What must disinfection products be registered as to be effective against bloodborne pathogens?

To effectively combat bloodborne pathogens during trauma and crime scene cleanup, it is crucial that disinfection products are registered specifically as an EPA or Health Canada registered biocide. This registration signifies that the product has undergone rigorous testing to demonstrate its efficacy against specific microorganisms, including those that cause diseases transmitted through blood, such as HIV and hepatitis B.

Biocides are classified substances that are designed to eliminate or control harmful microorganisms, making them suitable for environments where the risk of bloodborne infections is significant. Their registration ensures that they meet the necessary standards for safety and effectiveness, providing assurance that the product will work as intended in a potentially hazardous environment.

In contrast, general cleaning products, household disinfectants, and organic cleaning solutions may not have undergone the same level of scrutiny and may not be formulated to effectively kill pathogens. Therefore, they may not offer the necessary protection in circumstances where exposure to blood is a concern. Using a product that is not specifically registered as a biocide could lead to inadequate disinfection and increased risk of infection, which is critical to avoid in trauma and crime scene contexts.