaning |
| Cost | Generally less expensive than industrial cleaning | Typically costs more due to specialised equipment and training required |
Industrial Cleaning vs. Commercial Cleaning
What Is Industrial Cleaning?
Industrial cleaning refers to the cleaning of large-scale facilities while following rigorous safety protocols, specialised techniques, and operating heavy-duty equipment.
Often conducted in high-risk environments, industrial cleaning requires advanced training and adherence to strict safety practices. This is especially true around heavy machinery, production lines, confined spaces, and hazardous materials.
Industrial cleaning is vital for maintaining a facility that operates safely, efficiently, and in compliance with industry regulations.
Industrial cleaning requires:
- Specially trained professionals, often with additional certifications in specialty areas, such as working at heights
- The use of heavy equipment and powerful tools, including steam cleaners and pressure washers
- Knowledge of degreasing, sanitising techniques, and stain removal
- Technical cleaning and services such as hazardous waste disposal, large-scale floor scrubbing, and cleaning production lines
- Thorough understanding of the unique challenges presented by industrial environments, such as heavy machinery and contaminants
- Adherence to strict regulations and safety protocols in accordance with OSHA guidelines and Safe Work Australia
Due to the heightened risks, industrial cleaning often requires special certifications and in-depth safety training. For instance, industrial cleaning may require training in the handling of hazardous substances or working at heights.
Examples of facilities that require industrial cleaning services include:
- Manufacturing plants, such as facilities that produce automobiles, steel, food, textiles, etc.
- Factories
- Warehouses
- Distribution plants
- Power plants
- Refineries
- Chemical processing facilities
- Pharmaceutical manufacturing facilities
Take a more in-depth look at what’s involved in industrial cleaning in our guide here: A Complete Guide to Industrial Cleaning for Businesses.
What Is Commercial Cleaning?
Commercial cleaning focuses on general cleaning methods for small to mid-sized public spaces. The goal is to present a professional facility to staff members and visitors.
Commercial cleaning also focuses on sanitising high-traffic areas and high-touch surfaces to present a safe, hygienic environment.
Commercial cleaning involves general methods, such as mopping, vacuuming, dusting, and disinfecting. It often uses a mix of daily to weekly office cleaning, along with occasional deep cleaning.
Common spaces that require commercial cleaning services include:
- Offices and corporate settings
- Retail shops
- Strata buildings
- Schools
- Gyms
- Restaurants
- Public spaces
Should I Choose Industrial Cleaning or Commercial Cleaning?
We recommend commercial cleaning for:
- Upholding day-to-day hygiene and a professional image
- Offices or corporate spaces
- Retail shops, restaurants, and hospitality venues
- Standard cleaning practices and safety measures
- Strata complex cleaning
- Small to mid-scale public spaces
We recommend industrial cleaning for:
- Large-scale facilities
- Warehouses, manufacturing plants, and factories
- Spaces with heavy machinery, hazardous materials, or complex production processes
- Facilities with high levels of debris or dust
- Food processing facilities
- High-risk environments with complex cleaning needs
- Facilities that require maximum operational efficiency
Learn about the benefits of investing in professional industrial cleaning services here: 9 Benefits of Professional Industrial Cleaners.
Perth Industrial Cleaning Services for a Safe, Efficient Facility
Industrial cleaning services are vital to ensuring a compliant, efficient, safe facility.
At Broadway Commercial Cleaning Services, we understand the systematic, thorough approach needed for safe, effective industrial cleaning.
We are CM3 – OHS/WHS accredited, ensuring the highest levels of workplace safety and compliance. We also prioritise sustainability and environmental responsibility with our commitment to green cleaning practices.
Our professional industrial cleaning services ensure your manufacturing, warehouse, or food processing facility meets the highest standards.
Contact us to learn more about our Industrial cleaning services in Perth or to get your free quote.
