 |
|
|
 Green
Cleaning Program
|
|
Download the information below as a PDF. For more
information, contact Building
and Grounds Supervisor
Kevin Mercoglan at (518) 355-9200, ext. 4201.
Green cleaning involves the use of cleaning products that work
effectively while minimizing adverse impacts on human health and
the environment. Green Seal and Eco Logo are two organizations
that test and certify cleaning products as “green.”
The New York State Office of General Services (OGS)
Environmental Services Unit (ESU) developed a list of green
cleaning products approved for school use, which can be found on
the
OGS website.
Importance of Green Cleaning Programs in Schools
Students, teachers, and staff spend eight to ten hours each
weekday in school buildings. Even more so than adults, children
are vulnerable to, and may be severely affected by, exposure to
hazardous chemicals found in cleaners, waxes, deodorizers, and
other facility maintenance products. In addition to the use of
green cleaning products, a green cleaning program uses
technologies like microfiber cloths to reduce the use of
cleaning chemicals and HEPA-filtered vacuum cleaners to promote
healthy indoor air quality. A healthier school environment leads
to a better learning environment for students and working
environment for staff.
Indoor Environment Concerns
The United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA)
estimates that the concentration of indoor air contaminants can
be two to five times greater than the outdoors. Common indoor
contaminants include dirt and dust, chemical vapors, pesticides,
bacteria, and mold. An unhealthy indoor environment created by
harsh cleaning products and/or improper cleaning procedures is
linked to a variety of ailments such as:
• Allergies
• Asthma and other respiratory illnesses
• Infectious diseases
• Fatigue
• Headaches
• Eye, nose, throat, and skin irritation
• Learning problems, and
• Behavioral disorders
Who Benefits from a School Green Cleaning Program?
Students
Children’s physical and mental health can be severely affected
by chemical and other environmental hazards. Increased rates of
asthma, cancer, and behavioral and attention deficit disorders
have been associated with contaminants found in the indoor
environment. Studies have identified a connection between a
clean school environment and improved learning, reduced
absenteeism, and better test scores.
Teachers/Staff
A healthy indoor environment creates a healthy and productive
workspace for teachers, which directly results in a better
education provided to the students.
Custodial Staff
Custodial staff are frequently in direct contact with cleaning
agents. Prolonged exposure to chemicals commonly used for
cleaning can cause injuries such as burns, and respiratory
illnesses such as asthma. A comprehensive green cleaning program
addresses the proper use of cleaning equipment designed for
comfort and safety, and provides training to ensure correct
methods and practices are used. A healthier work environment can
reduce the number of injuries, worker turnover rates, worker
compensations claims, and insurance rates.
Parents as Stakeholders
Parents are important stakeholders in a green cleaning program
and can actively support the program in their children’s school
district. Parents’ support can help ensure compliance and
promote funding to purchase green cleaning products and
equipment. As parents, you will be the first to recognize if the
program is working. Notify your school if you have any comments
or concerns about the effectiveness of the green cleaning
program.
NYS Schools Green Cleaning Legislation
In 2005, New York amended the state Education and Finance Laws
and thereby became the first state in the nation requiring
mandatory use of green cleaning products in elementary and
secondary schools. This legislation includes school districts,
special act school districts, city school districts in cities
having a population of 125,000 or more people, boards of
cooperative educational services, charter schools, approved
private schools for the education of students with disabilities,
state-supported schools for the deaf or blind, and any other
private or parochial school. The law went into effect on
September 1, 2006.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do Green Cleaning Programs really make a difference within
schools?
Green cleaning programs are designed to improve the health and
wellbeing of everyone in the school. An effective program
promotes a healthier facility with improved indoor air quality,
reduces environmental and health impacts, and may positively
affect students’ grades and attendance.
Are Green Cleaners as effective as traditional cleaners?
Yes, most green cleaners are as effective as traditional
cleaners when used properly. All OGS-approved products have
undergone a rigorous certification and review process (i.e.,
Green Seal or Eco Logo) to ensure they adhere to strict
performance standards and meet environmental and human health
criteria.
How much does a Green Cleaning Program cost?
Many green cleaning products are cost competitive and offer the
same cleaning power as traditional cleaners. Because green
cleaning products are often sold in concentrated form, the
actual in-use cost may actually be less than some traditional,
“ready-to-use” alternatives. In addition, the health benefits of
implementing a green cleaning program outweigh any extra cost of
the program.
Who is responsible for the implementation of a Green
Cleaning program within a district?
Implementation of a comprehensive green cleaning program
requires support and cooperation of many stakeholders including
administrative and custodial staff, students, teachers,
parents/PTA, and the school board. Together the funding,
support, and implementation of a green cleaning program; and
ensure that defined goals and objectives for the program are
met.
Can I bring a cleaner into the school from home?
In order for the program to be effective, only OGS-approved
green cleaning products must be used within the school. The
school district actively works with staff to address cleaning
issues. The staff, as stakeholders, play a key role in
successful implementation of a green cleaning program.
|
|
 |
|
|
