siivoojia

Siivoojia is the Finnish term for cleaning staff or janitors. It is the plural form of siivooja, referring to professionals responsible for cleaning and basic maintenance in offices, schools, hospitals, and other public and private spaces.

Tasks typically include cleaning floors and surfaces, vacuuming, dusting, emptying waste, restocking supplies, cleaning restrooms, and sometimes basic window washing or minor repairs. Some siivoojia specialize in healthcare facilities or industrial environments and may perform more technical cleaning or use specialized equipment. They work under contracts with organizations or cleaning companies and may be employed full-time, part-time, or on a temporary basis. Shifts often include early mornings, evenings, nights, and weekends, depending on the client’s needs and building hours.

Training is usually practical and may be provided through vocational education programs or on-the-job training, covering cleaning techniques, handling of cleaning chemicals, waste management, and safety. Knowledge of hygiene practices and adherence to regulatory standards, including occupational safety regulations and the use of personal protective equipment, is important. In Finland, siivoojia work under collective agreements that regulate wages, working hours, and conditions, and unions play a role in representing workers’ interests.

The role is generally characterized as essential for maintaining health, safety, and appearance of spaces. The field has historically been female-dominated in many sectors, though participation by all genders is common, and the profession continues to adapt with new cleaning technologies and sustainability practices.