Archives and Virginia Square Metro Stations, Washington, DC and Virginia:

Our team is dedicated to maintaining spotless, safe, and welcoming transit facilities within one of the nation’s busiest metro systems. We uphold the highest standards of quality through experienced supervision, highly trained staff, and the use of environmentally friendly cleaning solutions that meet stringent regulatory requirements—protecting the Chesapeake Bay watershed and surrounding environment.

With high passenger volumes and continuous foot traffic, our cleaning operations must be both efficient and effective. Working within strict time constraints and limited access, we ensure that every station remains in pristine condition despite the challenges of an open transit system. Our proactive approach minimizes service disruptions, enhances safety, and maintains the highest standards across stations, platforms, and service areas.

We take immense pride in our work, recognizing that cleanliness is not just about appearances—it is essential to safety, public health, and the overall rider experience. Through unwavering dedication, our team ensures that every space is polished to perfection, reflecting our commitment to excellence.

What specific measures do you or your team implement to ensure this space meets the highest standards of cleanliness and embodies the value of clean?

Our team upholds the highest standards of cleanliness through a strategic, multi-faceted approach that keeps transit facilities spotless, safe, and welcoming—despite the challenges of a high-traffic, open-access public system.

1. Quality Assurance & Expert Supervision:
   Supervisors conduct routine inspections and quality control checks to ensure every space meets our strict cleanliness standards. Our highly trained professionals follow industry best practices to deliver consistent, top-tier results.
2. Efficient Cleaning Within Limited Time Windows:
   Public transit facilities provide limited access for deep cleaning, requiring our team to maximize efficiency during short cleaning windows. We use specialized equipment like industrial vacuums, high-powered scrubbers, and pressure washers to thoroughly clean surfaces while minimizing service disruptions.
3. Proactive Cleaning & Rapid Response Teams:
   Given the constant influx of passengers, spills, debris, and high-touch contamination points require immediate attention. Our team remains on standby for real-time mess management, swiftly addressing issues like spilled drinks, trash buildup, and unexpected hazards to keep facilities pristine.
4. Eco-Friendly, Mild Cleaning Solutions:
   Operating near the bay and other environmentally sensitive areas, we strictly limit the use of harsh chemicals. Instead, we employ green-certified, mild cleaning agents that effectively clean while ensuring compliance with environmental safety regulations.
5. Prioritizing High-Traffic & High-Safety Areas:
   Our team prioritizes high-traffic and high-touch areas with frequent cleaning cycles to ensure passenger safety and hygiene. Signage and wayfinding displays are kept clear and smudge-free for easy navigation, while benches, trash bins, and waiting areas are regularly wiped down to maintain a clean, inviting environment.
6. Managing Challenges in an Open, Public Space:
   With unrestricted public access, our team must navigate interactions with the homeless population and unsavory individuals, all while maintaining a safe, clean, and secure environment for riders.

Through strategic planning, cutting-edge equipment, and an unwavering commitment to excellence, our team ensures that every corner of the transit system remains spotless, embodying the value of clean as a critical component of public safety, health, and system success.

How does cleaning this space contribute to the health and safety of those who use it?

A clean transit system is a safe transit system. Our work plays a critical role in reducing the spread of germs, preventing slips and falls, and maintaining essential safety features for all riders.

• Germ Control & Public Health: Thousands of daily customers bring potential contaminants into the system. By sanitizing high-touch surfaces like escalator handrails, fare collection machines, and benches, we help keep customers healthy.
• Slip & Fall Prevention: Keeping floors dry and debris-free is essential to preventing injuries, especially in high-traffic zones like stairways, entrances, and platforms.
• ADA Compliance & Visibility: The white granite edge of the platform must remain clean and bright for visibility and contrast, reducing fall hazards and ensuring compliance with accessibility regulations.
• Wayfinding & Customer Experience: Clear, legible signage is essential for helping riders navigate the system safely and efficiently. Our team ensures that signage remains clean and bright, improving the customer experience.

Ultimately, our cleaning efforts contribute directly to the safety, accessibility, and well-being of every rider, reinforcing our commitment to public health and transit safety.

What does having a spotless space mean to you and your team?

Cleanliness plays a pivotal role in rider satisfaction, safety, and the overall success of the transit system. A well-maintained station fosters trust and pride among customers, encouraging increased ridership and enhancing the transit system’s reputation.

• First Impressions Matter: Our team ensures stations are always welcoming and polished, showcasing the Nation’s Capital in its best light.
• Enhanced Rider Experience: A clean, well-kept environment boosts comfort and accessibility, making public transit a more attractive option for both residents and visitors.
• Increased Ridership = System Success: A cleaner system attracts more riders, promoting greater use and the long-term sustainability of public transit.
• Commitment to Customer Service: Our staff takes immense pride in their role, not only delivering spotless spaces but also providing a sense of security, reliability, and community to everyone who passes through.

By maintaining gleaming spaces, clear signage, and safe platforms, our cleaning team directly contributes to the success of public transit operations, ensuring every rider’s experience is positive, safe, and seamless.