The terms antiseptics and disinfectants are often used interchangeably, but each has a specific application. Antiseptics are primarily used on living tissues to prevent infection, while disinfectants are stronger chemicals used on inanimate surfaces to kill germs.
However, knowing the difference between an antiseptic and a disinfectant is not just a matter of definition. In this article, we’ll dive deeper into the types of antiseptics and disinfectants to ensure that you use the right product for the right purpose. You’ll also learn their unique properties and uses, shedding light on their roles in commercial cleaning.
What Are Antiseptics?
Antiseptics are chemical agents used for disinfecting and maintaining hygiene. They are applied on living tissues, such as skin and mucous membranes, to prevent infection.
Additionally, antiseptics are employed in commercial settings to sanitise surfaces, playing a critical role in maintaining cleanliness and public health safety.
There are various forms of antiseptics available. This includes liquid antiseptics, such as alcohol-based hand sanitisers, which are common in public spaces like MRT stations and shopping malls, particularly since the COVID-19 pandemic.
Antiseptic solutions like povidone-iodine are frequently used in hospitals and clinics for wound cleaning and pre-surgical preparation. Antiseptic surface sprays and wipes containing agents like benzalkonium chloride are widely used to disinfect surfaces in commercial establishments.
Additionally, solid antiseptics, like chlorhexidine dusting powder, are utilised in specific medical scenarios, such as dressing wounds and minor surgical procedures.
While their use is widespread in various commercial environments, their role in healthcare settings is particularly crucial. Antiseptics are essential for controlling the spread of infections and ensuring public health safety across different settings.
Types Of Antiseptics
Antiseptics come in varying forms and are carefully formulated for specific applications. Delve into some common types of antiseptics and their precise roles in safeguarding health and cleanliness.
1. Alcohols (Ethyl Alcohol, Isopropyl Alcohol)
These are primarily used as skin disinfectants due to their effectiveness in destroying pathogens. In commercial cleaning, particularly within healthcare settings, alcohols like ethyl and isopropyl alcohol play a crucial role.
These alcohols exhibit potent germicidal properties and are effective against many pathogens. Ethyl alcohol is especially potent against lipophilic and hydrophilic viruses, including influenza, herpes, and human immunodeficiency virus (HIV), while isopropyl alcohol is active against lipid viruses.
They are particularly effective in concentrations of 60%-90%, making them suitable for skin disinfectants and for disinfecting small instrument surfaces like thermometer tips and stethoscopes.
However, it’s important to note that alcohols are not recommended for sterilising surgical instruments due to their inability to destroy bacterial spores and lack of penetration through protein-rich materials such as blood and tissue residue.
2. Quaternary Ammonium Compounds (Benzalkonium Chloride, Cetrimide)
Quaternary ammonium compounds (QACs) are extensively used in various commercial applications due to their antimicrobial properties. These compounds are present in many products, including personal care items, ophthalmic medications, and skin antiseptics.
QACs serve multiple roles, including skin disinfection, irrigation, and as preservatives in eye drops. They are gentle on the skin and effectively eliminate many microorganisms.
In healthcare facilities, QACs are vital for surface disinfection and are used as preservatives in certain pharmaceutical products. Their increased use during the COVID-19 pandemic, especially in disinfectants effective against SARS-CoV-2, highlights their relevance in modern infection control.
However, there are concerns regarding their overuse potentially leading to tolerance or resistance development in pathogenic bacteria.
3. Chlorhexidine And Other Diguanides (Chlorhexidine Gluconate)
Chlorhexidine is widely used as both antiseptic and disinfectant. It’s used for skin disinfection before surgery, sterilising surgical instruments, cleaning wounds, and preventing dental plaque.
Unlike alcohol, chlorhexidine is more effective in the presence of organic material, such as blood and tissue residues. It has a broader spectrum of activity, including effectiveness against bacterial spores, which makes it a more suitable choice for sterilising surgical instruments.
Additionally, chlorhexidine gluconate is a key ingredient in antiseptic mouthwashes and is employed for germicidal hand rinses and skin cleansers in surgical scrubs.
Its effectiveness against various microorganisms, including Gram-positive and Gram-negative organisms, facilitates its use in different medical procedures and the formulation of eye drops.
How Antiseptics Are Used In Commercial Cleaning
Here are different ways antiseptics are used in healthcare and in other commercial spaces, demonstrating their versatility and critical role in maintaining hygiene standards.
