In the life sciences sector, accountability and integrity aren’t optional — they’re essential. Every task, from cleaning to calibration, has a direct impact on an organization’s scientific work, regulatory compliance and patient safety.
Accountability Matters More in Life Sciences
In a typical office environment, it’s not a big deal if you miss -stock a supply closet. But in a GMP-regulated lab or pharmaceutical production space, a single oversight can have serious consequences.
For example, take cleaning documentation. If it’s not properly logged — even for tasks “outside the yellow line” — an entire production batch can be compromised. This might delay life-saving treatments, put patient outcomes at risk or lead to financial loss for the company. The issue isn’t just about appearances — it’s about a real-world impact on health and science.
Accountability isn’t a policy that can be handed down from leadership. It’s part of the culture that’s engrained at every level of an organization. From day one, new ISS facility services employees go through a structured onboarding process tailored for life sciences environments. This training is focused on procedures and precision. Team members learn what to do, how to do it, in what order and why each step matters.
Context is key. We help our placemakers understand how their work plays a role in the bigger mission by sharing real stories of patients whose lives were changed by the therapies developed in the facilities we support. When that connection clicks, accountability becomes personal. We also prioritize transparency; mistakes and questions are met with openness, not blame. This builds an environment where safety is at the forefront, and placemakers are encouraged to speak up, strengthening both compliance and trust. Accountability isn’t enforced, it’s adopted.
Self-Performance and Hiring the Right People
Our leaders set the tone and allow us to drive performance. This requires clear direction so employees have the tools to do the job correctly. Without clarity , accountability becomes impossible to uphold. When leaders remove obstacles and reinforce expectations, they create space for people to take ownership.
Building a culture of accountability starts with hiring. The right people working in the right roles is vital in a critical environment. We hire not just for skills but also for an individual’s mindset; we want people who naturally value discipline, care and responsibility.
ISS self-performs cleaning services in North America, investing in retention through training, development and ongoing support. By running our own teams rather than outsourcing, we maintain control over training, culture and outcomes. We ensure our employees have the right PPE, resources and backing to meet the high standards required of them in life science environments. From providing comfortable uniforms to top-tier equipment, everything we offer reinforces that accountability is expected and built into our operations.
Accountability and Client Confidence
Tools like digital logbooks and work order management systems help track performance, but these tools alone can’t develop a culture of accountability. Real accountability comes from people taking ownership of their roles and responsibilities.
Facility management must advance along with the life sciences sector, meeting not just regulatory requirements but also the high standards the industry demands. Compliance is the baseline. What matters most is creating a culture of accountability that gives clients confidence that their environments are safe and reliable. When that foundation is in place, they’re free to focus on what they do best — developing treatments that save and improve lives.
