Compliance

CIMS (Cleaning Industry Management Standard) (CIMS)

CIMS, the Cleaning Industry Management Standard, is an ISSA certification that verifies a commercial cleaning company meets benchmarks for quality systems, staffing, health and safety, and management processes.

Written by CleanQuote Editorial TeamReviewed by Facilities Operations Review BoardLast reviewed June 2026

In Depth

CIMS certification is awarded after an independent assessment of a contractor’s operations against the standard’s management framework. A "CIMS-GB" variant adds green-cleaning criteria aligned with LEED.

Why It Matters

CIMS certification is a shortcut for buyers vetting vendors: it signals a professionally run organization, which lowers contract risk for large or compliance-sensitive facilities.

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Frequently Asked

What is cims (cleaning industry management standard) in commercial cleaning?

CIMS, the Cleaning Industry Management Standard, is an ISSA certification that verifies a commercial cleaning company meets benchmarks for quality systems, staffing, health and safety, and management processes.

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