Bacteria and microbes can be found in almost every area of the world. You might be surprised to learn that one square inch of human skin contains around 600,000 bacteria. The vast majority of germs do not cause harm to people. The vast majority of germs do not cause harm to people. Pathogens, on the other hand, are disease-causing germs that can be harmful or even deadly. COVID-19, caused by the SARS-CoV-2 virus, is one of the most contagious and fatal infections in modern history.
When selecting a disinfectant to best meet the demands of your institution, there are four major variables to consider. Answering these questions will provide you with a foundation for determining which products are ideal for your shop viral disinfectants.
Effectiveness
Is a disinfectant effective against the bacteria and diseases that are the most dangerous in your facility? For example, you might be concerned about Methicillin-Resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA). The EPA has approved some disinfectants as efficient against this bacteria. Keep in mind that illnesses exist in many different strains, and disinfectants are only licensed for a limited number of them. You’ll have different needs and requirements depending on your industry and facility type – healthcare, education, long-term care, hospitality, etc.
Time to Kill
What is the time it takes for a disinfection product to destroy a certain pathogen? Is it necessary for the product to maintain surfaces visibly wet in order to meet these kill times? Disinfectant formulations are approved to kill specific illnesses in a specific amount of time, and they must remain moist on a surface for the entire duration to be effective. A typical kill time ranges from thirty seconds to five minutes. Make sure a disinfectant stays wet for 10 minutes if it says it will. Alcohol-based disinfectants are prone to evaporate before the required contact time has passed. Read and follow all instructions for use and, if required, rewetting.
Protection
Is the product both safe to use and safe to apply to the surfaces it will be applied to? Some disinfectants are poisonous, some stain, some are caustic, and still others have an unpleasant odor, as you studied previously in this lesson. Check product toxicity and flammability ratings, as well as any requirements for personal protective equipment (PPE) while using disinfectants. Make sure a disinfectant won’t harm the surface it’s supposed to be used on.
Sorting through the numerous types of disinfectants takes time, but it’s an important step in ensuring you’re making the best maintenance option for your facility. Having the correct goods on hand, as well as a sound plan in place to prevent disease and infection, will save time and money in the long run, as well as provide you, your staff, and any guests who pass through your doors considerable piece of mind.
