Why is cleaning a critical step to make surfaces and equipment safe?

• Research shows that organic body soils such as blood and saliva act as a reservoir to keep dangerous organisms viable (capable of infection) for hours or even days on surfaces.

• Body soils and dust also act as barriers to reduce or prevent chemical disinfectant action.

• Blood is very corrosive and will damage metal surfaces over time if not promptly removed.

So, it is important to clean and disinfect surfaces and equipment.