Develop Your Plan
Evaluate your workplace, school, or business to determine what kinds of surfaces and materials make up that area. Most surfaces and objects will just need normal routine cleaning. Frequently touched surfaces and objects like light switches and doorknobs will need to be cleaned and then disinfected to further reduce the risk of germs on surfaces and objects.
You should also consider what items can be moved or removed completely to reduce frequent handling or contact from multiple people. For example, remove magazines from waiting areas to prevent frequent handling by staff or guests. Soft and porous materials, such as area rugs and seating, may be removed or stored to reduce the challenges with cleaning and disinfecting them.
It is critical your plan includes how to maintain a cleaning and disinfecting strategy after reopening from an extended closure. Develop a flexible plan with your staff or family, adjusting the plan as federal, state, tribal, territorial, or local guidance is updated and if your specific circumstances change.
Determine What Needs to be Cleaned
Some surfaces only need to be cleaned with soap and water. For example, surfaces and objects that are not frequently touched should be cleaned and do not require disinfection. Additionally, disinfectants should typically not be applied on items used by children, especially any items that children might put in their mouths. Many disinfectants are toxic when swallowed. schools or offices where children are present, cleaning toys and other items used by children with soap and water is usually sufficient. Find more information on cleaning and disinfecting toys and other surfaces in the childcare program setting at CDC's Guidance for Childcare Programs that Remain Open.
Click here for a Workplace Cleaning and Disinfecting Checklist to use at your worksite.
Knowledge Check Choose the best answer for the question.
1-3. What common surfaces DO NOT require additional disinfection?
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