School sanitisation: products and protocols

Updated on 2026-07-06

How to organise cleaning, sanitisation and disinfection of school environments: differences, protocols for classrooms, restrooms and high-touch surfaces, products that are safe for children and compliant with the Minimum Environmental Criteria (GPP/CAM).

Cleaning, sanitisation and disinfection: the differences

Cleaning means removing dirt and residues from surfaces; sanitising means reducing the microbial load to safe levels; disinfecting means eliminating pathogenic microorganisms with authorised products (medical-surgical aids / biocides). A school needs all three levels, applied differently depending on the environment and frequency.

Protocols for classrooms, restrooms and common areas

Classrooms and common areas require daily cleaning of floors, furniture and surfaces, with particular attention to high-touch surfaces (desks, handles, switches, handrails). Restrooms must be cleaned and disinfected several times a day with specific products. Gyms, canteens and labs have dedicated needs (food contact, sweat, special materials).

Products safe for children and CAM-compliant

In environments used by children it is essential to choose effective products with a low risk profile, clear labelling and simple instructions for use. For public tenders, many products must meet the Minimum Environmental Criteria (CAM) and, where possible, be EU Ecolabel certified: they reduce environmental impact and are often required in tender specifications.

High-touch surfaces and hand hygiene

Frequently touched surfaces are the main vehicle of contamination: they should be sanitised several times a day. It is useful to add gel/soap dispensers and hygienic drying systems at strategic points (entrances, restrooms, canteens) to encourage hand hygiene for students and staff.

Staff training and documentation

A protocol only works if staff know how to apply it: correct dosages, disinfectant contact times, use of PPE. It is good practice to document procedures and products (including safety data sheets) and to train operators periodically.

How Dipres supports schools

We supply products, equipment and machines for cleaning and sanitising school environments, with CAM-compliant solutions for tenders, consultancy to build the protocol and staff training. We serve schools and institutions throughout Italy, with offices in Milan, Rome and Bologna.

Frequently asked questions

What is the difference between cleaning and sanitisation?

Cleaning removes dirt and residues; sanitisation reduces the microbial load to safe levels. They are often combined with disinfection of at-risk surfaces.

Must school products be CAM-compliant?

In public tenders, yes: the Minimum Environmental Criteria are often required. We offer products meeting the CAM and, where possible, EU Ecolabel certified.

How often should high-touch surfaces be sanitised?

Frequently touched surfaces (desks, handles, switches) should be sanitised several times a day, depending on how busy the environment is.