As an emergency service company, our customer service includes availability on a moment’s notice. Our line of work exposes us to hazards on a regular basis with fire and water mitigation. Absent those events, we do not shy away from any type of biohazard cleaning – blood, sewage, animal and human infestations are just a few. More recently, we have added COVID-19 to our residential and commercial biohazard cleanup list and we are proud to serve our communities during this health crisis.

Confidence Is What We Do!

Our cleanup and decontamination processes include protection for our team, as well as yours. Proper containment, communication, use of 100% plant based products and documentation of completed work has made West Coast Fire & Water an all-around distinguished company.

What To Expect

When you call West Coast Fire & Water, you are calling the experts in compassion and understanding, as well as the premium biohazard cleanup and decontamination team. If you are concerned about COVID-19 exposure in your business, contact our office at 888-617-3786 and we will get you connected to a Project Manager for immediate assistance. Our goal is to assess and treat the situation as soon as possible so your business may continue in operation with little disruption. We also understand the need for discreet completion of work.

We look forward to working with you and keeping your doors open so you may continue to serve the community with confidence and a healthy, productive operations space.

The post Choosing The Right Company For Your Commercial Biohazard Cleanup Needs appeared first on West Coast Fire & Water.

The problem with there being so many species of mold is that differentiating toxic molds from household molds is nearly impossible for an untrained professional. If you discover mold growth in your home, you should call a professional mold removal company to inspect the area and determine if your home requires treatment.

Some types of mold to be aware of are:

Stachybotrys Chartarum (black mold)

Stachybotrys grows well on extremely wet building materials containing cellulose that have remained wet for more than a week. It produces mycotoxins that can irritate skin and mucous membranes. One potent mycotoxin produced by Stachybotrys is called satratoxin; it is also toxic when inhaled. Extreme care should be taken when this organism is amplified indoors.

There are a wide variety of species of Aspergillus. Some are considered opportunistic pathogens and may cause pulmonary infections. Some members also produce mycotoxins and have been implicated in causing allergic reactions and hypersensitivity pneumonitis.

Aspergillus type organisms are some of the first fungi to grow on water-damaged materials and are frequently found in water-damaged structures.

Ulocladium

Isolated from soil, wood, and decaying plant material, Ulocladium grows on very wet walls and particleboard. Because of its high water requirements, it is considered an excellent indicator of water damage. This genus is allergenic, contributing to the allergy load especially in those with Alternaria allergy.

The post Let’s Talk About Mold appeared first on West Coast Fire & Water.

Keeping workplaces clean and sanitized in the aftermath of the coronavirus could require specialized training. The Worldwide Cleaning Industry Association, ISSA, offers accreditation through its Global Biorisk Advisory Council to help companies “prepare for, respond to, and recover from bio-risk situations”  by offering such trainings.

Your facilities management team may want to consider obtaining this type of accreditation.

You will also need to update your facility maintenance protocols to include additional measures for disinfecting the workplace. Your new plan should include:

• Which areas need to be disinfected

What type of disinfectant is appropriate to use

• What personal protective equipment (PPE) your team will use while cleaning
• The frequency for cleaning and disinfecting
• Who will be responsible for each task
• How your maintenance team will be trained in new cleaning procedures
• How you will document completion of each task

“Deep cleaning should be performed as soon as possible after the confirmation of a positive test as practical. While the scope of deep cleaning is presumed to be the full site, sites may reduce the footprint to be cleaned if there is sufficient rationale to do so”. If deep cleaning procedures cannot be performed, several FDA approved protocols call for the site to shut down for at least 72 hours to allow for “natural deactivation of the virus, followed by site personnel performing a comprehensive disinfection of all common surfaces.”

This additional cleaning protocol is a lot to consider for any organization.

If you’re not confident your in-house team has the training, technology and time to handle this specialized cleaning, you may want to consider hiring facility maintenance services.

New Technologies For Sanitizing Buildings

New, innovative technologies have been transforming the facility maintenance industry for years, but we will likely see more widespread adoption of them as a result of the coronavirus pandemic.

More facility maintenance teams are using advanced equipment, including electrostatic sprayers to cover larger surface areas faster than they could with mops or rags.

Hotels, health care organizations, schools and other large buildings are also using electrolyzed water to clean floors and surfaces with an electric charge and natural minerals, rather than harsh chemicals.

