Disinfectants Dilution

Bleach is the generic name for any chemical product which is used industrially and domestically to clean, to lighten color and to remove stains. It often refers, specifically, to a dilute solution of sodium hypochlorite. Bleaches work by reacting with many colored organic compounds, such as natural pigments, and turning them into colorless ones. All of the bleaches cause a chemical reaction called oxidation. Making them useful for disinfecting and sterilizing to control bacteria, viruses, and algae and in many places. Bleach works quickly and is widely available at a low cost. Diluted bleach is thus recommended for the disinfection of facilities.

1. Keep windows open when diluting or using bleach to ensure good ventilation.
2. Put on protective gear when diluting or using bleach as it irritates mucous membranes, the skin and the airway.
3. Cold water should be used for dilution as hot water decomposes the active ingredient of bleach and renders it ineffective.
4. Bleach containing 5.25% sodium hypochlorite should be diluted as follows:
   • 1:99 diluted household bleach (mixing 10ml of bleach with 1litre of water) can be used for general household cleaning.
   • 1:49 diluted household bleach (mixing 10ml of bleach with 0.5litre of water) is used to disinfect surfaces or articles contaminated with vomitus, excreta, secretions or blood.
5. Make adjustments to the amount of bleach added if its concentration of sodium hypochlorite is above or below 5.25%.
   • Calculation: Multiplier of the amount of bleach added = 5.25 concentration of sodium hypochlorite in bleach.
   • For example, when diluting a bleach containing only 5% sodium hypochlorite, the multiplier is 5.25 5=1.05. That means 10 x 1.05 =10.5ml of bleach should be used when preparing a bleach solution.
6. Rinse disinfected articles with water and wipe dry.
7. Cleaning tools should be soaked in diluted bleach for 30 minutes and then rinsed thoroughly before reuse.
8. Finally, wash hands with liquid soap, then dry hands with a clean towel or disposable towel.