Dead-On Dilution

A cursory review of many of today’s maintenance magazines shows the wide variety and range of cleaning chemicals on the market. These chemicals claim to be effective in performing certain cleaning tasks, and many of the companies that advertise the cleaning chemicals are highly reputable, as are the distributors that sell them.

Still, too often the end user expects the chemical to do all it claims to do and more, instantly, and with the use of very little “elbow grease.” In today’s world of cost containment and increased efficiencies, end users are looking for chemicals that work quickly, easily and that do the job right the first time.

Many end users would like to find the one cleaner that will do absolutely everything. But reputable manufacturers, distributors and knowledgeable end users are aware that there is no one miracle chemical on the market that will do all things for all people. (If there was, the authors would have invented it.)

There are all sorts of myths surrounding cleaning chemicals, many of which were published in Contracting Profits, September / October 1996 in the article “The All-In-One Myth.” In that article the authors state: “Cleaning chemicals marketed as cure-all remedies rarely live up to expectations. Don’t believe the hype.”

In order for any chemical to perform to the manufacturer’s specifications, certain conditions or variables must be considered. By knowing what they are, all parties in the cleaning equation will be satisfied that they have bought or sold the right disinfectant or cleaning chemical for the tasks at hand. Lack of knowledge by the chemical distributor and end user can be a recipe for disaster. On the other hand, product knowledge can provide the dilution solution for chemicals and help one clean up with the correct products for the job.

Mix ‘n’ Match
At least four elements are involved in cleaning in the traditional model equation. Besides the chemical that is used for cleaning, time, temperature and agitation (TACT) are all considerations. Of these, the key element is the chemical and matching it to the soil that needs to be removed. For instance, acidic-based cleaners may be best for removing scale in a toilet fixture; however, a disinfectant may be more effective in killing odors.

No disinfectant or chemical works instantly — there is a time element called “dwell” time. This is the time needed for the chemical to reach maximum efficacy. For instance, the time needed for a disinfectant to eliminate bacteria is sufficient “dwell time.” According to the Soap and Detergent Association (SDA), “Two-thirds of adults (65 percent) don’t understand that disinfectants have a wait time to work.” Still, even if one has the right chemical and allows the needed dwell time, there is no guarantee that the chemical will work — the water still needs to be the right temperature. Water that is too cold can minimize soil release; water that is too hot can cause the chemical to damage surfaces.

Finally, most chemicals require agitation to work. By combining these four elements, there is a greater probability of success in cleaning with the selected chemical. There are other elements that can impact the effectiveness of a cleaning chemical such as the hardness of the water and humidity. The SDA has a very informative and interesting series of articles about the history, chemistry, safety, manufacturing, products and ingredients of soaps and detergents.

Factors that Matter
Training: The traditional model mentioned above, often called TACT (for time, agitation, chemical and temperature) leaves out one important topic. Training is the only way a distributor or end user can ensure that chemicals are used correctly.

For instance, manufacturers have specific dilution ratios for their chemicals, such as 1:256, which basically means one-half of an ounce of chemical to a gallon of water. If the chemical is mixed stronger or weaker, it will not work.

Also, diluting chemicals incorrectly can be very costly. Chemicals mixed incorrectly can damage finishes and can actually cause the cleaned surface to get dirty faster because of the sticky or clouded residue that remains. Every user must be taught the right use and application of chemicals. All distributors and users of cleaning chemicals should closely follow the chemical manufacturer’s instructions on the container label.

Safety: According to OSHA: “About 32 million workers work with and are potentially exposed to one or more chemical hazards. There are an estimated 650,000 existing chemical products, and hundreds of new ones being introduced annually. This poses a serious problem for exposed workers and their employers.”

Distributors and end users must be thoroughly familiar with the chemicals that they sell and use, and must ensure that all hazardous communication issues and right-to-know issues are taught on a regular basis (usually annually). Current and accurate Material Safety Data Sheets (MSDS) must be readily available for all chemicals, and cleaners must know where the MSDS sheets are located. Primary and secondary containers must be clearly labeled, and training must be documented. Distributors and end users that perform training should demonstrate the proper use of personal protective equipment (PPE). Chemicals should never be combined (unless specified by the manufacturer), and should be kept under complete control at all times. Too often training concentrates on the use of the chemical rather than the safety issues involved. If a chemical is not used safely and appropriately, employees could be injured needlessly and both the distributor and end user will be exposed to unnecessary liability.

