Now that Governor Andrew Cuomo has given the green light to reopen schools in New York, it’s time to finalize your educational facility’s strategy to keep students and staff safe this year. In response to COVID-19, the New York State Department of Health has made a series of recommendations for the cleaning and disinfecting of primary and secondary schools. As the first day of classes approaches, educate yourself with these helpful hints taken straight from the state’s official guidance on school disinfecting.

Disinfecting Safeguards Students and Teachers

New York State’s official guidance for educational facilities emphasizes the importance of using disinfecting services in preparation for and during the school year.

To improve safety, many schools are choosing to close so they can schedule daytime cleaning appointments during the week. However, it’s important that you know that is not the best or only option. Imperial Cleaning provides overnight services that can help protect students and staff from exposure to cleaning agents.

The Department of Health also stressed that school disinfecting and cleaning should include more than soap and water. A comprehensive disinfecting of indoor surfaces can provide a more powerful, long-lasting protection from germs and bacteria.

Although basic cleaning is always helpful, it only removes dirt and germs. Disinfecting agents, like the ones used with Electrostatic Spraying equipment can include Antimicrobial products for long lasting protection. This service is proven and effective killing germs on surfaces, while providing a higher standard of protection from deadly pathogens.

Areas of Emphasis in School Disinfecting

In school buildings, certain high-risk locations, like lunchrooms or the health office, can benefit significantly from detailed professional disinfection services. It’s also recommended that special attention be paid to frequently touched surfaces, including:

• Classroom desks and chairs
• Lunchroom tables and chairs
• Door handles
• Kitchen and bathroom faucets
• Light switches
• Buttons on vending machines and elevators
• Shared items, like computer keyboards and mice

According to the CDC, surfaces that are regularly touched by multiple people should be cleaned and disinfected at least daily or between use. Depending on how often surfaces are touched, more frequent cleaning and disinfection may be necessary.

In the event of a confirmed COVID-19 case in your school, the New York State Department of Health recommends a thorough cleaning and disinfection of the entire facility.

Imperial Cleaning is Here to Help Schools Stay Safe

We know your staff has been working hard all summer to make this school year successful. Imperial Cleaning is here to work in collaboration with your school to help everyone start each day fresh, clean and healthy. Our outsourced cleaning and disinfecting services are a cost-effective solution considering the true cost of overtime, overhead, training expenses and equipment.

Imperial Cleaning’s school disinfecting services, like Electrostatic Spray of Disinfection and Antimicrobial Protection, provide the highest standard of protection against the spread of illness and infection. The state-of-the-art disinfection solutions we use are up to 99.8% effective at killing germs, bacteria, and deadly pathogens and remain active on surfaces for as long as 90 days.

Contact us today to request an estimate.