Decontamination Specialist Cleaning

Decontamination cleaning company. Although it may seem simple, it plays a crucial role in infection prevention and control. This process involves the use of water, detergents, and mechanical action typically scrubbing or wiping to eliminate visible dirt, organic matter, and debris from surfaces and objects. We are trusted by Transport for London, Netflix, Tesco and more

While cleaning effectively removes microbes, it does not necessarily kill them. Therefore, items that may be used in invasive procedures or have been exposed to potential pathogens must undergo further disinfection or sterilisation following cleaning.

For an item or surface to be considered “clean,” all visible signs of contamination must be gone. In healthcare environments, especially, medical tools and equipment must be visibly clean before being deemed suitable for use.

On the other hand disinfection builds upon cleaning by actively reducing the number of microorganisms on a surface or item. It uses chemical agents, heat, or UV radiation to lower the microbial load to levels considered safe and non-infectious.

However, it’s critical to note that disinfection doesn’t eliminate all microbes, and most importantly, does not destroy bacterial spores. As such, any item being disinfected must already be visibly clean before treatment begins.

Disinfection is typically applied to items and surfaces that pose a moderate risk, where complete sterilisation is not always necessary but reducing microbial presence is essential.

Sterilisation is the highest level of decontamination and is required for equipment that will come into contact with sterile areas of the body or penetrate skin or mucous membranes. This process eliminates all forms of microbial life, including bacterial spores.

Sterilisation methods include the use of chemicals like ethylene oxide or hydrogen peroxide, or the application of specialised equipment such as autoclaves that use pressurised steam or dry heat.

Just as with disinfection, sterilisation must only be carried out after the item has been thoroughly cleaned to remove any visible contaminants. Only then can it be deemed truly sterile and safe for high-risk medical procedures.