Covid-19

Cleaning and Disinfection for Public Settings

What you should know

  • Commonly used cleaners and disinfectants are effective against COVID-19.
  • Frequently touched surfaces are most likely to be contaminated.
  • Use only disinfectants that have a Drug Identification Number (DIN). A DIN is an 8-digit number
    given by the authority, in your region (e.g. Health Canada) that confirms it is approved for use.
  • Check the expiry date of products you use and always follow manufacturer’s instructions.

Clean frequently touched surfaces twice per day

  • In addition to routine cleaning, surfaces that have frequent contact with hands should be
    cleaned and disinfected twice per day and when visibly dirty.
  • Examples include doorknobs, elevator buttons, light switches, toilet handles, counters,
    hand rails, touch screen surfaces and keypads.
  • In addition to routine cleaning, check with your organization for any specific protocols for
    cleaning for COVID-19.

Select products

Cleaners Disinfectants Disinfectant Wipes
  • Break down grease and remove organic material from the surface.
  • Used separately before using disinfectants.
  • Can be purchased with cleaner and disinfectant combined in a single product.
  • Have chemicals that kill most germs.
  • Applied after the surfaces have been cleaned.
  • Have a drug identification number (DIN).
  • Have combined cleaners and disinfectants in one solution.
  • May become dry due to fast drying properties. Should be discarded if they become dry.
  • Not recommended for heavily soiled surfaces.

Learn about the virus

COVID-19 is a new virus. It spreads by respiratory droplets of an infected person to others with whom they have close contact such as people who live in the same household or provide care. It can survive on different surfaces but can be killed by most cleaners and disinfectants.

Additional Important Resources

You can also access additional, important, and up to date information on COVID-19 at these links
Workplace Safety
Public Health Ontario
Ministry of Health Ontario
Proper Cleaning and Disinfection Practices