Other cleaning innovations include antimicrobial coatings for floors applied in a similar fashion.

Your team should stay up to date on these emerging technologies and trends and consider upgrading your cleaning equipment accordingly.

The post Decontamination When Returning To The Workplace appeared first on West Coast Fire & Water.

You need to realize your responsibility for creating a safe and hygienic environment for your employees and customers. Maintaining a clean and hygienic environment is one of the most effective ways to show your customers and employees you care.

Regular cleaning and decontamination will help control bacteria and viruses before they are spread through cross-contamination. Some COVID-19 precautions for restaurants are:

• Staff must use PPE gloves. The use of PPE gloves can reduce cross-contamination risks
• Employees must undergo a temperature screening before clocking in at work every day
• Implement an effective hand hygiene program. Food preparers and servers must wash their hands before handling food
• Create and implement a deep cleaning and decontamination program

If creating and implementing a decontamination program seems like an uphill battle, join hands with a COVID cleanup company near you in Sonoma County. In addition to helping you implement safety measures at your restaurant, your COVID cleanup partner will provide you a list of critical information required to operate safely in the Coronavirus era.

Implementing a Deep Cleaning and Decontamination Program

Restaurant Front of House Cleaning Checklist

Daily Tasks

• Clean walls with water
• Thoroughly clean and decontaminate counters
• Launder napkins, aprons, and tablecloths
• Deep clean bathrooms, benches, booths, and seats
• Clean all menu cards
• Clean counters and tables
• Take out trash
• Clean high-touch surfaces such as doorknobs, handles, computer screens, light switches, and keyboards
• Sweep and mop floors and vacuum carpets

Weekly Tasks

• Thoroughly clean light fixtures
• Wipe down and decontaminate doors and windows

Monthly Tasks

• Look for and get rid of cobwebs
• Thoroughly wash and clean walls
• Dust decorations and wall art

The Back of House (kitchen) Cleaning Checklist

Daily Tasks

• Wipe down walls immediately after splashing occurs
• Clean sinks
• Wipe down equipment such as meat slicers, juicers, coffee makers, toasters, and microwaves
• Clean utensils, small wares, flatware, and glassware. Let them dry overnight
• Launder aprons, towels, and uniforms
• Sweep and mop floors
• Decontaminate preparation area surfaces
• Thoroughly clean beverage dispenser heads and soda gun tips
• Take out the trash and clean trash cans. Decontaminate the waste disposal area
• Clean grills, griddle range, the fryer, and flattop. Remember to clean underneath the equipment
• Change the foil lining on top of grills, flattops, and ranges

Weekly Tasks

• Clean ovens
• Clean anti-fatigue mats
• Clean drains
• Deep clean walk-in refrigerators and freezers
• Deep clean sinks and faucets. Remove sticky grease and grime
• Clean deep fryers with boiling water

Monthly Tasks

• Deep clean behind the hotlines to prevent clogs
• Deep clean freezers
• Clean refrigerator coils
• Empty grease traps
• Deep clean walls and ceilings
• Clean coffee and espresso machines

Inspect Kitchen Areas, Dining Areas, and Restrooms Regularly

Use the checklist below during an inspection:

• Check whether all equipment and areas are clean
• Check whether staff are using gloves and masks when handling food
• Utensils should be stored in covered areas to reduce contamination risks
• All preparation areas should be clean
• Review refuse and garbage disposal methods. Garbage bins should be clean. The lid of the dumpster should be shut at all times. Check whether the area outside the dumpster is clean and pest-free
• Inspect the handwashing techniques and regularity of your staff
• Check whether employees are wearing hairnets where appropriate. Make sure they are wearing clean clothing

Develop a Checklist for Your Staff to Maintain Good Hygiene

Good personal hygiene should be considered a priority, not an afterthought. To maintain a hygienic environment, enforce and habituate good hygiene practices. Include these guidelines in your checklist:

• Kitchen staff must cover their hair and use hand gloves while handling food. Rubber gloves should be used while cleaning utensils and equipment
• Staff should clean their hands at regular intervals (especially before and after handling food)
• Cuts, wounds, or open sores on the hands must be covered with a waterproof bandage
• Kitchen staff should be allowed to wear plain hand rings. Necklaces, earrings, and bracelets should be avoided

Ensure Proper Ventilation

Proper ventilation is imperative for customer and employee health and food sanitation. You need to come up with a plan to minimize food odors, smoke, and fumes from the cooking process.

