► What is a biofilm?

► What is a cleaner?

► Mineral deposits

► Selection of an appropriate cleaner

WHAT IS A BIOFILM?

Biofilm is formed when bacteria adhere to a surface and secrete a protective, sticky polymeric substance. Biofilm forms a community and can be composed of a single or multiple strains of micro-organisms (bacteria, fungi, algae, protozoa). Biofilm can be less than 1 mm thick and is often not visible to the naked eye. Biofilm provides a protective barrier that makes organisms highly resistant to disinfection. Removal of biofilm is crucial prior to disinfection of any surface. Biofilm should be removed using an alkaline cleaner.

MINERAL DEPOSITS

In addition to the formation of biofilm on surfaces, mineral deposits or scaling may be another source of surface contamination. Mineral scale will accumulate over time when using water with high levels of iron, calcium, manganese or magnesium. Hard water and urine are responsible for mineral deposits in animal care facilities. It is important to remove mineral deposits using an acidic cleaner prior to disinfection.

WHAT IS A CLEANER?

A cleaner is a blend of components that act together to penetrate, detach and break down surface deposits. The components of a cleaner may include:

• Surfactants – to facilitate penetration and breakdown of deposits.
• Sequestrants and chelating agents – to fix and hold metals and minerals.
• Emulsifiers – to help suspend soil particles in solution to facilitate rinsing.
• Foaming agents – to help the solution stick to surfaces for improved contact time and visibility.
• Acidifiers or alkalinizers – to adjust pH depending on the soiling challenge (organic or mineral).

Cleaners are an integral part of a cleaning and disinfection program. Washing with water alone does not adequately remove deposits of organic and mineral residue. The benefits of using a good cleaner include:

• Prepares surfaces for disinfection
• Reduces bacterial challenge by 90% to 99%
• Removes biofilm and mineral deposits prior to disinfection
• Reduces cleaning time by 30% to 40%
• Reduces labour costs and water consumption

SELECTION OF AN APPROPRIATE CLEANER

The primary soiling challenge in animal care facilities is organic in nature. Organic soiling requires frequent use of an alkaline cleaner.

After repeated cleaning, an accumulation of surfactant residue and water minerals may result. For this reason, periodic use of an acidic cleaner may be required.

The frequency of alkaline/acid cleaner rotation varies according to the rate of mineral deposition. An alkaline cleaner may be used four or six times for every one acidic application.

VETOQUINOL CLEANERS

► Alkaline cleaner – Biosolve™ Plus

► Acidic cleaner – Biosolve™ AFC

Next ► : Principles of disinfection