Using Cleaning and Disinfecting Together Against COVID-19 Infographic and its text description
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Description: Using Cleaning and
Disinfecting Together Against COVID-19
Cleaning and disinfecting work together to reduce the amount of virus on frequently touched surfaces and objects.
Important: Clean dirty surfaces and objects before disinfecting them.
Dirt can block disinfectants from reaching the virus and may contain materials that make disinfectants less effective.
Cleaning
- removes debris and residues from dirty surfaces and objects
- does not necessarily destroy the virus, but can remove some
- prepares surfaces and objects for disinfecting
There are many ways to clean:
- water (wetting, soaking, jet spray, agitation, flushing)
- cleaning products (detergents, liquids, soaps, gels, powders)
- scrubbing or wiping (damp cloths, sponges, paper towels)
- dry collection (dusting, sweeping)
- air (vacuuming, high-pressure air stream)
- vibration (ultrasonic cavitation bath)
Disinfecting
- recommended for frequently touched surfaces and shared objects
- destroys most of the virus
- more effective after cleaning
- follow the instructions on the label for safely using and storing the disinfectant, including dilution and contact time
Disinfection methods and tools include:
- chemical disinfectants (liquid, spray, soak, wipes)
- diluted bleach solution
- boiling in water (100°C for at least 3 minutes)
Also Consider
- how COVID-19 spreads
- which workplace surfaces and objects are touched and used often
- cleaning and disinfecting procedures and training
- selecting effective disinfectants approved by Health Canada for COVID-19
- how to safely dispose of used (contaminated) cleaning materials
For further information on COVID-19, refer to the Public Health Agency of Canada.
Document last updated on: 2021-10-08