Cleaning and disinfecting for COVID-19 virus

From the Editor: Updated with Reopening Guidance 5/18/20

The global pandemic occurring right now is causing us all to be more cautious when it comes to the cleaning and disinfecting of our home and workspaces. Especially those who are still coming into work and potentially encountering the public and those who may be sick. The CDC has recommendations when it comes to cleaning and disinfecting. 

According to the CDC, cleaning of visibly dirty surfaces followed by disinfection is a best practice measure for prevention of COVID-19 and other viral respiratory illnesses in community settings. One thing to be aware of is the difference between

cleaning and disinfecting. Cleaning is mostly dealing with visible things (dust, dirt, grime, etc.). Disinfecting removes the contaminants from below the surfaces.  Cities should pay attention to the close contact points, the surfaces that are touched regularly. This could include but not limited to:

• Doorknobs, handles, locks, window latches
• Light switch plates, alarms
• Cupboard handles and drawer handles
• Handrails and elevator buttons
• Bathrooms
• Tablets, smart phones, radios
• Computers- keyboard, monitor, control pad, and mouse
• Desks and chairs, especially important if these are shared stations
• Printers
• Remote controls
• Sinks, refrigerators, microwaves
• Countertops
• Buttons, switches and controls
• Vacuums, mops, mop buckets, and other cleaning equipment

The CDC recommends the following on how to clean and disinfect:

• For hard surfaces that are dirty, they should be first cleaned with detergent or soap prior to disinfecting. When disinfecting hard surfaces, most common EPA-registered household disinfectants should be effective. 
• For soft surfaces (carpet, rugs, drapes, etc.) remove visible contamination first and clean with recommended cleaners for the surface. Once cleaned, if items can be washed, wash per manufacturer’s instructions, using the warmest appropriate water setting. Also, dry items completely. 
• For electronics remove visible contamination if present and follow manufacturer’s instructions for cleaning and disinfecting products. If no guidance from manufacturer, consider using alcohol-based wipes/sprays containing at least 70% alcohol to disinfect screens.
• For linens, clothing and other items that go into the laundry, do not shake dirty laundry (this will help prevent possibility of virus dispersing in air). Hampers/carts that are used for laundry transport should also be cleaned and disinfected.
• If a person was known to be sick in the area, open outside doors and windows to increase air circulation in the area. Wait 24 hours before you clean or disinfect. If 24 hours is not feasible, wait as long as possible.

Another item to consider is the use of personal protective equipment (PPE) when cleaning and disinfecting. The CDC recommends cleaning staff should be wearing disposable gloves and gowns for all tasks in the cleaning process. If gowns are not available, clothing should be laundered after cleaning and disinfecting. Cities should look at the Safety Data Sheets (SDS) before using the chemicals, as certain chemicals pose different risks and hazards. The SDS will also show if additional PPE or measures need to be taken when handling the chemical. The employees who are cleaning should be cleaning their hands often, especially after removing gloves at the end of their shift.

Employees who are cleaning should be provided PPE training which should include when to use PPE, what PPE is necessary, how to properly put PPE on and off, and how to properly dispose of PPE. Employees also must be trained on hazards of cleaning chemicals and bloodborne pathogens standard. 

For more information regarding cleaning and disinfecting, please refer to Cleaning and Disinfection for Community Facilities from the CDC.

Additional CDC Reopening Guidelines:
Reopening Guidance for Cleaning and Disinfecting Public Spaces, Workplaces, Businesses, Schools, and Homes

Reopening America Cleaning Disinfection Decision Tool

Submitted by: Kate Connell, Loss Control Consultant