Preoperative Preparations in Healthcare
Antiseptics like chlorhexidine gluconate or povidone-iodine are applied directly onto a patient’s skin surface in surgical environments. This is usually done by gently applying the antiseptic with a sterile swab or cloth to cleanse the area where surgery will be performed. The aim is to minimise the risk of infections at the surgical site by reducing microbial populations.
Wound Care
When treating wounds, the application of antiseptics is a crucial step to prevent infection. Antiseptics are suitable for minor cuts, abrasions, and superficial burns, where they can be applied directly to the affected area in the form of liquids, sprays, or creams.
In Singapore, commonly used antiseptic products for wound care include Dettol Antiseptic Liquid and Betadine Antiseptic Cream. These antiseptic agents work by killing or inhibiting the growth of harmful microorganisms, thereby preventing infection and promoting the healing process of the wound.
The application method may vary depending on the wound’s size and location but often involves either gently wiping the area with an antiseptic-soaked cloth or applying a cream or spray.
Hand Hygiene
Healthcare workers frequently use antiseptic hand rubs and washes to maintain hand hygiene. These products are typically liquid or gel, like Lifebuoy Hand Sanitizer and Purell Advanced Hand Sanitizer.
They are used by applying a small amount to the hands and rubbing them together thoroughly. This practice is essential for preventing the spread of infections within healthcare environments.
Instrument Sterilisation
In medical settings, antiseptics are used to sterilise instruments. These include surgical scissors, forceps and endoscopes. They are also used to sterilise instruments that come into contact with mucous membranes and sterile body areas, which include catheters, laryngoscopes and surgical retractors.
This sterilisation process often involves soaking the instruments in antiseptic solutions or wiping them with antiseptic wipes to ensure they are free from harmful microorganisms before use.
Food Industry
Antiseptics also find applications in the food industry. Antiseptics are used to sanitise surfaces and equipment to maintain hygiene in food handling.
This is typically done by wiping down countertops, cutting boards, and utensils with cloths soaked in antiseptic solutions or by spraying the antiseptic directly onto the surfaces. This ensures the surfaces that come in direct contact with food are free from harmful microbes, crucial for preventing foodborne illnesses.
Fitness Centres and Schools
In these high-contact environments, antiseptics are used to clean surfaces and equipment. Equipment, gym mats, desks, and doorknobs are routinely wiped with antiseptic wipes or sprayed with antiseptic solutions.
The common method is wiping the equipment and surfaces with antiseptic wipes or spraying antiseptic solutions. This practice is essential for preventing the spread of germs in these frequently used and shared spaces, ensuring a hygienic and safe environment for users and students.
What Are Disinfectants?
Disinfectants are potent chemical agents formulated for use on inanimate surfaces to combat and eliminate germs, playing a crucial role in infection control across various commercial sectors.
Available in forms such as sprays, wipes, and liquid solutions, disinfectants typically contain powerful biocides like alcohol, hypochlorites, or quaternary ammonium compounds.
Their ability to eradicate up to 99.9% of pathogens is crucial in preventing the spread of illnesses and maintaining a healthy, safe environment in commercial settings. Here’s how commercial spaces use disinfectants.
How Disinfectants Are Used In Commercial Cleaning
Here are the various applications of disinfectants in commercial cleaning, showcasing their essential role in ensuring effective sanitation and hygiene maintenance.
Healthcare Facilities
In healthcare facilities, disinfectants are employed to maintain the highest levels of hygiene. They are used on surfaces, including medical equipment, countertops, and high-touch areas like doorknobs.
Disinfectant wipes and liquid solutions are commonly used to ensure thorough surface sanitisation. These measures are critical in safeguarding patient health and preventing healthcare-associated infections, such as surgical site infections, catheter-associated urinary tract infections and central line-associated bloodstream infections.
Fitness Centres
Fitness centres like gyms utilise disinfectants to promote a clean and safe workout environment. Typically, disinfectant sprays or wipes are provided to gym-goers to disinfect exercise equipment, mats, locker rooms and other surfaces before and after use.
This practice helps prevent the spread of sweat-borne bacteria and viruses like staphylococcus epidermidis, staphylococcus aureus, human papillomavirus (HPV) and herpes simplex virus, ensuring a hygienic workout space.
Restaurants
Restaurants rely on disinfectants to uphold food safety standards and overall cleanliness. Disinfectant solutions are used to sanitise kitchen surfaces, food preparation areas, and dining tables.
