Fomites vs. Droplets: How Germs Really Spread

Protect your workplace from invisible threats with evidence-based cleaning strategies that stop germs before they spread.

Fomite Transmission Explained: How Professional Cleaning Stops Germs from Spreading

Infectious diseases have a variety of transmission pathways, and one frequently underestimated route is through contact with contaminated surfaces, commonly referred to as fomites.

These everyday items—such as door handles, elevator controls, light switches, and shared office tools—can serve as reservoirs for harmful microorganisms.

When individuals come into contact with these surfaces and subsequently touch their face, mouth, or eyes, they risk transferring viruses or bacteria into their bodies, which increases the chance of becoming ill.

Professional cleaning services play an essential role in disrupting this mode of transmission.

By implementing rigorous disinfection routines, using EPA-registered disinfectants, and adhering to established cleaning protocols, these services effectively eliminate pathogens from high-touch areas.

This proactive approach reduces the likelihood of germs spreading from one person to another in communal environments.

Gaining a clear understanding of how fomite-based transmission operates is fundamental when crafting effective cleaning strategies.

Scientific research has demonstrated that various pathogens—including norovirus, rhinovirus, and the virus responsible for COVID-19, SARS-CoV-2—are capable of surviving on surfaces for several hours or even days.

Because of this, regular, evidence-based cleaning and disinfection practices are a critical component of infection prevention efforts.

This is especially important in shared spaces like offices, healthcare centers, schools, and retail facilities, where the risk of surface contamination is heightened.

 

Which Surfaces Are Most at Risk?

Fomite transmission occurs most frequently on surfaces that people touch often and that multiple individuals come into contact with throughout the day.

These high-touch surfaces create multiple opportunities for pathogens to transfer from an infected person to an object, and then to others who interact with the same surface.

High-Touch Surfaces in Workplaces

Certain surfaces consistently pose a higher risk for germ transmission because of their frequent use and proximity to human contact.

These include:

• Door Handles: Frequently used and often touched by many individuals entering and exiting offices, restrooms, and meeting rooms.
• Elevator Buttons: Small, high-contact surfaces that are often overlooked during routine cleaning but touched hundreds of times daily.
• Light Switches: Common touchpoints in shared spaces such as conference rooms, breakrooms, and restrooms.
• Shared Electronics: Devices like telephones, keyboards, touchscreens, and computer mice are typically shared among staff and can accumulate bacteria and viruses without regular disinfection.
• Breakroom Appliances: Microwaves, coffee makers, refrigerator handles, and vending machine buttons are touched repeatedly, often before and after eating, increasing contamination risks.

Porous vs. Non-Porous Surfaces and Their Impact on Germ Survival

The type of surface plays a significant role in how long microorganisms can survive:

• Non-Porous Surfaces: Materials such as plastic, stainless steel, glass, and laminate do not absorb moisture, allowing pathogens to survive longer. For example, norovirus and SARS-CoV-2 can remain viable for hours to days on these surfaces under the right conditions.
• Porous Surfaces: Fabrics, upholstery, and untreated wood tend to absorb moisture, which can reduce the survival time of some pathogens. However, they can still harbor bacteria and viruses within their fibers, making thorough cleaning and, in some cases, laundering necessary.

Understanding which surfaces pose the greatest risk informs cleaning priorities.

High-touch, non-porous surfaces require more frequent disinfection, while porous surfaces may require specialized cleaning processes depending on the environment and risk factors.

 

 

How Long Do Germs Survive on Surfaces?

Pathogens can survive on surfaces for varying lengths of time, depending on the type of microorganism and the material they land on.

Understanding these survival times helps prioritize which surfaces require more frequent cleaning and disinfection.

Survival Times of Common Pathogens on Different Surfaces

• Norovirus
  Norovirus is highly resilient and can survive on non-porous surfaces like plastic and stainless steel for days to weeks. Its ability to persist for extended periods makes it one of the most challenging viruses to control in environments such as schools, healthcare facilities, and food preparation areas.

• Rhinovirus
  The virus responsible for the common cold can live on surfaces for several hours to multiple days, depending on conditions. Non-porous surfaces, such as metal and plastic, can harbor rhinovirus for longer than porous materials, increasing the risk of contact transmission in shared spaces.

