Disinfectant Product Packaging, The EPA, & Consumer Availability

As America begins to reopen, the EPA is working to make it easier for consumers. A quick comparison of the disinfectant product packaging to the EPA’s List N Tool allows smartphone users to ensure the product is effective against SARS-CoV-2.

“In support of President Trump’s plan to reopen America, EPA is working to ensure that all Americans can easily access the best information on surface disinfectants as we work together to fight the spread of the novel coronavirus,” said EPA Administrator Andrew Wheeler. “This new app will help put important information in the hands of businesses, governments, and American consumers when they are making decisions about how best to clean and disinfect buildings.”

The List N has over 400 approved disinfectant products. The creation of the new app is designed to be more user friendly. Using the new tool helps to identify which product is best used based on surface type, contact time, & active ingredient. While the ingredients can be listed on the disinfectant product packaging, consumers may need clarification as to which product best suits their needs.

Additionally, the EPA recently announced an expedited review for EPA-registered disinfectants that do not require a review of new efficacy data. Under Title VII of the CARES Act passed on March 27, 2020, the EPA provided notice of its intention to expedite reviews of certain Pesticide Registration Improvement Act (PRIA) submissions for products intended for use against the SARS-CoV-2, the novel human coronavirus that causes COVID-19. 

This process allows for new products to be added to the List N and into consumer’s hands more quickly.

Safe & Effective Disinfectant Product Use

When working with harsh chemicals that are the active ingredients in disinfectants it is important to use caution. Here are six steps for safe & effective disinfectant product use.