Chris Knowlton, Co-founder and Owner, Scott Wiele, Co-founderFrom managing hazardous airborne dust that can pose serious health risks to reducing operational downtime that costs companies millions, AlwaysKleen’s specialized services represent a forward-thinking approach that sets a new standard for the industry.
Committed to Cleaner Air and Safer Spaces
Take the company’s dust management process. Traditional dust blow-down techniques, which have been standard practice for decades, can leave harmful particles suspended in the air, posing significant health risks to workers. AlwaysKleen has turned this outdated practice on its head. It eliminates airborne dust during cleaning and purifies the air for days afterward, ensuring a safer environment.
The company’s commitment to safety extends into its degreasing methods. AlwaysKleen employs a variety of chemical solutions specifically tailored to the type of grease being addressed. For example, USDA-approved food-grade degreasers are used in food processing environments, while specialized solutions are crafted for the unique demands of agricultural and welding operations. In industries like pharmaceuticals and food, where the introduction of new chemicals is restricted, AlwaysKleen offers a chemical-free alternative.
Turning to efficiency, AlwaysKleen’s services accommodate all-hours facilities. It prioritizes maintaining cleanliness while ensuring no disruption to ongoing production activities. With flexible scheduling that includes night shifts, weekends and holidays, AlwaysKleen minimizes operational interruptions, demonstrating a profound understanding of the needs of modern production facilities.
Before initiating services, AlwaysKleen invests considerable effort in understanding the specific workings of each facility. Comprehensive planning allows for strategic deployment of teams based on activity levels and operational schedules, ensuring that cleaning efforts are efficient and effective during periods of low activity or machine downtime.
“We aim to offer multiple solutions that are tailored to each facility’s unique needs. Most contractors tend to provide just one quote without much detail or additional options. We take the extra time and effort to break things down and present various approaches. It is something we are really proud of,” says Erin Knowlton, Owner.
Another major industry challenge is accessing hard-to-reach areas within facilities congested with equipment and piping.
In parallel, educating clients on methods to minimize airborne dust and enhance overall facility conditions also plays a pivotal role in delivering those durable solutions. The proactive stance enhances environmental cleanliness, air quality and staff well-being, and helps reduce future maintenance expenses.
We’ve heard from many clients about their challenges with their previous contractors. We’re focused on refining our approach to better meet their needs and exceed their expectations
“We share our expertise to help clients avoid the hassle of constant cleanings. Instead of needing to clean their facility every six months, they might find they only need to do it once every couple of years,” says Chris Knowlton.
Expert-Driven Service Process: A Blend of Experience and Precision
AlwaysKleen’s approach to service delivery is a collaborative effort, leveraging a vast pool of knowledge, skill and experience. Wiele takes the lead by walking through the facility and carefully evaluating all the client’s needs, requirements and goals. His role involves assessing the facility’s condition and determining the extent of the work needed to achieve the desired results.
He emphasizes, “One of the most valuable lessons I have learned in my career in industrial cleaning and painting is that respect begins with the workers, who are the company’s most important assets. Treat them well, and customers get amazing results.”
With his extensive background in construction, commercial, residential, and industrial facilities, Chris Knowlton steps in when additional assessment is needed. His experience allows him to determine the best methods to tackle challenges, ensuring the most effective approach is chosen for each situation.
The in-house assessment, conducted by multiple experts, ensures that all aspects of the project are thoroughly evaluated before work begins. Crew leads, who are highly skilled in their own right, also contribute additional suggestions, refining the approach even further. Just as a quarterback directs play on the field, the crew lead oversees project execution, assigning tasks based on individual strengths.
The crew lead also ensures that the team works efficiently, adheres to safety guidelines, and provides additional support when needed. In more complex or challenging situations, two to three sets of expert eyes review the project before execution.
Building Trust through Results
“We always tell our clients we won’t leave until they’re completely satisfied. Our goal is to build long-term business relationships and foster repeat customers, and this approach has proven to be very successful for us,” says the founding team.
AlwaysKleen suggested a two-step approach, beginning with a thorough cleaning and then applying a specialty coating designed to withstand high temperatures and resist discoloration from exhaust. This strategy, along with repairing the visible damage, also tackled the underlying issues of heat and smoke exposure. Further enhancing the project, AlwaysKleen facilitated a partnership with another firm to upgrade the client’s ventilation system, significantly improving air quality and mitigating future risks.
“Sometimes companies seek more budget-friendly options. We can certainly provide those, but we always make sure to present the pros and cons of each choice,” says Chris Knowlton. “This way, our clients can make the most informed decision based on their specific needs.”
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One of the most valuable lessons i have learned in my career in industrial cleaning and painting is that respect begins with the workers, who are the company’s most important assets. Treat them well, and customers get amazing results
In another major project, the company provided specialty coatings for a client operating in extremely low temperatures. It identified durable coatings that would last up to 100 years, addressing the shortcomings of traditional paints that failed to cure appropriately in such cold conditions.
The Next Big Leap in Safety Protocols
As the company looks ahead, ambitious plans are set to enhance its service capabilities. The focus will shift towards leveraging advanced technology to increase safety in hazardous conditions. New machinery will be introduced to manage some of the most dangerous tasks, reducing the need for personnel to work in hazardous environments. This strategic move is aimed at improving safety and operational efficiency, minimizing risk while maximizing productivity.
In addition to these technological advancements, the company is preparing to add a new division to address removing hazardous materials, including asbestos and lead. The expansion will improve the company’s ability to handle complex and dangerous scenarios, equipping the team with the tools and expertise to effectively manage these high-stakes tasks.
AlwaysKleen aspires to expand its role as a leading authority in facility safety. This includes offering comprehensive safety solutions such as installing safety walkways, floor markings, and other safety enhancements. AlwaysKleen is determined to become the premier partner for facilities looking to enhance their spaces, driving forward a culture of safety and operational excellence.
