PFAS and Floorcare Solutions: Staying Ahead in an Evolving Industry

Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances, commonly known as PFAS, are becoming a pressing topic in industries that impact public health and safety, and the floorcare industry is no exception.

These "forever chemicals" are under heightened scrutiny for their persistence in the environment and potential health risks. Yet, addressing PFAS in products like floor finishes is a complex challenge that many manufacturers are still grappling with.  

Mike Betz, National Account Director at Betco Corporation, a company leading the charge in addressing PFAS concerns and valued partner to OpenWorks, breaks down how forward-thinking businesses are tackling this issue and why it matters to facility managers, cleaning companies, and well, people.  

The Broader Industry Landscape  

When asked about the key brands in floorcare, he said there are probably about  five or six major companies leading the market.

Interestingly, not all these companies are addressing PFAS concerns yet, despite rising regulations and market demands. According to Mike, some of the smaller players haven’t approached the issue at all, and even some larger manufacturers are limited to offering just one or two compliant products.

Betco, however, has adopted a proactive approach.  

"We’re going to be ahead of the game," Mike stated. "This is undoubtedly a major issue, and we see it expanding beyond just a few states. That’s why we’re moving forward with a full line of PFAS-compliant products."  

Why PFAS-Free Matters  

PFAS, often referred to as "forever chemicals," are widely used across various industries for their non-stick and water-repellent properties.

However, their environmental and health effects are raising concerns globally. These substances don’t easily break down in nature and can accumulate in the environment and human body over time.  

For facility managers concerned with safety, opting for PFAS-free product lines is essential to staying compliant with emerging legislation.

Beyond compliance, it introduces peace of mind for everyone—from janitorial staff handling these products to end-users interacting with the treated surfaces.  

Betco’s Bold Initiative  

Betco is taking an innovative lead by transitioning its entire floorcare product line to PFAS-free formulations. Mike highlighted this decision as a turning point for not just their brand, but for the sector as a whole.  

^{"Our top-selling product, ‘Hard as Nails’ floor finish, looks better than ever—even after reformulating it to remove PFAS," Mike explained. "We were initially concerned about performance and gloss, but the results have far exceeded everyone’s expectations. It’s a story we’re proud to share with our customers."}  

Marketing and Education are Key  

Apart from revamping its products, Betco is focused on raising awareness and educating customers on the importance of PFAS-free options.  

^{"We’re placing new stickers on products, creating marketing materials, and making sure people know exactly what they're getting. Customers are curious, and they want to learn more about how our products are different. It’s been a great conversation starter!" Mike shares.}  

This approach underscores the crucial role businesses play in advocacy. By educating customers on the “why” and the “how” of transitioning to PFAS-free products, Betco is helping professionals make informed decisions.  

What This Means for You  

Whether you’re managing a facility, running a professional cleaning company, or advocating for environmentally friendly practices, the rise of PFAS-free solutions is something you cannot overlook.  

1. Facility Managers can reduce liability risks by demanding PFAS-free products that comply with regulations and prioritize safety.  
2. Cleaning Companies can differentiate their services by adopting products that are both effective and environmentally conscious, creating a competitive edge.  
3. Environmental Advocates can use companies like Betco as examples of how industries can evolve to address sustainability challenges proactively.  

Looking Ahead  

The move towards PFAS-free floorcare solutions illustrates how businesses can stay ahead of regulatory and consumer demands while prioritizing performance and sustainability.  

As Mike put it, "We’re trying our best, and so far, everything’s coming out great. Customers are interested, and they care about the story behind the product. It’s a powerful conversation we’re excited to lead."  

If you're a facility manager or cleaning company seeking to align your practices with emerging regulatory standards while achieving excellent results, now is the time to switch to PFAS-free products.

Keep an eye on companies like Betco, who are driving the industry forward and demonstrating the best practices for an environmentally responsible future.  Interested in partnering with a commercial cleaning company who prioritizes safety? Reach out to OpenWorks, a CIMS-Green Building Certified company for more info!