You can either install an HVAC system or a Demand Controlled Ventilation system that senses heat and fumes and runs only when needed. Make sure you have enough makeup air to compensate for the air being exhausted.

Stay on top of maintenance. Get your ventilation system inspected and maintained by a certified and trustworthy contractor at recommended intervals. Make sure ventilation hoods are installed over cooking appliances.

Check with your local authorities to make sure that you are using the right size and grade of the hood. To maximize the efficiency of your hood, place your appliances as close to the wall as possible. When buying a hood, make sure it is designed to filter grease.

Check with your local authorities whether your local codes require that ventilation hoods are equipped with fire suppression systems.

Consider Specialty Decontamination Services

Providing your customers and employees with peace of mind in the COVID-19 era is invaluable.

A COVID cleanup company near you in Sonoma County can set you up for success. Your COVID cleanup company will help you design, implement, and manage your decontamination program.

Before hiring a COVID cleanup company near you in Sonoma County, make sure cleanup sessions will be conducted by fully trained technicians. Ask the contractor to provide you details about their decontamination protocols and the cleaning products (should be EPA-approved) they use. Ask whether they will issue a window certificate that you can use to inspire customer confidence.

West Coast Fire & Water offers coronavirus decontamination services in Sonoma County. We are committed to helping businesses reopen and operate safely throughout Northern California. To enquire about our services, call 707-504-3708.

The post Managing Your Restaurant’s Maintenance & Sanitization During COVID-19 appeared first on West Coast Fire & Water.

Preparing Workplaces For COVID-19

The CDC has issued guidelines for reopening businesses. Once you reopen your business, you cannot let your guard down. To reassure your customers and employees during the COVID-19 pandemic, you need to develop and implement a decontamination program.

The virus is primarily transmitted when a person is exposed to respiratory droplets released in the air when an infected person sneezes or coughs. To prevent this from happening, businesses are instructing their employees to wear masks and practice social distancing.

Though the primary mode of transmission for COVID-19 is through close contact with an infected person, there is a slight chance that a person may get infected by touching a contaminated surface.

But businesses are taking no chances. Many employers have joined hands with companies to develop and implement deep cleaning programs.

The demand for coronavirus deep clean services in Sonoma County and elsewhere has increased sharply over the last few months. Many businesses have hired coronavirus deep cleaners to decontaminate their facilities and maintain a hygienic environment.

What Are High-Touch Points?

High-touch points or high-touch surfaces are the surfaces that people come in contact with multiple times a day. Typical examples include lift switches, light switches, keyboards, faucets, and countertops.

Because several people touch these surfaces every day, they should be cleaned regularly to prevent cross-contamination. To create a safe and hygienic environment, you need to improve the decontamination of high-touch surfaces.

Answering the Million Dollar Question: What is Deep Cleaning?

Deep cleaning! You must have heard this term several times in the past few months. Before we go any further, let’s first try to understand what does deep cleaning mean, and how it differs from regular cleaning.

Regular cleaning tasks often cover things such as dusting surfaces and areas, mopping the floors, and cleaning bathrooms and the kitchen. Regular cleaning tasks are performed at regular intervals (daily or weekly).

Deep cleaning, on the other hand, involves intense decontamination of areas including surfaces and carpets. Before the COVID-19 era, most businesses used to deep clean every 6-12 months. Deep cleaning will cover areas that are traditionally not covered by regular cleaning.

Some typical examples include:

• Under the sink
• Behind kitchen appliances such as the microwave and oven
• Inside and outside of windows
• Inside the oven

A Deep Cleaning Checklist

Reception Area

• Dust, sweep, and mop welcome mats and straighten them out
• Sweep and mop the floors. Thoroughly clean the carpets every few weeks or every month
• Using an EPA-certified cleaning product, wipe down the reception desk, counter, and phone. Thoroughly clean furniture and coffee table
• Thoroughly clean tables, chairs, lamps, window shades, and other surfaces
• Clean the front door on both sides
• Empty all trash cans and wipe them down. Replace their liners

Kitchen/Break Area

• Thoroughly clean the refrigerator. Get rid of unclaimed items. Wipe down shelves with an EPA-registered, eco-friendly cleaning product
• Vacuum or clean and mop the floor
• Thoroughly clean sinks and faucets with an EPA-registered cleaning product
• Empty trash and recycling receptacles. Replace liners and deep clean receptacles
• Deep clean counters and the coffee maker

