Penalties for lack of toilet paper? GIS announces changes and inspections
Jokes about the lack of soap or toilet paper have become a staple among students. It’s no longer surprising—and often necessary—for pupils to bring their own tissues to school, as many bathrooms lack essential hygiene products. However, upcoming inspections by the Chief Sanitary Inspectorate (GIS) aim to address and rectify this situation.
Including tissues, moistened toilet paper, or antibacterial hand gel on the school shopping list has become commonplace. Students are often expected to provide their own basic hygiene products, as they cannot always rely on their schools to supply them. While organisations like the Pink Box (Różowa Skrzyneczka) continue to advocate for access to sanitary pads and tampons for menstruating students, progress is hard to achieve when even the availability of toilet paper in schools is not guaranteed.
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GIS announces inspections
The issue of access to soap, paper towels, and toilet paper in schools is a recurring concern. Dr Paweł Grzesiowski, the Chief Sanitary Inspector, has now taken a keen interest in the matter. This action follows a decree issued by the Minister of National Education, Barbara Nowacka, mandating that schools provide access to hot and cold running water, hand soap, paper towels, and toilet paper. The decree officially came into force on 11 July 2024.
Do soap and toilet paper affect pupils' health?
In an interview with Głos Nauczyciela, Paweł Grzesiowski stated: "If we neglect basic safety and hygiene principles, especially in autumn when illnesses naturally increase due to the changing weather, we will see a significant rise in the number of sick individuals. As a sanitary inspectorate, we will continue to inspect schools in this regard (access to hygiene products - editor's note). If a school headteacher fails to provide these essential items, they will face consequences. Initially, there will be directives to address and correct any deficiencies, but if non-compliance persists, we do not rule out financial penalties. This is a legal requirement that must be met."
When asked about the potential fines, the inspector explained: "The sanitary inspection typically imposes fines. These are not substantial amounts but can be up to PLN 500, imposed on the individual responsible for ensuring the availability of the missing equipment. Such inspections will certainly take place in the new school year, although it's important to note that we have already been conducting them."
Source: Portal Samorządowy