Additionally, disinfectant wipes or sprays are often available for customers to clean their hands and dining surfaces, contributing to a sanitary dining experience.
Educational Institutions
Disinfectants are essential for maintaining healthy learning environments. Janitorial staff use disinfectant solutions to clean and disinfect classrooms, desks, and frequently touched surfaces like handrails. This practice reduces the risk of illness transmission among students and staff.
Retail Spaces
Retailers employ disinfectants to create a safe shopping space for customers. Store employees regularly disinfect shopping carts, baskets, and checkout counters. Disinfectant wipes may also be provided for customers to clean shopping cart handles and hands, fostering a hygienic shopping experience.
Office Environments
Offices utilise disinfectants to minimise the spread of germs among employees. Commonly touched surfaces like keyboards, computer mice, and shared office equipment are routinely disinfected using wipes or liquid solutions. This practice promotes a healthy workspace and reduces the risk of illness outbreaks.
Types Of Disinfectants
Disinfectants are the frontline defenders against harmful pathogens, ensuring the safety and cleanliness of commercial properties. These come in various forms and serve specific purposes in maintaining a healthy environment.
Delve into some common types of disinfectants, their precise roles, and how they play a pivotal role in infection control and hygiene.
1. Quaternary Ammonium Compounds (QACs)
QACs are widely used in hospitals for their efficacy against germs and bacteria. They are odourless, non-corrosive, and do not stain surfaces. Additionally, QACs are biodegradable, making them an environmentally friendly option.
They are a staple in hospitals, nursing homes, and other healthcare settings due to their non-corrosive nature and ability to maintain efficacy even in the presence of organic matter. Common products containing QACs are Lysol disinfectant spray and Clorox disinfecting wipes.
2. Iodophors (Combination Of Iodine And Detergent)
Typically used in medical facilities, iodophors effectively disinfect medical equipment like blood culture bottles and hydrotherapy tanks. They are effective in hard water and can penetrate cell walls to kill germs and bacteria.
Betadine solution and Wescodyne are popular iodophor-based disinfectants. However, they can stain surfaces and are generally more expensive than other types.
3. Hypochlorites
Hypochlorites are known for their strong oxidising properties, hypochlorites are effective against many microorganisms, including tough-to-kill spores. In Singapore, products like Clorox Regular Bleach and Kao Bleach are popular choices.
Hypochlorites are cost-effective and safe for food prep surfaces at the right dilution. The recommended dilution ratio typically depends on the intended use and bleach concentration. A common guideline for general disinfection is to mix 1 part bleach with 99 parts water. This equates to about 10 millilitres (ml) of bleach to 1 litre of water, creating a 0.05% sodium hypochlorite solution.
They are also used in water treatment facilities. However, their effectiveness is reduced in the presence of soils, and they can be corrosive and emit volatile organic compounds (VOCs).
4. Peroxide-Based Disinfectants
Peroxide-based disinfectants contain germicidal, bactericidal, and virucidal properties, they are quick-acting and sustainable, breaking down into natural elements. Oxivir Tb and Clorox Hydrogen Peroxide Cleaner are common examples of peroxide-based disinfectants.
They are frequently used in settings prioritising eco-friendly products, such as green-certified buildings, and in sensitive environments like childcare and educational facilities. They can, however, cause surface etching, particularly on floors.
5. Alcohol-Based Disinfectants
Alcohol-based disinfectants have rapid germicidal action, alcohol-based disinfectants like Ethyl and Isopropyl alcohol) are effective against many pathogens, including bacteria, viruses, and fungi.
Due to their rapid evaporation and minimal residue, alcohol-based disinfectants are widely used in healthcare to disinfect skin before injections and clean electronic devices. They are suitable for many surfaces but may damage certain materials like plastic and shellac.
Safety And Handling Protocols When Using Disinfectants And Antiseptics For Your Business
Antiseptics should be handled with care on living tissues, while disinfectants should be used per guidelines to avoid harmful effects due to their potent nature.
Here are tips on safety and handling protocols you can implement to safely and effectively apply these substances in commercial settings.
1. Detailed Chemical Education With Specific Product Examples
Provide in-depth training on the properties and usage of specific antiseptics and disinfectants, such as quaternary ammonium compounds for surface disinfection and isopropyl alcohol for skin antiseptics.