Bathrooms

• Remove scale from bathroom tiles, showerheads, and taps
• Empty and deep clean trash receptacles and sanitary napkin dispensers
• Sweep and mop the floor with a floor cleaner or detergent solution
• Thoroughly clean sinks, toilet seats and covers, towel dispensers, toilet paper dispensers, hand dryers, and taps
• Clean the mirror (over the sink) with a glass cleaner
• Refill dispensers

Cubicles

• Deep clean shelves, cabinets, doorknobs, light switches, keyboards, and other high-touch surfaces with an EPA-certified cleaning product
• Empty trash receptacles. Thoroughly clean them and replace liners
• Clean HVAC vents
• Dust and launder blinds and shades. Clean the window sill
• Clean window glass and other glass surfaces
• Sweep and mop/vacuum the floor
• Clean chair arms and desks with a mild, EPA-certified cleaning product

Cleaning Products to Use

Use EPA-certified cleaning products. Steer clear of toxic products that, apart from harming the environment, can cause health problems. Before buying cleaning products, remember to go through the list of products tested for effectiveness against the Coronavirus by the CDC. The list also includes wipes and sprays.

You can also use a diluted bleach solution (if appropriate for the surface). Your bleach must contain 5.25 percent to 8.25 percent sodium hypochlorite.

The Right Way to Deep Clean

First, dust the surface/area you want to deep clean. Though this won’t remove viruses and bacteria, it will prepare the surface for deep cleaning. Once you have removed dust from the surface, wipe it down with an EPA-certified cleaning product.

Hiring a Coronavirus Deep Cleaner

Here are some questions to ask a Coronavirus deep cleaner before hiring them:

• What safety precautions do you take?
• Can you walk me through the deep cleaning process?
• Do you hold any certifications?
• What cleaning products do you use?
• How long does a deep clean take?
• How long will the workplace stay decontaminated?
• Is there anything I need to do to prepare?

West Coast Fire & Water offers professional deep cleaning and decontamination services in Sonoma County. We use time-tested methods and modern equipment to deep clean areas and surfaces. To discuss your requirement with one of our professionals, call us at 707-504-3708.

The post What is Deep Cleaning/Decontamination and How Restaurants Are Doing It During the Coronavirus Pandemic appeared first on West Coast Fire & Water.

During a deep cleaning session, even those things that were not usually cleaned during the pre-coronavirus era are thoroughly cleaned.

Cleaning vs.Decontaminating

Cleaning refers to getting rid of dust, dirt, and debris from surfaces or materials. Usually, a mixture of soap and water or a mild commercial cleaner is used for cleaning.

Decontaminating or decontamination is the process of sterilizing surfaces by killing harmful bacteria, viruses, and other microbes.

When is Deep Cleaning for COVID-19 Necessary?

There is no formal definition of deep cleaning. The term itself isn’t officially recognized by the CDC, the WHO, or the EPA and is usually used to describe a set of cleaning processes and procedures developed to eliminate harmful bacteria and viruses.

Deep cleaning can be time-consuming. You may have expenses beyond those usually incurred by your business. Before you undertake a deep cleaning initiative, make sure you have a solid plan.

It is difficult to deep clean a facility while it is open and operating. You will either have to close your business or deep clean your facility after office hours.

As a business owner, you are responsible for ensuring the safety and wellbeing of your customers and employees.

In the current fear-based environment, people are reluctant to visit restaurants, hospitals, labs, and offices. Your employees may be anxious about returning to work. To ensure a safe and healthy workplace, undertake a deep cleaning initiative as soon as possible. Deep cleaning should be ongoing and not a one-time exercise. Develop daily, weekly, and monthly plans.

What Needs to be Deep Cleaned?

You do not need to clean everything on a regular basis. When deep cleaning surfaces, focus on high-touch surfaces such as lift buttons, doorknobs, laptop and desktop screens, light switches, cabinet handles, and countertops.

When deep cleaning areas, focus on places where germs and bacteria thrive. Typical examples include the pantry area, kitchens, and bathrooms.

If you own a restaurant, remember to deep clean your stock room and commercial restaurant appliances made from stainless steel.

Where to Begin

In addition to deep cleaning high-touch surfaces, focus on your walls. Pay special attention to surfaces that customers and employees touch frequently. Think about areas where customers and employees meet.

