The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (USEPA) has released an expanded list of USEPA-registered disinfectant products that have qualified for use against SARS-CoV-2, the novel coronavirus that causes COVID-19. The list contains nearly 200 additional products—including 40 new products that went through an expedited review process.
The disinfectant products are expected to be effective against SARS-CoV-2 because they have been tested and proven effective on either a harder-to-kill virus or against another human coronavirus similar to SARS-CoV-2. The list has been updated to include the product’s active ingredient and the amount of time the surface should remain wet to be effective against the given pathogen.
To make the list more consumer friendly, information in the table is now sortable, searchable, and printable, and can be easily viewed on a mobile device. Click here to view the list of USEPA-registered disinfectant products.
In addition to introducing more robust cleaning practices and encouraging good personal hygiene in the workplace, AE2S recommends the following to protect your staff and system operations:
- Adjust shift work to provide workplace social distancing to minimize spread (reduce the chance that multiple operators will be infected). Use virtual operator logs and shift notes to reduce contact.
- Focus on essential operations only and defer optional maintenance and in-person meetings.
- Refresh staff on PPE best practices with these OSHA recommendations.
- Utilize automation to the extent possible. This is a good time to make sure everyone understands and utilizes SCADA at your facility.
- Review and potentially update your emergency response plan as well as reviewing Federal, State, and Local legal obligations if an emergency is declared. Be prepared to discuss with stakeholders and elected officials.
- Prepare for supply chain interruptions for PPE and other items needed to operate your facility.
Scott Schaefer, AE2S Wastewater Practice Leader, also serves as the national Chair of the Water Environment Federation’s (WEF) Disinfection and Public Health Committee. Schaefer has been working with WEF to develop COVID-19 response materials for water professionals. In addition, AE2S staff is working with utilities and communities to enhance best practices and assist with emergency responses to COVID-19. Please contact the following people if you need assistance or have questions in the following topic areas:
- Emergency Response – Colton Janes, AE2S Client Program Leader
- Facility Operations – Eric Appelwick, AE2S Operations Manager
- Drinking Water – Nate Weisenburger, AE2S Drinking Water Practice Leader
- Wastewater – Scott Schaefer, AE2S Wastewater Practice Leader
- Public Communications/Engagement – Andrea Boe, AE2S Communications Practice Leader