Effective Surface Disinfection Methods and Products

Surface disinfection involves the process of eliminating harmful microorganisms from surfaces to prevent the spread of infections and maintain cleanliness.
Application
Microbial Contamination | Infection Control | Cleaning Procedures | Disinfection Techniques | Microorganism Elimination
Prepared by Shruti Sahoo, reviewed by Dr. Eugene Smith

Surface Disinfection FAQ


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What is surface disinfection?

In these reports, surface disinfection refers to “ chemical disinfection of a solid surface, excluding those of certain medical and veterinary instruments by the application of a product (CEN/TC 216) ”.

Why is surface disinfection important?

Surface disinfection (in healthcare and domiciliary environment) plays a key role in environmental infection prevention and control strategies adopted to contrast infectious disease outbreaks. In most cases, the application of correct disinfection protocol is the only concrete option left to restrict virus and bacterial spread ability.

How do I choose a disinfectant for surface disinfection?

The product selected for surface disinfection should be effective against the most common causes of health-care-associated infections (HAIs). Check the disinfectant label to verify the product is EPA-registered as effective against the microorganisms that are most commonly linked to HAIs.

Is a surface disinfectant a product type 2?

Compliance with the Directive is a requirement for placing the product on the market. Surface disinfectants – unless used on medical devices – can be classified as product type 2 in Main Group 1 (Disinfectants and general biocidal products, Private area and public health area disinfectants and other biocidal products).

Why is it important to clean a surface before disinfecting?

Inactivating germs on a surface after cleaning can further lower the risk of spreading infection. It is important to clean before disinfecting because dirt and grime can reduce the ability of disinfectants to kill germs. For a disinfection solution to work, always follow the manufacturer’s instructions when making and applying the solution.

What is a disinfectant & how does it work?

Disinfectants are liquids, sprays and wipes that are designed for use on surfaces to kill germs (microorganisms such as bacteria and viruses). They can play an important role in infection control.

Are hard surface disinfectants required in a healthcare environment?

Local risk assessments may identify additional situations where the use of hard surface disinfectants in the healthcare environment are required. Mechanical cleaning of the environment is required prior to disinfection. If a 2-in-1 cleaner and disinfectant is being used, the mechanical action of cleaning is still required.

Surface Disinfection References

If you want to know more about Surface Disinfection, consider exploring links below:

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