6 Steps for Safe & Effective Disinfectant Use

Proper cleaning and disinfecting procedures performed by a well-trained and professional cleaning staff can play a critical role in protecting public health. A clean and hygienic building environment contributes to overall building occupant wellness and reduced absenteeism, and helps to project a positive image for a facility.

Heightened concerns about potential outbreaks of disease which can be spread via surfaces in the public spaces where people go to work, learn, relax, and heal will continue to highlight the importance of a well-informed cleaning and disinfecting protocol.

And while disinfectants can play a critical role in minimizing the risk of potential exposure of building occupants to pathogens on hard surfaces in public spaces, workplaces, businesses, schools, and homes, care should always be taken when determining the appropriate amount of disinfectant to use, and the appropriate setting in which to use it.

The United States Environmental Protection Agency (U.S. EPA) in partnership with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has published the following recommendations for how to safely and effectively use disinfectants in your space. 

In addition to this guidance from the U.S. EPA and CDC, as well as the available modules offered on the WAXIE University training platform, the following links can also be helpful supplements in implementing a safe and effective cleaning and disinfecting plan to help protect building occupant health in your facility:

• U.S. EPA and CDC Guidance for Cleaning and Disinfecting
• CDC Reopening Guidance for Cleaning and Disinfecting Public Spaces, Workplaces, Businesses, Schools, and Homes
• National Pesticide Information Center – Disinfectants and COVID-19
• ChemicalSafetyFacts.Org – Guidance on How to Use Disinfectants Safely
• Green Seal and Healthy Schools Campaign Guidelines for COVID-19 Cleaning and Disinfection
• San Francisco Environment and Responsible Purchasing Network Safer Products and Practices for Disinfecting and Sanitizing Surfaces