How often should horizontal work surfaces in the decontamination area be cleaned and disinfected?

In the context of infection control and the proper maintenance of a decontamination area, horizontal work surfaces should be cleaned and disinfected whenever they become visibly soiled. This practice is crucial because any organic material or blood residue can harbor pathogens that pose a risk of infection. Regularly cleaning surfaces only when they appear dirty ensures that contamination is actively managed, as various contaminants can be present even if not visible.

The practice of cleaning surfaces based solely on their visible condition supports a proactive approach to infection control. It emphasizes the importance of not relying on a set frequency (such as daily or weekly) but rather on the actual condition of the surfaces, which is key in clinical settings. In the decontamination area, ensuring surfaces are clean whenever they show signs of soil is essential for maintaining a safe environment for staff and patients and for preventing cross-contamination.