Dental operatory environmental surfaces are those surfaces or objects that do not come in contact with. They can become contaminated during patient care and can become a reservoir of microbial contamination. These may in turn be transferred to the DHCP, instruments or the patient. Although hand hygiene is key to minimizing this transferal, barrier protection or cleaning and disinfecting of environmental surfaces also protects against healthcare-associated infections.

Environmental surfaces can be divided into clinical contact surfaces (eg, light handles, unit switches and drawer knobs) and housekeeping surfaces (eg, floors, walls and sinks). Because housekeeping surfaces have limited risk of disease transmission, they can be decontaminated with less rigorous methods than those used on dental patient-care items and clinical contact surfaces. Strategies for cleaning and disinfecting surfaces in patient-care areas should consider the

1. Potential for direct patient contact
2. Degree and frequency of hand contact
3. Potential contamination of the surface with body substance or environmental sources of microorganisms (eg, soil, dust or water)

Cleaning is the necessary first step of any disinfection process. Cleaning is a form of decontamination that renders the environmental surface safe by removing organic matter, salts and visible soils, all of which interfere with microbial inactivation. the physical action of scrubbing with detergents and surfactants and rinsing with water removes substantial numbers of microorganisms. If a surface is not cleaned first, the success of the disinfection process can be compromised. Removal of all visible blood and inorganic matter can be as critical as the germicidal activity of the disinfecting agent.

General Recommendations

1. Follow the manufacturer's instructions for correct use of cleaning and EPA-registered hospital disinfecting products.
2. Do not use liquid chemical sterilants/high-level disinfectants for disinfection of environmental surface (clinical contact or housekeeping).
3. Use PPE, as appropriate, when cleaning and disinfecting environmental surfaces.
Such equipment might include gloves (eg, puncture- and chemical-resistant utility), protective clothing (eg, gown, jackets or lab coat), and protective eyewear/face shield, and mask.
4. Areas when they are visibly dusty or soiled.
5. When a surface can not be cleaned adequately, it should be protected with barriers.