Simply “fogging” an area with a disinfectant does not meet EPA-registered label requirements without proper pre-cleaning and may be a violation of federal law. More importantly, improper application of the disinfectant can lead to a false sense of security, an increase in health hazards and not be effective at reducing the risk of the spread of COVID-19.
Most of these cleaners require that a surface be cleaned with either a soap and water mixture or detergent. Once dry, the surface should then be sprayed to help combat common germs and viruses on surfaces.
The approved list of cleaners, also known as the EPA “List N: Disinfectants for Use Against SARS-CoV-2” is believed to be the most effective at eradicating the virus that causes COVID-19.
For example, by wiping the surface, the friction caused by the application of the disinfectant with towels ensures maximum contact with the virus, which will lead to the greatest risk reduction.
There are two primary types of fogging machines — thermal or “standard” fogging machines and a ULV cold fogger. If you are considering using a fogging machine for disinfection/sanitation purpose consider ULV Fogger for disinfection.
Things to Consider When Fogging & Disinfecting:
One of the most significant benefits of using this type of cold fogger (ULV) is that you can control the size of the solution particles it creates and sends through the air. This means that you can tailor the machine for just about any circumstance. For instance, if you are disinfecting an interior room, you will want to use much smaller particles because they can penetrate small nooks and crannies and they stay in the air longer. Or if you are applying a pesticide to get rid of large insects outdoors, you can turn up the particle size so they are more likely to hit the target and not be blown away by the wind.
Chemical fogging: Applying chemical disinfectants to production areas as fogs or mists is a method used routinely in the food industry. The purpose is to create and disperse a disinfectant aerosol to reduce the numbers of airborne micro-organisms and also to apply disinfectant to surfaces that may be difficult to reach. Fogging is achieved using either a static, purpose-built system in a factory area with strategically placed nozzles or, more commonly, a mobile unit.
The equipment supersaturates the atmosphere with a disinfectant fog; the area covered will vary depending on the application system being used. A built-in system will typically be used for production areas >200m3, with mobile units usually being employed for areas <200m3,. Under typical conditions, fogging is carried out for a minimum of 15–30min to enable the fog to disperse and the chemical action to occur. After fogging, an additional period of 45–60min is required to allow the droplets to settle out of the air and onto the surfaces.
Due to the type of procedure, no one (people and pets) can be present inside during the time of the application and for 45-60 minutes afterward – allowing to settle, dry, and disinfect.
It’s recommend a second application approx 3 weeks after the first, to maintain the effect and neutralize any new introduction of bacteria and virus strains that might have entered. – A subsequent application is discounted.
DISINFECTANT FOGGING SERVICE TYPICAL INCLUDES:
Fogging/Misting Application (where applicable)
Disinfect all knobs/handles (inside and outside)
Disinfect all light switches (inside and outside)
Disinfect 4-6 inches (from edge to wall) of counter-tops, tables, and nightstands.
Typical Prices of Cleaning Services to Disinfect with Fogger ULV
- 0.15 to 0.50 per square feet (One time/First Time)
- 0.10 to 0.15 per square feet (maintenance service, weekly, bi weekly )
COST PER HOME – FIRST VISIT*
0 -2,499 sq. ft.
$150
2,500 – 3,900 sq. ft.
$200
4,000 – 5,500 sq. ft
$280
COST PER HOME – SUBSEQUENT VISIT(S)*
0 -2,499 sq. ft.
$126
2,500 – 3,900 sq. ft.
$168
4,000 – 5,500 sq. ft
$235
These are just examples of typical prices in the USA this varies from cleaning company, state, city.
Cleaning and disinfecting are essential measures for managers of buildings to making areas contaminated by the corona-virus safe and to quickly return them to normal use. Professional disinfection services have the techniques, tools and most appropriate products to disinfect areas to make them safe and return them to use as quickly as possible.
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