Regular cleaning and disinfection methods, especially when applied too frequently touched surfaces, will help reduce the spread of viruses.
Definitions
- Cleaning refers to the removal of germs, dirt, and impurities from surfaces. It does not kill germs, but by removing them, it lowers their numbers and the risk of spreading infection.
- Disinfecting refers to using chemicals, for example, EPA-registered disinfectants, to kill germs on surfaces. This process does not necessarily clean dirty surfaces or remove germs, but by killing germs on a surface after cleaning, it can further lower the risk of spreading infection.
- High Touch Surfaces – surfaces frequently touched by multiple individuals including tables, doorknobs, light switches, countertops, handles, desks, phones, keyboards, toilets, faucets, sinks, etc. Dwell Time – the time a surface must remain wet, in order to achieve the disinfectant product’s effectiveness
Procedure
Follow the guidelines provided by the disinfectant manufacturer. Some general guidelines include:
- Clean visibly dirty surfaces before applying a disinfectant product.
- Apply the disinfectant product and ensure surfaces remain wet for the designated dwell time.
- Procedures for Office and Common Space Cleaning
Disinfecting Product List:
Product | Type | Area | Kills Coronavirus | Dwell Time |
---|---|---|---|---|
PH7 Ultra | Floor Cleaner | Floors, mop buckets | Yes | 1 Min |
Speedex Fastdraw 25/Triforce | General Cleaner | Tabletops, sinks, etc | Yes | 3 Min |
AF79 | Disinfectant | Toilets | No | N/A |
Simplicity Sanibet | Food Services Cleaner Disinfectant/Toys | Cambros, Pop machines, coffee pumps, kids toys, food counters | Yes | 10 Min |
Cide-Bet II | Foaming Disinfectant | Bathroom sinks, toilets | Yes | N/A |
Deep Blue | Window Cleaner | Glass | No | N/A |
Citrusuds | Dish Soap | Dishes, etc | No | N/A |
BTB | Mildew Remover | Bathroom | No | N/A |
Best Bet | Creame Cleanser | Bathroom Porcelain | No | N/A |
Rest Stop | Germicide/Disinfectant | Bathroom Toilets | No | N/A |
Fiber Pro Extraction Cleaner | Carpet Cleanser | Carpeted Floors | No | N/A |
Instructions –
Hard (Non-porous) Surfaces
- Recommended to wear disposable gloves when cleaning and disinfecting surfaces. Either way Clean hands immediately after. Gloves, if used, should be discarded after each cleaning.
- If surfaces are dirty, they should be cleaned prior to disinfection.
- For disinfection, spray surfaces and allow disinfectant to stay wet on the surface for the dwell time. Wipe with a clean cloth or paper towel. Dispose of the paper towel or put the cloth in the return bin.
Soft (Porous) Surfaces
- For soft (porous) surfaces such as carpeted floors, rugs, and drapes, remove visible contamination if present and clean with appropriate cleaners indicated for use on these surfaces. After cleaning:
- Launder items as appropriate in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions. If possible, launder items using the warmest appropriate water setting for the items and dry items completely. § Otherwise, use products that are EPA-approved for use against the virus that causes COVID-19 external icon and that are suitable for porous surfaces.
- For carpet and cushions use GE Fight Bac in sprayers (spray bottles or pump sprayers) and lightly spray over the areas. Mix without dilution.
Electronics
- For electronics such as cell phones, tablets, touch screens, remote controls, and keyboards, remove visible contamination if present.
- Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for all cleaning and disinfection products.
- Consider the use of wipeable covers for electronics.
- If no manufacturer guidance is available, spray the rag with the disinfectant and then use the rag on the electronic screen or item. Dispose of the paper towel or put the cloth in the return bin.
- Click Here for instructions on cleaning microphones
Always wash your hands thoroughly after cleaning areas or items. Gloves are always recommended.
SDS Reference Sheets: