Educational facility managers should ensure that classroom surfaces are well-cleaned and disinfected as students return to in-person classrooms instead of online teaching. Although classrooms are excellent environments for learning and growth, due to the high volume of people using them and the shared space, they are also locations where diseases and filth can proliferate. The realization of this fact through science, coupled with the increase in re-emerging infectious diseases and the ongoing threat of global pandemics such as COVID-19, presents an ever-increasing reason for janitors to spend time cleaning and disinfecting frequently touched areas in the classroom and beyond. This article highlights four frequently touched areas in the classroom that you should ensure your janitorial service provider cleans often.
Horizontal Surfaces
Dirt on horizontal surfaces like classroom desks and countertops is crucial to maintaining a healthy classroom. Students spend the majority of their time at desks than they do in other communal areas, so it is essential that janitors never skip cleaning and disinfecting horizontal surfaces. Cleaning these surfaces controls the spread of bacteria, viruses, and other pathogens by physically removing the germ from the surface, and then disinfection kills those germs. Schools must ensure that every piece of furniture is thoroughly cleaned and disinfected after school hours. Daily diligence should be exercised in completing this task, as the spread of infectious diseases can be well managed by frequent disinfection.
Technological Devices (Computers, Tablets, iPads, etc.)
Both educators and students benefit from technology, but it must be adequately cared for before being used. Technological devices such as personal laptops, desktops, Android tablets, and Apple pads are some devices known to harbor germs in commercial facilities like schools. For instance, a computer keyboard can host as much as 20,000 times more bacteria than a public toilet seat. Air compressors can be used to remove dirt and debris from keyboards before it is disinfected. Ethanol is a simple disinfectant used to clean keyboards and other computer hardware in offices.
Doorknobs and Light Switches:
Janitors must never overlook the doorknobs and light switches in the classroom and around the school facilities. Because many people do not practice good hand hygiene, they may likely spread germs from their bodies by frequently touching facility doorknobs and light switches. One of the best ways to control infections in facilities is to install automatic doors and motion sensor lights.
Door handles and knobs are breeding grounds for viruses because they may contain germs. A non-toxic spray or prepackaged wipes should be used to clean the door handle. The number of bacteria and viruses on doorknobs and handles will reduce if students and staff are encouraged to wash their hands thoroughly and frequently.
Carpets
Carpets and rugs are frequently touched areas/surfaces, especially in preschool facilities, considering the time students and infants spend on them. The threading and general composition of carpets and rug make it easy for viral pathogens to proliferate. Furthermore, dust particles get caught between the carpet threads and exacerbate respiratory conditions such as asthma. This is why classroom rugs and carpets should be vacuumed daily and shampooed or encapsulated periodically.
Resources
Here are additional resources for you to increase your janitorial knowledge further and stay updated on new trends in facility maintenance.
Distinct Cleaning News and Media Post: Easy to read blog articles on various topics and trends in the commercial janitorial space.
Janitorial Work and Tutorial Videos: Quick cleaning tutorial and before and after videos intended to give the audience a glimpse into various janitorial works.
Janitorial Business Hub: This is an excellent place for anyone who has a regular job yet wants to start their own janitorial business. You can find coaching and other strategic opportunities available.
