Enhancing Cleaning Safety: Best Practices for a Safer Workplace

cleaning safety - showcasing a pristine, well-lit room with cleaning equipment neatly arranged to one side. The room should evoke a sense of cleanliness and order.

Workplace safety is paramount, especially in sectors where the risk of injury is high. According to ASSTSAS, in the province of Quebec, falls and slips contribute to a staggering 18% of workers’ compensation costs. Alarmingly, this ranks as the third leading cause of workplace accidents in the health and social services sector, encompassing a wide range of job roles.

Understanding the Causes of Workplace Accidents

Before delving into solutions, it’s crucial to understand the root causes of these accidents. While falls and slips are significant contributors, several other factors play a role in workplace-related mishaps:

  1. Fall and Slide Accidents: These can be attributed to wet floors, uneven surfaces, or obstacles in pathways.
  2. Muscle Strains: Often a result of improper lifting techniques or excessive flexion, leading to back and muscle injuries.
  3. Chemical Exposures: Handling chemicals without proper precautions can result in eye and skin lesions.
  4. Respiratory Issues: Prolonged exposure to certain chemicals and equipment can adversely affect the respiratory system.
  5. Electrical and Biological Hazards: Accidental contact with live wires or exposure to biological hazards can have severe consequences.

Seven Proactive Measures to Enhance Cleaning Safety

To mitigate these risks, especially in cleaning tasks, consider the following seven steps:

  1. Regularly Review Work Methods: Periodically assess and update working methods and procedures to ensure they align with the best safety practices.
  2. Risk Assessment: Proactively identify and evaluate situations that pose risks. This includes lifting heavy loads, repetitive tasks, exposure to harmful chemicals, assessing air quality, and overall work organization.
  3. Use Personal Protective Equipment (PPE): Recognize tasks that necessitate PPE. This can range from gloves and goggles to masks and protective sleeves.
  4. Opt for Non-slip Footwear: Especially crucial when working with floor finishes. Non-slip shoes can significantly reduce the risk of falls.
  5. Use Wet Floor Signs: Always use “wet floor” safety panels when cleaning floors. Ensure they are removed once the floor is dry to avoid confusion.
  6. Regular Equipment Inspection: Pay special attention to the electrical wiring of cleaning equipment. Avoid disconnecting devices by pulling on the wire.
  7. Handle Biological Hazards with Care: Treat any body fluid or blood as a potential biological hazard. Ensure you’re adequately trained before attempting any cleanup.

By integrating these steps into your cleaning procedures, you can create a safer environment for everyone involved. Remember, prevention is always better than cure.

Browse of full color catalog: Equipping oneself with quality safety gear is crucial for personal protection and the well-being of others. Our extensive range of safety equipment is designed to prevent accidents and safeguard employees’ health over time by reducing exposure to hazardous materials and tasks. Simple tools like gloves, masks, or protective goggles can make a profound difference!

New training in environmental cleaning for hospitals

training

Today, I am thrilled to share an announcement of a new online training that brings a burst of enthusiasm and innovation in the field of hygiene and sanitation.

A Step Forward in the World of Hygiene and Sanitation

AHSS in collaboration with La Boussole Verte, has taken a giant stride in advancing professional training by launching a basic training course for hygiene and sanitation attendants. This initiative stems from a desire to bolster the foundational skills of new employees in this sector while emphasizing the highest standards governing our industry.

A Multifaceted Training Course

Are you a trainer looking to optimize your orientation program? This course proves to be a treasure trove of information and resources, facilitating your task in integrating new team members.

Moreover, if your current attendants feel the need to refresh their skills and stay abreast with the sector’s latest practices, this course is perfectly suited to meet these needs.

Join Us

We cordially invite you to share this unprecedented opportunity with your colleagues and managers. To secure your spot or to obtain more information, visit AHSS.

We are eager to welcome you and collaborate together to raise the bar in the hygiene and sanitation sector.

Thank you in advance for your attention, and we look forward to reconnecting with you very soon.

See you soon,
Gaétan Lanthier
Expert Trainer in Hygiene and Sanitation

Don’t hesitate to embark on this enriching adventure and to contribute in setting new milestones in our field.”

Better understanding disinfection

Introduction

Disinfection is the process by which microorganisms such as bacteria are eliminated or reduced. The objective of disinfection is to prevent the spread of infectious diseases by reducing the number of microorganisms present. Disinfection can be achieved in various ways, including the use of disinfectant chemicals such as alcohol-based disinfectants, quaternary ammonium compounds, sodium hypochlorite (bleach), or hydrogen peroxide.

Effective Planning and Disinfection Management

This would be the planning. We need to develop a detailed plan for management and disinfection. It is important to identify high-risk areas, determine the necessary equipment, outline the procedures to be followed, and define the responsibilities of the individuals involved in the disinfection process.

  • This is training. It involves ensuring that the personnel responsible for management and disinfection are trained in good hygiene and disinfection practices. They should be familiar with the procedures, the cleaning/disinfection products to be used, and the safety precautions to be taken.
  • This is personal hygiene. We should encourage and maintain good personal hygiene practices among the staff. This includes habits such as regular handwashing with soap, the use of hand sanitizers, and wearing appropriate protective clothing.
  • This is regular cleaning. It entails establishing a regular cleaning schedule for all surfaces and high-risk areas.
  • This is proper disinfection. It involves using appropriate disinfectants to kill germs and reduce the risk of infection.
  • This is ventilation. We should ensure good ventilation in indoor spaces to facilitate the circulation of fresh air.
  • This is waste management. We need to implement an appropriate system for waste management, ensuring the safe and hygienic disposal of potentially contaminated materials.
  • This is monitoring and evaluation. It entails establishing regular monitoring and evaluation procedures to assess the effectiveness of the management and disinfection measures. Adjustments should be made if necessary.
  • This is raising awareness among staff and relevant individuals about hygiene practices.
  • This is compliance with regulations. We must ensure that regulations regarding hygiene are adhered to and that standards are upheld. Therefore, it is important to stay informed about updates and recommendations from health authorities.
The uses/benefits of disinfectant

Eliminates germs and bacteria, ensuring a clean and hygienic environment for everyone.

Surface Disinfection: This category involves the disinfection of surfaces such as countertops, doorknobs, switches, phones, keyboards, faucets, etc. There are specifically formulated disinfectant products to eliminate germs and bacteria on surfaces. These products can be disinfecting wipes, sprays, or disinfectant solutions to be used with a clean cloth.

Hand Disinfection: This refers to the disinfection of hands to eliminate germs and bacteria that may be present. The use of alcohol-based hand sanitizers is common in this category. Hand sanitizers are usually available as gels or liquid solutions. It is recommended to rub the hands with the sanitizer for at least 20 seconds until it dries.

Medical Instrument Disinfection: This category primarily concerns healthcare facilities and medical professionals. It involves the disinfection of medical instruments such as scalpels, syringes, injection devices, probes, etc. In this case, more complex disinfection procedures may be required, such as the use of autoclaves, dry heat sterilizers, or specific chemical agents.

To conclude, disinfection is essential to ensure good hygiene in the workplace, and it requires precise steps to be properly carried out.

links:https://www.lalema.com/

The Importance of Hygiene and Sanitation in Institutions and Industry: Optimizing Management with Dedicated Software

management sanitek

Introduction

In institutions and industry, hygiene and sanitation are essential elements for ensuring the safety and well-being of employees, clients, and users. This article addresses the importance of proper sanitary maintenance management, with a focus on using dedicated software for developing work routes for janitors and sanitation workers. We will also explore the importance of space analysis, maintenance estimates, execution and planning of work, as well as quality inspections, and we will make a reference to the Sanitek tool (www.sanitek.ca).

Space Analysis: The Key to Good Management and Planning

A thorough analysis of workspaces is crucial for determining hygiene and sanitation needs. This step allows for the identification of risk areas, surfaces to be cleaned, and required maintenance frequencies. Specialized software, such as Sanitek, facilitates this analysis by offering features to map spaces, identify sensitive points, and establish appropriate maintenance protocols.

Maintenance Estimates: A Tool for Optimizing Resources

Maintenance estimates help determine the costs and resources needed to ensure adequate sanitary maintenance. A detailed estimate includes labor, equipment, products, and consumables. Thanks to dedicated software, it is possible to create customized estimates based on the specific needs of each establishment, which optimizes resources and improves efficiency.

Execution and Planning of Work: Optimized Management

Sanitary maintenance management software helps plan and execute hygiene and sanitation work optimally. These tools allow for the creation of work routes for janitors and sanitation workers, taking into account priorities and time constraints. They also offer features to track work progress in real-time, ensure communication between teams, and automate certain tasks, such as ordering products or generating reports.

Quality Inspections: Ensuring Compliance and Excellence

To ensure that hygiene and sanitation standards are met, it is essential to conduct regular quality inspections. Specialized software offers features to plan these inspections, generate detailed reports, and implement corrective actions if necessary. These tools thus facilitate the management of quality standards and compliance with regulations, while ensuring a healthy and safe environment for all occupants.

Sanitek: An Innovative Tool for Hygiene and Sanitation Management

Sanitek is a software specifically designed to facilitate the management of hygiene and sanitation in institutions and industry. It offers a comprehensive solution for space analysis, the development of maintenance estimates, planning and execution of work, as well as conducting quality inspections.

With its intuitive and user-friendly platform, Sanitek allows managers to optimize resource utilization, improve maintenance team efficiency, and ensure compliance with hygiene and sanitation standards. In addition, Sanitek offers features for team communication and information centralization, making it easier to make informed decisions and implement corrective actions.

