Dawson College
OP-13: Cleaning and Janitorial Purchasing

Update 2024: Dawson cleaning contract specifications have been reviewed and strengthened based on our sustainability policy. The specifications mention that eco-soaps and cleaning products are to be used at all times for cleaning and in washroom dispensers and hallway dispensers. 100% of the toilet paper used within the college is FSC (reference 2023). Photos of all labels are taken by Office of Sustainability staff  at randon times in cleaning storage areas to ensure proper use of cleaning products. As a private contractor, the cleaning service company does not have to disclose costs, however has cooperated. Costs are based on average past year expenditures (not covid-influenced years) with 3% added for inflation in 2024 (data collection not completed for 2024 but is very similar in material quantity purchased). Bulk material is ordered by cleaning contractor to reduce costs.

The percentage of cleaning products purchased vs toilet paper was based on the global amount listed for both products during the tendering process ($68,000) in the past with more recent tenders being used in a similar way. We can not investigate whether the contractor uses less or more cleaning products that influence price, as a global amount is what is paid regardless. This process is used to streamline a multi-million dollar process. Conversations with the contractor management is slso used to help understand currant situations with material use.