Disinfection vs Decontamination
March 30, 2020 by Rebecca Phillips
In light of the new "super virus" break outs many argue that disinfecting at home or at work is not enough. The belief is decontamination is king. The problem is, how can a space touched and inhabited by numerous people ever actually be decontaminated. And, if it can, for how long?
With the recent outbreak of COVID-19, businesses as well as individuals are wanting to eliminate the threat within their homes, or more importantly...at work. Decontamination is the process of decreasing antimicrobial presence in an area or on a surface. Sterilization is actually a type of decontamination along with disinfection and antisepsis. Disinfection is not done to remove all contaminants, but instead reduces the amount of contamination. In our day to day lives, disinfection seems to be the most realistic option when it comes to fighting pathogens. Pathogens encompass viruses, bacteria, fungus, and parasites. Fighting these threats need to be done safely and with proper procedures.
If possible, use gloves during your disinfection cleaning. Start by removing all debris from your home or work space either by vacuuming or sweeping. Then use proper EPA registered chemicals, such as Lysol or Clorox products known to kill bacteria and viruses. Remember, not every product kills them all. You can read the label to make sure the product is registered with the EPA and to see what strains of bacteria and viruses the product kills. Follow the directions on the bottle, always using clean disposable cloths wiping in a method as not to recontaminate areas that had already been cleaned. Focus on "high touch" areas such as grab rails, bathrooms, kitchen counters, remotes, etc. Keeping laundry clean and even steam cleaning upholstered furniture helps limit the risk of your home or office becoming contaminated. Daily disinfection of high touch areas is highly recommended.
Often a space may be too large or inhabited by too many people to tackle on your own. In this event it may be time to call in the professionals. A bio-hazard clean up company like, Bio-One would be the best solution. Companies such as Bio-One have highly trained technicians using proprietary chemicals, known for killing some of the strongest pathogens. They also follow strict protocol for proper cleaning technique and proper equipment allow for optimal conditions to reduce the risk of contaminants wreaking havoc in your daily lives.
Bio-One is committed to providing excellent service in disinfection, suicide cleanup, homicide cleanup, hoarding situations, junk removal, deceased animal recovery, feces removal, pest and rodent droppings and much more. We are independently owned and operated by a member of your local community. For more information, visit us at BioOneCherokeeCounty.com or email at Info@BioOneCherokeeCounty.com.
