OCS and Alstom elevate rail cleaning standards through a more sustainable and consistent cleaning program

Situation

Alstom’s Central Rivers Depot plays a critical role in the daily cleaning and preparation of CrossCountry trains. The depot supports high service expectations, where consistent cleanliness, operational efficiency and sustainability are essential to meeting both customer and stakeholder demands.

As part of a wider review of cleaning processes at Alstom’s Central Rivers Depot, OCS and Alstom identified an opportunity to further enhance cleaning performance while strengthening sustainability outcomes. By working collaboratively with Diversey, the partners introduced an improved cleaning program designed to deliver a better experience for passengers and colleagues alike.

Challenge

Following a review of existing cleaning processes, Alstom and OCS sought to:

• Further improve daily cleaning standards on trains
• Increase consistency across cleaning operations
• Reduce environmental impact, particularly plastic and chemical usage
• Identify a supplier that could support long‑term sustainability and innovation goals

Chemical suppliers were invited to visit the site and recommend improvement opportunities that would deliver a more efficient and sustainable cleaning program.

Solution

Through a new partnership, Diversey began working closely with OCS and Alstom to introduce best‑in‑class cleaning products and methods. The recommended solution focused on:

• Simplifying cleaning processes
• Introducing advanced, more sustainable cleaning formulations
• Using familiar fragrances to support user acceptance
• Creating a strong foundation for future enhancements across the CrossCountry network

The Diversey product range was selected to support both immediate performance improvements and long‑term sustainability objectives. Here is a list of products used:

• Good Sense Vert - a highly perfumed daily general purpose and odor neutralizing cleaner for all water-resistant hard surfaces
• Sani 4 in 1 Plus - Washroom cleaner, descaler, disinfectant and deodoriser for all acid resistant hard surfaces in washroom areas
• Sprint 200 - Alcohol-based daily multi purpose cleaner for streak-free cleaning of all water-resistant hard surfaces.
• Sprint Spitfire - Alkaline heavy-duty cleaner for most alkaline resistant, hard surfaces.
• Enhance Antigum - Solvent based gel chewing gum remover. Dissolves gum fast in a convenient gel format, can also be used to remove solvent based carpet stains such as oil, grease and lipstick.
• Shield Limescale remover - acid based formula has been designed to swiftly remove grime and limescale from most washable surfaces in toilets, washrooms, showers, changing rooms and swimming pools
• Good Sense Breakdown - Neutralizer for elimination of most organic odours.

Results

 The new cleaning program delivered clear benefits across operations:

• Reduction in plastic usage
• Minimized chemical consumption across multiple cleaning areas
• Implementation of core cleaning products that set a new benchmark for cleanliness
• Increased standards of cleaning on trains

Early results have been very positive, with further benefits expected as the partnership continues to develop.

“The results have far exceeded our expectations, demonstrating what can be achieved through teamwork, innovation, and a commitment to excellence.”

Head of Customer Service Delivery – Central Rivers Depot, Alstom

Diversey, a Solenis company, played a key role by working collaboratively with OCS and Alstom to design and implement a more sustainable, efficient and consistent cleaning program. By combining proven cleaning expertise with advanced product innovation, Diversey helped elevate cleaning standards while supporting reduced environmental impact.