Why Sanitization Matters
With the recent COVID-19 lockdowns fresh in everyone’s mind, the need for periodic and effective sanitization efforts in public places has remained a top priority for local, state, and federal governments across the country. Among areas of high concern are places where large number of people congregate for extended durations of time – offices, malls, restaurants, and most notably schools, colleges, and educational institutions.
The Importance of School Sanitization Programs
It’s no secret that schools can be hotbeds for the spread of germs and illness. Studies have shown that school-age children are more susceptible to picking up and spreading infections due to their close proximity to one another and lack of personal hygiene. In fact, one study found that as many as 22% of elementary school students had at least one respiratory infection at any given time.
With the threat of both seasonal and pandemic illnesses, proper sanitation efforts in educational institutions are more important than ever before. Here are a few reasons why:
1. To protect the health of students and staff
The most obvious reason for maintaining cleanliness in schools is to protect the health of students and staff. By ensuring that surfaces are regularly cleaned and disinfected, the spread of germs and illnesses can be significantly reduced. Furthermore, proper hand hygiene should be encouraged and practiced at all times – especially before meals, after using the restroom, and when coming in from outside.
2. To reduce absenteeism
Another reason to keep schools clean is to reduce absenteeism. When students or staff members are sick, they are more likely to stay home from school – which can lead to missed class time and a disruption in the learning process. By maintaining a clean and healthy environment, the spread of germs and illness can be prevented, and absenteeism rates can be kept low.
3. To create a positive learning environment
A clean and well-maintained school is not only healthier – it’s also more pleasant to be in. When classrooms and common areas are cluttered and dirty, it can be difficult for students to focus on their studies. However, in a clean and orderly school, students can feel more comfortable and relaxed – which can lead to a better learning experience overall.
4. To set a good example for students
Finally, it’s important to maintain cleanliness in schools because it sets a good example for students. As future leaders and citizens, it’s important that they learn the importance of cleanliness and sanitation – both in their own lives and in the world around them. By teaching them the importance of cleanliness early on, you can instil lifelong habits that will benefit them both personally and professionally.
Sanitation Tips for Schools, Colleges, and Educational Institutions
Here are a few quick and easy sanitation tips that schools, colleges, and educational institutions can use to keep their campuses clean and healthy:
1. Establish a cleaning routine and schedule
One of the best ways to keep your campus clean is to establish a regular cleaning routine. This should include daily cleaning of all classrooms, common areas, and restrooms. In addition, high-traffic areas should be cleaned more frequently – at least once a week.
2. Use the proper cleaning products
When cleaning your campus, it’s important to use the proper cleaning products. This includes using a disinfectant product that is effective against viruses and bacteria. Be sure to follow the manufacturer’s instructions for use.
3. Train staff and students on proper cleaning and sanitizing procedures
In order to keep your campus clean, it’s important to train staff and students on proper cleaning and sanitizing procedures. This includes teaching them how to wash their hands properly, how to clean and disinfect surfaces, use disinfectant wipes regularly and how to properly dispose of waste.
4. Implement a no-touch policy
One way to prevent the spread of germs is to implement a no-touch policy. This means avoiding physical contact with others, such as shaking hands or hugging. In addition, it’s important to avoid sharing personal items, such as phones, laptops, or water bottles.
5. Encourage good hygiene habits
Finally, it’s important to encourage good hygiene habits among staff and students. This includes washing your hands regularly, avoiding touching your face, covering your cough or sneeze, and staying home when you are sick.
How Students & Teachers Can Keep Schools Germ-Free
In addition to regular cleaning and sanitizing efforts by school staff, there are a number of things that students and teachers can do to help keep schools germ-free. Here are a few tips:
1. Wash your hands regularly and thoroughly
One of the best ways to prevent the spread of germs is to wash your hands regularly and thoroughly. Be sure to wash your hands with soap and water for at least 20 seconds – especially after using the restroom, before eating, and when coming in from outside. If soap and water are not available, hand sanitizer can be used instead.
2. Avoid touching your face
Another way to prevent the spread of germs is to avoid touching your face. If you do touch your face, be sure to wash your hands immediately afterwards.
3. Cover your cough or sneeze
If you are sick, it’s important to cover your cough or sneeze – preferably with a tissue or the inside of your elbow. Be sure to dispose of tissues immediately after use, and wash your hands afterwards.
4. Stay home when you are sick
If you are sick, it’s important to stay home from school – both for your own health and the health of others. If you must go to school, be sure to wear a face mask and take other precautions to prevent the spread of illness.
5. Clean and disinfect surfaces
Finally, it’s important to clean and disinfect surfaces regularly. This includes desks, tables, doorknobs, light switches, countertops, and any other surface that is frequently touched. Be sure to use cleaning and disinfectant products that is effective against viruses and bacteria, and follow the manufacturer’s instructions for use.
Conclusion
Sanitation is important for schools, colleges, and educational institutions because it helps to prevent the spread of germs and illness. By establishing a regular cleaning routine, using the proper cleaning products, and training staff and students on proper cleaning and sanitizing procedures, schools, colleges, and educational institutions can help to keep their campuses clean and healthy.