Remember to deep clean hidden surfaces attached to obvious surfaces such as the underside of tabletops, the outside and underside of sink bowls, and the top of refrigerators.

Tools & Products for COVID-19 Deep Cleaning

If you already have a deep cleaning plan in place, you most likely have tools and equipment for the job.

You will need an EPA-approved cleaning product, a mild commercial cleaner, soap water, paper towels/rags, foggers, and safety gear such as hand gloves, eyeglasses, and masks.

The Process

Start by cleaning surfaces to get rid of accumulated dirt and dust. After removing dirt and debris, wipe down surfaces using soap and water or a commercial cleaner. Thoroughly rinse and wipe frequently/high touched surfaces.

Next, disinfect using an EPA-approved cleaning product. Make sure the product you are using is appropriate for the surfaces you want to deep clean. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions.

If you have a commercial dishwasher, you can wash flatware, dishes, and cookware in it using an EPA-approved safe cleaning product.

Paper Towels/Rags?

Should I use paper towels/rags or cloths for deep cleaning? This is one of the most common questions people ask themselves before embarking on a deep cleaning project.

Both have their pros and cons. Paper towels are easily disposable and are less likely to cross-contaminate surfaces. Rags and clothes can be used multiple times and are less expensive.

If you use a cloth cleaner to wipe surfaces, it shouldn’t be used again before it is properly laundered to avoid any chance of cross-contamination.

Consider using both paper towels and clothes. You can use a cloth and warm soapy water for initial cleaning.

Once you get rid of dirt and debris, use an EPA-approved cleaning product to kill bacteria and viruses on the surface and wipe down with a paper towel. Remember to dispose of the paper towel to minimize chances of cross-contamination.

Think Twice Before Using Linens, Rugs, and Drapes

There is not enough research on how the coronavirus operates on linens, rugs, and drapes. You can wash them between uses, however, remember that many linens are made from materials that are tricky to clean and disinfect. Use linens, rugs, and drapes only if you are willing to change them frequently.

Foggers and Cold Steamers

Foggers and cold streamers can be used as an adjunct to other tools and equipment to deep clean areas. Foggers utilize a decontaminating solution and a sprayer to create positively charged particles.

Most surfaces are negatively or neutrally charged. Negative charges attract positive charges, and the spray particles cling to the surface.

The West Coast Fire & Water team consists of trained coronavirus deep cleaners in Petaluma. We are committed to helping businesses keep their customers and employees safe in these times. To discuss your requirement with one of our experts, call (707) 504-3708.

The post Deep Cleaning for COVID-19: What Does It Really Mean? appeared first on West Coast Fire & Water.

Alas, life must go on. To keep the wheels turning and generate economic growth, states are reopening.

Businesses realize it’s their responsibility to provide a safe working environment. The CDC has issued several guidelines for businesses to decontaminate their facilities. Many businesses are turning to commercial cleaning companies for deep cleaning.

Commercial cleaning companies use specialized cleaning equipment and tools to deep clean areas and surfaces. They employ subject-matter experts with decades of experience. A commercial cleaning company uses time-tested methods to thoroughly clean and decontaminate.

Before hiring decontamination cleaning services in Sonoma County, remember to seek answers to these questions.

How can I be sure my provider uses a product that is effective against the coronavirus?

Not all cleaning products are effective. Many are ineffective against common bacteria and viruses. Before hiring a commercial cleaning company, make sure the products they use are included on the EPA’s List N (a list of registered cleaning products that have been proven effective against the coronavirus).

It is worth mentioning here that the EPA itself hasn’t established any guidelines for surface cleaning products; however, experts believe that when the EPA establishes protocols, the results will show that if a cleaning product is effective against other coronaviruses, it will also be effective against SARS-CoV-2.

What is dwell time? Is it true that a product will be effective only if it is allowed to dwell on a surface for at least 10 minutes?

Dwell time/contact time/kill time is the amount of time a cleaning product must be in contact with the surface and remain wet in order to achieve the product’s claimed kill rate. Every cleaning product has a specific dwell time. It is usually mentioned on the product label.

While many products have a dwell time of 10 minutes, others may require just 3-5 minutes to achieve the desired pathogen control.

Once a surface is deep cleaned, how long does it remain contamination-free?

