The cleaning and disinfection techniques are important. If detergents and disinfectants are not used in the correct way, areas will not be cleaned effectively and unduly high levels of microbial contamination will remain as the disinfectant will not penetrate layers of dirt.
Defined cleaning and disinfection steps must be in place, such as:
Sweeping away dust and debris (if applicable).
Applying a detergent solution through wiping or mopping.
Ensuring that the detergent has dried.
Applying a disinfectant solution through wiping or mopping.
Keeping the surface wet until the contact time has elapsed.
Removing disinfectant residue through wiping or mopping with water for injections or 70% IPA.
Detergents and disinfectants for use on surfaces (walls, floors) must be applied using the double or triple-bucket system to avoid cross contamination. Both of these techniques involve using a bucket of disinfectant and a bucket of water. In the “two-bucket” technique there is a “wringer” (for the mop) over the bucket of water. In the “three-bucket” technique there is a third bucket, empty except for having a wringer mounted over it.