How to clean and disinfect after a COVID-19 case

With the below information we hope to help alleviate some of the stress of a confirmed case at your premises and help you have a plan in place to deal with this situation happening.

COVID-Safe cleaning plans

It is a requirement that every facility and workplace prepare a COVID-Safe plan. This must include an action plan and protocols to manage cleaning and disinfection following notification of a confirmed COVID-19 case. Your plan should include the following:

• Engagement of suitably qualified cleaning personnel.
• Building personnel responsible for overseeing the process.
• List of cleaning agents, disinfectants, tools and equipment.
• Validated method of disinfection.
• Processes for ensuring cleaning equipment is clean.
• Storage and accessibility of cleaning equipment.
• Availability of personal protective equipment (PPE).
• Education and training for cleaning personnel which should include the following: − knowledge of appropriate cleaning products and chemicals including safe handling − waste and laundry management − hand hygiene − how to safely put on and remove PPE.

What happens when there is a confirmed case with COVID-19

The  Department of Health will contact your workplace if an employee or visitor has been diagnosed with COVID-19 and have been considered infectious while on the premises. Your workplace will need to be thoroughly cleaned and disinfected before it can be re-opened. A member of the Department of Health outbreak team will undertake an onsite assessment and following discussions with the facility manager, establish which areas are required to be cleaned and disinfected. The area(s) will need to be closed to prevent ambulant traffic prior to and during cleaning and disinfection. When cleaning and disinfection begins, if possible, outside doors and windows should be opened to increase air circulation.

Clean and disinfect

It is recommended you use a cleaning professional.

The following steps are useful to follow as part of the maintenance and general cleaning of your premises

• Thoroughly clean surfaces using detergent and water.
• Apply disinfectant to surfaces using disposable paper towels or a disposable cloth. If non-disposable cloths are used, ensure they are laundered and dried before reusing.
• Ensure surfaces remain wet for the period of time required to kill bacteria (this is known as contact time) as specified by the manufacturer. If no time is specified, leave on the surface for 10 minutes.
• Wipe disinfectant off surfaces to prevent damage.
• Remove and discard gloves. If gloves are reusable, wash with soap and water after use and leave to dry. Wash hands with soap and water or use an alcohol-based sanitiser immediately after removing gloves.

2-in-1 products combine a detergent and TGA listed hospital grade disinfectant product with activity against viruses. These may be used as long as the manufacturer’s instructions are followed regarding dilution, use and contact times for disinfection (that is, how long the product must remain on the surface to ensure disinfection takes place). Swabbing surfaces for COVID-19 after cleaning, is not required. A visual inspection is sufficient.

Clear Choice Nationwide

CCNW strongly believe in the health and protection of our families, friends and wider community which includes you.

We are able to provide deep cleans when a case of COVID-19 has been confirmed, general maintenance cleaning and supply you with cleaning products and supplies to keep your work environment hygienic.

At ccnwsupplies.com.au you’ll find Australian made hand and surface sanitiser options, non-touch sensor operated sanitiser dispensers and social distancing signage. You can also contact us for Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) requirements such as face masks and gloves. Bulk pricing is available.

Please contact Clear Choice Nationwide:

Ph 1300 229 228 
email generalcleaning@ccnw.com.au
Website www.ccnwsupplies.com.au