School Infection Control Handbook - 2010

Chapter 4: Selection of Products, Dispensing Equipment, and Application Systems

Active Ingredient in Institutional Disinfectant Produc ts

Bleach (sodium hypochlorite, 5.25% concentration)

Accelerated hydrogen peroxide (hydrogen peroxide/anionic surfactants) Some products using this technology have been third-party certified by EcoLogo to meet environmental and human health criteria. (the EPA does not allow eco labels

Botanicals (e.g., thymol in Benefect ® ) Third-party certified by EcoLogo to meet environmental and human health criteria (the EPA does not allow eco labels on disinfectants)

Quaternary ammonium compounds

Silver dihydrogen citrate (e.g., in PureGreen24 ® ) Listed on the Grassroots Environmental Education’s ChildSafe Products List 16

Disinfectant Characteristics Environmental issues pros and cons

Phenols

Toxic to aquatic organisms 12 Considered a persistent bio- accumulative toxin by Ohio EPA 13 Disposal restrictions in some states; check state and local regulations

Toxic to aquatic organisms 11

Very toxic to aquatic life 14 See the product MSDS Associated with antimicrobial resistance 15

[i.e.,Green Seal certification] on disinfectants)

Additional disadvantages

Not for use on food or food utensils 18

May damage floor finishes, carpets, clothing, and other fibers when used in higher concentrations Has an unpleasant odor flammable products 11 Rinsing is required in applications where direct skin or oral contact can occur (e.g., children’s toys) 17 Must be stored separately from ammonia and

Rinsing is required if direct skin or oral contact can occur (e.g., children’s toys)

Thorough rinsing required See product label for specifics

Not yet widely available through vendors; may need to be ordered Strong odor

Not yet widely available through vendors; may need to be ordered

May damage floor finishes and other surfaces Caution: Do not use around babies

and small children 13

Generally leaves a residue, so rinsing is required

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