This informative article is reblogged from our furniture partner Global.
As a trusted partner, Global is ready to support you as we “reboot the
workplace.” We have over 35 years of experience partnering with hospitals
to create furniture and infection-prevention protocols that set the standard
for safety and wellness. Applying this experience to the workplace, we have
compiled the following information to assist you in undertaking the correct
disinfecting procedures for your Global furniture.
Cleaning, disinfecting and sanitizing: know the difference
While many interchangeably use the words cleaning, disinfecting and
sanitizing – they are not the same.
What is the difference?
Cleaning: removes visible dirt, soil and debris. It does not disinfect.
Disinfecting: eliminates bacteria, fungi and certain viruses. It does not
remove dirt (clean).
Sanitizing: reduces the number of germs on surfaces or objects to a safe
level, as judged by public health standards or requirements. It does not
eliminate them.
Creating an effective housekeeping procedure
An effective housekeeping procedure will contain steps to clean and sanitize, or clean and disinfect your furniture. It is important to select the right products for each of these steps. As previously outlined, products designed to clean will not sanitize or disinfect, and products designed to sanitize or disinfect will not clean.
Additionally, products used for sanitizing and disinfecting also vary in their dwell time. This is the length of time that a sanitizer or disinfectant must be in contact with the surface and remain wet in order to achieve the product’s advertised kill rate. Dwell times can range from a matter of seconds to more than 10 minutes.
Always check the manufacturer’s instructions for details. The EPA website includes information on dwell times for approved disinfectants/sanitizers and their applications.
As part of your housekeeping proceedure, we suggest you apply the “wipe-thrice” method to clean, sanitize/disinfect, and rinse.
- Wipe surfaces with a cleaning agent to clean off dirt
- Apply your sanitizer/disinfectant (allowing for the recommended dwell time)
- Rinse the materials with a damp cloth to maximize its lifespan
All disinfecting information contained in this document should be treated as guidelines. Always do a spot test before using any chemical on your global furniture and follow the product directions from the manufacturer.
For a review of materials, cleaners, and what cleaners work the best without damaging your furniture, see the full article. For more information on keeping you and your office safe, please see our COVID-19 response.