• SARS-CoV-2
  Laboratory studies have demonstrated that SARS-CoV-2 can survive on surfaces like plastic and stainless steel for up to 72 hours. However, real-world research (Meister et al., 2022; Horoho et al., 2020) shows the actual risk of infection from surfaces is low, particularly when standard cleaning protocols and hand hygiene practices are in place.

Factors That Affect Pathogen Survival on Surfaces

Several environmental and material factors influence how long pathogens remain infectious on surfaces:

• Temperature
  Higher temperatures typically reduce the survival time of viruses and bacteria. In cooler environments, pathogens tend to remain viable for longer periods.

• Humidity
  Low humidity can prolong the life of some viruses on surfaces, while others degrade faster in moist conditions. Norovirus, for example, is particularly stable in low-humidity environments.

• Material Type
  As a rule, non-porous surfaces (metal, plastic, glass) allow pathogens to survive longer, while porous surfaces (fabric, untreated wood) absorb moisture, which can either trap or degrade pathogens more quickly.

Detection vs. Infection Risk

It’s important to understand that detecting a virus or bacteria on a surface doesn’t necessarily mean it poses an infection risk.

Many studies that find viral RNA or bacterial DNA do not determine whether the organism is still viable or capable of causing infection.

For example:

• Meister et al. (2022) demonstrated that SARS-CoV-2 was only recoverable from surfaces that were heavily contaminated with saliva—not from surfaces exposed to normal respiratory droplets.
• Real-world transmission via fomites is considered unlikely when proper hand hygiene and routine cleaning practices are followed.

 

 

The Role of Professional Commercial Cleaning in Reducing Fomite Transmission

Professional commercial cleaning services play a critical role in interrupting the cycle of disease transmission via contaminated surfaces, also known as fomites.

Regular and methodical cleaning practices, combined with scientifically validated disinfection procedures, reduce the likelihood of pathogens lingering on surfaces and spreading to individuals.

How Routine Cleaning and Disinfection Disrupt the Transmission Cycle

The fomite transmission cycle begins when an infected person contaminates a surface.

The next person who touches that surface risks picking up pathogens and introducing them into their body by touching their mouth, nose, or eyes.

Routine cleaning and disinfection break this chain of infection by removing soil, organic matter, and pathogens before they can be transferred.

Removing these contaminants reduces the risk of indirect contact transmission in shared spaces such as offices, schools, healthcare facilities, and transportation hubs.

The Importance of EPA-Registered Disinfectants

Not all disinfectants are created equal.

Using EPA-registered disinfectants, specifically those listed on EPA List N, is essential for ensuring effectiveness against SARS-CoV-2 and other pathogens.

• SARS-CoV-2: EPA List N disinfectants have been validated to kill the virus when used according to label instructions.
• Norovirus: Chlorine-based disinfectants are recommended because norovirus is highly resistant to alcohol-based products. A concentration of 1,000–5,000 ppm sodium hypochlorite (bleach) is typically required for effective disinfection.
  Selecting the appropriate disinfectant ensures pathogens are neutralized rather than merely displaced on surfaces.

High-Frequency Cleaning of High-Touch Areas

Frequent disinfection of high-touch surfaces is a cornerstone of any effective infection control program.

These areas include door handles, light switches, elevator buttons, phones, keyboards, and breakroom appliances.

In high-traffic environments, these surfaces should be disinfected:

• Every 2-4 hours in healthcare, daycare, and food preparation facilities.
• At least twice daily in general office and retail settings.

Increased cleaning frequency reduces the window of opportunity for pathogens to survive on surfaces and spread between users.

The Importance of Dwell Times for Disinfectants to Be Effective

A common mistake in cleaning practices is failing to allow disinfectants the necessary contact (dwell) time to inactivate pathogens.

• Dwell time is the period a surface must remain visibly wet with disinfectant to ensure it effectively kills viruses and bacteria.
• For most EPA List N disinfectants, this is typically 5–10 minutes, but always refer to the product label for specific instructions.
  Professional cleaners are trained to adhere to these standards, maximizing the efficacy of disinfection efforts.

