Intermediate-level disinfection kills most bacteria, fungi, viruses, and mycobacteria (tuberculodial) but not bacterial spores.
Intermediate and low-level disinfectants (except chlorine bleach) must have a Drug Identification Number (DIN) or Natural Product Number (NPN) on the label.
When to Use
- Use on non-critical items that require intermediate level disinfection.
- Use on items intended to contact only intact skin by may accidently come into contact with non-intact skin or mucous membranes or penetrate skin.
70-90% Isopropyl or Ethyl Alcohol
Active ingredient for this intermediate-level of disinfection
- 70% to 90% isopropyl or ethyl alcohol
- Not to be used for foot baths.
Immersion contact times (approximate)
Advantages
- Fast-acting
- Leaves no residue
Disadvantages
- Can damage rubber and plastics
- Flammable
- Evaporates quickly
- Prepare daily
1:50 Chlorine Bleach Solution
Remember the following:
- The solution must be made fresh daily to preserve strength
- The bottle must be labelled
- Clean before applying the disinfectant
- Follow the contact time
- Household bleach is 5.25% sodium hypochlorite solution (50,000ppm available chlorine)
Active ingredient for this intermediate-level of disinfection
Immersion contact times (approximate)
Advantages
Disadvantages
- Corrodes metal
- May destroy adhesives with prolonged soaking
- Solution is to be made daily
0.5% Hydrogen Peroxide
Active ingredient for this intermediate-level of disinfection
- 0.5% hydrogen peroxide (enhanced action formulation) with efficacy claims against tuberculosis (TB) or mycobacteria.
Immersion contact times (approximate)
- three to five minutes
- Follow manufacturer’s instructions
Advantages
- Inexpensive
- Fast acting
- Environmentally friendly
- Non-toxic
- Cleans and disinfects
- Available in a wipe
Disadvantages
- May be destructive to some equipment/metals
More information
