How can you use environmental services technology in schools?

1 Assess your needs

Before you invest in any EST, you need to assess your current situation and identify your goals and priorities. You can use a checklist or a survey to evaluate the cleanliness, hygiene, and maintenance of your school facilities, and to identify any gaps or issues that need to be addressed. You can also consult with your stakeholders, such as administrators, teachers, parents, and students, to understand their expectations and preferences. Based on your assessment, you can set realistic and measurable objectives for improving your environmental services.

3 Implement and evaluate the EST

Once you have chosen the EST, you need to plan and execute the implementation process. You should follow the manufacturer's instructions and best practices for installing, operating, and maintaining the EST. You should also communicate and coordinate with your staff, students, and other stakeholders, and provide them with adequate information and training on how to use the EST. You should also monitor and evaluate the performance and impact of the EST, and collect feedback and data to measure your progress and outcomes. You should review and adjust your plan and practices as needed, and seek continuous improvement.

4 Benefits of using EST in schools

Using EST in schools can have many benefits, such as reducing the risk of infection and illness among students and staff, and enhancing the appearance and functionality of the school facilities. It can also save time and money by increasing the productivity and efficiency of the environmental services staff, as well as reducing the consumption of water, energy, and chemicals. Moreover, it can demonstrate the commitment of the school to environmental sustainability and social responsibility.

5 Challenges of using EST in schools

Using EST in schools can also pose some challenges, such as finding the appropriate and affordable EST that meets the school's needs and goals, as well as being compatible with existing equipment and infrastructure. Training and motivating environmental services staff to use the EST properly and effectively, following standard operating procedures and quality standards, is also key. Additionally, managing the installation, operation, and maintenance of the EST to ensure safety and reliability is important. Lastly, evaluating the performance and impact of the EST, collecting and analyzing relevant data and feedback is essential.

6 Tips and resources for using EST in schools

If you want to use EST in schools, there are a few steps you can take to ensure a successful project. Research the different options and features of EST and consult with experts and peers who have experience with using EST in schools. Seek funding and support from various sources, such as grants, donations, partnerships, or sponsorships. It's also important to involve and engage your stakeholders, such as administrators, teachers, parents, and students, in the planning, implementation, and evaluation of the project. Lastly, follow the guidelines and recommendations from reputable organizations like the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), or the Association for the Health Care Environment (AHE) for using EST in schools.

7 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?