Complete Story
12/21/2023
Cleaning and Disinfectant Resources and Best Practices
With the rising cases of COVID, RSV, and flu cases this season, the Occupational Health Surveillance Program (OHSP) at the Massachusetts Department of Public Health wanted to highlight a few key resources that are available to municipalities, as well as some best practices around cleaning and disinfectant use.
- Resources:
- Search for safer cleaning products and support others in your city or town in doing so by sharing resources
- Toxics Use Reduction Institute’s (TURI) Cleaner Solutions website (cleanersolutions.org)
- Statewide Contract through the Massachusetts Operational Services Division (mass.gov).
- Statewide Contract FAC118: Environmentally Preferable Cleaning Products Equipment and Supplies (mass.gov)
- Why use Statewide Contracts? (mass.gov)
- Find a Statewide Contract User Guide (mass.gov)
- Explore other Environmentally Preferable Products (mass.gov) on Statewide Contracts.
- Department of Labor Standards (DLS): On-Site Consultation Program
- Can help with your safety program (Hazard Communications, PPE program, etc.)
- Best Practices:
- Ensure equipment, application method, and chemical used are compatible and used according to manufacturer’s instructions.
- Disinfectants should be diluted to manufacturer’s guidelines.
- Develop and follow a Hazard Communication program.
- Safety Data Sheets on all chemicals
- Written safety procedures for job tasks
- Trainings for employees
- Chemical warning labels, manufacturer’s instructions, chemical hazards, PPE use, and emergency procedures
- Provide appropriate PPE (respirators, gloves, etc.).
- Consult the SDS and manufacturer's directions for guidance.
- Look for cleaning and disinfecting products that are third-party certified, such as Green Seal and EcoLogo
For questions, please contact:
Emily H. Sparer-Fine, ScD, MS
Director, Occupational Health Surveillance Program
Mobile: 617-549-6169
Pronouns: She / her / hers
