Much like other healthcare offices, you should keep your dental clinics clean and sanitary for the sake of the general public’s health. That’s why the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA), the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) have set guidelines for how to clean and maintain dental clinics.
A spotless clinic tells patients that an establishment is a good place to get their dental care from, and it gives a good and long-lasting first impression at that.
If you’re cleaning your dental clinic yourself or you’re hiring a cleaning service to do it for you, here’s how you can follow the guidelines set by OSHA and the CDC:
Disinfect Tools
It should go without saying to constantly disinfect your tools, especially when they come in contact with blood or saliva—two things that can carry pathogens. It will also be best to use approved disinfectants only. Other than the tools you use in your patients’ mouths, you must disinfect dental chairs, x-ray equipment, cabinets, and counter spaces.
Sanitize Workspaces
It will help to make an effort to disinfect workspaces regularly. These areas include the waiting area, reception area, break room, bathroom, and procedure room. Make sure you or the cleaning service you hired knows to cover all these places so that your clinic abides by the guidelines set by the CDC and OSHA.
Clean Away Dust
When cleaning your dental clinic, make sure there isn’t dust buildup present. Wipe down all services and double-check there aren’t any visible signs of dust.
It’s also not recommended to use feather dusters because this only spreads dust around. Instead, it’s advisable to use dampened cloths, vacuums, or microfiber cloths. These tools are more efficient at keeping dust from flying all over the place.
Keep a Steady Stock of Cleaning Supplies
Secure your dental clinic with a steady stock of cleaning supplies. Check that your establishment is ready for any spills or accidents. Keep cleaning and sanitary supplies fully stocked in your bathrooms and ensure employees are aware of the protocols to keep cleaning supplies fully stocked.
You can also assign specific tasks for your employees whenever it looks like stocks are running low. Make sure the necessary authorities approve all your cleaning supplies, especially disinfectants.
Dispose of Garbage and Hazardous Wastes Properly
Your dental clinic should be mindful of the garbage and hazardous waste it produces and dispose of them properly. The rubbish that comes from your clinic is a potential risk for germs and bacteria to spread if they’re not disposed of properly.
That is why it’s essential to practice proper garbage disposal habits. Make sure to learn any local guidelines regarding waste disposal, too, because they will most likely dictate how you can dispose of your waste accordingly.
Conclusion
Running a dental clinic is more than making sure patients leave your establishment with great smiles. You also need to clean your clinic properly according to the guidelines that the CDC, EPA, and OSHA have implemented. If you don’t plan on cleaning your dental clinic yourself, make sure that the cleaning service responsible for it has undergone OSHA’s bloodborne pathogen training. It’s essential to follow their guidelines as well.
If you’re looking for a cleaning service in Orange County, California, Say Clean Commercial Cleaning is the perfect company to hire. Our team is dedicated to giving you the best service possible. Get in touch with us today to inquire!