For example, when using a quaternary ammonium compound, staff should be trained on its effectiveness against various pathogens, appropriate dilution (e.g., 1:32 ratio for general disinfection), and required contact time for different surfaces. This training should also cover the potential risks of overuse, such as contributing to antimicrobial resistance.
2. Protocol for Accurate Dilution And Application
Establish clear guidelines for each product’s correct dilution and application. For instance, when using bleach (sodium hypochlorite) as a disinfectant, provide precise dilution instructions (e.g., 1:10 ratio for high-level disinfection) and application methods, such as using a spray bottle or mop.
Emphasise the importance of allowing the solution to remain on the surface for a specific time (e.g., at least one minute) to ensure effective disinfection.
3. Specialised PPE Guidelines Per Chemical Agent
Create tailored PPE guidelines for different chemicals. For instance, when handling concentrated hydrogen peroxide solutions, staff should use gloves resistant to oxidation, face shields, and protective aprons.
Regular training sessions should be conducted to demonstrate the correct way to wear, remove, and dispose of PPE and to recognise signs of wear and tear that would necessitate replacement.
4. Secure Storage And Digital Inventory Management
Implement secure, well-ventilated storage areas specifically designed for chemical agents. For example, store acids and bases in separate, locked cabinets. Utilise digital inventory management systems to track all products’ quantities, batch numbers, and expiration dates.
This system can send alerts for low stock levels or upcoming expiration dates, ensuring the continuous availability of effective products.
5. Emergency Response Plan With Real-Life Scenarios
Develop an emergency response plan that includes real-life scenarios. For example, in the event of a bleach spill, the protocol should include immediate evacuation of the area, usage of neutralising agents like sodium bisulfate for containment, and a clear communication chain for reporting the incident.
Regularly conduct drills to familiarise staff with these procedures and ensure that emergency kits containing items like neutralising agents, PPE, and first-aid supplies are easily accessible.
Conclusion About The Difference Between Antiseptics and Disinfectants
Knowing the different types and uses of antiseptics and disinfectants is crucial for maintaining hygiene and safety, especially when engaging with a professional commercial cleaning services company.
It enables you to make informed decisions and choose a service provider that employs the appropriate agents for your specific needs, whether it’s for maintaining a sterile environment in healthcare settings or ensuring cleanliness in office spaces.
When it comes to professional disinfection services, look no further than ESP Cleaning. Whether you represent a Fortune 500 giant or a budding SME, our tailored solutions ensure a pristine, safe, and secure environment.
Schedule a non-obligatory consultation with us today and discover how we can provide top-notch cleaning services for your offices, factories, schools and any commercial space.
Frequently Asked Questions About The Difference Between Antiseptics and Disinfectants
Do Commercial Cleaning Companies Provide Eco-Friendly Disinfecting Options?
Many commercial cleaning services now offer eco-friendly disinfecting options, catering to the increasing demand for sustainable practices.
These green alternatives often include biodegradable, non-toxic, and low-volatile organic compounds (VOCs) products, which are effective yet less harmful to the environment and human health than traditional disinfectants.
How Do Commercial Cleaners Ensure The Effectiveness Of Antiseptics And Disinfectants?
In Singapore, commercial cleaners ensure the effectiveness of antiseptics and disinfectants by adhering to the standards set by the National Environment Agency (NEA) and other relevant authorities.
They use approved products and meet specific efficacy standards against various pathogens. Techniques like adenosine triphosphate (ATP) testing are employed to monitor cleanliness and confirm the effectiveness of their cleaning methods.
Additionally, regular training in the latest cleaning technologies and adherence to strict guidelines are essential to maintain high standards of cleanliness and effectiveness in the Singaporean context.
Is Bleach A Disinfectant Or Antiseptic?
Bleach is a disinfectant with sodium hypochlorite as its primary ingredient. It kills bacteria, fungi, and viruses, including influenza, and is effective within 10–60 minutes of contact time. However, it is rapidly inactivated by organic matter.
Can Antiseptics Be Used As Disinfectants And Vice Versa?
Antiseptics and disinfectants are formulated differently, with antiseptics being milder for use on skin and disinfectants being stronger for surfaces. Using them interchangeably is not recommended due to potential safety issues and effectiveness concerns.
Are There Any Natural Alternatives To Chemical Antiseptics And Disinfectants?
Yes, natural alternatives like tea tree oil and vinegar have antiseptic and disinfectant properties, but their effectiveness can be variable compared to chemical options.