There is no cleaning product that when applied to a surface will kill viruses and bacteria for an extended period.

How long a surface remains contamination-free will primarily depend on how frequently it is touched. High-touch surfaces such as doorknobs, laptop and desktop screens, lift buttons, keyboards, countertops, light switches, sinks, faucets, and desks can get cross-contaminated immediately after being thoroughly cleaned.

Cleaning these surfaces frequently will reduce the risk of cross-contamination.

The good news is that COVID-19 does not spread easily through contaminated surfaces. Research suggests that the coronavirus spreads when an infected person sneezes or coughs and respiratory droplets are released into the air.

If an infected person touches a surface, yet does not sneeze or cough and respiratory droplets aren’t produced, the surface is unlikely to get contaminated.

Is there a product or process that can kill the coronavirus for an extended period?

No. Though many manufacturers claim that their products can keep surfaces contamination-free for as long as 90 days with just application, they do not have any evidence to back these claims.

What steps can I take to clean my facility?

Here are some measures you can take to keep your facility clean and lessen transmission probability:

• Periodically deep clean high-touch surfaces such as doorknobs, computer screens, faucets, sinks, countertops, light switches, sinks, faucets, and desks.
• Clean all surfaces using soap and water or a mild commercial cleaning product every day. Regular cleaning will remove dust and debris that can shield harmful bacteria and viruses.
• How to clean: Soak a piece of cloth in a product from List N. Use the piece to wipe surfaces. Alternatively, use a cleaning wipe from List N. Pay special attention to high-touch surfaces and areas where germs hide.

If your facility receives many visitors in a day, this two-step process may need to be repeated throughout the day.

What measures should be taken while cleaning areas and surfaces?

You need to take various precautions to reduce the chances of cross-contamination and transmission risk when cleaning your facility.

Wear gloves, masks, and eye protection when cleaning surfaces. Make sure the area has good ventilation. If an area is not well ventilated, apply the cleaning product, and leave.

Dispose of gloves after cleaning and wash your hands. Deep cleaning should be done in two stages. First clean dirty surfaces with a mild detergent or soap and water solution.

Next, apply the cleaning product and wipe surfaces, evenly distributing the products in the process. Allow surfaces to air dry. Dispose of paper towels and cleaning wipes.

Which products help kill viruses?

Bleach solutions have been proved to be effective against the coronavirus. Use a bleach product containing 5.25 percent-8.25 percent sodium hypochlorite. Do not mix household bleach with ammonia as doing so can result in toxic gases being released into the air.

West Coast Fire & Water offers decontamination cleaning services in Sonoma County. We use EPA-approved eco-friendly products that do not release toxic gases. We are committed to helping businesses create a safe working environment. To discuss your project with a deep cleaning expert, call (707) 504-3708.

The post The 8 Most Common COVID-19 Cleaning Questions Businesses ask Commercial Cleaning Companies appeared first on West Coast Fire & Water.

As states reopen, wineries gear up to compete against each other. This is a critical time. As a responsible business, you need to ensure that safety does not take a backseat.

Here are some sanitation best practices for wineries.

Sanitation Guide for Wineries

Wineries are known to have high microbial loads, especially during harvest. Low pH and ethanol are major population drivers in wineries. Microorganisms need vectors to travel through wineries. Typical examples of vectors in wineries include humans, improperly sanitized equipment or tools, and HVAC systems.

Follow these tips to prevent wine spoilage, and create a sanitary environment:

• Inspect the winery premises, cooperage, and equipment at least once every month. Consider inspecting your winery more often during the harvest and crush season
• The work area should be free of clutter. Winery equipment should be clean at all times. Develop and follow a proper schedule
• The winery must be clean and free of refuse at all times
• Work with your winery manager to develop cleaning and sanitation protocols. Encourage key stakeholders to come up with and share ideas

Steps of Effective Winery Sanitation

Preliminary Cleaning

In any sanitation process, the first step involves removing as much visible debris as possible. Cleaning can be done either manually or with mechanical cleaning systems such as spray balls or tanks and barrel washers.

High-pressure water without added chemicals can remove organics and build-up at a fraction of the cost associated with using a detergent or sanitizer. To ensure proper cleaning, direct the spray at an angle to the surface to be cleaned.

Using warm water in a high-pressure delivery system will improve its efficiency and save time and water. Do not use hot water for preliminary cleaning.