Conclusion

Hygiene and sanitation are essential elements for the proper functioning of institutions and industry. Implementing effective sanitary maintenance management is therefore crucial to ensure the safety and well-being of all occupants. Dedicated software, such as Sanitek, plays a key role in optimizing this management by offering tailored solutions for each establishment.

By leveraging these tools, maintenance managers can analyze spaces, develop customized maintenance estimates, plan and execute work optimally, and conduct quality inspections to ensure compliance with standards and regulations. Thus, using software like Sanitek improves the efficiency of maintenance teams, optimizes resource utilization, and contributes to a healthy and safe environment for all.

In summary, adopting innovative solutions like Sanitek is a strategic investment for institutions and industry, not only ensuring occupant satisfaction but also meeting legal requirements and strengthening the company’s brand image in terms of hygiene and sanitation.

The Importance of Respecting the Recommended Dilution Rate for Cleaning Products in Healthcare Facilities

It is important to respect the recommended dilution rate for cleaning products in healthcare facilities for several reasons. First, using cleaning products at the correct dilution helps to ensure that they are effective at removing dirt and germs from surfaces. If the cleaning solution is too dilute, it may not have enough cleaning power to properly disinfect the surface. On the other hand, if the solution is too concentrated, it may be too harsh and potentially damage surfaces or cause irritation to the skin.

Second, using cleaning products at the correct dilution can help to reduce the risk of health hazards. Some cleaning products contain chemicals that can be harmful if ingested or inhaled, or if they come into contact with the skin. Using these products at the recommended dilution helps to minimize the risk of exposure to these chemicals.

Finally, using cleaning products at the correct dilution can help to reduce costs. Using too much of a cleaning product can be wasteful and unnecessarily increase expenses. By using the correct dilution, you can ensure that you are using the optimal amount of product to effectively clean and disinfect surfaces, while also minimizing waste.

In summary, respecting the recommended dilution rate for cleaning products is important in healthcare facilities because it helps to ensure that the products are effective at cleaning and disinfecting surfaces, reduces the risk of health hazards, and can help to reduce costs.

The most comprehension local catalog for your cleaning product with a dilution rate

On the Lalema website, you will find all the cleaning products you need. In addition, you will find practical dilution rate tables.

dilution rate table
Note: This article was created with an AI-assisted writing tool and fully reviewed and improved by a human.

Let’s talk about disinfection (once more)

How to safely perform cleaning and disinfection a surface soiled with bodily fluid and dispose of waste properly?

Here is some of the content from my exclusive training on Infection Prevention and Control in the Presence of Body Fluids. This training (in French with English documentation), presented in the form of short video clips (nearly forty), lasts approximately 2 hours and covers several exclusive and relevant content for hygiene and sanitation workers.

Disinfection

OVERVIEW OF THE CONTENT OF A TRAINING ON DISINFECTION TECHNIQUES

  • The main microbes to which sanitary maintenance workers can be exposed, the associated risks and the means of transmission
  • Basic concepts in sanitary maintenance for cleaning and disinfecting surfaces
  • The different body fluids (body fluids) and the associated risk factors
  • Products and accessories for cleaning and disinfection
  • Personal protective equipment
  • Cleaning and disinfection techniques including hand washing.

THE MAIN MICROBES TO WHICH HEALTH MAINTENANCE WORKERS MAY BE EXPOSED, THE ASSOCIATED RISKS AND THE MEANS OF TRANSMISSION

  • Microbes
  • Viruses or bacteria
  • Reproduction of bacteria
  • Survival of bacteria on surfaces
  • Infectious risk
  • Transmission of infections
  • Virus or bacteria

BASIC CONCEPTS IN SANITARY MAINTENANCE FOR THE CLEANING AND DISINFECTIONS OF SURFACES

  • Basics
  • Sinner’s Circle
  • Wetting power
  • Micelles
  • Foaming power
  • PH scale
  • Eradication of microbes
  • Contact time
  • DIN
  • Types of disinfectants
  • Why dilute a product
  • Always read the manual
  • 7 ways to make maintenance safer

THE DIFFERENT BODY FLUIDS (BIOLOGICAL LIQUIDS) AND THE ASSOCIATED RISK FACTORS

  • Body fluids and associated risks
  • Body fluids (body fluids)
  • Risk factors

PRODUCTS AND ACCESSORIES FOR CLEANING AND DISINFECTION

  1. Produits et accessoires
  2. Trousse de matériel

LES ÉQUIPEMENTS DE PROTECTION INDIVIDUELLE

  • Personal protective equipment (PPE)
  • Hand hygiene
  • Dressing procedure
  • Undressing procedure
  • Practical advice
  • Wearing the mask

CLEANING AND DISINFECTION TECHNIQUES

  • Cleaning and disinfection steps
  • Steps to follow
  • Cleaning and disinfection procedure
  • Waste management
  • What is biomedical waste

FORMATIVE ASSESSMENT

A training cannot be complete without a formal evaluation! This is why we offer each participant a quiz of 10 questions before issuing a superb attestation!

So, are you going to try?

What’s best? To clean or to disinfect?

When it comes to cleanliness, some people are mixing technical terms leading to ambiguity. It is like mixing chemicals together: That is not a good idea! To keep it simple, we’ll just give a real definition.

Deteriorated surfaces definition

A deteriorated surface shows wear off sign often caused by time or misuse.

Deterioration is one of three elements of impairment of property, the others being functional obsolescence (or obsolescence) and economic obsolescence.

surfaces-vetustes definition

Safe surfaces definition

Safe surface means that it is safe to health. Such surface is healthy or good for health often because of risk management. In the food industry, this is why we often refer to it as food safety.
Safe is also synonymous to hygienic !

corridor-hopital-lalema definition

Disinfected surfaces definition

Disinfection is a voluntary momentary removal operation of certain bacteria (if it comes to “all germs” we refer more to sterilization), so as to stop or prevent infection or the risk of infection or superinfection by pathogenic or undesirable microorganisms or viruses.

For example:

  • To sanitize a surface eliminates 99.9% of microorganisms (This is a 1,000 X reduction)
  • To disinfect a surface removes 99.999% of microorganisms (This is a 100,000 X reduction)
  • To sterilize a surface or instrument removes 99.9999% of microorganisms (This is a 1,000,000 X reduction)

Obviously, “momentarily” is a key fator because the surface will be contaminated again as soon a a contaminant will enter in contact with the it. That’s why some disinfectants have a residual effect that prolongs the action of disinfectant for a certain time.

biofilm-1024x767 definition

To learn more

Visit l’Academy Lalema for a whole lot of online training in sanitation and surface disenfection..

Sources: Larousse, Wikipedia, Linternaute

Cleaning schedule

I develop maintenance program for my clients and the question that comes up most often is:
“How often should I clean this or that?”

clean

How often should I clean this?

Here is a non-exhaustive list of 16 surfaces to clean regularly at home.

Item Frequency Tips
1. Cellular phone

Daily Wipe with a microfiber glass cloth to remove any greasy substances and germs
2. Kitchen Counter

Daily Use a mild all purpose cleaner. When using a disinfectant cleaner, rinse the surface.
3. Dishwasher

Monthly Use specially designed capsules or a little bit of baking soda and vinegar and the trick is done.
4. Refrigerator

Quarterly To avoid the appearance of mold and other undesirable contents, empty and clean the shelves and containers.
5. Kitchen floor

Weekly Use a broom after each meal and a good damp mopping every week.
6. Carpets

Weekly Vacuuming carpets every week will even reduce allergies. Remove the dog and the baby before to do so!
7. Furniture

Monthly Vacuum furniture and fabrics every month and steam clean annually
8. Remote control or joystick

Weekly Remove the batteries, clean the remote control surface by rubbing the buttons and gaps.
9. Ceiling fans

Quarterly With an all purpose cleaner, wipe the blades. Do not forget to turn off the fan!
10. Window blinds

Quarterly Dust and clean batten by batten with soapy water and a soft cloth.
11. Toilet

Daily Brush daily and thoroughly clean once a week.
12. Towels

After some use After the shower or the bath, hang to dry and use a few times (3 or 4 times), then machine wash. Note: If you have teenagers, this thing may not work!
13. Shower curtain

Monthly Spray a bathroom cleaner to remove residual accumulated soaps and limescale.
14. Bed linen

Weekly Wash in warm water to remove bacteria and mites. Avoid eating in your bed!
15. Mattress

Biannual Vacuum the mattress twice a year to remove dead skin cells and mites.
16. Air filter

Monthly Changing air filters every month or as recommended by the manufacturer contributes to a healthy environment.

We have the tools to clean

At Lalema, we serve a large industrial and institutional clientele with an online catalog of more than 18000 products ! Come and have a look!

www.lalema.com

 

Source :

inspired from http://www.webmd.com/a-to-z-guides/ss/slideshow-how-often-clean-this.

Photos are owned by me or from various talended photographs via unsplash.com

GPT3: An AI generated blog post about disinfection

GPT3 AI generated image : “A janitor cart in a hospital patient room”

GPT3 Input

gpt3> write a 250 words article about how hard surface disinfectant will become more essential in the future.

GPT3 Output

As the world becomes more populated and the spread of disease becomes more prevalent, the need for hard surface disinfectants will become more essential. Hard surface disinfectants are a key part of preventing the spread of disease, and as the world becomes more connected, the need for these products will only increase.


There are a number of factors that contribute to the spread of disease, and hard surface disinfectants are an important part of preventing the spread of infection. The main factor that contributes to the spread of disease is contact with contaminated surfaces. Hard surface disinfectants kill the bacteria and viruses that are present on surfaces, preventing the spread of infection.


Another factor that contributes to the spread of disease is the presence of food and water sources that are contaminated with bacteria and viruses. Hard surface disinfectants can also be used to clean these contaminated surfaces, preventing the spread of disease.