Cross-Contamination Prevention with Color-Coded Tools and PPE

Cross-contamination can occur when cleaning tools and equipment are used improperly between different areas.

Professional cleaning protocols use color-coded systems for cleaning cloths, mops, and buckets to prevent this risk:

• Red: Restrooms
• Blue: General areas
• Green: Food preparation and breakrooms
• Yellow: Clinical and healthcare areas
  Additionally, commercial cleaning staff wear appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE), including gloves, masks, and aprons, to protect themselves and prevent the transfer of pathogens between spaces.

By following strict disinfection protocols, using validated cleaning agents, and adhering to industry best practices, professional commercial cleaning services significantly reduce the risk of fomite-mediated disease transmission in any facility.

Evidence-Based Cleaning Protocols That Work

Effective infection control in commercial settings depends on cleaning protocols rooted in scientific research.

These methods are designed to reliably reduce the spread of disease.

A well-structured, standardized cleaning approach helps ensure not only consistency and regulatory compliance but also the best possible reduction in pathogens on surfaces that are most at risk of contamination.

 

Steps in a Comprehensive Cleaning Process

1. Risk Assessment

The first stage of any evidence-based cleaning plan is to conduct a thorough risk assessment. This means pinpointing areas with heavy foot traffic or frequent touchpoints, understanding the types of activities performed—whether healthcare-related or food service—and evaluating how likely it is that pathogens are present in a given setting, such as an office compared to a medical clinic. These findings shape decisions about how often spaces should be cleaned, which disinfectants should be used, and what personal protective equipment (PPE) is required.

2. Pre-Cleaning (Debris Removal)

Before disinfectants are applied, pre-cleaning is a crucial step. Removing dust, dirt, and organic material is necessary, as these substances can block disinfectants from reaching harmful microbes. Typically, this involves wiping surfaces with microfiber cloths along with a general-purpose cleaner. Only once the surface is free of visible soil should disinfection begin.

3. Surface Disinfection with Dwell Time Compliance

Once pre-cleaning is complete, disinfectants are applied carefully to kill any remaining pathogens. To be effective, the disinfectant must remain wet on the surface for its full recommended dwell time—usually between five and ten minutes. Cleaning professionals monitor this step closely, often using methods like spray-and-stay or wet wiping to make sure the product stays in contact with the surface long enough to work properly.

4. PPE Protocols for Cleaners

Protective gear is essential for cleaning personnel, not just for their safety but to prevent cross-contamination between spaces. Gloves are worn at all times and are switched out between different areas—such as moving from restroom cleaning to office spaces. Masks and eye protection are also necessary when working in environments with higher infection risks or when performing deep cleaning tasks that could release contaminants into the air. Following proper procedures for putting on and taking off PPE helps reduce the chance of accidental self-contamination.

 

Customizing Cleaning Frequency by Setting

Each environment carries its own level of risk, requiring tailored cleaning schedules. For example:

• Healthcare facilities typically disinfect high-touch areas and restrooms every two hours, and shared equipment is cleaned after every use.
• Schools and daycare centers often require high-touch surfaces to be cleaned every two to four hours, restrooms every four hours, and shared equipment after each group session.
• Offices usually have high-touch surfaces disinfected two or three times daily, restrooms twice daily, and shared tools or equipment cleaned after each shift or on a set schedule.
• Retail spaces maintain a four-hour cleaning cycle for both high-touch surfaces and restrooms, while shared equipment is addressed after every shift.
• Gyms and fitness centers tend to disinfect equipment after each individual session, while high-touch surfaces are cleaned every two hours and shared equipment after each use.

These schedules are adjusted based on factors such as how many people use the space, the activities taking place, whether vulnerable groups like children or the elderly are present, and any history of disease outbreaks in the area.

By adopting these evidence-based cleaning protocols and customizing them to different environments, commercial cleaning providers can play a vital role in reducing infection risks.

Consistently applying these best practices helps ensure shared spaces remain safe, hygienic, and aligned with health standards.

 

Real-World Benefits of Fomite-Focused Cleaning

Implementing targeted cleaning protocols that address fomite transmission delivers measurable benefits to organizations.

Beyond reducing the presence of harmful pathogens on surfaces, these practices contribute to healthier, more productive environments and improve trust and compliance with health and safety standards.

