Surface disinfection step by step

Organic soiling such as blood, grease and food waste inactivates many disinfectants. The surface MUST therefore be cleaned mechanically before the product is applied — cleaning is not optional. Disinfection on top of dirt does not work.

Disinfection on dirt does not work. Always clean first.

Rinse the surface free of cleaning agent before you disinfect, unless the manufacturer's instructions expressly allow a combination. Residues of cleaning agent can react with or weaken the disinfectant.

Indicative working concentrations: alcohol (ethanol) 70–85 vol% for surface disinfection; chlorine (hypochlorite, pH > 8–9) 0.1 % = 1000 ppm free chlorine, against spores 0.5 % = 5000 ppm; quaternary ammonium compounds 0.5–5 %. Dilute correctly according to the label — use the disinfection calculator if needed.

Never mix chlorine with acid (e.g. sanitary cleaner) — it can release chlorine gas. Also do not mix two different disinfectants without documentation that they are compatible. One product at a time.

Apply the agent to the dry, cleaned surface with a cloth so that the whole area is covered and evenly wet. Avoid spraying: NIR Cleaning 2.1 advises against it because the spray forms aerosols that are inhaled and can cause allergy and chemical irritation. Areas the agent does not reach are not disinfected.

The critical step: the surface must stay wet with the agent for the whole recommended contact time (for chlorine 1–5 minutes; against spores 10–15 minutes). Don't wipe off too early — concentration alone does not do it if the contact time is too short.

Let the product work for the full time. Never wipe it off too early.

The killing effect of disinfectants is tested and stated according to EN standards under the EN 14885 umbrella. Check that the chosen product has been tested for the relevant spectrum (bacteria, viruses, fungi, spores) at the planned concentration and contact time.

Rinse/wipe as required according to the product's instructions and the place of use (e.g. food contact surfaces). Dispose of used cloths in a closed container, wash your hands, and document: date, product, concentration, room and inspector.