Abstract Hospital-acquired infections (HAI) represent the most common adverse event in the intensive care unit (ICU). Their prevalence is high and they are associated with increased morbidity and mortality. The environment plays a central role in the transmission of hospital-acquired pathogens (HAP) and in …
Abstract Environmental surfaces in health care settings are often contaminated by microorganisms, and biofilms can develop on the surfaces in these settings. Steam vapor technology is of potential use for disinfection of biofilms on the environmental surfaces. Methods We tested the disinfection efficacy …
Abstract Microbial cells are able to adhere to surfaces and through an exo-polymeric matrix they establish microbial communities known as biofilms. This form of immobilised biomass can be responsible for heat and mass transfer limitations in industrial processes and be a source of contamination and …
Abstract The purpose of this study was to evaluate two types of industrial vacuum cleaners, in terms of cleaning rates, energy expenditure, and perceived exertion. Twelve industrial cleaners (six males and six females, age 28-39 yr) performed two 1-h vacuuming tasks with an upright …
CIRI Note: This article shows a good relationship between cleaning high touch surfaces and reduced absenteeism from gastroenterological illness in K-12 students. Conversely, such cleaning could be expected to have a lesser effect on airborne contaminants, thereby possibly not reducing absenteeism from respiratory illness. …
Summary Extensive water damage after major hurricanes and floods increases the likelihood of mold contamination in buildings. This report provides information on how to limit exposure to mold and how to identify and prevent mold-related health effects. Where uncertainties in scientific knowledge exist, practical applications …
Abstract Carpets are both sinks and sources for exposure to chemicals, allergens, and microbes and consequently influence health, including asthma, allergies, and infectious diseases. Asthmatics, children, and the immune-compromised are particularly vulnerable to health risks resulting from exposure to carpet contaminants. To address this risk, …
CIRI Note: This method, wherein specific surfaces (e.g., touch points) proposed to be cleaned are targeted with invisible fluorescent marks prior to the cleaning crew entering the area, and are then checked after cleaning (for removal) using a black light to determine which spots are …
Abstract Metallic copper surfaces rapidly and efficiently kill bacteria. Cells exposed to copper surfaces accumulated large amounts of copper ions, and this copper uptake was faster from dry copper than from moist copper. Cells suffered extensive membrane damage within minutes of exposure to dry copper. …
CIRI NOTE: This study provides good context for the ongoing CIRI / ISSA research done to support a cleaning standard for K-12 schools. It provides a limited look at before / after effects on the environment, learning and health of a newly remodeled school and …