A reader writes: “I use disinfectant wipes on almost every surface including phone, key boards, light switches, toilet seats, etc. The label says that I do not have to rinse but I have had comments from tenants about odor and toilet seats. What am I doing wrong?”

Sounds like you are doing a lot of “right” things however, you need to consider using a clean, damp cloth/wipe (just water, not chemical) to follow through with the chemical wipes on key touch surfaces such as toilet seats. Although it is advisable for a person to use a toilet seat cover (or toilet tissue) on a bare toilet seat, it is not always done. This means the person can be touching bare skin to a surface that has a chemical residue on it. I certainly do not know the statistics but out of 100 or 1,000 or 10,000 events some people may be sensitive to this particular product or a chemical in it. The safest bet is to allow the chemical wipe the specified dwell time and then follow through with a clean, damp wipe to remove any residue.

Although I am not familiar with the product you are using you need to understand that it contains not only a disinfectant but also a mild detergent as well as perfumes, stabilizers and other chemicals that may or may not be safe for extended contact. One of my recommendations is for you and all staff to wear personal protective equipment (in this case gloves) to protect your skin from ongoing exposure to the chemicals in the wipes. Please investigate any potential health issues with this product if it is used over an extended period of time. Check the MSD carefully and use a search engine for others who may have had skin reactions.

Custodial Best Practices always encourages going above and beyond in protecting not only the health of your customers but that of your employees as well. Your comments and questions are important. I hope to hear from you soon. Until then, keep it clean...

Mickey Crowe has been involved in the industry for over 35 years. He is a trainer, speaker and consultant. You can reach Mickey at 678-314-2171 or CTCG50@comcast.net


posted on 7/27/2016