[Histonet] Disinfectant Solutions

[Owen, Michael P]

Dear Jean,

A formal risk assessment of the pathogens expected to be encountered should
be performed before using a chemical disinfectant. This evaluation will
determine what chemical is appropriate. Although phenolics like Amphyl are
effective against many types of microorganisms they will not be effective
against everything. 

I recommend you consolt the following books and Web sites for discussions on
the strengths and weaknesses of most chemical disinfectants. For example,
chlorine compounds such as household bleach are very effective disinfectants
but contact times may be long (depending on use) and their corrosive action
will be damaging to instruments.

I am not an expert on risk assessments or biological safety. On the
contrary, I am a humble novice and I have learned when writing a Web-based
course on biological safety this year disinfectant selection is not a simple
process. Good luck!


WHO Biological Safety Manual Third Edition
http://www.who.int/csr/resources/publications/biosafety/WHO_CDS_CSR_LYO_2004
_11/en
World Health Organization
December 2004


University of Washington-Seattle Environmental Health and Safety
http://www.ehs.washington.edu
http://www.ehs.washington.edu/rbsbiosafe/index.shtm


Biological Safety Principles and Practices Third Edition
Edited by Diane O. Fleming and Debra L. Hunt
American Society of Microbiology
December 2000


Laboratory-acquired Infections: History, Incidence, Causes and Preventions,
Fourth Edition
C. H. Collins and D. A. Kennedy
Arnold Publishers
January 1999


Michael P. Owen, Regulatory Microbiologist
U.S. Food and Drug Administration Pacific Regional Lab Northwest
22201 23rd Drive SE Bothell, WA 98021-4421
Phone: 425-483-4865     E-Mail: michael.owen <@t> fda.gov