Building Service Worker

Course code REAL 1130

Credit 0.0

Length 93.0 hours

Course outline View

During the COVID-19 pandemic, the need for cleaning and disinfection of surfaces has surged. Building Service Workers (BSWs) are among the workers protecting public health and safety in various establishments, including schools, grocery stores, malls, office buildings, and medical centres. BSWs support the cleaning and maintenance of buildings and facilities.

This comprehensive training provides you with skills, knowledge, and practical experience to enter the building service worker industry. Included in the course is a 1 week practicum where you will learn through hands-on practice in a real environment.

You will learn, from experienced industry professionals, about essential elements of custodial service including: sanitation and cleaning, Health Care Cleaning operations (NEW), cleaning equipment, commercial cleaning, cleaning of carpets, floors, windows, washrooms, floor finishing, and fire prevention. In addition, you will learn valuable self-employment skills (operating your own business). You will also gain certification in the new WHMIS 2015 workshop.

In relation to the ongoing COVID-19 crisis, focus will be on the process of cleaning with the purpose of disinfection. In your work as a professional cleaner, you will benefit from learning about the proper use of cleaning products and disinfectants to keep yourself and others safe from microorganisms that cause various illnesses. You will also learn about the basics of personal protective equipment (PPE), different types of cleaning equipment and disinfectants, and steps for proper cleaning.

For online classes, please be prepared to attend your classes with the following:

• A stable and high-speed internet connection
• A computer with a microphone and webcam (ideal) for participation

Web-conferencing technology, such as Zoom, will be used for online learning. Zoom can also work on an iPhone or Android device (tablet or phone), however, it is highly recommended to use a computer (desktop or laptop) for optimal learning experience.


Optional courses:
Students who wish to expand their skill set further can take the optional Pool Operator Level 1 (REAL 1140) course.

Prerequisites

Missing prerequisites?

Learn more about VCC's academic upgrading or English as a Second Language (ESL) courses, or discover which university transfer options are right for you.

What you will learn

  • Responsibilities of A Building Service Worker
    Service Personalities
    Types of Soils
    Types of Sweeping Equipment and Procedures
    Chemical Cleaners and Dispensers
    WHMIS
    Health Care Cleaning - NEW
    Dilution Ratios
    PH Scale
    Floor maintenance equipment and procedures
    Microorganisms
    Maintenance of a sanitary facility
    Ceiling and wall maintenance
    Window cleaning
    Chalk and whiteboards
    Ceiling fluorescent fixtures
    Fire Prevention
    Types of flooring
    Carpeting
    Operating a contract cleaning business

How to register

This course is offered as part of a VCC program only.

Course schedules

Select your program to see the available course schedules.

CRN# Duration Delivery Location
22475 May 5, 2026
to July 17, 2026
Lecture/Practical Varies See full schedule

Online courses listed without scheduled meeting times can be completed on your own schedule.

CRN# Duration Delivery Location
12371 March 16, 2026
to April 16, 2026
Lecture/Practical VCC Downtown Campus See full schedule

Online courses listed without scheduled meeting times can be completed on your own schedule.

CRN# Duration Delivery Location
22612 July 6, 2026
to August 6, 2026
Lecture/Practical VCC Downtown Campus See full schedule

Online courses listed without scheduled meeting times can be completed on your own schedule.

CRN# Duration Delivery Location
32508 September 28, 2026
to October 29, 2026
Lecture/Practical VCC Downtown Campus See full schedule

Online courses listed without scheduled meeting times can be completed on your own schedule.

Contact us

If you have any question, please email at advising@vcc.ca.

† This information is intended as a guideline only. Program and course details are subject to change with the approval of VCC's Board of Governors.

Indigenous Territory Acknowledgment

VCC is located on the traditional territories of the xʷməθkʷəy̓əm (Musqueam), Sḵwx̱wú7mesh (Squamish), and səlilwətaɬ (Tsleil-Waututh) peoples, and we acknowledge our privilege to be here.