Disinfection takes time and product, and both cost money. So the goal is not to disinfect everything constantly. Instead, efficient disinfection means targeting the right surfaces with the right product and method, and then doing it correctly every time.
Here is how to get better results with less waste.
Efficient Disinfection Starts With Cleaning
First, clean before you disinfect. The CDC notes that cleaning removes dirt and most germs, and that dirt can keep disinfectants from working well. Skipping this step wastes product and time.
Target the Right Surfaces
Not every surface needs the same attention. Therefore, focus disinfection on high touch surfaces such as door handles, faucets, railings, elevator buttons and shared equipment. Meanwhile, low touch surfaces usually need regular cleaning only. For more, read about restroom high touch surfaces.
Follow the Label
Every EPA registered disinfectant has directions on its label. In particular, the label lists the contact time, which is how long the surface must stay wet for the product to work. If the surface dries too soon, the product may not do its job. In addition, measured dispensing keeps dilution accurate.
Choose the Right Method
Wiping with microfiber works well for most high touch surfaces. However, large spaces with many touch points may call for other methods. For example, electrostatic sprayers can help cover complex areas when the product label allows it. Learn more in our guide to electrostatic disinfection.
Train the People Doing the Work
Efficient disinfection depends on people. Crews need to know which surfaces to target, how long to leave products wet and how to handle chemicals safely. Similarly, they need to keep tools separate by area to avoid cross contamination.
Check Your Efficient Disinfection Results
Finally, inspections show whether disinfection is happening as planned. For instance, an inspector can confirm that high touch surfaces were covered and that crews are using the correct products and tools. As a result, you can fix gaps before they become complaints. See also our article on cleaning and disinfecting protocols.
How WOW! Delivers Efficient Disinfection
WOW! Facility Services trains team members on cleaning methods, equipment handling and chemical usage. In addition, our Elevated Clean program includes integrated disinfection and high touch surface programs, and we use a color coded system to keep tools in the right zones. Every program starts with a facility assessment. Then we build a customized scope of work around your building. Once service begins, account managers complete quality control inspections against that scope. Meanwhile, our integrated operational platform technology documents inspections, deficiencies and corrections.
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes disinfection efficient?
Cleaning first, targeting high touch surfaces, following the label’s contact time and using measured dilution.
Do all surfaces need to be disinfected?
No. Most surfaces need regular cleaning. Disinfection is best focused on high touch surfaces and areas with a higher risk of germs.
What is contact time?
Contact time is how long a surface must stay wet with a disinfectant for the product to work, as listed on the product label.
Do I have to switch vendors after a facility assessment?
No. WOW! offers facility assessments at no cost and with no obligation. In fact, you can use one simply to benchmark your current program.
Which areas does WOW! serve?
WOW! Facility Services has its headquarters in White Plains and serves New York, New Jersey and Connecticut, including Westchester County, Fairfield County, Rockland County and New York City.
Make Every Disinfection Count
WOW! Facility Services has its headquarters in White Plains and serves New York, New Jersey and Connecticut. Book a facility assessment at no cost and with no obligation, or call 1-866-780-9966. Want a quick benchmark first? Then grade your current service with the Facility Assessment Scorecard.