The Truth Behind Fogging: CDC Recommended Cleaning and Disinfection Procedures for COVID-19

As we are facing the new normal, government organizations like the CDC have come together to give us real-time updates and best practices to continue to be safe. This includes guides focused on cleaning versus disinfecting, targeted to teach people how to best disinfect coronavirus and other common household germs, including cold and flu viruses. As a best practice, the CDC has approved a disinfection process, by utilizing EPA registered and approved chemicals, reducing the risks associated with COVID-19 and limit its spread.

Most of these cleaners require that a surface be cleaned with either a soap and water mixture or detergent. Once dry, the surface should then be sprayed to help combat common germs and viruses on surfaces.

The approved list of cleaners, also known as the EPA “List N” is believed to be the most effective at eradicating the virus that causes COVID-19.

For example, by wiping the surface, the friction caused by the application of the disinfectant with towels ensures maximum contact with the virus, which will lead to the greatest risk reduction.

Simply ‘Fogging’ Could be a Violation of Federal Law

Simply “fogging” an area with a disinfectant does not meet EPA-registered label requirements without proper pre-cleaning and may be a violation of federal law.  More importantly, improper application of the disinfectant can lead to a false sense of security, an increase in health hazards and not be effective at reducing the risk of the spread of COVID-19.

However, the CDC hasn’t deemed the “fogging” method as the most effective way to combat COVID-19, as it doesn’t clean the affected surface.

Recommended EPA-registered Disinfectants

The EPA-registered disinfectants that Aftermath Services uses for eradication of SARS Co-V-2 are on the EPA “List N” and require a spray or wipe application.  Aftermath Service’s full suite of virus eradication programs have been developed using CDC and EPA approved processes and guidelines to protect you, your family, your business and the community.

The CDC recommends using EPA-registered disinfectants with an emerging virus claim, according to label directions, and following a cleaning of the surface.  No disinfectant will be effective unless the surface is first cleaned with soap and water or with an appropriate detergent. Every EPA-registered disinfectant also requires a specific length of contact time in which the surface must remain wet with the disinfectant, prior to air drying or mechanical rinsing/drying.

As the number of COVID-19 cases rises, more and more businesses and organizations are faced with the aftermath of having an individual at their facility with a confirmed case. It is imperative that CDC approved disinfection processes, with EPA registered and approved chemicals, are used to reduce the risks associated with COVID-19 and limit its further spread.

Commercial COVID-19 Cleaning & Disinfection

COVID-19 is an extremely serious situation and we understand that the health and safety of you, your family, and employees are on the line. Don’t take any chances; call in the professionals.

Read More Information on COVID-19

 

From Reno to Albany, Aftermath provides professional biohazard, crime scene and coronavirus cleanup services to families, employers, and communities. We are dedicated to providing emergency rapid response 24/7/365, so we’ll be there whenever and wherever you need us. When you find yourself asking “What now?”… call Aftermath. 

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