Back to school: See how Dubai schools disinfect buses ahead of new term

It’s time for students to head back to school in Dubai. But it hasn’t been a usual year for anyone and class isn’t going to be any different. As pupils return to on-site learning on August 30, they do so after five months and amid a global pandemic. In order to ensure the transit is safe, this year buses will run at 50 per cent capacity. However, even before they drive off for duty, they must undergo a stringent set of measures. Here’s a look at what’s happening.

School buses, or School Transport Services (STS), undergo a thorough cleaning and sanitising plan as per safety protocols.

Besides disinfecting the vehicle, schools will ensure precautions such as social distancing (pre-boarding, onboard and de-boarding), regular sanitizing and other safety measures to protect students when they reopen on Sunday.

One way to keep travelers in check will be by posting adequate signage to guide children towards hygiene practices (i.e. respiratory hygiene, waste management, etc.).

Preparing for the new term requires dedication and hard work - especially on the part of the staff. Here they are sticking signs to ensure the adherence of social distancing once school starts.

In the photo above, staff put signage on the seats. Social distancing onboard will be maintained with the use of stickers or marks that will act as a seating plan.

A daily record will be maintained to make any testing and tracing of possible infections easier. A log will therefore also be kept of those absent.

Staff sanitise bus windows. While travelling, all riders, except those younger than 6 are required to wear masks.

Each student while getting on and getting off the bus will undergo a temperature scan. This is in line with coronavirus-induced precautionary measures.

STS staff clean a bus. It’s imperative the vehicle has proper ventilation at all times. The use of windows is therefore encouraged whenever possible.