In theory, odor makes up 20 percent of one’s senses, which is why it would seem to be a priority to ensure a school has one pleasant odor throughout the entire building.
But the smell factor seems to have taken a backseat in maintaining the school and, as a result, I can detect multiple odd smells. One problem contributing to foul odors is the frequency with which custodians take the trash out. Ideally, custodians empty each trash can some time at the end of the day, but this is not the case.
Two to three times a week, new trash bags replace full, used bags.
Presumably, the time it takes for a trash can to become full dictates the frequency that someone empties it.
While this may be convenient and cost effective, it has a negative effect on the overall smell of the building.
Another contributing factor to unpleasant odors is ventilation cleanliness. Fully cleaning a ventilation system is a costly and difficult process that finances cannot reasonably allow for more than once a year.
Expensive or not, dirty vents carry scents of old dust and bacteria. While none of these smells are inherently dangerous, they are unwanted and contribute a negative sensory element to the entire building.
The least controllable aspect of smells in the building are the people in it. By far, the most prevalent source of odor in general are the odors students carry with them. Clothing, hair and personal belongings all have unique scents.
The combination of all three in one room can create one very unpleasant fragrance.
While most ideal solutions for undesirable smells in school are not feasible due to cost and time constraints, it is still possible to take preventative measures against creating bad odors.
For instance, by limiting the amount of trash one generates during the day, they reduce the scent garbage cans give off by keeping them relatively empty.
One should also be sure to shower frequently and do what they can to wear clean clothes daily, so as not to produce any unwanted smells.
If even half of the school population did these simple things every day, the building would have an exponentially better aroma, and school would be a much more pleasant place to be.