To maintain the integrity of the protective oxide coating on stainless steel, use soft bristle brushes for scrubbing. Avoid using fiber or metal scratch pads or brushes for removing tenacious deposits.

Detergent, Cleaners, and Surfactants

After getting rid of debris and film, clean the surface. Use detergents or cleaners to solubilize any deposits. Before using a detergent, learn about its unique properties. Avoid increasing the concentration beyond recommended levels as doing so is not cost-effective.

When determining the appropriate contact time between the detergent and application surface, consider how you intend to use the agent and the mode of application.

High-pressure spray requires less contact time with the surface than gels or foams. Gels are usually used in low-pressure systems.

A detergent can be made up of different components such as surfactants, acids, chelating agents, and alkalis. Known as-built cleaners or built detergents, such formulations can be used to achieve multiple cleaning goals.

You can also create your own detergent in your winery. Before experimenting with chemicals, consult an expert as inappropriate handling can result in injuries or even death.

Commonly Used Adjuncts in Formulations

Surfactants

Surfactants are also known as wetting agents. These organic molecules structurally have both hydrophobic and hydrophilic portions. Surfactants reduce the surface tension of water and help suspend debris and microorganisms adhering to surfaces. They do so by facilitating contact between the detergent and the surface being cleaned.

There are four main classifications of surfactants – nonionic, amphoteric, cationic, and anionic. Nonionic forms have the broadest range of properties. Nonionic forms can be either extremely good wetting agents or emulsifiers (it all depends on their chemical structure).

The foaming abilities of nonionic surfactants can vary. This is something to consider as a surfactant’s foaming ability can impact the success of a cleaning process.

Acids

Phosphoric acid is a commonly used adjunct in several formulations, courtesy of its ability to solubilize minerals. Though many other acids are used as cleaning compounds, many of them tend to be more corrosive to metal. For instance, nitric acid is known for its ability to remove stubborn mineral deposits, but it can prematurely degrade gasket material.

Alkali

Most detergents include strong alkalis or caustics such as caustic soda (NaOH) or caustic potash (KOH). Both NaOH and KOH are known for their excellent cleaning abilities and can remove fats and deposits. KOH, however, has better rinsing ability than NaOH.

Be very careful when using detergents with these chemicals as they are corrosive even to stainless steel and can cause irreversible damage to equipment if recommended application levels are exceeded.

Other alkali compounds used in wineries are sodium ortho and meta silicates. They are less corrosive to metals and are known for their cleaning ability.

Sanitation Monitoring

Though cleaning and sanitation significantly lower the microbial population, some microbes may still survive. In many cases, microorganisms deposited on equipment adhere to the surface. They grow and multiply to form a colony known as a biofilm. Over time, a biofilm can get bigger and start trapping debris, soils, other microorganisms, and nutrients.

To prevent this from happening, develop an effective cleaning and sanitation program. Revisit your program and evaluate its effectiveness at prescribed intervals. Sample direct contact surfaces such as the interior of conveyors, pipelines, and tanks as well as areas where indirect contamination could occur.

Schedules and Documentation

Develop a standard operating procedure for your winery. An SOP must include protocols, documentation methods, and schedules. Crushers/stemmers should be cleaned out and thoroughly rinsed between lots. Make sure the sanitation cycle is performed every 8 hours.

Apply these practices to conveyors and hoppers where sugar can accumulate. Tanks should be cleaned and sanitized after use. Every tank should be rinsed with high-pressure water between fillings.

Do you need top-notch coronavirus cleaning services in Sonoma County? Look no further than West Coast Fire & Water. To discuss your requirement, call 707-504-3708.

The post Best Practices for Cleaning and Sanitation in the Winery Industry appeared first on West Coast Fire & Water.

Thankfully, things have started looking up. All 50 states have begun to reopen. As a business owner, you are responsible for maintaining a safe and healthy workplace. To make your office safer for everyone during COVID-19, you need to design and execute a plan for your office cleaning.

