News & Events

Notre Dame’s Building Services department has been awarded the Cleaning Industry Management Standard (CIMS) Certification With Honors, the preeminent accreditation in the custodial services industry. Attainment of the CIMS Certification signifies a commitment to improving service delivery, responsiveness to customer expectations, and operational efficiency.

Maintaining a safe and healthy building environment for students, staff, faculty and visitors was the impetus for Building Services’ engagement in the CIMS certification offered by ISSA, the worldwide cleaning industry association. Pursuit of this endorsement means fulfilling criteria proven to enhance an organization’s ability to provide quality and consistent janitorial services. Preparations for the certification, including a two-day external audit, extended 18 months and required the participation of all levels of the department’s 250+ employees. “This certification provides Building Services employees with a standardized definition of ‘clean’ as it relates to the higher education environment,” says Sarah Misener, associate vice president of Campus Services, “Their consistent application of the CIMS certification principles allow Campus Services to live up to its mission of delivering on the promise of clean interior spaces at Notre Dame.” The certification audit was comprised of an evaluation of five major areas: quality systems, service delivery, human resource, health, safety and environmental stewardship, and management commitment.

Realization of the certification criteria not only recognizes the high levels of cleanliness to which Building Services ascribes, but also speaks of an organizational commitment to industry best-practices, professional development, resource stewardship, customer-oriented communications, and continuous improvement of services. “We are excited for our campus customers to benefit from the forthcoming operational improvements stemming from engagement in the CIMS program.” says Chris Hatfield, director for Building Services. Adds Jeff Edgerly, assistant director of Building Services, “The criteria set in place by ISSA reaffirmed our core strategy and now serves as a roadmap guiding the execution of janitorial services in line with our mission and goals.” The CIMS certification is valid for two years. Upon renewal, Building Services hopes to recertify under the CIMS Certification for green buildings and services. This will incorporate a sustainability promise concerning resource procurement, conservation and management.

Can Building Services be of assistance to you? Email the department at buildser@nd.edu.