Learning Curve for School Washrooms

Currently, legislation only exists to govern the minimum number of toilets and washbasins in schools – not their suitability or hygiene. Tenon Washrooms’ Product Manager, Mark Clayton-Smith, explores how good washroom design can help.

Whilst legislation for toilets for adults in the workplace, including teachers in schools, sets out comprehensive requirements, those for the pupils are minimal. The result is often that pupil’s toilets are in poor physical condition, with a lack of both privacy and basic provisions. This often leads to low moral amongst students and sometimes health problems, as pupils are unwilling to use the facilities.

Raising the Standard
Four organisations, including the Community Practitioners’ and Health Visitors’ Association (CPHVA) have come together to form the Bog Standard Campaign*, with the aim of raising the standard of provision. One solution to improve satisfaction is effective washroom design and layout. Suggestions include:

Bright, colourful finishes to boost moral Adequate lighting and heating Ease of cleaning to improve hygiene Cubicle panels and doors that offer privacy Thoughtfully positioned and screened urinals Safe and comfortable layout

Specialist manufacturers, such as Tenon Washrooms, have solutions to meet these needs. Tough, solid grade laminate, used in products such as Tenon Premier Plus, can be hosed clean and is impervious to cleaning chemicals and bacteria, ensuring a long, maintenance free life.

For smaller children, bright primary colours and innovative designs are attractive. Reduced height doors and panels appear less daunting and yet still retain privacy. Characters such as Tenon’s “Godfrey & Miss Molly” range help stimulate use of the facilities.

But the key to good design solution is experience, and Tenon Washroom Product Specialists are on hand to provide assistance in this important area. This can include assistance with design, product selection and even installation if required.