School is often seen as a place for invention ideas that educate and help the students to learn and explore new things.
The classroom, libraries, halls, cafeteria, etc., all buzz with laughter, chatting, and high productivity. However, amidst the immense learning opportunities, we never think of germs in school.
Yes, school bacteria and germs are real and can be dangerous for kids. The various equipment and surfaces in school can be extremely contaminated, causing illnesses like cold and flu.
Moreover, these germs often travel from one place to another through sneezing, touching, coughing, etc.
As schools can easily attract germs, it is important to be aware of the top places that are at high risk of contamination.
Let us talk about the places that can easily get contaminated and cause illness to the children.
Top Places in Schools with High Risk of Contamination
Some surfaces or places in school are at a higher risk of contamination than others, simply because of the activities done or because of their surroundings.
Here are the top places that usually have more risk of contamination and germs in schools.
1. Cafeterias
Undoubtedly, the cafeteria can be one of the most contaminated places in a school. It is generally the social hub of the school accessed by the teachers, students, and staff members to spend most of their time.
As a result, it can easily be contaminated with germs and bacteria. There is a high risk that the serving trays, tables, chairs, and machines may contain an alarming amount of germs.
Even the towels, used for cleaning and washing hands, can be a prime source of contamination in the cafeteria.
Therefore, it is highly recommended to follow strict guidelines and safety protocols to prevent the spread of contamination and germs.
2. Classrooms
It may sound strange but even the classrooms are usually at a higher risk of contamination. With the growing digitization, classrooms are used for different purposes.
There are different areas for presentations, lectures, workshops, conferences, and other gatherings, making classrooms a major area contaminated with germs and bacteria.
Moreover, classrooms are not frequently disinfected, allowing bacteria and germs to grow rapidly.
Additionally, other items like books, stationeries, desks, podiums, and different electronic devices also increase the contamination risk in the classroom.
To avoid major problems, the classrooms and the most used items should regularly be cleaned with disinfectants.
3. Restrooms
Without any surprise, restrooms are also at a higher risk of contamination and germs. Generally, common restrooms are used by students, teachers, faculty, and staff members, increasing the risk of bacteria and germs.
Moreover, if the restrooms are not cleaned properly, this can add to a higher risk of contamination. Various germs and contamination can easily transmit from one surface to another causing many serious problems.
Even if the school restrooms are cleaned regularly, the restroom doors are often neglected increasing the count of germs and bacteria. Not every kid washes his hand after using the restroom and mostly everyone touches the restroom door making it the prime source.
4. Drinking Fountain
Similar to the cafeteria, even the drinking fountain in the school is at a higher risk of contamination and germs.
It has been often noticed that the fountain spigot is not frequently cleaned and disinfected properly. Moreover, if the drinking fountain is uncovered, many insects, flies, etc. can further contaminate it.
As the kids touch the spigot of the drinking fountain; they are exposed to various germs, bacteria, and other dangerous contaminants. This may also cause many serious health problems and issues.
It should be taken care that the kids don’t touch the spigot of the drinking fountain to avoid being infected. Additionally, they should also wait for a few seconds before drinking water from the fountain to let any possible contamination flow away.
5. Computer Labs
Do you also rush to your computer labs to play games, research current topics, or complete your assignments?
If yes, you should be aware that the computer lab of your school is always at risk of contamination. Yes, it is possible to catch an infection in the computer lab of your school.
According to a recent study, a keyboard is dirtier than a public toilet seat. As everyone touches the keyboard without washing their hands or disinfecting the keyboard, it is usually one of the most contaminated places in the school.
It is always better to properly wash your hands before and after using the keyboard of your school computer lab.
Final Thoughts
Schools harbor multiple beings for many hours; hence, keeping a school completely germ-free is nearly impossible. It is impossible to keep kids away from the most contaminated places in school.
However, it is possible to reduce the risk of contamination with proper cleaning, washing, and disinfecting of the school premises. Teaching everyone the importance of personal hygiene goes a long way.
How do you reduce the contamination risk in your school? Let us know in the comments.
