2.3 Describe how and when disinfecting agents are used

This. guide will help you answer2.3 Describe how and when disinfecting agents are used.

Everyone working in health and social care must use disinfecting agents safely and effectively. These products help lower the risk of spreading germs, such as bacteria and viruses, which can lead to infection. Knowing how and when to use them protects everyone in the care setting, including individuals receiving support, visitors, and staff.

What Are Disinfecting Agents?

Disinfecting agents are solutions or products that kill most germs on surfaces and equipment. You might hear them called disinfectants. They are different from cleaning products like soap or detergent. Cleaning removes dirt but may leave some germs behind. Disinfecting takes this further by reducing the number of germs to safer levels.

Common disinfecting agents include:

Bleach (sodium hypochlorite): Often diluted before use.
Alcohol-based solutions: Usually 60–70% alcohol, such as isopropyl or ethanol.
Quaternary ammonium compounds (quats): Used for many hard surfaces.
Hydrogen peroxide: Weak solutions can disinfect surfaces.
Chlorine-based tablets: Dissolved in water for use.

Each disinfectant has a specific purpose and strength. Never mix chemicals, as this can be dangerous.

Why Is Disinfection Important?

Care settings can become breeding grounds for harmful germs. People receiving care often have weaker immune systems, putting them at higher risk. Disinfecting agents help prevent infections spreading between individuals, staff members, and others.

Outbreaks of illness can close settings, disrupt care, or put lives at risk. Disinfection is a key part of infection prevention and control (IPC).

Where Are Disinfecting Agents Used?

Workers use disinfecting agents in many areas:

Toilet and bathroom surfaces
Clinical areas and treatment rooms
Kitchens and food preparation spaces
Equipment that comes into contact with skin
Frequently-touched objects, such as door handles or lift buttons
Mobility aids and shared belongings

Some areas need special disinfectants. For example, surfaces soiled with body fluids need stronger solutions.

When To Use Disinfecting Agents

Different situations call for immediate or regular disinfection. Common times include:

Regular, Scheduled Cleaning

At set intervals, such as daily, several times a day, or weekly
After each use of shared equipment (for example, wheelchairs, hoists)
According to organisational risk assessments

After a Spillage

Body fluids, such as blood, vomit, urine, or faeces, need prompt and thorough disinfection. This prevents the spread of infections like norovirus or hepatitis.

Steps to take:

Isolate the area
Wear appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE), such as gloves and aprons
Remove as much of the spill as possible using paper towels
Disinfect the area using an approved agent at the correct strength
Dispose of cleaning materials as clinical waste

During an Outbreak

Increased or enhanced disinfection is required if individuals or staff show signs of infectious illness, such as flu or norovirus. Areas may be disinfected more often and some non-essential activities might be postponed.

After Contact With Infectious Materials

Clean gloves or PPE may become contaminated. Hands and objects touched must be disinfected straight away. Breaks in normal cleaning routine can lead to infection risks.

When Preparing Or Serving Food

Work surfaces and cooking equipment must be disinfected to prevent cross-contamination. Food-safe disinfectants must be used as some products leave residues.

Before And After Invasive Procedures

Where care procedures break the skin (for example, giving injections, wound care), surfaces and equipment must be disinfected before and after the procedure.

How To Use Disinfecting Agents

Correct use is key to safety and effectiveness. Steps usually involve:

Reading the product label and manufacturer’s instructions
Wearing suitable PPE, such as gloves, aprons, or face protection
Mixing the solution at the right strength
Applying it to all relevant surfaces, including ‘touch points’
Letting it remain wet (known as “contact time”) for the period specified on the label
Rinsing or drying if required

Never use more than advised, as this may leave harmful residue or damage surfaces.

Safe Handling And Storage

Disinfecting agents are chemicals and can harm health if not used safely.

Store agents:

In a cool, well-ventilated place
In original, clearly labelled containers
Locked away from children and vulnerable individuals
Away from food, drink, and medical supplies

Never decant disinfectants into unlabelled bottles.

Disposal

Follow local workplace policy for disposing of unused solution. Never pour large quantities down sinks unless instructed by your employer. Dispose of PPE and dirty cleaning cloths as clinical or hazardous waste.

