When the voices of labor are not just on the ground, Somboon Muang-Umink, a professional window cleaner from Metthier Co., Ltd., uses his heart and bare hands combined with technology to keep the city clean, elegant, and safe in every dimension. He shares the inspiring stories of a profession that society often overlooks, turning them into narratives that deserve to be remembered in Thai society.

While many walk past skyscrapers in the city center without noticing the clear glass reflecting the sky, up on those high floors, someone is 'abseiling' in the air, with a heart dedicated to duty, service, and safety. Although it is one of the riskiest and least talked-about professions in society, "window cleaning staff" play a crucial role in maintaining the cleanliness, beauty, and safety of tall buildings, especially in an era where cities are growing without bounds. One of Metthier's employees, Somboon Muang-Umink, shared his firsthand experience working in what many call a "risky job," but for him, it is a "job of faith" filled with love, expertise, and pride.

“40 floors with a single rope” — a challenging job, but my heart never trembles.

Mr. Somboon Muang-Umink is a professional abseiler at Metthier, having undergone intensive Rope Access training, received certification, and participates in regular emergency simulation drills every year to prepare both physically and mentally for every second spent suspended in the air. He explained that window cleaning on tall buildings "is not something just anyone can do"; it requires a strong heart, good health, and discipline in checking equipment before starting work each day, whether it be ropes, helmets, or assessing weather conditions. Every time he abseils, he knows he is responsible for his own life and the safety of others. Each descent must be approached with caution; we check every piece of equipment, review the plan, and communicate with the team constantly. We understand that every second counts, but we also know why we do it: to allow customers to see the cityscape through those clear windows — that is our work and our happiness.

Metthier and the New Standards of Higher Labor — both in terms of safety and quality of life.

Abseiling from tall buildings is not just about challenge and bravery; it is a job that demands high responsibility. Metthier prioritizes this above all else. Before starting work each day, we meticulously check every piece of equipment, from harnesses and helmets to gloves and ropes. Mr. Somboon explains the pre-work procedures. The company has clear regulations regarding equipment usage hours; once the limit is reached, it is replaced immediately, with no compromises on safety. In addition to standard equipment, working at heights at Metthier involves constant supervision by experts, along with safety officers at both supervisory and professional levels, providing reassurance to the team. "This is what makes my family worry less, even knowing the risks involved in our work," Mr. Somboon confidently stated.

Moreover, I feel that here we are not just seen as workers but are cared for like family. With over 13 years of experience working here, the work environment and all my colleagues are great. The supervisors are friendly and open to listening, which makes us want to stay with this organization for a long time. Metthier places the utmost importance on safety; not only must the equipment meet standards, but there is also strict monitoring of usage hours. Once the limit is reached, it is replaced immediately without exception. Besides the safety system, Metthier also adheres to the principle of "caring for employees with heart" through comprehensive welfare benefits, including life insurance with medical coverage, health and dental check-ups, vacation leave, employee cooperatives with low-interest loans, dividends, and savings interest, a provident fund, education funds for children, and disaster relief funds. Metthier believes that every employee is a vital cog behind the success of the business.

The Next Step for Workers at Heights

When asked about the future and advice for young people interested in this profession, Mr. Somboon replied sincerely, "If you have a passion for service, are not afraid of heights, and are willing to learn continuously, this profession is very interesting and stable. However, one must accept that it comes with high responsibility because even a small mistake can have significant consequences, and it requires true expertise, as not just anyone can do it."

Labor in a Changing World — but the Heart Remains the Same

Amid the technological transition in the era of Smart Facility Management that Metthier is driving through MIOC (Metthier Intelligent Operation Center) and the METTRIQ platform, which utilizes AI, Robotics, and Digital Twin to enhance building management efficiency, employees like Mr. Somboon remain crucial cogs. Technology cannot replace the "heart of labor." This Labor Day, Metthier believes that the workers behind the windows of tall buildings or those suspended in the air deserve recognition just as much as office employees. Because it is not only those sitting at desks who drive the country forward; the laborers floating above the ground also contribute to making this city beautiful and safe. The story of "Somboon Muang-Umink" represents Thai laborers filled with dedication, expertise, and an unwavering heart, even amidst the winds and sunlight. Metthier is proud to stand alongside Thai workers in every profession.

Metthier Co., Ltd. is a comprehensive smart facility management service provider that creates advanced technology for Smart Facility Management, including AI CCTV, Smart Incident Management, Digital Twin, 3D Visualization, Indoor Mapping, AIoT, and Robotics, to enhance the efficiency of personnel and internal building systems, controlled through the Metthier Intelligent Operation Center (MIOC) along with the METTRIQ platform, the first comprehensive smart building management platform in Thailand that integrates 12 technology systems into one platform. This allows small to large operators who prioritize ESG to access a modern open platform for efficient and sustainable building management. Currently, the company provides property management services covering seven types, including residential, hospitals, schools, shopping malls, office buildings, government agencies, and large industrial areas, utilizing Thailand's first future technology under the Sky ICT Public Company Limited or Sky Group.