Infection Control Cleaning

The Principles of Infection Control Cleaning

The key to effective infection control is a two-step approach: cleaning followed by disinfecting.

1. Cleaning: This is the first and most important step. It involves physically removing germs, dirt, and impurities from surfaces using soap and water or a detergent. This process, which can be done with a microfiber cloth, reduces the number of germs on a surface, making the subsequent disinfection more effective.

2. Disinfecting: After cleaning, a disinfectant is applied to kill remaining germs. This is where the term "infection control" really comes into play. Disinfectants, such as EPA-registered products, alcohol-based solutions with at least 70% alcohol, or properly diluted bleach solutions, are used to kill viruses, bacteria, and other pathogens. It's crucial to follow the manufacturer's instructions for "contact time" or "dwell time," which is the amount of time the disinfectant needs to remain on the surface to be effective.

Key Areas to Target

When an employee has been sick, the focus of the cleaning should be on their personal workspace and all high-touch surfaces in the surrounding area. This includes:

• The Employee's Workspace: The desk, keyboard, mouse, phone, monitor, and chair arms should be thoroughly cleaned and disinfected. Soft surfaces like fabric chairs and carpets should be vacuumed with a HEPA filter-equipped vacuum to capture and contain airborne particles.

• Common Area High-Touch Surfaces: Pathogens can easily be spread from a sick person's cubicle to other shared spaces. Therefore, a comprehensive infection control cleaning plan should also cover:

  • Doorknobs and handles

  • Light switches

  • Break room countertops, microwave handles, and refrigerator handles

  • Restroom faucets and stall handles

  • Copiers, printers, and shared telephones

  • Elevator buttons and stair railings

Best Practices for Office Infection Control

• Isolate the Area: If possible, close off the affected area for a period of time (e.g., 24 hours, or as long as feasible) before cleaning and disinfecting. This allows any airborne germs to settle on surfaces.

• Use Proper Personal Protective Equipment (PPE): Cleaning staff should wear disposable gloves and, depending on the products used, a gown or other protective gear to prevent cross-contamination and protect themselves from the cleaning chemicals.

• Increase Ventilation: Open windows and doors to increase air circulation in the space during and after cleaning. This helps to remove airborne contaminants.

• Implement a Routine: The best defense against infectious illness is a proactive approach. Offices should have a routine cleaning schedule for high-touch surfaces, even when no one is known to be sick.

• Educate Employees: Encourage sick employees to stay home, and provide resources like hand sanitizer and disinfectant wipes for personal use. Proper hand hygiene remains one of the most effective ways to prevent the spread of illness.

By following these protocols, a business can significantly reduce the risk of an infectious illness spreading throughout the workplace, protecting the health of its entire staff.