How to assess the safety of disinfectants: basic rules for choosing

Disinfectants are essential for preventing the spread of infectious diseases. Their use is particularly important in medical institutions (healthcare facilities), where the requirements for the quality and safety of disinfection are the highest. However, when choosing a disinfectant, it is important to consider not only its effectiveness but also its safety for people. Let's take a closer look at the classification of disinfectants, their properties, and the principles of proper selection.

Classification of disinfectants

Disinfectants in medicine are classified according to various principles. Most often, they are divided into groups based on the active ingredient. The following groups of disinfectants exist:

• Aldehyde-based disinfectants: Made from glutaraldehyde, these are used for surface, instrument, and equipment disinfection. They have a broad spectrum of action, including bactericidal, disinfectant, sporicidal, and virucidal properties.

• Oxygen-based disinfectants: These are based on peroxides and peracetic acid. They have a strong oxidizing effect and are used in medical institutions for disinfecting complex surfaces and equipment. They are environmentally safe but may be aggressive towards materials.

• Chlorine-based disinfectants: These are based on sodium hypochlorite and chloramine acid. These types of disinfectants have a wide antimicrobial spectrum, but they are quite toxic and can cause irritation to the respiratory tract and skin. When used on metal, they can cause corrosion.

• Quaternary ammonium compounds: These chemical disinfectants are highly effective against bacteria, fungi, and many viruses. They are suitable for daily disinfection in healthcare facilities but have limited activity against spores.

• Alcohol-based disinfectants: They act quickly and evaporate without residue. They are often used for hand disinfection and hard-to-reach surfaces when quick action is required.

You can review the composition of disinfectants on the packaging or website.

Basic rules for choosing disinfectants

When selecting a disinfectant, it is important to consider not only its chemical composition but also its physical properties. The main parameters that affect safety and effectiveness include:

• Spectrum of action: antibacterial, antiviral, antifungal;
• Toxicity: impact on humans and the environment;
• Compatibility with materials: possibility of causing corrosion or other material damage;
• Ease of use: exposure time, form of release.

Concentrated disinfectants, whose effectiveness depends directly on the concentration of the working solution, can be very useful for use in healthcare facilities. These can provide a wide range of actions, from bacteriostatic and partial antiviral to chemical sterilization.

To ensure safe disinfectants for healthcare facilities that meet the specifications, it is necessary to choose products from trusted manufacturers. They offer certified products and are responsible for their composition and quality.

Modern disinfectants used in healthcare facilities

Healthcare facilities use various types of disinfectants that are selected according to the institution's specific needs. The most widely used are combined disinfectants. These contain several active substances, which enhance their effectiveness:

• For hand disinfection, alcohol-based products are usually used, which, in addition to isopropyl alcohol, also contain quaternary ammonium compounds. These are used in low concentrations and act synergistically with alcohol (enhancing each other's effects). Examples include Manorm Expert and Nor-Express.

• For surface disinfection, high-quality products are used that act quickly. Preference is given to products that are easy to use and dilute. Good options include Virapav, and for deeper disinfection, Septodor can be selected.

• For equipment sanitation, disinfection of instruments, apparatus, and devices, specialized disinfectants are needed that have a comprehensive effect — eliminating fungi, viruses, bacteria, and fungal spores while not damaging surfaces. A prime example of such disinfectants is Vernedor Premium.

Of course, healthcare facilities also rely on inexpensive but highly effective disinfectants, such as chlorine-based ones. However, regardless of the selected disinfectants, basic safety rules should always be followed. It is crucial to use personal protective equipment, work in well-ventilated areas, and adhere to instructions.

Choosing a disinfectant is a balance between effectiveness, safety, and ease of use. Understanding the classification of disinfectants and their properties allows for an informed choice, ensuring reliable protection against infections with minimal impact on human health and the environment. Special attention should be given to modern disinfectants used in healthcare facilities, as they undergo stringent quality control and meet current standards.