Germs spread rapidly in public spaces, especially in schools where high-traffic areas and shared surfaces are unavoidable. Among these spaces, school cafeterias stand out as hotspots for germs. Studies show that some cafeteria surfaces, including those in colleges, can host bacterial counts up to 60,000 times higher than household toilet seats.
Frequent contact with shared surfaces like tables, trays, and door handles makes cafeterias particularly susceptible to germ transmission. These germs can easily lead to illness among students and staff. Younger children, especially those aged 1–12, are the most vulnerable to these illnesses, resulting in increased school absences that are often preventable with better hygiene practices.
The Role of NSF in Food Safety
To protect public health, especially in food preparation and dining areas, the National Sanitation Foundation (NSF) has established rigorous standards for sanitation and food safety. Using NSF-certified products is essential for maintaining these standards and ensuring cafeterias remain safe and hygienic for everyone.
Symmetry’s Antimicrobial Solution
Symmetry has NSF certified products such as Antimicrobial Foaming Hand Wash with Benzalkonium Chloride. This product is an excellent tool to combat the spread of germs in school cafeterias. It is formulated to reduce the presence of pathogens and disease-causing bacteria, preventing contamination during food preparation and consumption.
Frequent handwashing is critical for minimizing the spread of germs, and Symmetry’s Antimicrobial Foaming Hand Wash makes it easy. Its easy-to-rinse, fragrance free and gentle foam, makes it easy for students and staff in cafeteria areas to adopt healthier hand hygiene habits.
The Impact of Hand Hygiene
Incorporating best practices for hand hygiene in the cafeteria and throughout the school lowers the risk of spreading pathogens in schools. By using Symmetry Antimicrobial Foaming Hand Wash in cafeteria food prep areas, schools can proactively reduce the risk of germ transmission.
A Cleaner Tomorrow
Creating a cleaner, healthier school starts with education and access. Teaching students the importance of handwashing and providing effective products like Symmetry’s Antimicrobial Foaming Hand Wash can significantly decrease the spread of illness.
To support these efforts, Symmetry provides innovative resources through the Symmetry Behavior Modification System (SBMS). SBMS is designed to inspire hand hygiene by raising awareness and encouraging action. For example, Symmetry offers Digital Placards to visually remind students and staff of the importance of hand hygiene.
Additionally, Symmetry offers Behavioral Beacons, these beacons use engaging light projections to prompt handwashing at critical moments, creating a fun and interactive way to build healthier habits.
Symmetry also supplies educational materials, such as customizable flyers and informative handouts, that schools can use to promote hand hygiene and awareness among students and staff alike.
By combining innovative tools and educational resources, Symmetry helps schools create an environment where proper hand hygiene becomes second nature, supporting a healthier tomorrow
Curious about how to make your school a healthier, safer place?
Check out the Symmetry Hand Hygiene Program and learn more about our customizable program for schools.