How can equipment be sanitized and disinfected?

Community and workplace facilities are areas subject to a higher level of person to person contact during operating hours. The first step in knowing how to properly sanitize and disinfect equipment is to identify the places that need it. These can include areas like breakrooms, desks, bathrooms, etc. Determining what to sanitize and disinfect regularly in those areas is the next step, the following are a few examples:

  • Soft surfaces including couches, chairs, carpet, and curtains
  • Electronics including touchscreens, remotes, phones, and computers
  • Frequently touched surfaces can include doorknobs, countertops, faucets, handles, tools, etc.

Instituting Regular Cleaning

Determining how regularly to sanitize and disinfect these areas and objects is based off the frequency of its use. Take for example a bathroom, this area should probably be cleaned more often than the carpet.

Cleaning, in this case, refers to the removal of dirt and grime. It does not kill all the germs residing on surfaces, but rather is a precursor to what’s next. Disinfecting is where all the dirty work is done. By utilizing an EPA-registered household disinfectant, the user is able to eliminate all germs on frequently used surfaces.

When cleaning and disinfecting your facility and equipment, it is good practice to always wear disposable gloves and follow the directions closely to prevent injuries related to:

  • Splash hazards
  • Lung irritation from poor ventilation conditions
  • Possible death or serious injury due to wrongly mixing chemicals.

When using both cleaning and disinfecting procedures regularly those frequented areas become a much safer environment for employees and visitors by reducing the potential rate of infection. These actions are a high priority and necessary as businesses begin to reopen around the country.

 

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