Infection Control

In an effort to provide safe, healthy environments, schools face several inherent challenges. First, children aren’t just little adults. They exhibit normal behaviors that we must understand when we think about the spread of germs in a school. Children explore and socialize, put things in their mouths, get dirty at recess, and share food at lunch time. All these activities can spread germs or increase exposure to toxics in the indoor environment. Additionally, children’s immune systems are still developing, putting them at a higher risk for infection than adults.

Second, school buildings typically include areas such as locker rooms and athletic areas, cafeterias, art rooms, and chemistry labs for example. These spaces all have unique uses and require special attention when it comes to hygiene and infection control.

Finally, classrooms in which up to thirty of more children chare close contact will increase risk for infection.

So what should be done to keep children, teachers, and staff healthy and free from infection?

1. PREVENT INFECTION THROUGH EDUCATION

Students, teachers, coaches, and all school staff must be educated about the importance of hygiene and frequent, thorough hand-washing. Recent studies show that through proper hand hygiene, schools can actually decrease student absenteeism. If possible, students and school employees should have access to appropriate hand-washing facilities. If not, alcohol-based hand sanitizers should be made available. Read this hand-washing guideline sheet for more specific information.

2. DEVELOP AND FOLLOW A THOROUGH GREEN CLEANING PROGRAM

Health is the goal of a proper green cleaning program. Along with environmental benefits, infection control becomes the natural byproduct of an effective cleaning program. Through proper cleaning, the spread of germs can be significantly reduced and controlled, and overall health improved.

For more detailed information on green cleaning and how to implement a green cleaning program, read the HSC’s Five Simple Steps to Green Cleaning in Schools.

3. DISINFECT WHERE NECESSARY

Many of the harsh chemicals in disinfectants are highly caustic, toxic in nature and may decrease the quality of the indoor air. Minimizing potential exposure to these chemicals can promote health and wellbeing while still reducing risk associated with the spread of infectious diseases.

When disinfectants are used, it is important to use them as part of a larger green cleaning program, rather than as a hasty reaction. Disinfectant use should be limited to high-touch areas such as door handles, keyboards, light switches, and tables. When selecting a disinfectant, work with vendors to select the least toxic, most affordable option, and always choose EPA registered products.

More information on MRSA and HSC’s recommendations for preventing and remedying such infections may be viewed here.

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