This article offers guidance on how to clean and disinfect public settings, including workplaces, communal residences, public transit, museums, public libraries, universities, and schools.
Important things you need to know
Surfaces that are touched with hands frequently are the most likely ones to be contaminated. They include electronics, countertops, tables, faucet handles, cabinet handles, light switches, elevator buttons, handrails, and doorknobs.
It is not known yet how long the virus that causes COVID-19 can live on a surface. However, it is suggested by early evidence that it can live on surfaces and objects from a couple of hours to a few days.
Select a product that cleans and also disinfects
Whenever you are cleaning public areas, select products that both clean and disinfect at the same time (e.g. when available, premixed store-bought disinfectant wipes and/or cleaning solutions).
Cleaning products eliminate impurities, dirt, and germs from surfaces using water and soap (or detergent). Cleaning will not always kill germs, but when they are removed, it reduces their numbers and lowers the risk of spreading infections.
Disinfecting products use chemicals to kill germs on surfaces
Only use approved hard-surface disinfectant with a DIN (Drug Identification Number). These are 8-digit numbers provided by Health Canada. The DIN confirms that the disinfectant product has been approved and is safe to use in Canada.
Developing a cleaning procedure
Community setting operators need to review or develop procedures and protocols for cleaning public areas. That will help to determine where additional cleaning or improvements might be needed.
Read the manufacturer’s instructions and follow them for safely using cleaning and disinfectant products (e.g. wear gloves. only use in well-ventilated areas, allow sufficient contact time for the disinfectant to be able to kill germs based on the specific product you are using).
Wash your hands with water and soap or apply an alcohol-based hand sanitizer after you have removed your gloves.
Utilize damp cleaning methods by using wet mops and/or damp clean clothes. Do not sweep or dust since that can cause virus droplets to be distributed into the air.
Place contaminated disposable cleaning products and times (e.g., cloths, mop heads) into a lined garbage can before disposing of them with your regular garbage. You can wash reusable cleaning items using hot water (60-90 degrees C) and regular laundry soap. Clean and disinfect any surfaces that are frequently touched by people.
Along with your regular cleaning, any surfaces that are touched with hands often need to be cleaned and disinfected more frequently, in addition to whenever they are visibly dirty.
You should also clean shared areas like bathrooms and kitchens more frequently.
For all of your commercial cleaning needs, contact Evergreen Cleaning today!
All of us can help to prevent the spread of COVID-19.