Choosing The Right Disinfecting Agent

Not all disinfectants work on all germs. Your setting’s infection prevention and control policies provide guidance. Consider:

The type of germ – some need special products (e.g., chlorine for norovirus)
The surface or equipment being treated – hard, soft, or electrical
The risk of exposure to vulnerable individuals
Manufacturer’s safety data sheets (COSHH)

Test disinfectants on a small, out-of-sight area if unsure about surface reactions.

Examples Of Common Disinfecting Agents

Here are examples you might use in a UK health and social care setting:

Bleach

Often used for toilets, bathrooms, and spills of blood or body fluids. Usually diluted to a ratio of 1:10 (one part bleach to ten parts water) for spills, or 1:100 for general disinfection.

Let bleach remain on the surface for 10–20 minutes before wiping away. Never mix bleach with other cleaning products, as dangerous gases can form.

Alcohol-Based Solutions

Alcohol wipes or sprays clean small medical equipment, such as thermometers, scissors, or stethoscopes.

These solutions work quickly but only on visibly clean surfaces. Do not use them if the surface is dirty. Alcohol-based hand rub is for hand hygiene, not general disinfection.

Quaternary Ammonium Compounds (Quats)

Used for surfaces like floors or walls. Quats are effective against many bacteria and some viruses but may not kill norovirus or some other pathogens.

Hydrogen Peroxide

Some cleaning wipes or sprays use hydrogen peroxide. Effective on hard, non-porous surfaces. Wipes are especially useful for quick disinfection of communal equipment.

Applying Disinfecting Agents: Step-by-Step

A safe approach involves:

1. Preparing the Area

Remove visible dirt, dust, or spillages
Dry wipe or mop before disinfection if needed

2. Preparing the Agent

Follow instructions for concentration and dilution
Wear gloves and any other PPE needed
Mix in a well-ventilated area
Use cold water unless the instructions say otherwise

3. Application

Apply to a cloth or directly to the surface
Cover the entire area, paying attention to corners, handles, and crevices
Keep the surface wet for the recommended contact time (often 5–10 minutes)

4. Drying

Allow surfaces to air dry if possible
If residues are left, rinse with clean water, especially if the surface is for food preparation

5. Cleaning Up

Safely dispose of used cloths, wipes, or mop heads
Wash hands thoroughly
Return chemicals to storage

Specific Guidance for Different Areas

Toilets and Bathrooms

Use strong disinfectants on toilets, sinks, and floors. Disinfect at least daily and more often if visibly soiled. Focus on taps, flush handles, and door handles.

Bedrooms and Living Areas

Disinfect high-touch areas like remote controls, bed rails, and call bells. Use lower-strength solutions to avoid damaging fabric or electronics.

Kitchens

Use only food-safe disinfecting agents. Clean and disinfect worktops, cutting boards, fridge handles, and other contact points before and after use.

Shared Equipment

Wheelchairs, hoists, or walking frames must be wiped or sprayed with suitable products between users. For items exposed to body fluids, use a stronger disinfectant.

Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)

Always wear PPE as required. This protects your skin, eyes, and clothes from contact with strong chemicals and splashes. PPE includes:

Disposable gloves
Plastic aprons
Face masks or goggles for high-risk situations

Change PPE immediately if it becomes contaminated. Wash hands before and after using gloves.

COSHH Regulations

Control of Substances Hazardous to Health (COSHH) regulations apply to disinfecting agents. Your employer must provide information and training. You must:

Read hazard labels
Follow safe working practices
Report any health concerns to your manager

Risks And Precautions

Disinfectants can cause burns, breathing problems, or allergic reactions. Wear correct PPE and do not inhale fumes. If splashes occur, rinse affected skin or eyes with water and seek medical help if needed.

Store all chemicals safely and keep them away from service users or anyone who might be confused or vulnerable.

Records And Monitoring

Some care providers ask you to record cleaning and disinfection. Fill in these logs at the time to show tasks have been completed. This helps manage risks and supports good standards of hygiene.

Training And Supervision

Only use disinfecting agents if trained. If unsure, ask your line manager or infection control lead. Supervision helps keep everyone safe and upholds quality standards.

Final Thoughts

Disinfecting agents are vital in health and social care. Used correctly, they help stop the spread of harmful germs. This keeps everyone safe. Always choose the right product, follow instructions, use the right PPE, and know when to act. If in doubt, check your workplace policy and ask for guidance.

By understanding how and when to use disinfecting agents, you help build a safer care setting for everyone.