August 22, 2012 • Athletic Administration • Sports Medicine
Three tips for keeping facilities clean, athletes healthy
You know the drill at private health and fitness clubs. First, you use the machine. Then, you clean the machine. Keeping equipment clean and germ-free is important in these facilities because of high traffic.
Likewise, dozens of athletes walk through a school’s athletic facilities, such as the weight, athletic training and lock rooms, each day. Yet the, “first you use it, then you clean it” principle is not always enforced.
These diseases are treatable, but more importantly, they are preventable. Here are some tips to implement in your athletic facilities to prevent the spread of disease.
1. Provide proper cleaning supplies.
Detergent-based cleaners that are EPA registered should be readily available. This type of cleaner kills MRSA and other fungal diseases. Stay away from bleach-base cleaners, because they irritate skin and aggravate symptoms of asthma. Fresh towels or paper towel also should be available to wipe down machines, benches and other equipment.
2. Teach athletes and staff about the cleaning protocol.
Different machines have different cleaning instructions. Some machines tolerate being directly sprayed with cleaner. Other machines, typically those with built-in electronics, have more delicate cleaning instructions.
Hanging signs in athletic facilities is a great way to remind users to clean machines, as well as identify the proper instructions for machines requiring special attention.
3. Schedule consistent janitorial cleanings.
Having athletes and staff take part in the everyday maintenance of facilities is a great way to prevent the spread of disease, but janitorial personnel take it one step further. They deep clean the facilities and have the tools to clean larger areas like floors, showers and bathrooms. Set up a schedule and adjust it depending on the amount of traffic the facility gets.
Making this a habit may be difficult at first. Some athletes might resist, and others might forget. So, give them the facts about the diseases are spread through athletic facilities. Most importantly, remind them that these are simple steps that keep everyone in the game.
You Might Also Like
More than half — 54.6 percent — of the schools surveyed said they would be interested in offering esports to students if the FHSAA sanctioned the games.
FHSAA considers adding esports to athletic offerings
coachad.com
The FHSAA is considering adding esports to its athletic offerings afte...