School Infection Control Handbook - 2010

Appendix B: Selection of Products, Dispensing Equipment, and Application Systems

Appendix B.2. Interpreting the Disinfectant Label: Explanation and Examples Introduction This document provides a comprehensive overview of the information on a product’s label to assist in the selection, use, and management of disinfectants. It is critical to follow the directions on a disinfectant’s label to ensure its safe use and that the disinfectant will work as designed. Every product is tested under very specific circumstances, and the label describes exactly how the product should be used and managed (e.g., how it should be applied, how long it should be left on a surface, how it should be stored). Because label information can sometimes be daunting or intimidating to interpret, this document provides an explanation of the label information typically found on products used in school settings. Label Format Although the length of a disinfectant label varies widely, there is a general format that is used. The information contained on most disinfectant labels can be divided into the following four major categories: I. Product Information II. Use and Management Information III. Safety Information IV. Environmental Information I. Product Information Brand (trade) name Although each manufacturer has a primary brand name for each of its registered products, the manufacturer may also use alternate brand names for the same product. In addition, manufacturers will use different brand names for products containing the same disinfectant active ingredient(s). Ingredient statement Active ingredient – The ingredient statement, which is normally on the front panel of the label, identifies the name and percentage by weight of each active ingredient. The active ingredients are the components of the product that have a pesticide effect on the target microbe(s). Active ingredients are often identified by their chemical names, which may be complex. For example, the chemical name for one quaternary ammonium compound (quat; QAC) may be listed on the label as “Alkyl (60% C 14 , 30% C 16 , 5% C 12 , 5% C 18 ) dimethyl benzyl ammonium chloride.” Usually following the list of ingredients is the amount of active ingredient. The amount is expressed as percentage by weight. Inert ingredients – Inert ingredients are added for non-pesticide purposes, such as to improve a product’s storage, mixing, or application properties. The EPA assesses inert ingredients, which can be toxic or nontoxic. Those present at less than 0.1% or those not considered

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