We wanted to draw attention to the fact that cleaning does not have to be a physically exhausting activity. We wanted to draw attention to the fact that cleaning ergonomics does not only mean how cleaning is done physically, but also includes mental strain. As most of the people working in the field of cleaning do not have professional training, training is on-site and the trainers are mainly supervisors who do not have the competencies of a trainer. We wanted to create easy-to-use, visual and simple learning materials that could be used by as many people as possible, regardless of their native language or culture. As an added value, in addition to cleaning ergonomics, we also teach the principles of modern cleaning - this way, the cleaner can remove dirt more efficiently with less strain. This was a very useful added value that we could not foresee when starting the project. The materials created during the project have been very well received and we have received a lot of praise for, firstly, that they are very visual (picture guides and educational videos) and, secondly, that they have been translated into different languages (training materials).
Cleaning ergonomics is an important area that directly affects human health. In the case of occupational diseases, the effects are usually noticeable years later, and it may be difficult to establish links between working conditions and the effects, but they do exist. Examining the available research and analyzes about cleaning ergonomics, it became clear that everyone recognizes the lack of awareness, the lack of materials and the importance of the topic. It is important for relevant, up-to-date materials to be available to everyone free of charge. In order to solve the situation, the project idea was developed. While it initially seemed that statistics on occupational diseases in cleaning had definitely been mapped, in reality this was not the case. Together with the project partners, we created new knowledge about cleaning ergonomics and conducted surveys in partner countries to find out what the current situation is in cleaning ergonomics. It was important that we mapped both the physical and mental aspects of ergonomics, which had not been done before. During the project, we created unique educational materials that have received recognition both nationally and internationally.