As the end of the school year approaches, administrators, and staff are busy preparing for the next academic year. However, there is one vital aspect that should not be overlooked – summer sanitation services. The end of the school year is the perfect time to deep clean and sanitize classrooms, bathrooms, and common areas, ensuring that students and staff return to a safe and healthy environment. In this blog article, we will explore the importance of commercial sanitation services, the benefits of scheduling these services at the end of the school year, and tips for maintaining a clean and healthy facility throughout the year.
Importance of Keeping Facilities Clean and Sanitized
Maintaining a clean and healthy environment in schools is crucial for the well-being of students, staff, and visitors. Schools are high-traffic areas where germs and viruses can easily spread, causing illnesses and absences. A clean and sanitized facility not only helps prevent the spread of illnesses but also creates a more pleasant and productive learning environment.
Regular cleaning and sanitation can also extend the lifespan of facilities and equipment, saving schools money in the long run. For instance, regular cleaning of HVAC systems can improve indoor air quality, reducing the need for costly repairs and replacements.
End of School Year Cleaning Checklist
The end of the school year is an excellent time to conduct a thorough cleaning of the facility and plan for summer sanitation services. Here is a checklist of areas that should be included in the cleaning process:
Classrooms
- Dust and wipe all surfaces, including desks, chairs, and bookshelves.
- Vacuum carpets and mop floors.
- Clean windows and window sills.
- Disinfect high-touch surfaces, such as doorknobs, light switches, and keyboards.
Bathrooms
- Scrub sinks, toilets, and urinals.
- Refill soap and paper towel dispensers.
- Disinfect all surfaces, including stall doors, toilet handles, and faucets.
- Deep clean grout and tile.
Common Areas
- Vacuum carpets and mop floors.
- Clean windows and window sills.
- Dust and wipe all surfaces, including tables, chairs, and shelves.
- Disinfect high-touch surfaces, such as doorknobs, light switches, and elevator buttons.
Benefits of Scheduling Commercial Sanitation Services During the End of the School Year
Scheduling summer sanitation services at the end of the school year offers several benefits, including:
Thorough Cleaning
Commercial sanitation services provide a more thorough cleaning than regular janitorial services. These services use specialized equipment and cleaning solutions to remove dirt, dust, and grime from hard-to-reach areas. They also disinfect surfaces to kill germs and viruses, creating a healthier environment.
Prevents the Spread of Illnesses
Schools are breeding grounds for germs and viruses. Regular cleaning and disinfection can help prevent the spread of illnesses, reducing absences and improving student and staff productivity.
Extends the Lifespan of Facilities and Equipment
Regular cleaning and maintenance can extend the lifespan of facilities and equipment. Commercial sanitation services can clean and maintain HVAC systems, preventing breakdowns and costly repairs.
Saves Time and Money
Commercial sanitation services can save schools time and money in the long run. By preventing breakdowns and costly repairs, schools can allocate their resources to other areas.
How Commercial Sanitation Services Can Help Prevent the Spread of Illnesses
Commercial sanitation services use specialized equipment and cleaning solutions to disinfect surfaces and prevent the spread of illnesses. Here are some ways in which scheduling summer sanitation services can help prevent the spread of illnesses:
Disinfecting Surfaces
Commercial sanitation services use EPA-approved disinfectants to kill germs and viruses on surfaces. They pay particular attention to high-touch areas, such as door handles, light switches, and keyboards.
Air Duct Cleaning
Air ducts can harbor dust, dirt, and other allergens, reducing indoor air quality. Commercial sanitation services can clean air ducts, improving indoor air quality and reducing the spread of illnesses.
Carpet Cleaning
Carpets can trap dirt, dust, and allergens, reducing indoor air quality. Commercial sanitation services can clean carpets, removing dirt and allergens, and improving indoor air quality.
Common Areas That Require Extra Attention During End of School Year Cleaning
Several areas in schools require extra attention during end of school year cleaning. These areas include:
Gymnasiums
Gymnasiums are high-traffic areas that require thorough cleaning and disinfection. Commercial sanitation services can clean and sanitize gym floors, mats, and equipment.
Cafeterias
Cafeterias are areas where food is prepared and served, making them susceptible to germs and viruses. Commercial sanitation services can clean and sanitize kitchen surfaces, equipment, and utensils.
Locker Rooms
Locker rooms are high-traffic areas that require regular cleaning and disinfection. Commercial sanitation services can clean and sanitize locker room floors, lockers, and benches.
When choosing a commercial sanitation service provider, it’s essential to consider the following factors:
Experience and Reputation
Choose a provider with extensive experience and a proven track record of delivering quality services.
Certifications and Training
Choose a provider with certifications and training in commercial sanitation services.
Equipment and Cleaning Solutions
Choose a provider with state-of-the-art equipment and cleaning solutions that can effectively clean and disinfect your facility.
Cost
Choose a provider that offers competitive pricing and transparent pricing models.
Factors That Affect the Cost of Commercial Sanitation Services
Several factors affect the cost of commercial sanitation services, including:
Size of the Facility
Larger facilities require more time and resources to clean, resulting in higher costs.
Frequency of Service
The more frequent the service, the higher the cost.
Type of Service
Different services have varying costs. For instance, air duct cleaning may cost more than carpet cleaning.
Special Requirements
Special requirements, such as cleaning up after events or emergencies, may result in additional costs.
Tips for Maintaining a Clean and Healthy Facility Throughout the Year
Maintaining a clean and healthy facility throughout the year requires ongoing effort and attention. Here are some tips for maintaining a clean and healthy facility:
Encourage Handwashing
Encourage students and staff to wash their hands frequently, especially after using the bathroom, coughing, or sneezing.
Provide Hand Sanitizer
Provide hand sanitizer in high-traffic areas, such as classrooms and bathrooms.
Regular Cleaning
Schedule regular cleaning and disinfection of high-touch areas, such as doorknobs, light switches, and keyboards.
Proper Waste Disposal
Ensure that waste is properly disposed of in sealed trash bags and emptied regularly.
HVAC Maintenance
Schedule regular maintenance of HVAC systems to improve indoor air quality and prevent breakdowns.
Commercial sanitation services are vital for maintaining a clean and healthy learning environment. Scheduling these services at the end of the school year offers several benefits, including thorough cleaning, prevention of illnesses, and extended lifespan of facilities and equipment. By choosing the right service provider and following proper maintenance practices, schools can maintain a clean and healthy facility throughout the year.
