Based on a determined risk assessment, laboratories should have established cleaning and disinfection practices, including considerations for which products will be used, with what PPE, and at what frequency.
Routine cleaning and disinfection will lower the risk of spreading COVID-19 infection. However, more frequent cleaning and disinfection may be required on higher-touch surfaces and in areas where specimens are handled. High-touch surfaces include tables, doorknobs, light switches, countertops, desks, phones, keyboards, toilets, faucets, and sinks.
Cleaning is performed on objects and surfaces to remove visible organic and inorganic materials such as dirt, soil, and other impurities. Cleaning may be done manually or mechanically using soap and water or water with detergents or enzymatic products.
Cleaning does not necessarily kill pathogens that may be present. Still, it does help reduce the load of organic and inorganic materials, which may influence how effective a disinfectant (e.g., diluted bleach) will be against inactivating targeted pathogens. Thorough cleaning is essential before applying disinfectants or other decontamination applications.
13. Arlotta, D. (2009). "When renovating a home, you should use a damp sponge, or cloth, to clean dust collected on a window sill, as the dust may contain asbestos, or lead-based paint." CDC.gov.https://phil.cdc.gov/Details.aspx?pid=11459