In addition to these two factors, there are a number of other factors that contribute to the spread of disease. These include the presence of sick people in close proximity to others, the sharing of contaminated items, and the exposure to contaminated air. Hard surface disinfectants can also be used to clean these contaminated surfaces, preventing the spread of disease.


The need for hard surface disinfectants will only increase as the world becomes more populated and the spread of disease becomes more prevalent. Hard surface disinfectants are a key part of preventing the spread of disease, and as the world becomes more connected, the need for these products will only increase.

Now what?

Visit our disinfectant product category

Clean this or that? How often?

I develop maintenance program for my clients and the question that comes up most often is:
“How often should I clean this or that?”

clean

How often should I clean this?

Here is a non-exhaustive list of 16 surfaces to clean regularly at home.

Item Frequency Tips
1. Cellular phone

Daily Wipe with a microfiber glass cloth to remove any greasy substances and germs
2. Kitchen Counter

Daily Use a mild all purpose cleaner. When using a disinfectant cleaner, rinse the surface.
3. Dishwasher

Monthly Use specially designed capsules or a little bit of baking soda and vinegar and the trick is done.
4. Refrigerator

Quarterly To avoid the appearance of mold and other undesirable contents, empty and clean the shelves and containers.
5. Kitchen floor

Weekly Use a broom after each meal and a good damp mopping every week.
6. Carpets

Weekly Vacuuming carpets every week will even reduce allergies. Remove the dog and the baby before to do so!
7. Furniture

Monthly Vacuum furniture and fabrics every month and steam clean annually
8. Remote control or joystick

Weekly Remove the batteries, clean the remote control surface by rubbing the buttons and gaps.
9. Ceiling fans

Quarterly With an all purpose cleaner, wipe the blades. Do not forget to turn off the fan!
10. Window blinds

Quarterly Dust and clean batten by batten with soapy water and a soft cloth.
11. Toilet

Daily Brush daily and thoroughly clean once a week.
12. Towels

After some use After the shower or the bath, hang to dry and use a few times (3 or 4 times), then machine wash. Note: If you have teenagers, this thing may not work!
13. Shower curtain

Monthly Spray a bathroom cleaner to remove residual accumulated soaps and limescale.
14. Bed linen

Weekly Wash in warm water to remove bacteria and mites. Avoid eating in your bed!
15. Mattress

Biannual Vacuum the mattress twice a year to remove dead skin cells and mites.
16. Air filter

Monthly Changing air filters every month or as recommended by the manufacturer contributes to a healthy environment.

We have the tools to clean

At Lalema, we serve a large industrial and institutional clientele with an online catalog of more than 18000 products ! Come and have a look!

www.lalema.com

Source :

inspired from http://www.webmd.com/a-to-z-guides/ss/slideshow-how-often-clean-this.

Photos are owned by me or from various talended photographs via unsplash.com

Disinfection devices during the Olympics

Beijing 2022 Olympic Winter are now over. Most of you have already seen video footage of the robots that cook foods, mix drinks and serve in order to avoid contamination. But have you seen the disinfection devices the staff use to disinfect most areas and objects? It’s quite futuristic, but the future is now.

Disinfectant misters

Used by a human or a robot, the industrial misters

Ultraviolet Germicidal Light Lamp

In the footage,

Scanner with UV-Light

While disinfectant mist may damage electronic devices, they are put into a scanner with UV-light

Sterilization cabinet

As seen in the video, they have developed a sterilization cabinet to make sure that the handheld metal detector wands are germ-free.

People also wear KN95 or N95 masks to take precautions to avoid transmission of COVID-19.

Lalema Express: New transactional website

For a rare occasion, we would like to interrupt the serious subject of disinfection since we usually ramble about that! During this cold winter that we’re having, let’s bring up a new and hot subject called Lalema Express! And so, it is our brand new transactional website for local supply of sanitary & self-service amenities. It was officially launched in August 2021, during Covid-19 time.

Lalema Express LX

Lalema Express is…

– Efficient, simple, user-friendly and local

Designed for everyone, you can find what you need in just a few clicks!

– Trend products

Like any good website, Lalema express makes sure to have products that are up to date to the latest news!

– Savings

If you are looking for discounts on cleaning products, we have that section dedicated to this purpose!

– Flexibility in payment options

This transactional website offers flexibility in payment options. No need to create a new transactional account or get a new credit card if you already have one of the payment options below.

Payment options

Go take a look!

To clean or to disinfect? a simple definition.

When it comes to cleanliness, some people are mixing technical terms leading to ambiguity. It is like mixing chemicals together: That is not a good idea! To keep it simple, we’ll just give a real definition.

Deteriorated surfaces definition

A deteriorated surface shows wear off sign often caused by time or misuse.

Deterioration is one of three elements of impairment of property, the others being functional obsolescence (or obsolescence) and economic obsolescence.

surfaces-vetustes definition

Safe surfaces definition

Safe surface means that it is safe to health. Such surface is healthy or good for health often because of risk management. In the food industry, this is why we often refer to it as food safety.
Safe is also synonymous to hygienic !

corridor-hopital-lalema definition

Disinfected surfaces definition

Disinfection is a voluntary momentary removal operation of certain bacteria (if it comes to “all germs” we refer more to sterilization), so as to stop or prevent infection or the risk of infection or superinfection by pathogenic or undesirable microorganisms or viruses.

For example:

  • To sanitize a surface eliminates 99.9% of microorganisms (This is a 1,000 X reduction)
  • To disinfect a surface removes 99.999% of microorganisms (This is a 100,000 X reduction)
  • To sterilize a surface or instrument removes 99.9999% of microorganisms (This is a 1,000,000 X reduction)

Obviously, “momentarily” is a key fator because the surface will be contaminated again as soon a a contaminant will enter in contact with the it. That’s why some disinfectants have a residual effect that prolongs the action of disinfectant for a certain time.

biofilm-1024x767 definition

To learn more

Visit l’Academy Lalema for a whole lot of online training in sanitation and surface disenfection..

Sources: Larousse, Wikipedia, Linternaute

A Brief History of Bleach 2021

Bleach has been studied for the first time by a French chemist named Claude Louis Berthollet in 1775. His factory was based in Paris in the district of… Javel! That is why the French are calling it: Eau de Javel (Javel Water).

Javel Underground, Paris, France

JAVEL Undergroud Station in Paris. Photo courtesy of Google Street View

At first, bleach was used for laundry and as a fade. From 1820, a pharmacist named Antoine Germain Labarraque studied more deeply its disinfecting properties . In the XIX Century, it was commonly used as a disinfectant and water treatment. The NASA used bleach during the Apollo program to disinfect the Apollo XI rocket after its return, in order to avoid contaminating Earth with potential dangerous viruses!

What is Bleach?

Bleach is composed of sodium hypochlorite (NaClO). For chemistry fans, its chemical formula is as follows:

Cl2 + 2 NaOH → NaCl + NaClO + H2O.

For those who don’t like chemistry, well… the formula is the same!

What’s new with Bleach?

Nowadays, bleach is still used as a disinfectant. Stabilized formulas enable to combine the disinfecting ability of chlorine together with the cleaning ability of surfactants.

Other references: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bleach

We have cleaning solution for you

Visit our web site at www.lalema.com. You will find what you need to distinfect with sodium hypochlorite solution. We are also he owner of Certiklor Technology

How to obtain a more effective disinfection with Certiklör?

What is Certiklör? The name of a new chemical? A new government certification?

None of the above! Simply put, Certiklör technology is the insurance for you, your patients and all Canadians to achieve a better, more efficient and high quality disinfection. Certiklör is a proprietary technology developed by Lalema for you. This technology ensures that you have in the bottle, an effective stabilized hypochlorite, and here to stay!

Let’s talk about surface disinfection

How to safely perform cleaning and disinfection a surface soiled with bodily fluid and dispose of waste properly?

Here is some of the content from my exclusive training on Infection Prevention and Control in the Presence of Body Fluids. This training (in French with English documentation), presented in the form of short video clips (nearly forty), lasts approximately 2 hours and covers several exclusive and relevant content for hygiene and sanitation workers.

Disinfection

OVERVIEW OF THE CONTENT OF A TRAINING ON DISINFECTION TECHNIQUES

  • The main microbes to which sanitary maintenance workers can be exposed, the associated risks and the means of transmission
  • Basic concepts in sanitary maintenance for cleaning and disinfecting surfaces
  • The different body fluids (body fluids) and the associated risk factors
  • Products and accessories for cleaning and disinfection
  • Personal protective equipment
  • Cleaning and disinfection techniques including hand washing.

THE MAIN MICROBES TO WHICH HEALTH MAINTENANCE WORKERS MAY BE EXPOSED, THE ASSOCIATED RISKS AND THE MEANS OF TRANSMISSION

  • Microbes
  • Viruses or bacteria
  • Reproduction of bacteria
  • Survival of bacteria on surfaces
  • Infectious risk
  • Transmission of infections
  • Virus or bacteria

BASIC CONCEPTS IN SANITARY MAINTENANCE FOR THE CLEANING AND DISINFECTIONS OF SURFACES

  • Basics
  • Sinner’s Circle
  • Wetting power
  • Micelles
  • Foaming power
  • PH scale
  • Eradication of microbes
  • Contact time
  • DIN
  • Types of disinfectants
  • Why dilute a product
  • Always read the manual
  • 7 ways to make maintenance safer

THE DIFFERENT BODY FLUIDS (BIOLOGICAL LIQUIDS) AND THE ASSOCIATED RISK FACTORS

  • Body fluids and associated risks
  • Body fluids (body fluids)
  • Risk factors

PRODUCTS AND ACCESSORIES FOR CLEANING AND DISINFECTION

  1. Produits et accessoires
  2. Trousse de matériel

LES ÉQUIPEMENTS DE PROTECTION INDIVIDUELLE

  • Personal protective equipment (PPE)
  • Hand hygiene
  • Dressing procedure
  • Undressing procedure
  • Practical advice
  • Wearing the mask

CLEANING AND DISINFECTION TECHNIQUES

  • Cleaning and disinfection steps
  • Steps to follow
  • Cleaning and disinfection procedure
  • Waste management
  • What is biomedical waste

FORMATIVE ASSESSMENT

A training cannot be complete without a formal evaluation! This is why we offer each participant a quiz of 10 questions before issuing a superb attestation!

