Sustainable Cleaning in Hospitals: Efficacy Standards for Infection Control
Hospitals require cleaning products that not only maintain a clean environment but also ensure effective infection control. Sustainable cleaning products have gained popularity, but their efficacy must meet certain standards. The key efficacy standards for sustainable cleaning products in hospitals include:

• EPA-registered disinfectants: Products must be registered with the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and proven to kill a broad spectrum of microorganisms, including bacteria, viruses, and fungi.
• ASTM and ISO standards: Products must comply with standards set by the American Society for Testing and Materials (ASTM) and the International Organization for Standardization (ISO) for cleaning and disinfecting surfaces.
• AOAC and EN tests: Products must pass tests by the Association of Official Analytical Chemists (AOAC) and the European Norm (EN) for their ability to kill microorganisms and remove dirt and grime.
• In vitro and in vivo testing: Products must undergo in vitro (lab) and in vivo (real-world) testing to demonstrate their efficacy against a range of microorganisms.
• Comparative efficacy testing: Products must be compared to traditional cleaning products to ensure they are equally or more effective in controlling infections.
• Stability and shelf life: Products must remain stable and effective throughout their shelf life, even after repeated use and storage.
• Surface compatibility: Products must be compatible with various surfaces found in hospitals, including stainless steel, plastic, and fabric.
• Reduced organic waste: Sustainable products should minimize organic waste and biodegradable materials.
• Safer for human health: Products should be safer for human health, with reduced toxicity and allergenic potential.

By meeting these efficacy standards, sustainable cleaning products can help hospitals maintain a clean environment, control infections, and promote a healthier environment for patients, staff, and visitors.