Cost and efficacy: Just because a chemical is the most expensive — or the most concentrated — doesn’t guarantee that the chemical will work. High price and high concentration do not ensure superior performance. The distributor and the end user must read all labels and technical data sheets that explain how to use and apply the chemical. A technical data sheet is not an MSDS sheet. It is a document that explains in detail the uses and applications of the specific chemicals, the contents of such chemicals, and the impact that the chemicals have on a particular soil.

Control of chemicals: Probably the biggest mistake distributors or end users make occurs when the chemical is put to use. The human element of mixing comes into play as users “interpret” the manufacturer’s dilution instructions. Some people believe that using more of a chemical is better, while others believe that using less will save the organization money. Both beliefs are false. Too much of a chemical can cause all sorts of problems such as clouding of floor finishes and damage to surfaces — not to mention endangering employees’ health. Too little can cause a huge waste of labor as surfaces will not be cleaned properly and will have to be re-cleaned, creating frustration among cleaners.

Manufacturers recommend the dilution of their chemicals to maximize the “soil releasing” capability of the chemical and to ensure that their chemicals work in a safe and effective manner.

Chemicals should have some form of control for dispensing such as a packet or pouch (versus plain containers with no dispensing mechanism) or a metering device. No matter what dispensing system the end user selects, the control of chemicals will increase the effectiveness and thus increase the efficiency of labor, the single most expensive component of the cleaning equation.

Environmental concerns: The managers of cleaning operations are becoming increasingly concerned about the environmental impact of chemicals on employees, indoor air quality, ground water, vegetation and other related issues. When distributors approach today’s end users they must be able to explain clearly the environmental impact of the chemicals they are marketing.

Cleaning managers are looking for chemicals that have the least impact on the environment but that still perform the cleaning function. In addition, more and more cleaning managers want no residual waste like containers, etc., and want these to be biodegradable, safe and recyclable. Distributors need to market the “environmental friendliness” of their products, while announcing their efficacy and safeness in the workplace.

Generally end users will purchase the chemical that presents the least hazard to employees and the environment. The national media has repeatedly reported on the overuse of chemicals and disinfectants and how such overuse makes bacteria more chemical-resistant. The safest chemical that works will be the one that sells.

Which Works Where?
The world of cleaning needs both disinfectants and general cleaners. It is long known that the sheer act of cleaning using general cleaners and applying the TACT model mentioned above is highly effective in removing most soil and dirt. However, there are cases in which a disinfectant is needed, such as when you are eliminating bacteria, organisms and “germs,” or when an infection control committee or a board certification agency requires a disinfectant. Certain hospital environments are an example of an area that needs disinfectants.

The most frequently used types of disinfectants are quaternary ammonia compounds and phenolic-based compounds. The type to use is most often specified by the circumstance and application. For instance, a “quat” may be used to clean restroom or shower room surfaces; however, a phenol may be required in a hospital that treats tuberculosis. The TACT model must be used for adequate results.

No disinfectant will work properly without the elements in place, and cleaners need to be trained appropriately. The SDA has a lengthy chart of ingredients in several categories of products that is most insightful. The chart can be found at www.sdahq.org.

Proceed With Caution
Caution in purchasing all chemicals is advised, especially when purchasing chemicals with germicidal claims. The Center for Disease Control (CDC) stated: “Persons responsible for selecting chemical germicides should keep in mind that the field is highly competitive, and exaggerated claims are often made about germicidal efficiency of specific formulations. When questions regarding specific claims or use arise, the Disinfectants Branch, Registration Division, Office of Pesticides, EPA, 401 M Street, S.W., Washington, D.C. 20460, can be consulted.”

As humankind’s thirst for knowledge and discovery continues to grow, there are still some discoveries that have not been made, such as the fountain of youth, a utopian society, a germ-free world or one chemical that will clean all surfaces at all times. Until such discoveries occur, manufacturers, distributors and end users are partners in solving the problems presented in daily cleaning operations. By being aware, and understanding the key issues involved with cleaning chemicals, the partners can work together to minimize chemical disasters while marketing and using chemicals that will provide cleaning solutions when used in the right dilutions.

Alan S. Bigger is the director of Building Services for the University of Notre Dame, and Linda B. Bigger is a freelance editor.