Cleaning Guidelines by the CDC

The CDC has issued detailed guidance for cleaning and decontaminating workplaces. It has also issued a list of EPA-approved cleaning products that kill germs without adversely impacting the environment. Here are a few points to keep in mind when cleaning workplaces:

• Use protective equipment such as disposable gloves, masks, and gowns. Carefully remove them and dispose of them immediately after cleaning
• If you cannot get hold of CDC-approved cleaning products, use household bleach and water for cleaning. The CDC recommends:
• Five tablespoons bleach per gallon of water (for floors and larger cleaning surface)
• 4 tablespoons of bleach per quart of water (ideal for spray bottle applications)

*Note – Bleach solutions are effective for up to 24 hours

• Remember to clean surfaces thoroughly with a detergent or soap and water solution before starting. Cleaning prepares the surface, which increases the efficacy of disinfectants in killing germs
• Never mix cleaning products
• When using cleaning wipes, clean only one item at a time

Clean Frequently-Touched Surfaces

Though the coronavirus spreads primarily through respiratory droplets, studies have revealed that a healthy person can contract the virus when they touch a contaminated surface and then touch their eyes, mouth, or nose.

The virus can survive on different surfaces for up to 72 hours. Researchers believe that coronavirus particles can remain suspended in the air for up to three hours.

To mitigate the risk of COVID-19 transmission in your workplace, thoroughly and frequently clean most-touched surfaces such as doorknobs, light switches, elevator buttons, computer monitors, keyboard and mouse, and faucet handles.

Pay attention to areas where infectious germs love to hide. Typical examples include toilet seats, kitchen worktops, coffee makers, bathroom taps, and sinks. Regularly deep clean social gathering areas such as conference rooms, the cafeteria, and group workspaces.

Guidelines for Using Cleaning Products

Use EPA-recommended cleaning products that eliminate germs without adversely affecting the environment. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions when using disinfectants and cleaners.

Do not mix cleaning products and disinfectants, unless the label says you can do so. There are several dangers of mixing cleaning products. Mixing chlorine bleach and ammonia cleaners, for instance, can release toxic vapors. Exposure to these vapors can result in serious injuries or even death.

Cleaning Your Building If an Employee is Sick

• Limit access to areas used by the person (only people from the cleaning team should be provided access)
• Wait for at least 24 hours before decontaminating. If this is not feasible, wait for as long as possible
• Open all the doors and windows in the area to facilitate cross ventilation
• Deep clean and decontaminate areas used by the person, including cabinets, toilets, and common areas. Clean shared electronic equipment such as laptop/desktops, remote controls, touchscreen devices, and ATM machines used by the person
• Vacuum all areas used by the person, if required. We recommend using a vacuum with a HEPA filter. If a room has people in it, wait until it is empty
• Use appropriate cleaning products (recommended by the EPA) to clean soft surfaces such as carpets
• Turn off window-mounted, in-room, or on-wall recirculation HVAC. This will mitigate the risk of HVAC air duct contamination. Do not turn off your central HVAC
• Contact a COVID cleaning company in Marin County for additional cleaning if required

Decontaminating Outdoor Areas

• Deep clean high-touch surfaces made of plastic or metal routinely. Typical examples include grab bars and railings
• Do not spray disinfectants on outdoor recreational areas
• Wooden surfaces such as wooden benches and tables should be cleaned (not decontaminated) routinely

Working with Janitorial Services or In-house Cleaning Staff

Cleaning workers are at an increased risk of exposure to the virus and toxic chemicals from cleaning products. The CDC recommends taking appropriate safety measures to ensure the safety and well-being of these workers.

Train your workers on the proper use of chemicals, cleaning products, and cleaning and safety equipment (such as gloves, masks, hearing protection, and goggles).

Precautions to Follow When Cleaning and Decontaminating Areas

• Wear a mask, gloves, and gown when performing different tasks including collecting and disposing of trash
• Use additional personal protective equipment or PPE when handling toxic chemicals or when there is a risk of splash
• Remove your gown, gloves, and mask very carefully to avoid contaminating the surrounding area
• Wash your hands with soap and water for 20 seconds after removing gloves

Air Quality and Ventilation Systems

To maintain a healthy workplace:

• Use high-efficiency HVAC air filters (MERV 13 for offices, MERV 14 for healthcare facilities)
• Identify and address indoor air quality issues
• Come up with a plan (can include tweaking controls) to accommodate and monitor additional filtration needs
• Have your air quality assessed by an expert regularly. Implement measures recommended by the professional to improve the ventilation effectiveness of existing systems

West Coast Fire & Water is a reliable COVID cleaning company in Marin County. We have helped several businesses from different industries develop effective decontamination programs. Our time-tested methods are designed to deep clean even difficult-to-reach areas.

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