Cleaning and Disinfection
There are several things to do when cleaning and disinfecting surfaces in K-12 school work areas.
- Consult general CDC guidance for cleaning and disinfecting worksites, which may help guide planning for COVID-19 disinfection.
There are several things to do when cleaning and disinfecting surfaces in K-12 school work areas.
- Refer to List N on the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) website for EPA-registered disinfectants that have qualified under EPA's emerging viral pathogens program for use against SARS-CoV-2.
- Reduce the risk of asthma among staff and students and health effects related to disinfecting by selecting less-toxic disinfectant products on list N with asthma-safe ingredients (e.g., citric acid or lactic acid). Review the NIOSH/OSHA Information sheet protecting workers who use cleaning chemicals. Vapors from cleaning products can linger long after being applied, which can exacerbate asthma symptoms and expose students and staff to potentially harmful substances.
- Follow label directions for appropriate dilution rates and contact times.
- Provide staff training on chemical hazards and manufacturer's directions.
- Minimize exposure to cleaning and disinfectant chemicals without compromising disinfection. Consider steps, such as:
- Use pre-mixed (ready-to-use) cleaning and disinfectant products instead of having to mix or dilute product.
- Use enclosed mixing/diluting dispenser systems to accurately mix products and minimize exposures.
- Avoid using spray products to clean surfaces such as mirrors and windows, using wipes or pre-soaked rags instead.
- Use containers/buckets with lids to store cleaning wipes/rags or product, and keep lids closed when not cleaning surfaces.
- Read and follow all instruction labels to ensure safe and appropriate use. Do not use stronger concentrations than recommended. They will not be more effective and could exacerbate asthma and other chemical-related health conditions.
- Establish a written protocol for the increased cleaning and disinfecting of all areas, such as restrooms, locker rooms, office work areas, cafeterias, break areas, and common spaces.
- Frequently clean push bars and handles on any doors that do not open automatically and handrails on stairs or along walkways.
- Frequently clean physical barriers (if used).
- Ensure staff keep cleaning and disinfectant products out of children's reach and stored in a space with restricted access.
Knowledge Check Choose the best answer for the question.
2-6. Which action should you take to minimize exposure to cleaning and disinfectant chemicals?
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