Cleaning Before Disinfecting Essential For Spraying

Although COVID-19 and the resulting pandemic has impacted every industry, the jan/san industry has been one of the most affected. The public has taken an increased interest in the hygiene of others and the cleanliness of public places and work areas.

Consider a study reported on by the Associated Press which found that approximately one third of the British population was uncomfortable being in an office or eating at a fast food restaurant. That uneasiness also exists in the U.S. and has resulted in elevated expectations of cleaning improvements and proper hygiene practices.

The focus on facility cleanliness has never been greater and cleaning managers are turning over every rock to guarantee occupant safety. With so much attention being given to cleaners and disinfectants, as well as cleaning frequencies, it makes sense that departments are exploring application technologies that are effective at providing a desired result, while also keeping costs down.

All eyes are on spraying technologies, but there are some misconceptions and inaccuracies being shared. First, managers must understand that spraying technologies such as foggers and electrostatic machines are designed for disinfection, not cleaning. It’s critical that soils be removed from surfaces before any disinfectant is applied. A failure to remove soils makes the disinfectant less effective, thus making the efforts futile. Paul Giamona, sales associate at WAXIE Sanitary Supply, San Diego, says the presence of dirt on a surface will also prevent the proper dwell time from occurring.

“There is a misconception that these are magic machines and they eliminate the need for cleaning,” says Ben Walker, COO at ManageMen, Inc., Salt Lake City. “In fact, these are delivery methods for disinfecting chemicals. Cleaning is a process and disinfection is an important step in that process, but it isn’t the only step.”

Industry experts agree and encourage facility cleaning managers to also pay attention to the specific chemicals before getting hung up on spraying equipment. Is that chemical going to achieve the desired results without damaging the surface? Is it compatible with the spraying technology being used? Will it output at the proper dilution and adhere to appropriate dwell times?

Once the proper products have been outlined and an effective process has been implemented, managers can begin exploring spraying techniques that best suit their needs.

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