While tram operators in BOLTS typically meet customer expectations for cleanliness and comfort, they may face significant challenges in managing vehicle cleaning operations. Infrastructural inadequacies, such as unreliable or unavailable water and power supplies, limited depot space, and the deterioration of aging assets, contribute to perceptions of uncleanliness. Budget constraints severely limit the adoption of innovative cleaning solutions and impede accurate measurement of cleaning effectiveness.
Moreover, the restricted non-revenue hours available for cleaning result in limited vehicle availability, complicating maintenance scheduling. The rising expectations for cleanliness in the post-pandemic landscape, alongside security concerns in depots, shifting customer behaviours, and vandalism, have necessitated a marked increase in cleaning frequency and associated costs. Additionally, seasonal weather variations demand intensified cleaning efforts at specific times of the year, highlighting the need for tram operators to adapt their cleaning strategies to meet these escalating demands.
The BOLTS study on tram vehicle cleaning supports members in assessing current practices and improving the efficiency of their cleaning processes. It begins with a quantitative overview of cleaning benchmarks, including hours, costs, and related KPIs to provide operational context. The study then compares members’ cleaning approaches, frequencies, and responses to incidents requiring vehicle withdrawal from service. It also examines cleanliness standards, covering expectations for in-house and outsourced staff, along with monitoring and evaluation methods. The study concludes with a summary of identified good practices.