So, are you going to try?

Surface Cleaning Methods & Products with RCP

Hygen microfiber from Rubbermaid Commercial Products
Hygen microfiber from Rubbermaid Commercial Products

The COVID-19 has led us to adopt new protocols to ensure patient and staff safety in healthcare facilities. Having said that, it is crucial to equip yourself with the right surface cleaning and disinfection products in healthcare facilities! What are the right products? How should you clean? Let’s explore them with the help from Rubbermaid Commercial Products, a world leader in the commercial cleaning industry! Of course, in these strange days, depending on the availability of some products, Lalema has suggestions as well ;)!

SURFACE CLEANING PRODUCTS

First of all, here are some products suggested by RCP for surface cleaning. Overall, most of them are available. Otherwise, we have replacements.

Recommended surface cleaning products
Recommended surface cleaning products

Hygen microfiber cloths – Rubbermaid Commercial Products’ all-purpose 16″ x 16″ HYGEN microfiber cloths remove 99.9% of the viruses and bacteria tested on surfaces.

Bowl Brush – This bowl brush has a plastic handle. The brush is made of polypropylene bristles. It is odor and stain resistant.

Toilet brush holder – This toilet brush holder is made of polypropylene. It is stain and odor resistant.

Bottle and Sprayer: Graduated bottle for inserting and spraying cleaning solutions.

As a replacement for Hygen disposable microfiber cloths and its charging tub system, we suggest this:

Dry Wipes and MYOSAN TB Kit – Kit of dry wipes and MYOSAN TB designed to disinfect and eliminate microorganisms on hard surfaces. It should inactivate the new coronavirus SARS-CoV-2, the virus that causes COVID-19.

Dry Wipes and MYOSAN TB Kit
Dry Wipes and MYOSAN TB Kit

BEST PRACTICES

Second, as expectations for cleanliness and hygiene rise, facilities must ensure that they have an established surface cleaning and disinfection process. This includes regular cleaning of high-traffic areas. Below are the best surface cleaning practices used in hospitals around the world today.

CLEANING TIPS

  1. Clean systematically, clockwise or counterclockwise – No surface is forgotten, this process saves time and is more ergonomic
  2. Go from clean to dirty – This reduces the likelihood of the spread of infections and contaminants
  3. Clean from the top to the bottom – Any dust or debris dislodged from the upper surface will naturally fall to the lower surfaces
  4. Wipe in one direction (unidirectional wiping) – Unidirectional wiping ensures that the solution is applied over the entire surface, while circular wiping re-contaminates areas
  5. Color Coding – Use single color wiping cloth for each zone. For example:
  • Red for high risk areas
  • Blue for mirrors
  • Yellow for baths and showers

8-SURFACE FOLDING METHODOLOGY

Finally, the 8-surface folding methodology! This is the 8-sided folding for microfiber cloths. It optimizes the use of the cloth while reducing the risk of cross-contamination during the cleaning process. Here are the steps:

8-SURFACE FOLDING METHODOLOGY
8-SURFACE FOLDING METHODOLOGY

8-surface folding methodology by Rubbermaid Commercial Products

  1. Start by opening a clean microfiber cloth
  2. Fold the microfiber cloth in half
  3. Fold the microfiber cloth into four pieces
  4. Clean surfaces with both sides of the cloth exposed
  5. Open the microfiber cloth once to change the sides
  6. Fold over to expose both clean cleaning surfaces
  7. Fully open the microfiber cloth when all four sides have been used
  8. Repeat steps 2 to 7 to use all eight sides

In short, these tips are only general since we could have gone deeper into the details or in further checklists. However, the importance is to set up a methodology for surface cleaning and disinfection and to be equipped with the right products. Don’t forget to wear personal safety equipment! Let’s save the subject of floor cleaning for another day!

Lalema would like to thank and salute all the staff in the healthcare facilities for their services!

Places in your community that are high-risk for the spread of infection

I recently read an article on Infection Control Today, which was titled “Examining Ball Pits as a Playground for Pathogenic Organisms.” This article was surprising because, although it seems so obvious now, I would never have even thought about ball pits as a potential source of infection. And yet, ball pits are frequently filled with children, who are known to be more at risk for catching and transmitting infection, and are infrequently disinfected afterwards.

This led me to wonder which other places part of our every day lives are often overlooked as being a source of infection. After doing some more research on the subject, I’ve decided to share with you what I found out.

Source: DoD Live

Playgrounds

Similar to ball pits, it is no wonder that playgrounds are one of the germiest places in the community. Every day, many children go to the playground and make use of the equipment there. And as we all know, children are at high risk for catching and spreading infection. According to Web MD, the sandbox is one of the worst places in terms of contamination, since the sand absorbs bodily fluids like saliva or urine and there is no way to wipe it down after its been used.

Public Restrooms

It should come as no surprise that pubic restrooms appear on the list of high-risk places for germs. However, I’m not sure if people realize to what extent they are contaminated. You wouldn’t touch a toilet seat in a public restroom, but it turns out that faucets and door handles are also extremely contaminated. According to Web MD, even if you’ve washed your hands, you’re still at risk for contamination when you touch the door handle to leave the bathroom. This is because only 31% of men and 65% women actually wash their hands, meaning that the rest contaminate the door handles when they go to open it (Web MD, 2018).

Grocery Stores

You may have already heard that there are a lot of bacteria in grocery stores. The majority are found on shopping carts, where, for example, raw meat packages carrying salmonella are placed or babies are seated with dirty diapers. Most grocery stores have disinfectant wipes near the entrance with the carts, so it is advised that you use them.

Public Transportation

Metros and buses are filled with germs! And it’s not surprising to see why. Thousands of people use public transportation each day, making seats, poles and handles high-touch areas. This makes public transport one of the biggest sources of harmful bacteria.

Gyms

Similarly to all the other sources, gyms are filled with bacteria due to the high number of people who use equipment every day. According to Web MD, it was found that some free weights carried the same types of bacterias found in public restrooms (ick!). It is advised that you use the wipes provided at the gym both before and after using the equipment in order to protect yourself and prevent the spread of bacteria.

What can you do to protect yourself?

You may be wondering how on earth you’re supposed to protect yourself, when you’re surrounded by bacteria! While you can never avoid every germ, there are many ways to protect yourself and avoid getting sick. Web MD (2018) makes the following recommendations:

  1. Wash your hands for 20 seconds with soap and water. And do it often.
  2. If you don’t have access to soap and water, use alcohol-based sanitizer.
  3. Don’t touch your eyes, nose or mouth until you wash your hands.
  4. Use a spare paper towel to grab the public restroom door handle as you leave.

Sources:

https://www.infectioncontroltoday.com/transmission-prevention/examining-ball-pits-playground-pathogenic-organisms

https://symptoms.webmd.com/cold-flu-map/germiest-places

https://www.webmd.com/cold-and-flu/ss/slideshow-public-germs

How to clean and dispose of a mask?

Wearing a mask has become our new habit during the pandemic situation. Therefore, let us explore how to clean and remove a mask or a face cover. In fact, there is more than one way to clean a mask including some additional precautions. So, let’s go over some methods!

CLEAN IN THE LAUNDRY

First, according to Health Canada, if you plan to rewear a reusable (non-medical cloth) mask, we suggest cleaning it by putting it directly in the laundry. It can be washed with other items using a hot water cycle. As for the cleaning product to use, regular laundry soap should be fairly effective, according to the New York Times. In addition, according to Le Parisien, washing with hot water should be at least 60° C for 30 minutes.

Laundry machine

CLEAN BY HAND

Second, following what was shared in the New York Times, experts have said that hand washing face covers in a sink works as well. You should lather the soap and rub the mask for 20 seconds. It’s a similar process to hand washing.

Hand laundry kit

SOAK WITH HOT SOAP

Third, soak the mask in warm soapy water. This method comes from Professor Golemi-Kotra, an expert in molecular biology in Toronto York University. She said the best way to clean a cloth mask would be to soak it in hot, soapy water for at least an hour.

DRY THE MASK

Afterwards, dry the mask completely in the dryer or by hanging it.

Drying masks

ELIMINATE A MASK

Finally, we dispose a mask that cannot be washed when it is wet, soiled or wrinkled. So just throw the mask properly in a lined trash can. It’s the same for a damaged reusable mask or a face cover at the end of its life span. Do not leave your mask lying anywhere else.

In short, these were ways to clean a face cover. Which method is right for you? Above all, do not forget to wash your hands properly before putting on a mask and also after removing it! Also, disinfect your surfaces as well!

Visit Lalema for masks and soaps!

