Coronavirus: Hong Kong schools step up disinfection measures as resumption of face-to-face classes nears
- About 20 primary and secondary schools have contracted a local firm to provide an antibacterial mist treatment
- Government-mandated rules introduced this week include having students face one direction during lunch and staying a metre apart when queuing
All schools resuming classes amid the pandemic are required to follow a set of guidelines issued by the government on Wednesday.
While some international schools are resuming classes from May 20, senior secondary students at local schools are to return on May 27, and lower secondary and primary school students in June.
Under the guidelines, objects frequently touched by students – including books, toys, shared objects and floor surfaces – should be cleaned and disinfected at least twice a day with diluted bleach.
At SKH St James’ Primary School near Wan Chai, principal Cheung Yung-pong said apart from thoroughly cleaning the campus with diluted bleach, an antibacterial mist treatment would be carried out in all indoor areas including classrooms, toilets and the school hall.
“In that way, most of the objects indoors will be covered with a protective layer, such as desks and chairs, white boards and display boards. Plus, the protection can last for up to three months … which would cover the period until pupils go on summer break,” he said.