Cleaning, Disinfecting, and Sanitizing Guidelines
Ascent’s Disinfecting Protocol is to mitigate health risks by using chemicals and procedures appropriate for each environment - not a one-size-fits-all response.
Killing a virus is a two-step process. If the purpose is to clean and not kill germs, then disinfection is not needed. However, if the purpose is to kill germs on surfaces, disinfection is mandatory after cleaning. It is important to clean and remove visible soils before disinfecting. If a surface is not properly cleaned, germs can hide under soils and reduce the efficacy of the disinfectant.
Here’s how the Center for Disease Control (CDC) defines both: cleaning removes germs, dirt, and impurities from surfaces or objects. Cleaning works by using soap (or detergent) and water to physically remove germs from surfaces. This process does not necessarily kill germs, but by removing them, it lowers their numbers and the risk of spreading infection. CDC guidelines for cleaning & disinfecting found here: https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/community/reopen-guidance.html
Chemicals approved by the EPA for disinfecting and for specific virus’ are specified by their registration number, not a particular brand or product name. See EPA list for chemicals; specifically for SARS-CoV-2. Of major importance for all disinfectants is to follow the proper dwell time as listed on the label. To achieve 99.9999% kill requires the surface remain “wet” with the chemical for the required “dwell / contact” time for that chemical.
https://www.epa.gov/pesticide-registration/list-n-disinfectants-use-against-sars-cov-2
Ascent employs multiple application processes for disinfection with applicable dwell time observed:
Touch Point Spray disinfecting.
Large area pump sprayer / wand application.
Electro-Static sprayer application for coverage of all surfaces.
Ascent utilizes training, support, chemicals, procedures provided by ISSA, BSCAI & Spartan Chemical Company.
Additional Resources:
State of Texas: https://www.dshs.texas.gov/coronavirus/opentexas.aspx
ISSA Guidelines: https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/community/reopen-guidance.html
GBAC trains workers to be Microbial Warriors™, arming cleaning professionals with the planning, knowledge and processes needed to respond to a biohazard crisis in the workplace.
GBAC-trained professionals bring increased value to their employers and customers because they demonstrate the competence to carry out their responsibilities and they have a commitment to the standards of excellence and continuous learning.