Sources:
https://quebec.huffingtonpost.ca/entry/voici-comment-laver-masques-tissu-faits-maison_qc_5e960ed6c5b6a7e383dfffca
https://www.canada.ca/en/public-health/services/diseases/2019-novel-coronavirus-infection/prevention-risks/how-put-remove-clean-non-medical-masks-face-coverings.html
http://www.leparisien.fr/societe/coronavirus-comment-laver-et-entretenir-correctement-son-masque-en-tissu-30-04-2020-8308476.php
https://www.lesoleil.com/actualite/le-masque-en-tissu-doit-etre-desinfecte-apres-chaque-sortie-voici-comment-faire-video-1fcd1b8b27e5a48f580cb589d22273c5

Myosan TB, indirect claim against SARS-CoV-2

Myosan TB is a ready-to-use disinfectant cleaner has a broad spectrum virucidal claim. In accordance with Health Canada’s recommendations, we are authorized to make an indirect claim against SARS-CoV-2, the virus responsible for COVID-19 [1] [2] .

Myosan TB

MYOSAN TB

Myosan TB can therefore be used as a disinfectant against SARS-CoV-2, the coronavirus that causes COVID-19, since it is qualified as part of Health Canada’s approach to emerging viral pathogens for hard-to-use surface disinfectants. against SARS-CoV-2.

Coronaviruses are enveloped viruses, which means that they are among the easiest types of virus to kill with an appropriate disinfectant, when used according to the label directions for use.

To obtain Myosan TB, contact us at (514) 645-2753, or infos@lalema.com, or visit www.myosantb.com. Thank you.

SARS-COV-2 (COVID-19)

Coronavirus are enveloped viruses, which means that they are among the easiest types of virus to kill with an appropriate disinfectant, when used according to the label directions.

VIRUCIDAL

Said of a substance capable of destroying a virus.
A virus is an organism made up of at least two things: genetic material (DNA) and proteins. Being dependent on another organism to reproduce, the virus must find a viable host to multiply.

TUBERCULOSIS

A tuberculocidal agent is a real killer of tuberculous bacilli, tuberculosis creating an infection with the mycobacterium Mycobacterium tuberculosis.

BACTERICIDE

Said of a substance having the capacity to kill bacteria.
A bacterium is a single-celled living organism composed of a membrane, genetic material and cellular machinery. It differs from the virus in that it does not need a host to reproduce; the bacteria is an independent organism.

FUNGICIDE

Said of a substance that destroys fungi.
Fungi, commonly called fungi, are sometimes unicellular, sometimes complex multicellular organisms. Composed of a nucleus, a membrane and a cellular machinery, the fungus reproduces itself.

SPREAD THE INFO, NOT THE VIRUS


[1] https://www.canada.ca/fr/sante-canada/services/medicaments-produits-sante/desinfectants/covid-19.html

[2] https://www.canada.ca/fr/sante-canada/services/medicaments-produits-sante/medicaments/demandes-presentations/lignes-directrices/desinfectants/exigences-matiere-innocuite-efficacite-relatives-desinfectants -assimilate-drugs-hard-surfaces.html # b5

Coronavirus: 7 myths

It’s very simple, all the subtitles of this post are false. Fortunately, we are helping you get the facts out about COVID-19 (coronavirus).

coronavirus

CODIV-19 CAN BE TRANSMITTED BY MOSQUITO BITES

FALSE

The new coronavirus is a respiratory virus that spreads mainly through contact with an infected person, through respiratory droplets emitted when a person, for example, coughs or sneezes, or through saliva or secretion droplets nasal passages. To date, there is no information or evidence suggesting that 2019-nCov could be transmitted by mosquitoes. To protect yourself, avoid close contact with someone who has a fever or cough, and practice good hand and respiratory hygiene.

COLD WEATHER AND SNOW CAN KILL NEW CORONAVIRUS

FALSE

The normal temperature of the human body remains around 36.5°C and 37°C, regardless of the outside temperature or weather. Therefore, there is no reason to believe that cold weather can kill the new coronavirus or other pathogens. The most effective way to protect yourself from 2019-nCoV is to wash your hands frequently with an alcohol-based product or with soap and water.

THE NEW CORONAVIRUS (COVID-19) CAN PROJECT UP TO 8 METERS FROM A PERSON WHO IS TUSTING OR SNEAKING

FALSE

Respiratory droplets project up to 1 meter from a person who coughs or sneezes.

When a person infected with COVID-19 coughs or sneezes, the virus is expelled into droplets that can travel a certain distance from that person. Therefore, to protect yourself from any respiratory virus, avoid close contact with someone who has a fever or cough, and wash your hands frequently with hydro alcohol or soap and water.

HAND DRYERS ARE EFFECTIVE IN KILLING COVID-19

FALSE

Hand dryers are not effective in killing COVID-19. To protect yourself from the new coronavirus, you should frequently wash your hands with a water-based product or with soap and water. Once your hands are clean, you should dry them thoroughly with paper towels or a hot air dryer.

CAN EAT GARLIC HELP PREVENT NEW CORONAVIRUS INFECTION?

FALSE

On one positive side, it may drive colleagues away. Garlic is a healthy food that may have certain antimicrobial properties. However, there is no evidence in the current epidemic that consuming garlic protects people from the new coronavirus.

DOMESTIC ANIMALS CAN SPREAD THE NEW CORONAVIRUS

FALSE

There is currently no evidence that pets / pets such as dogs or cats can be infected with the new coronavirus. However, it is always a good idea to wash your hands with soap and water after contact with pets. This protects you from various common bacteria such as E. coli and Salmonella that can pass from pets to humans.

ANTIBIOTICS ARE EFFECTIVE IN PREVENTING AND TREATING NEW CORONAVIRUS INFECTION

FALSE

Antibiotics do not work against viruses, but only against bacteria.

The new coronavirus (COVID-19) is a virus and, therefore, antibiotics should not be used as a means of prevention or treatment.

However, if you are hospitalized for COVID-19 infection, you may be given antibiotics because bacterial co-infection is possible.

This is not a title

Take my COVID-19 online training course now (in french)

Sources:
https://www.who.int/fr/emergencies/diseases/novel-coronavirus-2019/advice-for-public/myth-busters

One-wipe cleaning system in hospitals proven to be effective

Source: Flickr

According to Infection Control Today (2018), a recent study carried out in a hospital in the UK has determined that a “one wipe” cleaning system was proven to be more effective than the traditional “two wipes” system in reducing the risk of MRSA in hospitals. Between 2013-2016, the hospital had been using a “two wipe” system, which consisted of first using a detergent wipe and then using an alcohol wipe as a disinfectant. In May 2016, a universal cleaning and disinfection wipe was introduced to the healthcare facility, and it made a significant difference.

According to Infection Control Today (2018),

“Using a Poisson model the researchers demonstrated that the average hospital acquisition rate of MRSA/100,000 patient bed days reduced by 6.3 percent per month after the introduction of the new universal wipe.”

Infection Control Today (2018)

These results were significant, and led to a big change in how this UK healthcare facility cleans its equipment. Not only did the universal disinfectant wipes lead to higher efficacy, but they also led to higher efficiency, since healthcare workers now only have to go over the equipment once and are assured that it will be clean.

Keeping this in mind, there are many different types of disinfectant wipes to choose from. If you would like to learn more about different types of disinfectant wipes, and how each of them work, feel free to visit our official website, and view our product offerings, or contact us directly by phone or email.

Click on the link below to view our product offerings for disinfectant wipes.

http://www.lalema.com/catalog/disinfecting-wipers-101

Source:

https://www.infectioncontroltoday.com/environmental-hygiene/simple-one-wipe-system-cleaning-nurses-effective-strategy-researchers-say

https://www.healthcarefacilitiestoday.com/posts/Study-says-one-wipe-cleaning-system-for-nurses-is-effective–20336

Candida auris : A new threat ?

Candida auris

After the coming of hospital’s contracted diseases such as C. difficile or MRSA (Methicilin-Resistant Staphylococcus Aureus), another difficult to treat bug seems to emerge. This time, it is a fungus: Candida auris.

This fungus or more precisely this yeast, has first been discovered by scientists in 1996. Then, a first infected human case has been reported in Japan in 2009. 1,2 To this date, Candida auris has been detected in hospitals of more than 20 countries such as the United States of America, England and many Europe countries. The first case in Canada has been reported in 20173.

Candida auris poses a specific threat because of the following characteristics4:

  • Infections by this microorganism have a high mortality rate.
  • The microorganism resists antifungal agents.
  • The microorganism is difficult to identify in clinical microbiology laboratories which results in wrong diagnostic. The identification is important in the choice of antifungal treatment.
  • The microorganism is known for its virulence.
  • The microorganism colonizes surfaces such as catheters used for healthcare.

Among recommended precautions by American and Canadian governments, disinfection of surfaces plays an important part. However, specific disinfectants are to avoid: this is notably the case for quaternary ammonium-based disinfectants which are ineffective5. The following procedure is rather recommended:

« Healthcare facilities that have patients with C. auris infection or colonization should ensure thorough daily and terminal cleaning and disinfection of these patient’s rooms with hospital-grade disinfectant effective against Clostridium difficile spores. »6

Sporicidal sodium hypochlorite-based disinfectant against C. difficile are for example great disinfectants to prevent and control contact transmission of Candida auris. In other words, scientists are only starting to understand and study this recently discovered microorganism. More studies will allow the discovery of effective treatment.

Until that time,in need of sporicidal products against C. Difficile to face Candidaauris new threat? Get our products right now!

References:

 1) Lee WG, Shin JH, Uh Y, Kang MG, Kim SH, Park KH, et al., (2011), First three reported cases of nosocomial fungemia caused by Candida auris. J Clin Microbiol, 49:3139-3142.

2) Satoh K,Makimura K, Hasumi Y, Nishiyama Y, Uchida K, Yamaguchi H., (2009), Candida auris sp. nov., a novel ascomycetous yeast isolated from the external ear canalof an inpatient in a Japanese hospital. Microbiol Immunol., 53:41-44.

