From 2003 to 2005, fires on school properties cost about $85 million a year. An estimated 14,700 fires required a fire department response: 36 percent were trash fires, 19 percent were fires in open fields, and 43 percent were structural fires. Sometimes, the needs of school security seem to conflict with the requirements of fire safety. In this…

Explores how well-equipped and well-maintained restrooms can help prevent their being vandalized. Products such as no-touch soap systems, sensor-operated faucets, and graffiti-resistant partitions are discussed as is the use of vandal-resistant materials for the restroom's interior space. Finally, specific school policies are detailed that can…

Explores school bathroom vandalism prevention strategies and tips in improving sanitary conditions. Ways of removing temptation from primary bathroom targets are highlighted, including adding warm-air hand dryers and sensor faucets. (GR)

Describes ways to make school washrooms more vandal resistant and cost effective through the use of durability and use-and-abuse criteria. Explores washroom accessory and toilet-partition selection and discusses additional vandal-prone concerns such as mirror and dispenser protection. (GR)

Discusses how creative planning can help schools to keep washroom traffic moving, deter vandalism, and reduce maintenance. (EV)

Discusses planning techniques that help reduce washroom vandalism and also comply with the Americans with Disabilities Act. Guidelines for washroom accessories are highlighted, and accessory mounting and location tips are explored. Suggests use of heavy-duty installation configurations in combination with institutional hardware and…

Public or private, K-12, college or university, no one knows their facilities better than school maintenance and operations staff--from the front-line custodians to facility managers. When it comes to planning restrooms for new construction and renovation, operational experience is especially critical. Applying best practices in advance can save…