Boy's and Girl's Restrooms

Toilet - Mold

Toilet surfaces are cold so condensation may occur and mold can grow on toilet surfaces. Mold can trigger asthma symptoms for children allergic to mold.

• Wipe toilet surfaces with a damp, soapy cloth daily. Be sure to wipe the back of the toilet.

• Clean the inside of the toilet bowl daily.

• Use the exhaust fan when using cleaners in the bathroom. If an exhaust fan is not available, open the windo

Sink - Mold

Condensation can occur on drain pipes under the sink and pipes sometimes leak. Damp or wet situations encourage mold growth. Mold can trigger asthma symptoms for children allergic to mold.

• Check drain pipes under sink for leaks and condensation. Fix leaks and wipe off condensation.

• Clean any mold growth with a damp, soapy cloth.

Exhaust Fan - Mold

Use the exhaust fan in the restroom during all occupied hours to prevent excess moisture. Mold can trigger asthma symptoms for children allergic to mold.

• Use the exhaust fan when using cleaners with strong odors.

• Be sure the ventilation system is providing enough air flow (50 cubic feet per minute) and return. Increase when needed. Refer to EPA’s Tools For Schools Ventilation Checklist for how to measure air flow.

No Smoking Sign - Environmental Tobacco Smoke

Older students may smoke in the restroom. Environmental tobacco smoke (ETS) is the most common irritant causing symptoms and asthma attacks.

• Enforce smoking bans on school property and at extracurricular activities.

• Encourage students not to smoke.

• Encourage parents not to smoke at home or in the car where children can be exposed.

• For help to stop smoking visit Indiana Tobacco Prevention and Cessation.

Unit Ventilator - Dust & Mold

Many older school buildings use unit ventilators to heat and cool the building and bring in fresh outdoor air. Dust can accumulate in unit ventilators, containing allergic asthma triggers, such as mold spores and dust mite allergens. Mold can grow on the air vent or in the air duct work. Good air flow is needed to help reduce moisture in the air.

• Be sure the unit ventilator is clean and free of clutter.

• Be sure the unit ventilator is working properly and free from pollution sources, such as vehicle exhaust.

• Do not block or close air vents

• Check drip pan under unit ventilator for standing water and mold. Empty and clean any mold growth with a damp, soapy cloth.

• Maintain humidity levels below 50 percent.