As park and recreation professionals work towards a path to recovery from the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic, it is essential to take a thoughtful and methodical approach to reinstating operations that protects public health and safety. This section of the Path to Recovery Framework includes guidance on cleaning and disinfection practices for reopening.
CDC issued reopening guidance for cleaning and disinfection on April 28, 2020. The cleaning and disinfection guidance is applicable for all sectors, including workplaces, schools, homes and public spaces. The guidance outlines:
- Developing your plan.
- Determining what needs to be cleaned — including indoor and outdoor guidance.
- Determining what needs to be disinfected — hard materials vs. soft materials and frequently touched surfaces.
- Considering what resources, supplies and equipment will be needed
- Implementing your plan.
- Cleaning visibly dirty surfaces with soap and water.
- Use the appropriate cleaning or disinfectant product — check with the manufacturer for specific types of equipment.
- Follow directions on the label when using cleaning products.
- Maintaining and revising your plan as needed.
- Continue routine cleaning and disinfecting.
- Maintain safe behavioral practices.
- Consider practices that reduce the potential for exposure.
Additionally, CDC has published a decision tool to help guide cleaning and disinfection plans.
Staff Safety
Keep in mind that additional considerations will need to be made for staff who will carry out cleaning and disinfecting. According to CDC, “If you oversee staff in a workplace, your plan should include considerations about the safety of custodial staff and other people who are carrying out the cleaning or disinfecting. These people are at increased risk of being exposed to the virus and to any toxic effects of the cleaning chemicals. These staff should wear appropriate PPE for cleaning and disinfecting. To protect your staff and to ensure that the products are used effectively, staff should be instructed on how to apply the disinfectants according to the label. For more information on concerns related to cleaning staff, visit the Occupational Safety and Health Administration’s website on Control and Prevention.”