Reduced Employee Sick Days

Workplace absenteeism due to illness has a significant impact on productivity and operating costs.

According to data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), U.S. employers lose an estimated $225.8 billion annually due to lost productivity from employee illness and injury, equating to $1,685 per employee per year (CDC, 2022).

Routine, professional cleaning that focuses on high-touch surfaces reduces the likelihood of diseases like influenza, rhinovirus, and norovirus spreading through the workplace, directly lowering absentee rates.

Fewer Outbreaks in Shared Environments

Shared environments, such as daycares, schools, offices, and long-term care facilities, are highly susceptible to outbreaks caused by fomite transmission.

Studies show that norovirus outbreaks, in particular, are often sustained through contaminated surfaces, lasting for weeks without proper intervention (Kraay et al., 2018).

By implementing fomite-focused cleaning protocols, facilities can minimize the likelihood of widespread infections, protecting both staff and visitors from preventable illness.

Increased Client Trust and Regulatory Compliance

Organizations that demonstrate commitment to hygiene and safety gain trust from clients, staff, and stakeholders.

• Healthcare and childcare facilities must meet stringent CDC, OSHA, and local public health guidelines for infection control.
• Regular documentation and visible cleaning practices reinforce compliance with industry regulations and accreditation standards like ISSA CIMS and GBAC STAR™.
  Clients are more confident in environments where high-touch surfaces are visibly disinfected and protocols are clearly communicated.

Enhanced Workplace Wellness and Productivity

A clean, hygienic environment enhances employee morale and promotes overall wellness.

• Employees working in sanitized spaces report higher levels of satisfaction, lower stress, and reduced risk of illness.
• A 2019 ISSA study found that companies that invested in professional cleaning services experienced improvements in workplace productivity by up to 5%, driven by fewer sick days and healthier working conditions.
  By reducing the presence of surface-borne pathogens, businesses create safer spaces where employees can focus on work without health concerns.

Key Takeaway: Fomite-focused cleaning isn’t just a regulatory necessity; it’s a business strategy that promotes health, boosts productivity, and builds trust.

 

What to Look for in a Commercial Cleaning Provider

Choosing the right commercial cleaning provider is essential to ensure your facility maintains a high standard of hygiene and effectively reduces the risk of disease transmission through fomites.

An experienced, qualified provider will have the certifications, protocols, and accountability measures in place to protect your workplace, staff, and visitors.

Certification and Compliance with Industry Standards

Reputable cleaning providers demonstrate their commitment to excellence through recognized industry certifications and adherence to regulatory standards. Look for companies that have:

• ISSA CIMS (Cleaning Industry Management Standard) certification, which verifies quality systems, service delivery, and compliance.
• GBAC STAR™ Accreditation from the Global Biorisk Advisory Council, which ensures the provider is trained in biorisk management and infection prevention protocols.
• OSHA Compliance, particularly with the Occupational Safety and Health Administration’s guidelines on Bloodborne Pathogens (29 CFR 1910.1030) and Hazard Communication (29 CFR 1910.1200).

These certifications ensure the cleaning provider follows best practices for infection control and workplace safety.

Use of EPA-Approved Disinfectants for Target Pathogens

The cleaning provider should use EPA-registered disinfectants that are proven effective against the pathogens of concern:

• EPA List N disinfectants for SARS-CoV-2.
• Chlorine-based disinfectants for norovirus (minimum concentration of 1,000 ppm sodium hypochlorite).
• Broad-spectrum disinfectants for rhinovirus and influenza viruses.

The provider should also be knowledgeable about dwell times and proper application methods to ensure maximum effectiveness.

Documented Protocols and Cleaning Logs

Transparency and accountability are critical components of any infection prevention strategy. Professional cleaning services should provide:

• Written Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) outlining their cleaning and disinfection protocols.
• Daily cleaning logs documenting areas cleaned, products used (including EPA registration numbers), and personnel responsible.
• Incident reports for potential contamination events or breaches in cleaning protocol.

These documents offer proof of compliance and can be used to demonstrate due diligence during audits or inspections.

