Inventory & Supply Management Flashcards

Which type of inventory count involves counting all items in the entire stockroom at one time?

Answer: Physical count

A physical (or full) count involves counting every item in inventory simultaneously, usually done periodically.

A cleaning company wants to reduce the risk of supply shortages without overstocking. Which strategy BEST achieves this?

Answer: Maintain a safety stock buffer above the par level

Safety stock acts as a buffer to cover unexpected demand spikes or supplier delays without the cost of excessive overstocking.

What is the main advantage of using a digital inventory management system over a paper-based one for a cleaning business?

Answer: It provides real-time tracking and reduces data entry errors

Digital systems offer real-time visibility into stock levels and reduce manual data entry mistakes.

An RCS-certified cleaner notices a cleaning product's SDS (Safety Data Sheet) is missing from the storage area. What should be done?

Answer: Stop using the product and obtain the SDS before resuming use

OSHA's Hazard Communication Standard requires SDS documents to be accessible for every hazardous chemical in use.

When evaluating two suppliers for the same cleaning product, which factor is MOST important beyond unit price?

Answer: Reliability of delivery timelines and product quality consistency

Reliable delivery and consistent product quality ensure uninterrupted service and predictable performance.

What is 'shrinkage' in the context of cleaning supply inventory?

Answer: Unexplained inventory loss due to theft, waste, or error

Shrinkage refers to inventory loss that cannot be accounted for through sales or documented usage, often caused by theft, waste, or administrative errors.

A cleaning crew is issued a week's worth of supplies at the start of each week. This supply model is known as:

Answer: Periodic distribution

Periodic distribution involves issuing supplies at set intervals (e.g., weekly) rather than based on real-time demand.