08/06/2024 | News release | Distributed by Public on 08/06/2024 11:02
The beginning of the school year is a time of excitement, but it can also bring worries about the potential spread of sickness. Schools are high-traffic areas where students, teachers, and staff work in close proximity. This increased interaction and shared spaces can create an ideal environment for the transmission of various viruses and bacteria. From common colds to more serious outbreaks, the risk of illness can disrupt the learning process, affect attendance, and pose a significant challenge to maintaining a healthy school community.
A disinfectant is used to help kill disease-causing pathogens (such as bacteria, viruses, and fungi) on hard surfaces and in water. Sanitizers are used to lower the number of pathogens on surfaces to a safe level. Unlike soap and regular cleaning products, disinfectants and sanitizers are registered by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), which evaluates data on each product to ensure that they pose no unreasonable risk to human health and the environment and data showing that they help kill or control the different pathogens listed on the product label (e.g., e. coli, types of flu-causing viruses). School employees can choose the product needed to slow the transmission of any known illnesses circulating in the school by carefully reviewing the labels of EPA-registered disinfectants and sanitizers.
Not every mess needs a disinfectant or sanitizer! Soap and water or another cleaning product can be used to clean up messes like crayons, crumbs, and dirt. Disinfectants and sanitizers should be used when killing germs is necessary. It's especially important to use disinfectants when there are bodily fluids (e.g., blood, mucus, vomit, etc.) to help avoid the transmission of disease. Judiciously using disinfectants and sanitizers in schools can help keep students and teachers healthier.
For all EPA-registered disinfectants and sanitizers, the label is the law and the key to using these products safely. The label shows which microbes the product is designed to help kill and provides the directions for use along with important safety and storage information. It's important to carefully review a product's label and remember:
Effective communication and training are crucial for the safe use of disinfectants in schools. School administrators should provide clear instructions and guidelines to custodial staff, teachers, and other personnel on the proper application, dilution, and contact times for disinfectants. This helps ensure that disinfectants are used effectively while minimizing the risk of exposure or misuse.
As we embark on the new school year, disinfectants and sanitizers are critical tools in helping create a healthy and safe environment for our students.
The Center for Biocide Chemistries has created infographics to help raise awareness about disinfectants used in public places. Our Schools infographic highlights some places where disinfectants are used in schools. Additionally, we have a video and podcast about how to read a product label.
The Center for Biocide Chemistries is comprised of more than 50 companies that manufacture and/or formulate biocide products (also known as antimicrobials or antimicrobial pesticides). To learn more about how wood preservatives and other types of antimicrobial products contribute to improved human health and environmental sustainability, visit our website.
The American Chemistry Council's mission is to advocate for the people, policy, and products of chemistry that make the United States the global leader in innovation and manufacturing. To achieve this, we: Champion science-based policy solutions across all levels of government; Drive continuous performance improvement to protect employees and communities through Responsible CareĀ®; Foster the development of sustainability practices throughout ACC member companies; and Communicate authentically with communities about challenges and solutions for a safer, healthier and more sustainable way of life. Our vision is a world made better by chemistry, where people live happier, healthier, and more prosperous lives, safely and sustainably-for generations to come.