Transparent Communication About Infection Control Measures

Effective communication builds trust and ensures alignment between the cleaning provider and the facility’s management team. The provider should:

• Explain their infection control strategies and how they align with current CDC, OSHA, and WHO guidelines.
• Offer regular updates on changes to cleaning schedules, products used, or outbreak response measures.
• Provide easy access to cleaning schedules and protocols for employees, visitors, and stakeholders.

A transparent provider not only delivers results but also reassures staff and clients that infection risks are being actively managed.

By partnering with a commercial cleaning provider that meets these standards, you can ensure your facility is clean, compliant, and safe from the risk of fomite-mediated disease transmission.

Commercial Cleaning Protocol for Infection Control

1. General Scope
   This protocol applies to a variety of shared environments, including offices, healthcare facilities, schools, daycare centers, long-term care facilities, and airports. It is designed to target a range of pathogens, specifically SARS-CoV-2, Norovirus, Rhinovirus, and Influenza.

2. Cleaning Protocol

A. Frequency Guidelines

• High-touch surfaces in high-risk areas should be cleaned and disinfected every two hours. In low-risk areas, these surfaces should be addressed every four to six hours.
• Common areas, such as lobbies and hallways, require cleaning every four hours in high-risk zones and at least once daily in lower-risk settings.
• Restrooms should be cleaned every two to four hours in high-risk areas and twice daily elsewhere.
• Shared equipment, including phones and desks, needs disinfection after each user in high-risk spaces and at least twice daily in lower-risk zones.
• Kitchens and breakrooms require cleaning after each use, along with an additional three times daily in high-risk environments. In low-risk areas, these spaces should be cleaned twice daily.
• Floors should be mopped or disinfected once daily in high-risk locations and three times weekly in other areas.

B. Product Guidelines

• For non-porous surfaces, such as plastic and metal, EPA List N disinfectants are recommended for SARS-CoV-2, and chlorine-based products are necessary for Norovirus. The required dwell time is typically five to ten minutes.
• Porous surfaces, like fabric and upholstery, should be treated with hydrogen peroxide-based sprays or steam cleaning, allowing a dwell time of ten minutes.
• Food-contact surfaces should be disinfected using quaternary ammonium compounds, followed by a thorough rinse. The recommended dwell time is five minutes.
• Electronic devices require disinfection with 70% isopropyl alcohol wipes, with a contact time of at least thirty seconds.
  Note: Norovirus specifically requires chlorine-based disinfectants with a minimum concentration of 1,000 to 5,000 ppm free chlorine, as alcohol-based products are ineffective.

C. Equipment & Tools

• Color-coded microfiber cloths are used to prevent cross-contamination: red for restrooms, blue for general areas, and green for kitchens and food preparation areas.
• HEPA-filtered vacuums are used for daily vacuuming, particularly in healthcare and childcare settings.
• Cleaners are required to wear appropriate personal protective equipment, including nitrile gloves, masks, and eye protection where there is a risk of splashing.

D. Step-by-Step Cleaning Process

1. Preparation

   • Put on the necessary PPE.
   • Assemble EPA-approved disinfectants and color-coded cleaning tools.
   • Display signage indicating wet floors and cleaning in progress.

2. Dry Cleaning (Pre-clean)

   • Remove visible debris from all surfaces.
   • Dispose of waste in lined bins with lids that fit securely.

3. Wet Cleaning (Disinfection)

   • Apply disinfectants generously, ensuring all surfaces are covered.
   • Follow the manufacturer's specified dwell times.
   • Use clean microfiber cloths, folded into quadrants, and change them frequently to avoid recontamination.

4. Final Step

   • Remove PPE carefully to avoid contamination.
   • Perform hand hygiene immediately after removing gloves.
   • Document the tasks completed in the cleaning log for record-keeping.

5. Specialized Cleaning Protocols

A. Kitchens & Breakrooms

• Wipe down tables, chairs, and countertops daily, and after each break.
• Disinfect high-touch areas, such as microwave handles, refrigerator doors, and water dispensers, on an hourly basis.
• Clean and sanitize coffee machines, toaster ovens, and similar appliances at least once per week.

B. Restrooms

• Disinfect toilet seats, flush handles, faucets, and soap dispensers every two to four hours throughout the day.
• Perform deep cleaning of restroom floors, walls, and partitions at the end of each day.

