Reducing Risk of Exposure to Influenza and Coronavirus
Cleaning Supplies that Kill COVID-19
Here are a few important reminders about viruses and reducing the risk of exposure:
- Infectious diseases, such as influenza and coronaviruses, on surfaces and objects naturally die within hours to days. Warmer temperatures and exposure to sunlight will reduce the time the virus survives on surfaces and objects.
- Normal routine cleaning with general soap and water removes germs and dirt from surfaces. It lowers the risk of spreading infections.
- Store and use disinfectants in a responsible and appropriate manner according to the label. Do not mix bleach or other cleaning and disinfection products together-this can cause fumes that may be very dangerous to breathe in. Keep all disinfectants out of the reach of children.
- Do not overuse or stockpile disinfectants or other supplies. This can result in shortages of appropriate products for others to use in critical situations. Alcohol disinfectants can create a potential fire hazard if stored improperly.
- Always wear gloves appropriate for the chemicals being used when you are cleaning and disinfecting. Additional PPE may be needed based on setting and product. For more information, see CDC's website on Cleaning and Disinfection for Community Facilities.
- Practice social distancing, wear clean facial coverings, and follow proper prevention hygiene, such as washing your hands frequently and using alcohol-based (at least 60% alcohol) hand sanitizer when soap and water are not available.
If you oversee staff in a workplace, your plan should include considerations about the safety of custodial staff and other people who are performing the cleaning or disinfecting procedures. These people are at increased risk of being exposed to the virus and to any toxic effects of the cleaning chemicals. These staff should wear appropriate PPE for cleaning and disinfecting. To protect your staff and to ensure that the products are used effectively, staff should be instructed on how to apply the disinfectants according to the label.
Knowledge Check Choose the best answer for the question.
1-2. Which of the following is said to lower the risk of spreading COVID-19 infection?
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