Cleaning and disinfection in pharmacy prevents the spread of viruses and bacteria, so we must know which products and materials to use, as well as keeping a record of regular cleaning.
The pharmacy is a health establishment that must guarantee optimal hygiene and safety conditions for both the professionals who work in it and the customers who come to it. It is a fundamental measure to prevent the spread of viruses and bacteria that can cause illnesses and infections.
In short, specific protocols must be followed that take into account the different spaces, surfaces, materials and products used in the pharmaceutical activity.
What should we take into account when cleaning and disinfection in pharmacy?
1. Selection of Suitable Materials and Products
Choosing the right products and materials, for example detergents that are disinfectants should be used that have a high concentration of antibacterial pH, such as 0.1% sodium hypochlorite or 62-71% ethanol. These products must be authorised and registered by health authorities and comply with standard UNE-EN 14476, which guarantees their effectiveness against viruses. The materials used for cleaning should be disposable or washable at high temperatures, such as cloths, mops, or brooms.
2. Compliance with Cleaning Schedules
On the other hand, it cleaning should be avoided when there are customers in the pharmacy, as it can give a bad impression and hinder care. Ideally, cleaning should be done before or after opening hours, ensuring good ventilation of the premises and removal of generated waste. This prevents cleaning activity from interrupting customer service and ensures a pleasant and clean environment during working hours.
Also, a cleaning frequency should be defined according to the level of dirt and risk of contamination of each space or surface. For example, the public service area should be cleaned daily, while the warehouse can be cleaned weekly or monthly. Deep cleaning should be done when taking inventory of medications. Therefore, the pace of cleaning will depend on the level of dirt and the risk of contamination.
3. Comprehensive Cleaning of All Spaces and Surfaces
In the cleaning of spaces we have to pay attention to both the public service area and the warehouse, the medication preparation area, bathrooms, and common areas. All surfaces that may come into contact with medications, products, or people, such as countertops, shelves, display cabinets, drawers, computers, telephones, door knobs, switches, etc., should be cleaned and disinfected. The floor, walls, and ceilings should also be cleaned.
4. Importance of Keeping a Regular Cleaning Log
A documented record must be kept of the cleaning and disinfection tasks carried out in the pharmacy, indicating the date, the person responsible, the space or surface cleaned, the product and material used and the relevant observations. This log serves to verify compliance with protocols and to detect possible incidents or improvements.
5. Training and Awareness of Pharmacy Staff
An integral part of keeping a pharmacy clean and safe is ensuring that all staff are properly trained and aware of the importance of good hygiene and cleaning practices.
The cleaning and disinfection in pharmacy is a shared responsibility between the entire pharmaceutical team and the cleaning company that requires appropriate planning, organization, and supervision. This achieves a quality service to customers and protects the health of the professionals working in the pharmacy office.
Ecolimp, Your Best Ally
Pharmacy cleaning is a fundamental task to guarantee the hygiene, safety, and image of these health establishments. However, it is not a simple task, as it requires qualified staff, specific products, and professional machinery. Therefore, having a cleaning company in Malaga like Ecolimp is the best option to ensure quality and efficient cleaning.
Ecolimp is an advanced cleaning and maintenance company on the Costa del Sol with more than 15 years of experience in the sector. It offers comprehensive cleaning services for all types of public and private spaces, including pharmacies. Ecolimp stands out for its commitment to innovation, sustainability, and environmental care
Call us for more information.