3) Schwartz IS, Hammond GW., (2017), Premier cas de Candida auris multirésistant au Canada. Relevé des maladies transmissibles au Canada., 43(7/8):168-72.

4) Anuradha Chowdhary, Cheshta Sharma et Jacques F. Meis., (2017), Candida auris : A rapidly emerging cause of hospital-acquired multidrug-resistant fungal infections globally, PLoSPathogens, 13(5):e1006290

5) Institut National de Santé Publique du Québec, (Janvier 2018), Mesures de prévention et de contrôle dans les milieux se soins, Comité sur les infections nosocomiales du Québec, 2377 :1-11

6) Relevé des maladies transmissibles au Canada, (juillet 2017), Premier cas de Candida auris déclaré au Canada, Agence de santé publique du Canada, 43-7/8

Will “good” viruses replace antibiotics in the future?

A major health concern for the future

Antibiotics have been around for almost 100 years now, and have proven to be very effective against fighting harmful bacterias. However, during this time, these bacteria had time to evolve and many of them are now becoming “drug-resistant”, meaning that these bacteria have developed a resistance to antibiotics. There are even some bacteria, known as “superbugs”, that have become resistant to nearly every existing antibiotic. If a person is infected with a “superbug”, this means they cannot seek treatment from antibiotics and will have to rely solely on their immune system to fight the disease. This could result in death by diseases that were once treatable. According to the United Nations World Health Organization, “By 2050, estimates indicate that more people could die from antibiotic resistant infections than those who currently die from cancer” (2016), making drug-resistant bacteria one of the most serious health concerns that we face. 

Source: Wikimedia Commons

So if antibiotics are becoming ineffective, then what can be done? Researchers are now turning towards a “good virus” called a “bacteriophage”, or simply phage, that kills bacteria, which was previously overlooked by researchers and scientists.

Phages: The Virus that kills drug-resistant superbugs

First of all, what is a phage? Simply put, phages are viruses that infect specific bacteria (Motherboard, Vice). This means that bacteriophages do not infect human or animal cells. There are more phages on earth than any other living specimen, and they can be found almost anywhere. There are also many different kinds of phages, and each phage does not fight the same bacteria.

Phages kill bacteria by binding themselves to the membrane of the bacteria when they come in contact with it and then releasing an enzyme that drills a hole in the bacteria cell. The phage then injects its own DNA into the cell and reproduces more phages inside of it. This causes the bacteria cell to explode (Motherboard, Vice). Phages can therefore be used as a natural alternative to antibiotics, and may prove to be even more effective.

 

Source: Wikimedia Commons

 

In the early 1900s, phages were studied by many researchers and scientists all over the world, however, after the invention of antibiotics, Western countries became less interested in phages and any research about the viruses were put to a halt. The Soviet Union, on the other hand, kept investing in phage research and Russia, Georgia and Poland are among the only countries that use phage therapy today as a bacteria-fighting technique. Research scientist Benjamin Chan (Yale University) explains that the United States has been “hesitant to use bacteriophages because they’re a virus.” However, he goes on to explain that there are many types of viruses and virus does not always mean that there is a disease involved.

Will phages replace antibiotics in the future?

Maybe. It will take some time, as much research still needs to be done by Western countries. Many science researchers believe that they will begin to be used out of desperation. One thing is for sure though: our current antibiotics will no longer be a sustainable option and we need to find another alternative and fast!

For more information on the subject, watch the video below by Vice:

 

SOURCES:

https://motherboard.vice.com/en_us/article/9kdbqa/bacteriophages-phage-therapy-antibiotic-resistant-bacteria?utm_source=mbfb

http://www.lemonde.fr/sciences/article/2012/06/14/les-phages-des-virus-guerisseurs_1718745_1650684.html

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Antibiotics

http://www.un.org/apps/news/story.asp?NewsID=54928#.WnikApM-cWo

Are hospitals disappearing?

Hospitals have always had ups and downs, according to the New York Times (2018). During the 19th century, wealthier people preferred being treated by doctors in their homes and hospitals were seen as a place for poorer people. Hospitals were not known for having good conditions. However, research led hospitals to learn some of the best practices and new technologies, such as anesthesia, which allowed hospitals to give better treatment than at home.

These new pratices and technologies caused more people to start going to hospitals. But now, people are once again shifting towards medical assistance at home or choosing to go to small clinics rather than going to hospitals. Why are these changes happening and what has been the implications for healthcare facilities?

hospitals

Source: Wikimedia Commons

Why are hospitals shutting down?

According to the New York Times (2018), the maximum number of hospitalizations in the US was over 39 million, in 1981. Even though the population has increased, hospitalizations have decreased by 10 percent! (New York Times, 2018). There are many different reasons explaining these numbers.

Aside from less patient admissions, the number of days a patient spends in a hospital is much shorter than before. Previously, a patient who had surgery could spend a week or longer in the hospital. However, now patients who have surgery sometimes stay only one day! This is one of the reasons for the reduction of hospital beds. According to Modern Healthcare (2015), new technologies and better medications can either reduce the length of the stay of a patient, or receive the necessary treatment outside of a hospital.

Second, one of the biggest problems that hospitals face today are hospital-acquired infections and trying to control the spread of infection. Hospital-acquired infections are becoming an increasingly serious problem, especially with the rise of drug-resistant suberbugs.

According to the Center for Disease Control and Prevention, in 2002, there were 1.7 million cases of HAIs, and that number has only been increasing. Controlling the spread of bacteria in hospitals has become increasingly challenging and, as you have seen on this blog, researchers are constantly finding new sources of infection. As people are becoming more aware of this risk, they are opting for either smaller healthcare facilities with less risk or at-home care.

One of the biggest causes for hospital closures is lack of funding; some hospitals simply cannot sustain themselves. In the US especially, this is in part due to patients being unable to pay hospital fees or having complications with insurance companies and, therefore, postponing their treatments. Hospitals are now scrambling to cut costs, however, this does not always work and has led to many closures.

The costs of shutting down hospitals

The majority of hospitals being shut down are in rural and small town areas, where people are far from cities. These closures can lead to many problems for these people. Doctors may lose their jobs or have to relocate to other cities to practice. Similarly, patients no longer have the option of having a regular, family doctor and need to relocate themselves in order to seek medical attention. They will also incur higher costs to reach the hospital, since they have to travel to hospitals. They lose time travelling, which may even be deadly in some cases. Finally, in the video example below, we see that the loss of jobs from a hospital closure can be detrimental to a small town’s economy, leading to the closure of other companies.

What does the future for hospitals look like?

So what is going to happen to hospitals? Will they eventually all disappear? Although a total disappearance is highly unlikely, it seems that hospital closures are becoming unavoidable, due to the risks associated with hospital-acquired infections, changing consumer preferences and lack of funds to maintain hospitals. There has already been a signifcant number that have been closed since 1981; in 1981, the US had 6933 hospitals and by 2017 this number had dropped to 5534 (New York Times, 2018). And this trend is expected to continue in Western countries. We’ll just have to wait and see what the outcome will be…

Sources:

http://www.huffingtonpost.ca/michelle-cohen/ontario-rural-hospitals_b_16290384.html

http://www.modernhealthcare.com/article/20150221/MAGAZINE/302219988

Surface Damage and its implications for healthcare facilities

Preventing and controlling the spread of contamination and infection is of very high importance for healthcare facilities, and it is safe to say that many measures have already been taken in order to reach these goals. However, like many things, there is still much room for improvement moreover when it is about surface damage.

medical equipment surface damage

Source: Shaw Air Force Base

Evidently healthcare facilities use a wide variety of equipment, from monitors to surgical instruments to cleaning tools, and over time, this equipment wears down. Sometimes, equipment will break completely and be unusable, however sometimes there will only be a few scratches or other small damage.  But what happens when these scratches or other forms of damage become shelters and areas of growth for microorganisms? This is an example of how surface damage may not only impede the prevention of bacteria growth, but also provide the microorganisms with a place to grow.

What is surface damage?

According to Infection Control Today, surface damage is defined as:

a quantifiable physical or chemical change from the original manufactured state of an object (surface or device).

While it is recognized that surface damage of medical equipment poses a potential threat in the spread of bacteria in healthcare facilities, there is no standardized method for healthcare workers to determine what is considered surface damage, and at what point the damage is likely to cause the spread of bacteria. In a later blog post, I will discuss the ideal surface damage testing protocol, proposed by Peter Teska et al. in “Infection Control Today.” In this article, the authors discuss ideal methods of avoiding the problems that surface damage presents.

Are your surfaces damaged?

At Lalema, when we talk about hygiene and cleanliness, we offer a wide range of technical and consulting services. Find out more.

You can also read this article about The complete guide for hospital cleanliness.

Source: Infection Control Today. Vol. 21. No. 12. January 2018.

Hospital bed mattresses: An overlooked healthcare hazard (Follow up)

As a follow-up to my previous blog post about the problem of hospital bed mattresses being contaminated, I would like to go into further detail the recommendations provided by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). As previously mentioned, the FDA recommends that healthcare facilities take preventative measures against contamination of hospital bed mattresses in four simple steps: inspection, removal and replacement, maintenance and the development of an inspection plan.

Hospital bed matressesSource: Flickr

Inspection involves routinely checking the bed mattress cover for any signs of damage, stains or tears, as well as checking if the bed mattress cover is past its expiry date (Yes – bed covers do have a limited lifespan). It is also important to frequently remove the cover and check the inside surface, as well the mattress itself for these same conditions.

Next, it is important to replace any mattress covers with visible signs of damage or stains. Also, mattresses with damage or visible stains should be removed immediately.

For maintenance, it is important to clean and disinfect undamaged bed mattress covers. This can be done according to the bed cover cleaning guidelines given by the manufacturer.

