Special Considerations for Cleaning and Disinfecting During the COVID-19 Pandemic

The COVID-19 pandemic has significantly impacted our daily lives and highlighted the importance of cleanliness and hygiene. Proper cleaning and disinfection practices are crucial in preventing the spread of the virus and ensuring the safety of ourselves and others. In this blog, we will explore special considerations for cleaning and disinfecting during the COVID-19 pandemic and provide practical tips to help you maintain a clean and healthy environment.

Understanding the Virus

To effectively clean and disinfect during the pandemic, it’s important to understand the virus and how it spreads. COVID-19 primarily spreads through respiratory droplets when an infected person coughs, sneezes, or talks. It can also spread by touching surfaces contaminated with the virus and then touching your face. Therefore, regular cleaning and disinfection of high-touch surfaces is essential.

Follow Health Guidelines

Stay updated with health guidelines and recommendations provided by reputable sources such as the World Health Organisation (WHO) and the Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). These organisations provide valuable information on cleaning and disinfection practices specific to COVID-19.

Use Approved Disinfectants

Choose disinfectants that are effective against the virus-causing COVID-19. Look for products with EPA-approved labels indicating their efficacy against coronaviruses. Follow the instructions on the label, including proper dilution ratios and contact times for effective disinfection.

Prioritise High-Touch Surfaces

High-touch surfaces are areas that are frequently touched by multiple people throughout the day. These include doorknobs, light switches, handles, countertops, and electronic devices. Focus your cleaning and disinfection efforts on these surfaces to minimise the risk of transmission.

Increase Cleaning Frequency

During the pandemic, it’s important to increase the frequency of cleaning and disinfection in commonly used areas. Pay special attention to shared spaces, such as bathrooms, kitchens, classrooms, and communal areas. Regularly clean and disinfect these areas to reduce the potential spread of the virus.

Use Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)

When cleaning and disinfecting, wear appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) such as disposable gloves, masks, and goggles. PPE helps protect you from direct contact with potentially contaminated surfaces and reduces the risk of infection.

Proper Hand Hygiene

Practising proper hand hygiene is essential when cleaning and disinfecting. Wash your hands with soap and water for at least 20 seconds before and after cleaning. If soap and water are not available, use hand sanitisers with at least 60% alcohol content.

Ventilation

Ensure good ventilation in the areas you are cleaning. Proper air circulation helps reduce the concentration of airborne particles, including potential viruses. Open windows or use fans to improve airflow whenever possible.

Limit the Use of Shared Items

During the pandemic, it’s important to limit the use of shared items to reduce the risk of contamination. Provide individual supplies whenever possible, such as pens, notebooks, and other frequently used items. Encourage students and staff to avoid sharing personal belongings.

Educate and Communicate

Promote awareness and educate others about the importance of cleaning and disinfecting practices. Communicate guidelines and protocols to students, staff, and visitors to ensure everyone understands their role in maintaining a clean and safe environment.

Stay Informed

The COVID-19 situation is evolving, and new information and guidelines may emerge. Stay informed and adapt your cleaning practices accordingly. Regularly check reliable sources for updates and adjust your cleaning routines as needed.

By implementing these special considerations for cleaning and disinfecting during the COVID-19 pandemic, you can contribute to creating a safer and healthier environment for yourself and others. Remember, we all have a role to play in preventing the spread of the virus and maintaining cleanliness and hygiene practices is crucial in these challenging times.