Feature image for Wash Away Germs

Wash Away Germs

Proper tools, cleaning methods, and staff practices can reduce germs and protect users in busy locker rooms and recreation facilities.

5 min read

Photo Credit: Courtesy of Kaivac

A few years ago, a report on the MSN Living Health website noted that gyms and locker rooms were the dirtiest places in a typical school. While the focus of this report was about schools, let’s face it that gyms and locker rooms can become germ-infested, no matter where they are located.

One of the reasons for this is that these areas—whether in a school, private club, or park and recreation facility—often do not get the proper cleaning attention they need. Caretakers must use the appropriate cleaning solutions, tools, and methods to protect human health, and this is not just referencing steps to eliminate superbugs, such as MRSA.

Common Problems

Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus is very serious, causing an estimated 20,000 deaths each year. But it is not the only disease that can possibly be contracted from using a gym locker room. The following are some of the most common—albeit less serious—infections and diseases that can result: