Safety Resource Center

How should Teachers and School Staff Prepare?

Written by RitzSafety | Aug 9, 2021 12:13:32 PM

The COVID-19 pandemic has profoundly disrupted our education system, changing what classrooms and learning look like on a daily basis. With educators having to navigate a constant shifting landscape and protect their students and fellow staff members the best that they can, there are a lot of stressed that come into play. So what are some ways that teachers and staff can implement so that they can easily start back up?

1. Keep a distance from your students

As much as you love teaching your students, the safer everyone will be if you and others maintain a distance of at least 3-6 feet. However, there may be situations where students need help and in that case, make sure you and the student is wearing a mask. If needed, place tape on the floor for desks and spots for kids to stand on and place signs throughout the hallways and classrooms to show what the students or staff members need to do. It will be hard to maintain organization when students and teachers are excited to get back into their day-to-day routine so it is necessary to have the extra reminder around the area.


2. Wear masks and use hand sanitizer frequently

Since the Covid-19 virus is airborne, it is important that those in a limited space wear masks to protect themselves from harmful particles entering in your nose or mouth. Not only do students need to wear masks but teachers and staff members as well. A great way to be prepared is to have multiple masks available for both students and teachers. Put a box of masks in the classroom, lunchroom, and other rooms to help with easy access to masks. Put up hand sanitizer stations and bottles throughout the school and classroom and let your students and staff know that they are recommended to apply often, especially after touching handles, surfaces, pens and more! 

 

3. Limit sharing

Yes, sharing is caring - but limiting sharing will help slow down the spread of bacteria onto each individuals hands. Allowing students to share pens, pencils, rulers, or other handheld items can be dangerous. If sharing is absolutely necessary, wipe down objects with disinfecting wipes or spray surfaces with disinfecting spray. The cleaner the surfaces are, the harder it will be for bacteria to grow and spread.

 

 

4. Use disposable gloves often

Especially in the lunchroom, those that prepare the food need to wear disposable gloves. If they touch other surfaces that do not include food, they need to switch out their gloves with new ones each time. School nurses and teachers that help ill students need to be wearing gloves and masks to keep themselves safe.

 

 

 

5. Be organized

This is a common practice but being organized will help the whole process go smoother. Make sure your students know the rules and regulations that your school regulates. There are MANY other items that you can use to protect your students and staff members. Not sure what you need? Contact us today and we will help - wecare@ritzsafety.com