COVID-19 Vehicle Cleaning
Rider well-being is a top concern for us and we strive to support them in the best, safest ways we can. For this reason East-West Engineering, PLLC (East-West) has developed these COVID-19 vehicle cleaning procedures in conjunction with Nutmeg Senior Rides, Inc. (Nutmeg) to adequately clean and disinfect surfaces to remove and kill the SARS-CoV-2 virus responsible for COVID-19.
How is COVID-19 Spread?
According to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), COVID-19 is thought to spread mainly through close contact from person to person, including between people who are physically near each other (within about 6 feet). People who are infected but do not show symptoms can also spread the virus to others. Although less common, a person could also get COVID-19 by touching a surface or object that has the virus on it and then touching their own mouth, nose, or eyes. This can occur when respiratory droplets or particles from an infected person lands on surfaces. The virus can remain viable for days on surfaces after the initial deposit, which is why frequent and proper cleaning and disinfection of surfaces is very important in mitigating the spread of COVID-19.
CDC Cleaning Guidelines
The CDC has issued recommendations on the cleaning and disinfection of non-emergency transport vehicles1. These recommendations include the following: At a minimum, clean and disinfect commonly touched surfaces in the vehicle at the beginning and end of each shift and between transporting passengers who are visibly sick. Ensure that cleaning and disinfection procedures are followed consistently and correctly, including the provision of adequate ventilation when chemicals are in use. Doors and windows should remain open when cleaning the vehicle. When cleaning and disinfecting, individuals should wear disposable gloves compatible with the products being used as well as any other PPE required according to the product manufacturer’s instructions. · For hard non-porous surfaces within the interior of the vehicle such as hard seats, arm rests, door handles, seat belt buckles, light and air controls, doors and windows, and grab handles, clean with detergent or soap and water if the surfaces are visibly dirty, prior to disinfectant application. For disinfection of hard, non-porous surfaces, appropriate disinfectants include: