Surfaces

• Surfaces such as tables, counters, door knobs, stair rails and floors should be cleaned regularly, preferably 3 times a day (at least once a day) and after any suspected contamination e.g. staff/ visitors coughing at the counter. Disinfectant can be applied by using a damp cloth. After which, rinse the cloth with water and wipe the surface again. Finally, wipe the surface dry. A steady sweeping motion should be used when cleaning to avoid splashes. All surfaces must be dried after they have been cleaned and rinsed, as damp surfaces attract contaminants.

• Avoid using spray pack as the spraying may promote aerosols.

• 1% sodium hypochlorite solution (e.g. diluted bleach) can be used for such cleaning purposes. It should be left for at least 10 minutes but not longer than 30 minutes. Be aware that sodium hypochlorite is corrosive and may damage some surfaces such as removing the colours (note that household bleaches are generally 3-6% sodium hypochlorite).

Floors

• Carpets or rugs/mats should be vacuumed using a cleaner that does not throw dust into the air. They can be steam-cleaned if soiled by bodily fluids such as vomitus or sputum.

• Do not hang up mats to swat as it will create aerosols

• Hard floor surfaces should be mopped with damp mop that had been soaked in disinfectants such as 1% sodium hypochlorite solution, rinsed and dried. A steady sweeping motion should be used when mopping to avoid splashes. Bucket for mopping should have a wringer attached for ease of wringing and to avoid unnecessary splashes and hand wrung.

Furnishings and beddings

• Furnishings such as curtains, drapes, screens, lampshades and furniture items should be washed or steam cleaned regularly.

• Pillows can be washed in hot water (70 degree Celsius) with detergents, rinsed and dried in the sun.

• Blankets can be washed in warm water and dried in the sun or in dryers.

• Quilts can be dry-cleaned or if appropriate washed in hot water (70 degree Celsius) with detergents, rinsed and dried in the sun.

• Mattresses can be sunned or steam cleaned on a regular basis.

Air-conditioning Units

Air-cons should be regularly serviced and the air filters changed according to manufacturers’ recommendations

Bathrooms and Toilets

Bathrooms and toilets should be washed at least twice a week with detergents/ disinfectants. They should be flushed with water and allow the floor to air-dry.