Guidelines from the CDC on Laundering

Clothing including FRC’s, and other items that go in the laundry

If possible, do not shake dirty laundry. This will minimize the possibility of dispersing the virus through the air. Launder items as appropriate in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions. If possible, launder items using the warmest appropriate water setting for the items and dry items completely. Dirty laundry from an ill person can be washed with other people’s items.

1. Wear Gloves for Laundry
2. Use Laundry Detergent – Soap Kills the Virus
3. Use Warm Water 
4. Dry Completely – Heat Kills the Virus

Covid-19 can remain active on porous surfaces like carpet, clothing for hours and on non-porous surfaces like steel and aluminum for days.

You could spread COVID-19 to others even if you do not feel sick.

Cover your mouth and nose with a cloth face cover when around others – and if you wear FRC’s, a Fire Retardant Mask ensures your outer layer is compliant when on the job. 

• Everyone should wear a cloth face cover when they have to go out in public, for example to    the grocery store, to pick up other necessities. 
• The cloth face cover is meant to protect other people in case you are infected.
• Do NOT use a facemask meant for a healthcare worker.
• Continue to keep about 6 feet between yourself and others. 
• The cloth face cover is not a substitute for social distancing.

Can N95 Masks Protect Me from a Virus?

The emergence of coronavirus (and SARS before that) has a lot of people concerned and stocking up on N95 masks. Viruses and bacteria are generally too small for a mask to protect against, though they are almost always in a droplet from a sneeze or cough. The mask will stop the droplets.

Please also remember that your eyes are another pathway, so glasses or goggles may be prudent. Another good thing about wearing a mask is that it prevents you from touching your nose and mouth! This is a prime route for the spread of viruses.

If you are the infected person, please avoid the masks that have an exhalation valve. They do breathe easier than those without, but they allow unfiltered air to escape the mask, and this may not be what you have in mind.

It’s also recommended that you wear a face mask if you have symptoms and are entering a healthcare facility for treatment, and healthcare professionals would likely benefit from wearing one as well. If you do wear a mask, choose one that can be fitted to your face, and use the same health and hygiene practices you would use to prevent the flu (stay home if you’re sick, wash your hands frequently and thoroughly, avoid close contact with others, and keep the disinfectant handy).

Choosing the right PPE for your workers and job can seem like a daunting prospect, but it’s a necessary one to make sure that everyone stays healthy on the job.

If you have questions regarding how to properly clean your equipment during this time, please contact us at [email protected] or call 800-747-6690