Page 133 - School Infection Control Handbook - 2010

Appendix B: Selection of Products, Dispensing Equipment, and Application Systems
128
Appendix B.2. Interpreting the Disinfectant Label: Explanation and Examples
Introduction
This document provides a comprehensive overview of the information on a product’s label to
assist in the selection, use, and management of disinfectants. It is critical to follow the directions
on a disinfectant’s label to ensure its safe use and that the disinfectant will work as designed.
Every product is tested under very specific circumstances, and the label describes exactly how
the product should be used and managed (e.g., how it should be applied, how long it should be
left on a surface, how it should be stored). Because label information can sometimes be daunting
or intimidating to interpret, this document provides an explanation of the label information
typically found on products used in school settings.
Label Format
Although the length of a disinfectant label varies widely, there is a general format that is used.
The information contained on most disinfectant labels can be divided into the following four
major categories:
I. Product Information
II. Use and Management Information
III. Safety Information
IV. Environmental Information
I. Product Information
Brand (trade) name
Although each manufacturer has a primary brand name for each of its registered products, the
manufacturer may also use alternate brand names for the same product. In addition,
manufacturers will use different brand names for products containing the same disinfectant
active ingredient(s).
Ingredient statement
Active ingredient – The ingredient statement, which is normally on the front panel of the
label, identifies the name and percentage by weight of each active ingredient. The active
ingredients are the components of the product that have a pesticide effect on the target
microbe(s).
Active ingredients are often identified by their chemical names, which may be complex. For
example, the chemical name for one quaternary ammonium compound (quat; QAC) may be
listed on the label as “Alkyl (60% C14, 30% C16, 5% C12, 5% C18) dimethyl benzyl
ammonium chloride.”
Usually following the list of ingredients is the amount of active ingredient. The amount is
expressed as percentage by weight.
Inert ingredients – Inert ingredients are added for non-pesticide purposes, such as to improve
a product’s storage, mixing, or application properties. The EPA assesses inert ingredients,
which can be toxic or nontoxic. Those present at less than 0.1% or those not considered