Finally, FDA suggests that healthcare facilities develop an inspection plan that can be applied for all medical bed mattresses and covers. It is important to check the expected life of the bed mattress, as well as the cover.

 

Source: Infection Control Today. Vol. 22. No. 1. January 2018.

Hospital bed mattresses: An overlooked healthcare hazard

Hospital beds are composed of many different parts: the bed frame, which includes the bed side rails, as well as a mattress and a mattress cover. Once a patient is discharged from the hospital, normally, the room will go through a substantial amount of cleaning, including the bed. The rails and bed frame will be wiped down and the bed cover will be changed in order to prepare for the next patient. However, one factor is often dismissed: the hospital bed mattress.

hospital-bed-matresses

📷 pixabay.com

According to the ECRI Institute:

Bed and stretcher mattresses can remain contaminated after cleaning, putting patients and staff at risk of exposure to body fluids or microbiological contaminants. Reported incidents include patients lying on an apparently clean bed or stretcher when blood from a previous patient oozed out of the support surface onto the patient.

While hospital bed covers are changed regularly, many health care facilities fail to examine these bed covers for damages, heavy stains or tears. It is also important to note that mattress covers have an expected lifespan, and will become ineffective after this duration of time. All of these factors can lead to blood or any other body fluids leaking onto the hospital bed mattress, therefore leaving it contaminated.

The FDA (Food and Drug Administration) makes several recommendations in order to overcome this healthcare hazard:

  • Inspect
  • Remove and Replace
  • Maintain
  • Develop an Inspection Plan

While companies who sell the mattress covers have the responsibility in properly explaining to healthcare facilities how to properly disinfect, clean and dispose of bed covers, it is crucial for healthcare facilities to use the necessary materials and procedures in order to clean and disinfect. Healthcare facilities must also regularly inspect both mattress covers and mattresses in order to prevent infection as much as possible.

Reference:

Infection Control Today. Vol. 22. No. 1. January 2018

Towards a universal vaccine against flu

Influenza is a stubborn virus. Moreover, every year, the virus is changing and it’s another race against time to produce a new vaccine, often composed of several strains, which will be able to protect the most vulnerable population such as young children, the elderly and sick people.

inlfuenza

AN ENCOURAGING RESEARCH on INFLUENZA

According to the article by Radio-Canada:

At Laval University, Gary Kobinger’s team is testing a new influenza vaccine, which could provide better protection and long-term immunization. The formula incorporates much of the circulating influenza strains over the last 20 years.

A first clinical trial to test the safety of the vaccine ended a few months ago. According to the researchers, it shows that the product does not cause significant side effects.

The effectiveness of vaccines against influenza (the flu) is also limited especially when we guess wrong the strain that will be the most virulent that year!

THE IMPORTANCE OF HAND WASH

We are all at one point exposed to the flu virus. A good way of individual prevention is to put on your hat on and tie your coat. I am joking. On the other hand, regular hand washing before meals, after the toilet and even just when arriving at work or at home is really an effective way against the spread of the virus.

Regular hand soaps like Utopia or antibacterial soap like Utopia AB do the trick.

Did you know that our soaps do not contain any: methyisothiazolinone?

THE IMPORTANCE OF SURFACE DISINFECTION

Cleaning worker also plays a very important role in the winter period when it comes to disinfecting surfaces. Specialty products such as the Ali-Flex line of product offers many benefits:

 

DOWNLOAD MY FREE TRAINING ON INFLUENZA EPIDEMICS

I can give it in person at your workplace. Contact me glanthier@lalema.com

Source: http://ici.radio-canada.ca/nouvelle/1065664/vaccin-universel-grippe-influenza-guerir-personnes-agees-annee-h1n1-une-fois

Would we be ready to face an epidemic of bubonic plague?

Would we be ready to face an epidemic of bubonic plague?

In Madagascar, the government has recently imposed two days ago new emergency measures to stop a plague epidemic. It has been declared 24 dead since 1 month1.

black_death

What is the bubonic plague?

The plague is a bacterium Yersinia pestis, present in rodents as rats are often passed to humans by infected fleas.

According to Health Canada:

The incubation period of the plague varies from one to ten days.

Whatever the form, the illness always starts with flu-like symptoms (fever, chills, muscle aches, weakness and headaches) and can also cause nausea, vomiting, diarrhea and abdominal pain.

If left untreated, the mortality rate can reach 50%.

Bubonic plague smear demonstrating the presence of yersinia pest

SURFACES DISINFECTIONS

According to Health Canada2, in the event of a spill or contaminated surfaces:

Let the aerosols fall; wear protective clothing, carefully cover the spilled material with paper towels and apply 1% sodium hypochlorite from the periphery to the center; allow to act for a sufficient period (30 minutes) before cleaning

Plague is affected by many types of surface disinfectants such as:

MATERIAL SAFETY DATA SHEET: PATHOGENIC AGENTS, AND RISK ASSESSMENT

You are dealing with a bacterium, virus or other pathogen and you want to know more about it. Health Canada has launched an application and a website:

LAST CASE REPORTED IN CANADA

Cases of plague in humans are very rare in Canada; the last case was reported in 1939.

 

References:

1 http://www.lapresse.ca/international/afrique/201709/30/01-5138249-madagascar-durence-measures-to-tenter-delight-pidemic-epidemia.php

2 https://www.canada.ca/en/public_health/services/biosururity-biosurete-laboratory/technical-sheets-health-security-agents-pathogenes-risk-assessment/yers-in-the-health-technical-files -Security-ftss.html

How often should I clean this or that?

I develop maintenance program for my clients and the question that comes up most often is:
“How often should I clean this or that?”

clean

How often should I clean this?

Here is a non-exhaustive list of 16 surfaces to clean regularly at home.

Item Frequency Tips
1. Cellular phone

Daily Wipe with a microfiber glass cloth to remove any greasy substances and germs
2. Kitchen Counter

Daily Use a mild all purpose cleaner. When using a disinfectant cleaner, rinse the surface.
3. Dishwasher

Monthly Use specially designed capsules or a little bit of baking soda and vinegar and the trick is done.
4. Refrigerator

Quarterly To avoid the appearance of mold and other undesirable contents, empty and clean the shelves and containers.
5. Kitchen floor

Weekly Use a broom after each meal and a good damp mopping every week.
6. Carpets

Weekly Vacuuming carpets every week will even reduce allergies. Remove the dog and the baby before to do so!
7. Furniture

Monthly Vacuum furniture and fabrics every month and steam clean annually
8. Remote control or joystick

Weekly Remove the batteries, clean the remote control surface by rubbing the buttons and gaps.
9. Ceiling fans

Quarterly With an all purpose cleaner, wipe the blades. Do not forget to turn off the fan!
10. Window blinds

Quarterly Dust and clean batten by batten with soapy water and a soft cloth.
11. Toilet

Daily Brush daily and thoroughly clean once a week.
12. Towels

After some use After the shower or the bath, hang to dry and use a few times (3 or 4 times), then machine wash. Note: If you have teenagers, this thing may not work!
13. Shower curtain

Monthly Spray a bathroom cleaner to remove residual accumulated soaps and limescale.
14. Bed linen

Weekly Wash in warm water to remove bacteria and mites. Avoid eating in your bed!
15. Mattress

Biannual Vacuum the mattress twice a year to remove dead skin cells and mites.
16. Air filter

Monthly Changing air filters every month or as recommended by the manufacturer contributes to a healthy environment.

We have the tools to clean

At Lalema, we serve a large industrial and institutional clientele with an online catalog of more than 18000 products ! Come and have a look!

www.lalema.com

 

Source :

inspired from http://www.webmd.com/a-to-z-guides/ss/slideshow-how-often-clean-this.

Photos are owned by me or from various talended photographs via unsplash.com

How to reduce the phenomenon of antibiotic resistance?

As you know, improper and inappropriate use of antibiotics has resulted in bacteria developing resistance mechanisms. In general, we observe a decrease in the effectiveness of antibiotics in fighting multiresistant bacteria. In fact, the antibiotics that were developed between 1940 and 1980 generally had a very specific target, which facilitated the acquisition of resistance mechanisms by bacteria. In addition, the new antibiotics that are marketed are generally similar to existing antibiotics, making resistance acquisition even easier for bacteria. Thus, all the preceding facts suggest the importance of developing new antibiotics displaying novel mechanisms of action.

One of the alternatives is to develop antibiotics targeting the cell membrane of bacteria. Among others, we find the natural antimicrobial peptides that are a class of molecules participating in the immune response of several organisms such as bacteria, plants and mammals [1]. These peptides have the ability to form pores or to induce defects in the cell membrane, which will lead to a disturbance of the electrochemical gradient across the membrane, thus causing cell death (FIG. 1) .

antibiotic-resistance

Figure 1: Illustration of the main mechanisms of cationic antimicrobial peptides [3].

Inspired by these natural peptides, many researchers are attempting to develop synthetic antimicrobial peptides that will be both less toxic and pharmacologically viable. On the market, we find daptomycin (Cubicin®) which acts by a mechanism similar to natural antimicrobial peptides [4]. This antibiotic from the lipopeptide family is used for the treatment of infections involving methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA). It is interesting to note that, like natural antimicrobial peptides, quaternary ammoniums, which are commonly used in disinfection operations, also destroy bacteria because of their membrane activity [5]. At Lalema, a wide range of quaternary ammonium-based disinfectants are available to meet your needs.

The ever-growing problem of antibiotic resistance is a major health issue and a heavy tax burden on governments. The use of an adequate antibiotic management system, the advent of new technology and better control of the transmission of pathogens (disinfection) are essential tools to reverse the current trend.

