Issue link: https://www.massageandbodyworkdigital.com/i/1515580
When creating a welcoming and healing massage environment, effective infection prevention measures are the cornerstone. Let's take a moment to refresh five key cleaning and disinfection tips to keep in mind when preparing your space for clients. 1. PATHOGENS YOU NEED TO KNOW As a practitioner, you may encounter a range of microorganisms capable of causing disease and infection when interacting with clients. The viruses you may face range from cold and f lu viruses to blood-borne pathogens and the SARS- CoV-2 virus, which causes COVID-19. As for bacteria, these microscopic organisms also pose potential threats. For example, Staphylococcus aureus, capable of causing severe skin infections, is commonly found in massage settings. Also, parasitic fungi can lead to skin infections such as athlete's foot, ringworm, and nail fungus. The presence of these germs highlights the need to select an effective virucidal, bactericidal, and fungicidal disinfectant with those claims on the label. In Good Hands 5 Cleaning and Disinfection Tips By Siobhain Sweetingham 60 m a s s a g e & b o d y wo r k m a rc h /a p r i l 2 0 24 2. THE IMPORTANCE OF DISINFECTION Cleaning and sanitizing are common terms that some people mistakenly use to describe disinfection, but they are not interchangeable. Cleaning is the process of removing dirt and debris with detergents or one-step cleanser disinfectants. While necessary, cleaning only prepares the surface for disinfection, so beware—pathogens may still linger on surfaces that have only been cleaned. The term sanitizing only refers to reducing the number of bacteria. Disinfection is what you should be looking to achieve for your surfaces and equipment because it includes effectiveness against bacteria, fungi, and viruses. In the US, state boards provide guidelines related to facility management, best practices, and disinfection requirements. These guidelines must be followed to ensure health inspection readiness and, most importantly, the protection of you and your clients. However, the potential consequences of a breakdown in processes extend beyond health risks, with the threat of impacting your business' reputation. Neglecting proper cleaning and disinfection measures may lead to health violations, fines, and negative online reviews. Maintaining a clean, safe space is not just a regulatory requirement; it is a fundamental aspect of sustaining a respected practice. KEY POINT • Proper cleaning before and after sessions creates a safe work environment and lets clients know they are entering a disinfected space, creating peace of mind.