Cleaning and disinfecting workspaces during COVID-19

Note: this post is intended for facilities and workplaces outside of the health care industry.

With the COVID-19 pandemic, it is crucial to review and update policies for cleaning and disinfecting your facility, equipment and non-emergency vehicles. A part of your new work routine is to frequently clean and disinfect high-touch surfaces and high-traffic areas, such as doors, touchpads, elevator buttons, taps, sinks and electronic devices, as well as entryways, lobbies, hallways and restrooms. The Government of Canada has guidelines on how to effectively clean and disinfect public spaces during COVID-19.

What to do if your workplace is exposed to a confirmed case of COVID-19

According to the Government of Canada supervisors or managers must:

• request that the employee leave the workplace immediately to self-isolate and self-monitor for symptoms and seek public health or medical advice if symptoms appear

• collect relevant information from the employee
• protect the employee's personal information, including medical information
• employee names should not be disclosed unless deemed necessary in the context of COVID-19
• notify their immediate manager
• identify an alternative individual to perform the employee's duties if necessary
• remain in contact with the employee to stay informed of the employee's health status and help them feel connected and supported
• follow the employee's medical practitioner's or public health direction regarding the appropriate timing for the employee to return to work

Cleaning and Disinfecting

Health Canada is working with disinfectant manufacturers and industry associations to inform Canadians of the products that can be used to help against the spread of COVID-19.

Hard-surface disinfectants

All disinfectants that have a drug identification number (DIN) have been approved for sale in Canada. The Government of Canada has extensive list of hard-surface cleaners approved for sale and use in Canada.

• When cleaning public spaces, choose products that clean AND disinfect.
• Cleaning products remove germs, dirt, and impurities from surfaces by using soap (or detergent) and water.
• Disinfecting products kill germs on surfaces using chemicals.

Cleaning and Disinfecting Porous Surfaces

When cleaning and disinfecting porous surfaces, such as carpets, curtains and other woven fabrics, first clean these surfaces with soap and water. Avoid shaking items to make sure you do not make the virus airborne. Then, if possible, launder these items following the manufacturer’s directions. When laundering items, use the warmest water setting appropriate for the items and dry completely.

Cleaning and Disinfecting Electronics

Clean and disinfect electronics regularly, especially if they have been used by an infected person. Electronic devices include cell phones, tablets, touchscreens, keyboards, remote controls and ATMs. When cleaning and disinfecting electronics follow the manufacturer’s instructions. If there are no cleaning and disinfecting guidelines provided by the manufacturer, consider using disinfectant products with at least 70 percent alcohol.

Cleaning and Disinfecting Non-Emergency Vehicles

Develop and consistently follow cleaning and disinfection procedures for vehicles, with a focus on commonly touched surfaces. Conduct these procedures at the beginning and end of each driver’s shift. Maintain adequate ventilation of the vehicle while cleaning and disinfecting. Refer to the sections on PPE and hand hygiene below.

• Where visible dirt is present, first use a soap and water solution to clean hard non-porous surfaces within the vehicle. Examples of these surfaces include seats, armrests, door handles, seat belt buckles, light and air controls, doors, windows and grab handles. Following the cleaning, follow the Government of Canada’s list of hard-surface cleaners approved for sale and use in Canada. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions regarding concentration, application method and contact time for all disinfectants.
• For seats and other porous materials, first remove visible contamination and clean with appropriate products indicated for use. After cleaning, disinfect with government approved products.

Hand Hygiene

Wash or sanitize hands immediately after cleaning and disinfecting, removing gloves or other PPE, or coming into contact with an infected person. To thoroughly wash hands, use soap and water for at least 20 seconds. When washing hands is not possible, use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer made of at least 60 percent alcohol. Other key times to clean hands are after coughing, sneezing, blowing your nose or using the restroom, prior to preparing food or eating or after public visits or interactions.

Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)

It is important to develop and implement procedures and policies that address the use of PPE.

• Require cleaning staff to wear disposable gloves and, in some cases, disposable coveralls/clothing for cleaning and disinfection processes, including handling trash.
• Ensure PPE materials are compatible with the disinfectant and/or cleaning products being used.
• Follow manufacturer recommendations for additional PPE requirements.
• Remove gloves and disposable clothing carefully and dispose of them properly to prevent contamination of the wearer or surrounding areas. Perform hand hygiene following the removal of gloves.

• For example, wear goggles or face shields in addition to safety glasses if there is a splash risk.

• Coveralls, aprons or work uniforms can be worn if disposable clothing is not available. Launder washable (reusable) clothing following use and frequently perform hand hygiene after handling laundry.

Additional Considerations for Employers

• Work with your local and state health departments to ensure you are following appropriate guidance and protocols for COVID-19.
• Prior to conducting cleaning or disinfecting tasks, develop policies and provide training to staff. Training should cover topics including when to use PPE, what PPE is needed, how to properly put on and remove PPE, and how to properly dispose of PPE.

Health and safety on the job site matter at all times, but they matter even more so during a pandemic. All policies regarding health and safety on a job site should be clearly communicated, and employees should feel comfortable while working. 

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