Sanitizing is the process used to rid or reduce the number of microbes (microorganisms) on the surface. Sanitizing cannot be accomplished until surfaces are clean.
Sanitizers are generally divided into two categories: non food contact sanitizers and food contact sanitizers. According to the EPA, non food contact sanitizers include items like air sanitizers, carpet sanitizers and bathroom sanitizers. Food contact sanitizers remove bacteria from surfaces like eating utensils, dishes and surfaces in food processing and food service situations. Once cleaning professionals understand the differences between sanitizers and disinfectants and the sub categories under each group they can then turn their attention to implementing guidelines.
The following are some basic guidelines for applying sanitizing and disinfecting products:
1) Use products as directed- do not tamper with the product by diluting it ( in order to save money) other then according to the directions otherwise causing the product to have partial or no germ killing benefits.
2) Avoid mixing different chemicals. Do not add a disinfectant to a non disinfectant cleaner. Only EPA approved products should be used for disinfecting. Mixing could be dangerous and non productive.
3) Look for warning labels. All EPA registered products require a warning statement on the label. If there is no warning statement, the product is not EPA registered or approved for use.
4) Disinfectants and antibiotics are different. The efficacy of disinfectants on antibiotic organisms may confuse some users. The truth is disinfecting products kill these organisms in a different way than antibiotics. As long as the EPA approves the testing and you follow label directions for the specific antibiotic resistant organism, disinfectants are effective in killing them.
5) Cleaning implements play an important role. The active ingredients in the product kills the germs, but using contaminated implements (sponges, cloths, mops, etc) can reapply germs to a clean and disinfected surface. Cleaning professionals should replace the implements on a schedule appropriate for the location and situation.
By understanding effective application procedures, cleaning professionals can choose products that serve their sanitizing needs as well as tackle their specific cleaning challenges. Remember a sanitizer may eliminate organisms, but it won't always eliminate dirt and other soils.
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