not have an electric charge (non-ionic),
such as non-woven disposable wipes. Avoid
microfiber and cotton towels if quaternary
ammonium chlorides are listed on the label
of the cleaner.
3. If you want the benefit of microfiber cloths,
switch to alternate disinfectant technologies
which do not show binding properties, such
as hydrogen peroxide based disinfectants.
4. Use a spray and wipe approach to directly
apply quat disinfectants on to surfaces to
reduce the risk of quat binding. This has the
added benefit of helping to ensure that all
surfaces are properly covered and that the
proper contact time is achieved.
5. Skip the wiping all together and consider
using a foamer to apply the cleaning solution
and a squeegee to remove the excess from
the surface. Most antimicrobial cleaners that
have a surfactant can be successfully ap-
plied as a foam by utilizing equipment that
looks like your standard trigger or pressure
sprayer.
Using one or more of these approaches when
trying to control microorganisms will ensure that
your cleaning efforts are as effective as you
think they are.
Quat Binding
Continued from previous page
42 April 2015
Michael A. Pinto, CSP, CMP, is chief executive
officer of Wonder Makers Environmental, Inc.,
a manufacturing and environmental consult-
ing firm that specializes in identification and
control of asbestos, lead, IAQ, mold, industrial
hygiene, and chemical problems. Mr. Pinto is
the author of over 150 published articles and
several books. He holds numerous certifications
in the environmental and safety areas, including
Certified Safety Professional and Certified Mold
Professional. Michael was selected as part of
the Mitigation Assessment Team for FEMA fol-
lowing Hurricanes Katrina and Rita and was a
contributor to the EPA's Healthy Homes Initia-
tive. He shares his expertise with the industry
through service on the Board of Directors of the
Indoor Air Quality Association (IAQA), Restora-
tion Industry Association (RIA), and Cleaning
Industry Research Institute (CIRI). Michael can
be reached at 269-382-4154 or
map@wondermakers.com
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