When Will AI Replace Agents de propreté ?

The automation impact for janitors and cleaners is staggered. By 2034, approximately 40% of their tasks will be automated by physical robots, primarily affecting large facilities with open floor plans. Early adoption of floor cleaning robots is already evident in high-traffic areas like airports, malls, hospitals, and universities.

Janitors in large facilities (100,000+ sq ft) working night shifts face the earliest impact, with significant automation expected around 2030. This wave will focus on routine tasks like floor mopping and vacuuming in extensive, open spaces.

However, the mid-wave automation will take longer, impacting roles in smaller buildings (<20,000 sq ft), schools, healthcare settings, and specialized cleaning services (biohazard, restoration). These areas are projected to see less significant automation through 2038 and beyond, indicating a longer period of demand.

Roles most susceptible to early automation are those involving repetitive tasks in large, open environments. This includes routine floor cleaning and general upkeep in expansive commercial or institutional buildings where floor robots can operate efficiently.

Conversely, janitors performing tasks like bathroom cleaning, trash collection, spill response, working in tight spaces (stairwells, corners, under furniture), and dealing with non-standard layouts are considerably safer. Specialized cleaning services, such as biohazard remediation or restoration, also remain in high demand due to their complexity and the need for human oversight and skill.

To navigate the evolving job market, janitors and cleaners should consider upskilling in areas less prone to automation. Focusing on specialized cleaning techniques, advanced sanitation protocols, or even basic maintenance and repair skills can enhance job security.

For those in large facilities, the timeline suggests 6-9 years before significant automation. For smaller buildings or specialized work, you have 13+ years. Familiarize yourself with emerging technologies like the Tennant T7AMR, Brain Corp, and SoftBank Whiz robots, as understanding their capabilities and limitations will be advantageous.