Mind your Ps of disinfection

OLATHE, KS — With International Infection Prevention Week (IIPW) recognized around the globe October 14-20, ITW Dymon has released the "3 Ps of Disinfecting" to help cleaning professionals who represent the "front-line" in preventing the spread of viruses and contagious diseases, according to a press release.

"Professional cleaners should be proud of the role they play in preventing the spread of diseases in office buildings, hospitals, schools and other public spaces," said ITW Dymon Director of Sales and Marketing Rich Bucher.

2012 Infection Control e-Newsletter

"By keeping the 3 Ps of Disinfecting in mind, cleaners can further ensure they maintain the most effective first line of defense in preventing the outbreak of disease," Bucher added.

According to the release, the 3 Ps of Disinfecting include:

• First P of Disinfecting 1: Product — It's important to only use disinfectants registered by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), which ensures they have been scientifically tested and proven to perform for their intended use.
• Second P of Disinfecting 2: Procedure — It’s essential to follow the proper procedure when applying a product. Every disinfectant lists a "contact time" or a "dwell time" on the label that could be from 30 seconds to 10 minutes.
• Third P of Disinfecting 3: Place — For the cleaning product and procedure to be effective, it's critical to clean the proper places.

Along with following the 3 Ps, cleaning professionals should ensure they have a clear understanding of the differences between cleaning, sanitizing and disinfecting, the release stated.

International Infection Prevention Week (IIPW) provides a focal point for infection preventionists, healthcare professionals, consumers, organizations and industry partners to shine a light on infection prevention and its power to save lives, the release noted.

Click here to read the release in its entirety.

What are you doing to mark International Infection Prevention Week?