Innovation, automation, efficiency savings and robotics – the facts …
July 2023
There can be no doubt, that as Technology advances, we are already and will continue to see, more and more tasks, that were previously performed by human beings, taken over by machines. Automation is an unavoidable and ever-visible part of our daily lives and cannot be ignored. Cleaning is no exception. As the adoption of smarter technologies is further refined, it begs the question: Will machines eventually replace human cleaners? We believe, not entirely, and not anytime soon. For example, robots may struggle to clean small or tight spaces, such as bathrooms, or handle delicate or complex surfaces, such as carpets or upholstery.
Efficiency
AI-powered cleaning machines can work non-stop, day and night, without the need for breaks, rest or even sleep. This means that they can clean a space much faster and more efficiently than a human cleaner. For instance, they can be programmed to perform cleaning tasks during quieter traffic periods and large space straight-line carpet cleaning in a fraction of the time it would take a human.
Consistency
Limited
Adaptability
Robots are programmed to perform specific cleaning tasks, and they may not be able to adapt to unexpected situations or deal with unique cleaning challenges. Human cleaners, on the other hand, can use their judgment and problem-solving skills to address unexpected issues.
Flexibility
Robots do not have bad days or get tired. They perform cleaning tasks the same way every time, ensuring consistent results. This means that you can expect the same level of cleanliness every time you use a robot cleaner. They do however require maintenance.
Dependence on Technology
Machines can break down, malfunction, or become obsolete. Relying solely on AI and robots for cleaning tasks can leave us vulnerable to unexpected downtime, leading to delays in cleaning service delivery.
Human cleaners can be more flexible than robots when it comes to scheduling and adapting to changes in cleaning requirements. They can also provide additional specific services, such as deep cleaning, that robots may not be able to perform.
Whilst we embrace technology and change and continue to trial robotics and co-botics across our business, we have concluded definitively, that at the present time, contrary to promises made by many cleaning contractors, there are limitations to using robotics. Any suggestion that robots can replace human beings in many environments, notably hotel bedrooms, is simply setting expectations too high. Carpet corners and awkwardly shaped rooms will ALWAYS require an element of human intervention. Adding to a cleaners’ workload to pay for this innovation is morally wrong and not sustainable.
Technology is advancing before our eyes and the market for robotics and co-botics is becoming increasingly crowded and ever more competitive as companies seek to steal market share. Watch this space