Custodial Closet

Maintenance & Cleaning Supplies - Strong Odors

Often maintenance and cleaning chemicals give off fumes with strong odors that can irritate the lungs and cause asthma symptoms.

• Store maintenance and cleaning supplies in well ventilated rooms out of children’s reach. Do not store chemicals in classrooms because odors are continuously released.

• Choose cleaning supplies that are labeled “non-toxic.”

• Minimize the use of caulks, solvents, paints, adhesives, sealants or other repair/renovation products with strong odors. Be sure to use proper ventilation.

• Avoid using aerosol spray cleaners. Instead mix a soap and water solution to pour onto surfaces and wipe off.

• Use metal shelves to store supplies. Be sure the bottom shelf is six to eight inches off the floor and wall for easy sweeping. Metal shelves should be used for food storage also.

Pest Control Supplies - Strong Odors

Pesticides contain hazardous chemicals that can release strong odors and toxic fumes which irritate the lungs and leave residues children may be exposed to. Mouse and cockroach traps are just as effective as hazardous pesticides, without the harmful residues.

• Consider implementing the Indiana Pesticide Review Board’s suggested pesticide program, Model Pest Control Policy for Indiana Schools [PDF] .

• Do not use hazardous pesticides when children are present.

• Do not allow children to return to the treated area within two hours of a pesticide application or as specified on the pesticide label, whichever time is greater.

• Consider adopting Integrated Pest Management (IPM) methods.

• Avoid preventative uses of pesticides, use pesticides only when signs of pests are detected and other strategies have not worked.

• Consider using baits/traps to monitor and treat for pests. Rodent baits (in pellet or granular form) should not be used in schools. Rodents may move and store bait within children’s reach, which can be mistaken for candy.

• Be sure that pesticides are applied by a certified pesticide applicator or registered technician, certified by the Indiana Office of State Chemist  (OISC) – Contact OISC at (765)494-1492 or visit the OISC website for information on certification.

• Report signs of pests to the appropriate personnel, note on the Pest Sighting Log.

Mop & Bucket - Pests

Dirty mops and buckets can harbor food and water for pests. Cockroaches produce powerful allergens that can cause asthma attacks in children allergic to cockroaches. Empty and rinse out mop bucket daily and hang mop up to dry. This will aid in preventing pests.

Floor Drain - Pests

Floor drains can become breeding grounds for pests, such as flies or cockroaches, due to standing water.

• Be sure drain traps are cleaned on a regular basis.

• Consider using cockroach sticky traps to monitor for cockroaches and other insects. These are non-toxic and safe around food.

• Pouring bleach down the drain will not get rid of flies. If flies are a problem, consider using natural fly traps.

Air Vent - Strong Odors

Maintenance and cleaning chemicals give off fumes with strong odors that can irritate the lungs and cause asthma symptoms.

• Custodial closets should have an increase air flow and exhaust to reduce strong odors.

• Be sure the ventilation system is providing enough air flow. Increase as needed.

• Do not block air vents.

Sink - Mold

Drain pipes under the sink may develop leaks over time, encouraging 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 and/or mold with a damp, soapy cloth.

• Check under sink for signs of pests.

• Seal any cracks or crevices with caulk.