SECTION 83.101. Health and Safety Standards--Department-Approved Disinfectants

(a) EPA-registered bactericidal, fungicidal, and virucidal disinfectants must be used as follows:

(1) Implements and surfaces must first be thoroughly cleaned of all visible debris prior to disinfection. EPA-registered bactericidal, fungicidal, and virucidal disinfectants become inactivated and ineffective when visibly contaminated with debris, hair, dirt and particulates.

(2) Some disinfectants may be sprayed on the instruments, tools, or equipment to be disinfected.

(3) Disinfectants in which implements are to be immersed must be prepared fresh daily or more often if solution becomes diluted or soiled.

(4) In all cases the disinfectant must be used in accordance with the manufacturers' instructions for disinfecting or other guidance in this rule.

(5) These chemicals are harsh and may affect the long-term use of scissors and other sharp objects. Therefore, the department recommends leaving items in solution in accordance with the manufacturers' recommendation for effective disinfection.

(b) Chlorine bleach solutions must be used as follows:

(1) Chlorine bleach at the appropriate concentration is an effective disinfectant for all purposes in an establishment.

(2) Chlorine bleach solutions must be mixed daily.

(3) Chlorine bleach must be kept in a closed covered container and not exposed to sunlight.

(4) Chlorine bleach may affect the long-term use of scissors and other sharp objects, so the department does not recommend leaving items in bleach solution beyond 2 minutes for effective disinfection (5 minutes if disinfecting for blood contamination).

(5) Chlorine bleach vapors might react with vapors from other chemicals. Therefore, chlorine bleach solution must not be placed or stored near other chemicals used in establishments (i.e., acrylic monomers, alcohol, or other disinfecting products) or near flame.

(6) Used or soiled chlorine bleach solution must be properly disposed of each day.

Source Note: The provisions of this §83.101 adopted to be effective March 1, 2006, 31 TexReg 1280; amended to be effective August 1, 2006, 31 TexReg 5952; amended to be effective July 1, 2014, 39 TexReg 4650; amended to be effective January 1, 2023, 47 TexReg 8640