Due to the increase in COVID-19 cases and other diseases such as influenza the level of cleanliness becomes a priority for Americans at Universities, Schools, and public spaces.
Five years ago, mopping the floors and cleaning the restrooms of educational institutions used to be the standard of a “clean space.” As pandemic protocols are left behind and students return to school, many questions come to mind, including—how clean will my space be? This is a question and concern for many today, but there are a few things to take into consideration, especially as we continue to deal with Covid-19 cases and other viruses on a daily basis.
Covid-19 is not the only virus that haunts us. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the overall burden of influenza (flu) for the 2021-2022 season was an estimated 9 million flu illnesses; 4 million flu-related medical visits; 100,000 flu-related hospitalizations; and 5,000 flu deaths.
“Our expectations have shifted from visibly clean to microscopically safe,” says Dija Ziane, Head of Facility Services Division at Grupo EULEN. “Students, staff, and visitors go back and forth in campus facilities, and a high level of cleanliness is a priority for a well-maintained educational institution.”
Creating a Positive Learning Atmosphere
A clean school sends a positive message—we care about our people. A clean environment prospers a positive learning atmosphere. Hallways, classrooms, desks, these all need proper cleaning practices given the rotation of students, especially on campuses that house thousands of students. This will help to prevent the spread of illnesses, allergies, absences and outbreaks.
Clean no longer means the absence of dirt and appearance of a clean facility anymore—the pandemic taught people much more. The facility services industry is ramping up and gearing towards an awakening where people expect the grade of cleanliness seen in hospitals. If staff and students do not feel safe and comfortable at their workspace or coming into school five days a week, chances are they will shift to remote learning.
Schools are a common ground for germs and illnesses, especially in elementary schools where children are building their immune systems and are more prone to getting sick than adults. When constant sickness occurs, absenteeism increases, and student performance can be affected.
The Cleanliness Factor
Also, a clean campus can prevent deterioration. Proper cleaning practices in the long run are an investment, not only because you are giving the property the necessary maintenance, but also you are helping the community. Parents, teachers and students will value the importance of keeping the campus clean.
The facility services industry offers technologies that will help make sure that educational and public spaces are safe and sanitized for infection prevention while focusing on cleaning with process optimization. These processes usually include Sanitizing & Electrostatic Spraying technology and registered EPA Chemicals to provide clean, disinfected, and sanitized facilities in compliance with CDC and OSHA recommendations.
From elementary schools to college campuses cleaning and disinfecting coupled with pest management, HVAC and electric maintenance; are all services you can perform to maintain the cleanliness needed at your facility.
“As we head into a recession, companies need partners that will not cut costs but that will leverage innovations and deliver tailored solutions,” she added.
Dija Ziane, is head of facility services division at Grupo EULEN in Miami, FL. She can be reached at [email protected]. This is her first article for Facilities Manager.
Perspective on the Profession
Provides opinion and commentary on aspects of education administration, funding, and campus facilities management. To contribute, contact Kevin Willmann, FM Column Editor.
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