Thursday, August 31, 2017

Custodian vs Janitor

The poll that just ended asked if there was a difference between a custodian and a janitor.  100% of the answers said yes.

Back on April 16, 2008, I posted about the difference between the two titles. I've re-posted those comments again here.

What Is A Custodian?

What is a custodian? Do they differ from a janitor? What is their job like?
Basically, the two words are similar. A janitor often times refers more specifically to the work they do, that of cleaning. A custodian is portrayed as more than just a cleaner. He also maintains and takes care of a building as well as performing cleaning tasks. In a school setting, custodian is the preferred term.
The duties of a custodian differ from person to person depending on their job description, the time of day they work and their skills. They may be required to unlock the building in the morning, put up flags, bring in newspapers, de-ice walkways in cold weather, check HVAC systems and so on. Then there is the exciting world of cleaning! Toilets, sinks, floors, vacuuming, dumping garbage, windows and more. Add to these duties such things as setting up and tearing down tables, chairs, risers and other furniture for special events. And don't forget the sporting events. Cleaning these events requires cleaning the stadium at times, the gyms, locker rooms, concession stand area, bathrooms and more. At times, it can be quite overwhelming and tiring.
Custodial work can also be enjoyable. Having the opportunity to meet teachers, the public, administration, public officials and others adds to our ability to interact with others and to absorb more knowledge. Dealing with outside vendors who specialize in various trades is an exciting way to add to our repertoire of information too. And don't forget the students. What an ideal way to be a mentor and example for our young people!
Custodial work involves much, but much can be given back. Although at times stressful, the benefits outweigh the negatives in the long run!

7 comments:

Unknown said...

It’s the same.

Unknown said...

Not the same. Ive been both. A janitor cleans and that is all. At my school, im a custodian. I'm the maintenance man amd janitor. Whoever thinks a janitor is a custodian is ignorant.

Anonymous said...

There is a very huge difference between a janitor and a custodian. A janitor simply takes out trash, vacuums carpets and scrubs toilets. A custodian holds the keys to castle, he is in charge of building security, safety of students, interacts with teachers and staff, responsible for activity set ups and breakdowns, grounds keeping and building maintenance replacing light fixtures, doors, locks, installing air units, aside from regular custodial duties as classroom and restroom cleaning, shower scrubbing, laying finish, conducting fire inspection, building assessments, work orders etc..

Anonymous said...

I am very inspired by this post. I make 300k a year working at Apple and have a master degree and 14 years of job experience. I don’t think I am as satisfied or content as the job description for a custodian portrayed above. Can someone refer me to a job? I would like to take a sabbatical from working in tech and just live off my stocks return and really get to know my community and serve the public.

LSG Industrial & Office Products, Inc. said...

Good to know the differences. Thank you for sharing!
Housekeeping Supplies Philippines

Unknown said...

Anyone who says that they are the same Is usually a person who thinks lowly of the position. They are prideful, snooty people who are stuck on themselves and look down on others. They actually know there is a difference but they can’t bring themselves to say it because they think lowly of both positions.

Anonymous said...

I’m a custodian who works for the state and I’m very grateful to God for the opportunity to even get my foot in the door to elevate to what position I decide to take on if I change my desires from being a custodian when I’m ready great benefits and retirement and great medical for me and my children as a single mom yep I’m a damn good custodian who sets the Atmosphere for cleaning this for people to have an enjoyable environment to work in.....:::

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