Green Cleaning and Infection Control: An Expert Roundtable Discusses the Issues

Morrison: We advise cleaning professionals to focus on removing soils and contaminants rather than just killing them. We refer to this as hygienically cleaning a surface. Without proper removal, even disinfectants made to kill microorganisms may fail. Also, we must remember that technically, in the United States, there is no such thing as a “green” disinfectant. Classification of a disinfectant as green, even if it has been certified by a recognized green-certification organization, is not honored, and manufacturers may not place the logo or “mark” of the certification body on their products or in their marketing material. Because of this, my advice to cleaning professionals in the healthcare industry is first, focus on removal of contaminants, and then select EPA-registered disinfectants where needed or required by law. And use the disinfectants only where needed. Also, some systems provide automatic dilution control that ensures that the chemicals are properly diluted while insulating the operator from direct exposure. These are powerful cleaning chemicals that can be harmful to the user and environment, especially if used improperly. Limiting their use to only where they are necessary is healthier, safer, and more environmentally responsible.

Nelson: The primary objective of cleaning (green cleaning or otherwise) should be to protect the health of building occupants. In a healthcare environment, this is even more important, given many already have health problems, depressed immune systems, etc. ESPs and ICPs should use the products and procedures that are most effective at controlling pathogenic bacteria and viruses. Because the EPA currently does not allow manufacturers to put any type of environmental claim or seal of approval (such as Green Seal) on disinfectants, healthcare facilities don’t have much of a choice but to use “traditional” disinfectant products. Even so, there are a couple of things that can be done to incorporate green cleaning:

1. Use disinfectant only where needed (such as in patient rooms and exam rooms) and not in areas where it is not necessary (file rooms, administrative areas). This allows housekeepers to use the most powerful chemicals only where they are needed.