LHLS

		London Hospital Linen Service is the proud recipient of the Environmental Leadership Award presented at the London Chamber of Commerce Business Achievement Awards (BAA) on March 25, 2009! Read Press Release. To learn more about LHLS, please join us for a plant tour.
		One element of a greater circle As a central laundry service, we are an essential part of the healthcare cycle. Used linens come to our plant, where they are washed, dried, ironed, folded, and then sent back to our customers to help provide comfort and care. While this is the core of our business, London Hospital Linen Service (LHLS) is also part of a greater circle. As a behind-the-scenes partner with our customers: hospitals, long-term care communities and clinics throughout southwestern Ontario, we work in a culture of mutual co-operation and information sharing. Recognizing that any disruption to the linen cycle can have serious consequences for our customers and their patients, we are constantly looking for better ways to provide clean, comfortable and quality linen quickly, cost effectively and efficiently. At London Hospital Linen Service, we are also very respectful of all aspects of the cycle of life. The world is changing, and we must consider our interdependence with one another and with the environment. These changes have inspired us to reevaluate our business in terms of environmental impact, use of natural and human resources, and overall corporate citizenship. We are committed to building sustainable thinking into all aspects of our business, because we know that our actions today mean a better world tomorrow—for our grandchildren and for generations to come. EcoCare. Care for our partners, employees and the world The environment is quite simply in the nature of our business. While environmental and social stewardship have long been hallmarks at London Hospital Linen Service, 2005 was the year in which we formally branded our sustainability commitment. We call it EcoCare, and it is our promise to go beyond assisting our customers with a valuable community service. EcoCare means that in everything we do, we strive to respect the environment, our partners and communities while making our workplace safer and healthier for our employees. A caring approach throughout our business and our community EcoCare calls for us to incorporate that caring approach in all aspects of our business, and to be the best corporate citizens we can be. EcoCare is also good for our business, helping us to be more efficient, reduce waste, save energy and lower our operating costs. Here are some examples of our sustainability initiatives: Energy Conservation Program In 2005, a number of heat exchangers were added to capture waste heat from waste water and dryer exhaust for reuse elsewhere. A new, more efficient boiler was installed as well as a new ironer that uses much less steam. Dryers are now 20-25% more efficient than in the past. These upgrades reduced greenhouse gas emissions and energy use, and saved $300,000 in energy costs over the year. Productivity Improvements Through innovative changes in material handling systems and more effective use of plant space, overall throughput has been increased by 40%, reducing the average price per kilo of general linen shipped to customers. LHLS is meeting all customer needs with only two shifts, leaving a third available in case of emergencies. Canadian Sterile Repack (CSR) Program The CSR program, operating since 1996 sterilizes surgical linens for safe reuse. CSR diverts waste from landfill, offers better comfort and protection than disposables for patients and medical staff, and saves money in the long run. Wash Cycle Chemistry Peracidic Acid is used instead of chlorine bleach. It is a quality product that provides a better quality wash and causes less harm to fabrics. Peracidic Acid is also more environmentally friendly. Phosphates and fluorides were eliminated from the wash cycle many years ago, to improve the water quality of our lakes and rivers. Recycling Since 1989, LHLS has been recycling wash water, reducing water use by two thirds. Not only does this save money, it has less impact on watercourses and translates into decreased costs to customers. Health & Safety Ergonomic workstations, new conveyor systems, and new materials handling systems ease physical strain, reduce risk of injury and enhance productivity. New air handling systems for greater control of airborne particles improve air circulation. Thanks to these changes, the health and safety of our work environment has improved. Good Citizenship LHLS’ care extends to the outside world through several community support initiatives. For example, LHLS provides free pick-up, cleaning and delivery of laundry to families staying at Ronald McDonald House.

Our surgical gown program follows strict process control guidelines. Soiled gowns are first pre-sorted so wash loads can be processed individually in our tunnel washers and dryers. This ensures products are clean and reach their intended life expectancy.