DEPARTMENT OF ENVIRONMENTAL & OCCUPATIONAL HEALTH SCIENCES | SCHOOL OF PUBLIC HEALTH deohs.washington.edu 1. Start by asking: “Do I need to disinfect?” If not, use fragrance free soap/detergent and water or an all-purpose cleaner with Safer Choice, Green Seal, Cradle to Cradle, or Ecologo labels. Soap and water, with microfiber cloths or mops, gets rid of 99% of bacteria. 2. Routinely clean all frequently touched surfaces­ These surfaces include workstations, counter tops, light switches, railings, doorknobs, and equipment (such as steering wheels and machinery). Use cleaning agents regularly used in these areas, following directions on the label. Select products with Safer Choice, Green Seal, or Ecologo labels. Use a clean surface of the cloth to prevent cross contamination. Alcohol wipes can be used on electronics. 3. Select a disinfectant or sanitizer that contains fewer hazardous ingredients. If you determine disinfection is necessary, use products registered by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) for the pathogen of concern. Lists of these products can be found at: https://www.epa.gov/pesticide-labels/dfe-certified- disinfectants. US EPA Design for the Environment (DfE) products are readily available. Avoid sodium hypochlorite (bleach) and quaternary ammonium compounds, if possible these ingredients can cause asthma. Let disinfectants stay glistening wet on the surface or air dry for the right dwell or contact time on the product’s label instructions. Otherwise, resistant germs will remain and grow, which can lead to “superbugs.” 4. Provide information and training. Remember, employers must ensure workers are trained on the hazards of the cleaning chemicals used in the workplace in accordance with OSHA’s Hazard Communication Standard (29 CFR 1910.1200). People need to know the right way to use the products and symptoms of possible harm. Protective equip- ment—including gloves—needs to be appropriate for the product. If information isn’t on the safety data sheet, call the manufacturer for specific glove materials, or ask an occupational health specialist. Use accepted best practices and technology for cleaning. For example, perform restroom cleaning from high to low, toward the doorway, and with dry cleaning tasks performed prior to wet cleaning tasks. 5. Evaluate. Evaluate the plan. Get feedback from people using the products and from those in the spaces where they are used. Develop a Plan This applies all the time, whether it’s a pandemic or not. Develop and maintain a set of written standard operating procedures for cleaning and criteria for when to sanitize or disinfect. This should include schedules for routine cleaning operations and activities performed periodically. Best Practices for Safe and Effective Cleaning and Disinfecting Photo: iStockphoto.com/TDejan Marjanovic