How to Disinfect
Disinfection is one of the most important processes in ensuring a safe process in today’s medical/health workspace. Here are a few steps on how to achieve a clean and safe work area.
What to Use
There are several media by which to effectively disinfect you, your PPE or your work surfaces.
Hospital Grade Decontaminant
A liquid comprising mostly of the powerful anti-microbial derivative of a synergistic combination of two powerful biocides and specific potentiator chemistry. This effectively eliminates harmful bodily fluids, spores, micro-organisms, viruses, moulds and lipid and non-lipid viruses. This is usually used in medical applications and is a powerful and potent solution which may be harmful to the skin. Decontaminants also are usually high-volume products for high areas of contamination.
General Disinfectant
A liquid using spirits or a form of alcohol solution to kill bacteria. This is suitable for healthcare but is also suited to public places such as airports, offices, hospitality, public transport or bathrooms.
Wipes
The first ‘Australian Made’ wipe by Westlab. A high-quality IPA wipes manufactured here in Australia. Hospital Grade. Available for export with a current production capacity of 50,000 canisters per week.
Detergents
Detergents are helpful for cleaning equipment or supplies such as glassware, tools or clothing. This is the best form of cleaning for water-compatible/washable products. Look for detergents that are designed especially for the laboratory or are authentic hospital-grade detergents to ensure the right application.
Sanitisers
You all know it – hand sanitiser is a primarily alcohol-based gel or solution which is rubbed onto the hands to kill germs. Look for sanitiser with 60-70% alcohol content. These ensure the alcohol stays on the hands long enough to be effective, but also don’t have so much gel that it leaves your hands sticky.
UV Sanitisation
UV exposure can effectively disinfect items such as glasses, shields or tools. UV sanitisers come in the form of a small cabinet lined with mirrors. This requires protective measures as UV can cause skin damage if not shielded through a special light filter, which is usually included on the cabinet. UV sanitisation is however an effective method of killing bacteria etc.