activity of chemical disinfectants as proof of effective infection control against harmful micro-organisms such as MRSA, Salmonella,
E.Coli, Flu Virus (H1N1) and Pseudomonas Aeruginosa.
“Ensuring the bacteria or viruses are successfully neutralised prior to the operative ‘cleaning’ the area is key."
If you are trying to stop a virus in its tracks BS EN 14476 certification means the cleaning product contains antiviral ingredients required to kill viruses including Poliovirus, Norovirus, Influenza A and Adenovirus.
EN 1276, 13704 and 13697 give specific standards that refer to sporicidal, bactericidal and fungicidal kill properties.
But they don’t just need to be able to contain the germs involved, the cleaning operatives also need to ensure the products are suitable for the areas, items, and surfaces they will be asked to clean.
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Thirdly, having decided on the cleaning product, ensure that the operative is provided with the relevant personal protective equipment (PPE) and that they are trained in its use and that they do actually use it. You would be surprised at the number of operatives who think that their prescription glasses are suitable ‘goggles’.
Remember MRSA came about due to incorrect dosage and contact time, allowing the bugs to become immune to the very products that should have made the areas safe following cleaning.
Finally consider a simple colour-coding system for the equipment and materials in use – proven to be a simple but effective way to control cross-contamination from one area to another. After all, would you want to eat at a table that had been cleaned with a cloth that was last used to clean a toilet?
As winter nasties such as Norovirus, the common cold and Influenza, fast approach, it's important to remember that your cleaning operative is not immune to these illnesses, but they are the first line of defence to public health so ensuring they are protected as well is essential.
www.bics.org.uk TOMORROW’S FM | 43
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