Ebola: Prevention and Control for the Cleaning Industry

Accessible by: anyone

What is Ebola?

Ebola hemorrhagic fever (EHF) is the severe, life-threatening disease caused by infection with an Ebola virus. Many people who contract EHF die from it. Find ISSA’s official statement and suggested talking points regarding cleaning to reduce risks related to Ebola. 

Worker Protection

Workers performing cleaning tasks in areas contaminated by symptomatic individuals with EHF or environments reasonably anticipated to be contaminated with infectious body fluids are at risk of exposure. That is why it is important to follow the worker protection guidelines set forth in the OSHA Fact Sheet on Cleaning and Decontamination of Ebola on Surfaces—see below.

Appropriate Disinfectants

Use a U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA)-registered disinfectant that is effective against a non-enveloped virus to disinfect hard non-porous environmental surfaces. Look for products with a label which claims to be effective against non-enveloped viruses such as norovirus, rotavirus, adenovirus, or the poliovirus.

More Information

• Interim Guidance for Environmental Infection Control in Hospitals for Ebola Virus (CDC)
• Cleaning and Decontamination of Ebola on Surfaces—Guidance for Non-Healthcare Settings (OSHA)
• Infection Prevention and Control Guidance for Care of Patients in Health Care Settings (WHO)
• Frequently Asked Questions (WHO)
• Facts About Ebola in the U.S. Infographic (CDC)