Unit 6: Clinical Operations
Clinical administration

Section 2: Infection Control, Environmental Health, and Safety

Products and Devices for Infection Prevention and Control

CDC recommends and OSHA stipulates that only those hospital disinfectants registered with the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) be used to decontaminate contaminated environmental surfaces. EPA’s web page on antimicrobial pesticides offers additional information on registration, testing, pilot projects, and science policy and guidance.

CDC recommends using products and devices approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for a variety of infection prevention and control practices. Examples include personal protective equipment (such as medical examination gloves and facemasks), antiseptic hand wash agents, medical sterilization equipment, medical packaging material, and automated instrument cleaning devices.

CDC further emphasizes the necessity of following specific manufacturer instructions for use. These instructions should be readily available for those who use and reprocess products and devices.