 

References

[1] Jenssen, H., Hamill, P., and Hancock, R.E. W. 2006 Clin. Microbiol. Rev. 19, 491-511.

[2] Zasloff, M. 2002 Nature, 415, 390-395.

[3] Chan, D. I., Prenner, E. J., and Vogel, H. J. 2006 Biochim. Biophys. Acta. 1758, 1184-1202.

[4] Taylor, S. D., and Palmer, M. 2016 Bioorg. Med. Chem., 24, 6253-6268.

[5] Ioannou, C.J., Hanlon, G. W., and Denyer, S. P. 2007 Antimicrob. Chemother Agents, 51, 296-306.

The complete guide to hospital cleaning

hospital-cleaning

For a long time, cleaning has been all about the look; fresh smell and the absence of stains or dirt were the criteria to determine that a place is clean. Today, these criteria are still generally accepted in environments such as offices and classrooms.

It’s common knowledge, however, that microbes (bacteria or viruses) invisible to the human eye represent a risk for spreading infections. Take the example of the influenza virus: it can survive for up to 48 hours on a hard surface!

Without cleaning and disinfection procedures or a quality check procedure, microbes can survive in hospital environments.

Three key elements have to be considered in order to perform an infective risk analysis:

  • Is the patient carrying a disease agent? Disease agents are classified based on their spreading capacity and their virulence. The choice of a disinfectant will be based on this.
  • Do the functional activities of a sector represent a risk of spreading infections from the environment? E.g.: food service, offices, Intensive Care, etc.
  • The intensity of contact is related to the traffic and the surfaces that are more likely to be touched. E.g.: bathroom fittings.

Infective Risk Analysis

Cleaning in hospitals allows reducing risks of infection among patients. This is not the only factor, of course: good personal hygiene habits such as washing hands and the use of protective equipment such as overalls, gloves, masks, or protective glasses are also important elements.

For this reason, interventions must be well coordinated in order to have a good surface maintenance plan. The manager of hygiene and cleanliness should therefore take into account:

  • The type of place associated to the level of risk
  • The tasks to perform
  • The required cleaning frequency

If well applied, a detailed estimate allows validating the cleaning performance.

The global approach is going to be determined by type of place:

  • Regular eradication (e.g.: operating rooms)
  • Keeping environmental effects as light as possible (e.g.: low infection risk such as individual office spaces)
  • Balance of microorganisms. This approach is based on the competition between good and bad microbes. The presence of good microbes guarantees less space for bad microbes to grow (e.g.: living environments)
  • Green cleaning. Approach that uses less toxic products
  • Review and improve arrangements and/or surfaces (during conception or renovation)

The Cleaning Staff: key to success

The hygiene and cleanliness staff represents a key element in the fight against infections in hospital environments. Often little valued, their role in the global strategy of surface cleaning is extremely important.

The hygiene that comes from the work of the cleaning staff requires a high performance level. In order to reach that, the executing staff and the managers need to master all the different elements representing this profession.

Cleaning products and equipment are undeniably crucial in order to ensure performance during the environment asepsis of any establishment. Therefore, it is important to associate the day-to-day actions of the cleaning staff with a range of products and equipment that favor the quality of their performance.

Since several years, partly due to the devotion and the involvement of many members in the healthcare system, we take into consideration new factors:

  • Provincial training
  • Establishment of an AEP hygiene and cleanliness in healthcare environments of 630 hours now offered by many school boards
  • Provincial day of hygiene and cleanliness
  • Etc.

Having said this, the hygiene and cleanliness staff deserves our deepest gratitude. Thank you so much!

Work Organization

How can proper work organization contribute to the cleanliness of a hospital? How to be in the right place with the right equipment? Here are the questions we are going to answer in this post of the Cleaning in Hospitals series.

Evaluation of production needs

First, we need to assess the needs in hygiene and cleanliness. In order to do this, a standard evaluation is preferable but it needs to be adjusted based on the type of place, units, and traffic.

It is during the evaluation of needs that the hygiene and cleanliness estimate (see Cleaning in Hospitals part 2) is going to be determined. All daily, weekly, monthly, and annual tasks have to be considered.

Usually, the results are presented by production yields (square meters/hour) or FTE (Full Time Equivalent).

How to reduce time waste

How to measure productivity in a context where an important aspect of the task is moving? Actually, hygiene and cleanliness departments are almost always in the basement, whereas most of their work happens on the floors!

We increase productivity by reducing traveling.

It is for this reason that the cleaning cart needs to be as complete as possible and the water sources or janitor’s closets well stocked with supplies (i.e.: paper products or waste bags), equipment, and sanitary products.

Moreover, it is important to remember that a good entrance carpet can greatly reduce dirt.

Have a successful day!

Here are a few hints on how to have a successful day:

  • Establish a sequence of actions to perform in a day/week/month
  • Define a sequential order of rooms
  • Integrate linked and periodical tasks (monthly)
  • Make sure to have time gaps to focus on periodical tasks (dusting of high surfaces, polishing, etc.)
  • Minimize traveling
  • Work by space and not by task
  • Distribute tasks equitably
  • One look is worth a thousand words: choose a colorful plan together with some graphics instead of a list of tasks on a word file!

Want to know more?

Look this free webinar from my collegue Remi:

Need help?

Don’t hesitate to call 514.645.2753 or subscribe to one of our training seminars. I really hope that you liked this post!

An enzyme to destroy biofilms

One can not stop the progress. The discovery of an enzyme capable of preventing the production of a biofilm, this polymeric protective layer produced by bacteria that prevents antibiotics and surface disinfectants from functioning well, could ultimately revolutionize the fight against nosocomial infections.

perturbation-biofilm

The team at the McGill University Health Center, which includes Dr. Donald C. Sheppard, has published a study in the journal Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences (PNAS). Their hope is that this technology will be the subject of human clinical trials in Canada within 5 years and be used in hospitals within 10 years.

From the abstract:

We demonstrate that glycoside hydrolases derived from the opportunistic fungus Aspergillus fumigatus and Gram-negative bacterium Pseudomonas aeruginosa can be exploited to disrupt preformed fungal biofilms and reduce virulence.

What is a biofilm?

My colleague Rémi Charlebois described biofilms as follows:

Biofilms found on surfaces are often derived from a complex colony of microorganisms producing polymers that allow them to adhere better to the surface and facilitate colony life. In short, a biofilm is like a city for microbes. Man has learned to tame these biofilms and can use them to treat wastewater or produce certain molecules such as natural plastics. However, the presence of unwanted biofilms could be harmful and can lead to infections.

Biofilms are also found on the skin and medical devices. Thus, according to the article of Le Devoir:

Biofilms, a highly sticky matrix of proteins and sugar polymers made by bacteria to protect themselves, are attached to the skin, mucous membranes or the surface of biomedical materials, including catheters, tubing, heart valves and other prostheses Which become preferred entry points for infection.

In the same article, Dr. Sheppard quotes:

Biofilms are produced by molecules that defend against our immune system or against antibiotics with this shell that is 1000 times more resistant than the organisms that produce and proliferate in these biofilms.

An enzyme that acts as a “destructive machine” for biofilms

In short, the enzyme discovered was modified to destroy the biofilms instead of forming them. This is a new strategy that can reduce nosocomial infections in healthcare centers.

Watch this video about biofilms (25 minutes, french)

Sources:

http://www.ledevoir.com/societe/sante/501939/des-chercheurs-percent-le-secret-de-la-resistance-de-certaines-bacteries

http://www.lapresse.ca/sciences/medecine/201706/27/01-5111114-avancee-majeure-contre-les-infections-dans-les-hopitaux.php

What about Surface Disinfection against Poliovirus

Recently, my friend Rémi wrote on Twitter: “Why is it so long to get rid of Polio in the world? “, Did you know that there are barely 30 cases per year in the world! Only 3 countries in the world still have Polio cases. One of these 3 countries, Nigeria is on track to succeed with no cases reported since 1 year.

Credit CNN

Should we worry about the anti-vaccine movement?

In the report on CNN twitted by Rémi, the specialist mentions that the number of children not vaccinated in the United States is growing continuously. Will we have to wait for another epidemic?

Surface disinfection against poliovirus type 1

According to Health Canada, in its guideline – Safety and Efficacy Requirements for Disinfectants Assimilated to Hard Surface Drugs, a broad spectrum virus is defined as:

Broad-Spectrum Virucide: A disinfectant that is shown to be effective against a representative, envelope-free and hard-to-kill virus, which is also intended to inactivate other enveloped and envelope-free viruses (ie a product of which A “broad spectrum virucide” efficacy has been demonstrated).

Also according to Health Canada:

The incidence of poliomyelitis in Canada declined following the creation of vaccination programs in the 1950s. The last indigenous case of wild poliovirus infection in Canada dates back to 1977. In 1994, the World Health Organization Officially declared Canada free from wild poliovirus. The cases of paralytic poliomyelitis that have occurred in Canada since then have been associated with imported cases of wild poliovirus infection and the use of OPV.

According to the MSSS, in its guide “Disinfectants and disinfection in hygiene and sanitation: fundamental principles”

Among the viruses are those that are enveloped by a lipid layer and those that are not. These are called naked viruses. Paradoxically, this lipid-rich envelope is easily altered by chemicals, making wrapped viruses vulnerable. In contrast, naked viruses are “accustomed” to coping with outdoor conditions and are more resistant to disinfectants. Generally, if a disinfectant is active against naked viruses, such as polio, it is likely to be active against enveloped viruses, such as AIDS (HIV).

Quaternary or sodium hypochlorite disinfectants

Quaternary or sodium hypochlorite disinfectants with the “broad-spectrum virucidal” claim are effective against naked viruses such as polio.