News
Comprehensive COVID-19 Cleaning for Schools & Buses
As fall approaches, many parents, teachers, school staff, and bus drivers are preparing to go back to school – but this year’s first day will look very different than any other. As many kids mask up and prepare for changes, many others wonder how schools and buses will implement safe cleaning procedures.
Keeping schools clean and kids healthy has always been a priority, but due to the novel corona virus, deep cleaning of schools and buses has become more complex and in-depth. WINMAR® provides comprehensive cleaning and sanitization services for schools and buses across Canada, and we’ve put together some information about what comes next for increasing cleaning regimens in schools.
What to Expect in Provinces across Canada
Decision-makers at all levels of government, as well as school boards and busing companies, are looking at a multitude of ways to reduce the potential spread of COVID-19 and other illnesses when schools reopen in September. Each province has created certain guidelines that will be followed. Head to this interactive map to learn more about the reopening plans for each province.
In all provinces, it’s expected that there will be an increase in the cleaning of common spaces, classrooms, buses, and any area where students will be gathering. Choosing proper cleaning supplies and procedures will be essential in schools, and the frequency of cleaning is also likely to increase significantly.
Cleaning Before Schools Reopen
Many schools have been closed for several months, with only staff members entering the building. Although it is unlikely that the novel corona virus would remain on surfaces, most school boards are preparing for a thorough cleaning before the reentry of students and staff. This could include checks of HVAC and ventilation systems, water systems (which may have been turned off for a lengthy period of time), and complete surface cleaning in all classrooms and common spaces.
WINMAR® professionals are available to arrange and conduct thorough cleaning and inspections for schools according to the various guidelines and best practices across the country.
Deep Cleaning of High-Touch Surfaces
WINMAR®’s services include deep cleaning of surfaces in schools, buses, and classrooms.
When cleaning to prevent the spread of COVID-19, frequently touched surfaces are a priority, with items like doorknobs and handles, faucets, light switches, buttons, tabletops and counter tops, and handrails being the most likely location for contamination.
It’s unclear exactly how long the novel corona virus stays on surfaces, but early studies suggest it could be several hours to several days, depending on the material. This is why the complete cleaning of surfaces to remove germs, bacteria, and viruses on a regular basis is essential in schools.
Cleaning Agents, Practices & Procedures
Finding the right cleaning agent for various surfaces can be tough. Any cleaning agent needs to be effective in killing germs, while also not so harsh that it damages the surface being cleaned.
WINMAR® professionals use a variety of DIN registered cleaning products (Health Canada) to find the best fit for each surface we’re working with, whether it’s a bus seat or a desk. Additionally, any tools used for cleaning, including our specialized equipment, needs to be used as intended and cleaned after use.
Well-planned procedures are also essential when it comes to school cleaning for COVID-19. The process for cleaning includes many steps, from hand washing before and after wearing gloves, to using proper PPE, to ensuring that all surfaces have been thoroughly cleaned. In some cases, we may also have to clean a surface (remove dirt and debris) before sanitizing it (removing germs, bacteria, and viruses).
Cleaning for School Buses
Many children rely on buses to take them to and from school safely. While school bus cleaning has always been necessary, many schools will require additional cleaning, and in some cases, cleaning logs or reports.
For buses, it will be essential that cleaning is conducted thoroughly, using the proper products, procedures, and PPE at all times. For support with school bus cleaning from well-equipped professionals, reach out to WINMAR® Property Restoration.
Cleaning After COVID-19 is Detected
After COVID-19 cases are detected, it’s always important to ensure a detailed cleaning of all areas where an infected person has been. In a school, this would become a top priority and should be completed as quickly and thoroughly as possible to prevent further spread to teachers, staff, or students.
Learn More About Cleaning Services & Pricing
If your school board, school, or busing business is seeking high-quality cleaning services before schools reopen, get in touch with our trained professionals at WINMAR®. We are located coast to coast in Canada, and we’re dedicated to protecting all Canadians during this unprecedented time.
WINMAR® also provides COVID-19 cleaning services for commercial locations, residential homes, and daycare facilities, city buses and transit, and other areas where people live, work, or travel. Reach out to learn more and request a quote, or find your nearest location on our location finder.