 

Infection Control Workflow for Commercial Cleaning

1. Workflow Overview
   This infection control workflow is designed to minimize the risk of disease transmission during cleaning operations. It establishes clear procedures for each phase of the process, ensuring consistency and safety.

2. Pre-Cleaning Phase
   During this phase, specific actions are assigned to supervisors and cleaning personnel to prepare for cleaning tasks:

• The supervisor conducts a risk assessment, evaluating the area, occupancy levels, and potential hazards.
• Cleaning logs are checked by the supervisor to ensure prior tasks have been completed and recorded.
• Cleaning staff gather all necessary supplies and personal protective equipment (PPE) before starting work.
• The supervisor verifies that all disinfectants are approved and appropriate for the pathogens targeted.

3. Cleaning Phase

A. Entry Procedure

• Cleaning staff don appropriate PPE before entering the area.
• Hand hygiene must be performed immediately after putting on PPE.
• Staff confirm that the space is clear of occupants, as cleaning should not occur in areas with people present.

B. Cleaning Execution

• The process follows a clean-to-dirty and high-to-low sequence, beginning with areas and surfaces that are less contaminated.
• One cloth is used per surface, with cloths either discarded or laundered after single use to prevent cross-contamination.
• Dwell times for disinfectants are monitored carefully to ensure efficacy.

C. Post-Cleaning

• PPE is removed in a specific order, with gloves taken off last to minimize contamination risk.
• Hand hygiene is repeated immediately after PPE removal.
• The cleaned area is inspected by staff, and completion is documented in the cleaning log.

4. Incident Reporting
   Specific actions are required for different conditions that may arise during cleaning:

• In the event of blood or body fluid spills, a biohazard cleanup kit is used, and OSHA Bloodborne Pathogen (BBP) protocol is followed.
• If staff are exposed but no PPE breach occurs, monitoring and reporting proceed according to protocol.
• In cases of PPE breaches—such as a glove tear—work must stop immediately. Staff should wash their hands and report the incident to their supervisor.

5. Enhanced Cleaning Triggers
   Additional cleaning measures are implemented under certain conditions:

• If a confirmed infectious case, such as COVID-19 or Norovirus, is identified, a full decontamination of the affected area must occur within 24 hours.
• If the facility issues an outbreak notice, cleaning frequency is increased by 50% for a period of 14 days to reduce the risk of further transmission.

6. Post-Cleaning Documentation
   After cleaning tasks are complete, the following details are recorded:

• The date, time, and specific areas that were cleaned.
• The disinfectant products used, including their EPA registration numbers.
• The type of PPE worn during the cleaning process.
• Names of the cleaning personnel involved in the operation.
  Documentation can be maintained through digital logs—such as those integrated into HubSpot CRM—or by using traditional paper logs.

Optional: Infection Prevention Strategies for Clients

Clients are encouraged to implement additional measures to support infection control, including:

• Placing hand sanitizer stations at all entry and exit points.
• Posting educational signage to promote hand hygiene and cough etiquette.
• Enforcing no-sharing policies for items such as desks and phones.
• Improving ventilation by increasing outdoor air exchange and upgrading air filters.

Conclusion

This workflow incorporates evidence-based practices for infection control and is aligned with the latest guidelines from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the World Health Organization (WHO), and OSHA’s Bloodborne Pathogen Standard for biohazard management.

 

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What is the difference between cleaning, sanitizing, and disinfecting?

Cleaning involves removing visible dirt, dust, and debris from surfaces. While it’s an important first step in reducing contaminants, it doesn’t necessarily kill germs.

Sanitizing goes a step further by lowering the number of germs on surfaces to levels deemed safe by public health standards, though it doesn’t always eliminate all pathogens.

Disinfecting, on the other hand, uses EPA-registered chemicals to kill a wide range of viruses, bacteria, and fungi. This step is critical for high-touch areas and environments where infection control is a priority.

How often should high-touch areas be cleaned in an office?

In typical office settings, high-touch surfaces—such as door handles, light switches, and shared equipment—should be cleaned and disinfected at least twice a day.

For spaces with high foot traffic or a higher risk of contamination, like healthcare offices or busy call centers, these surfaces should be disinfected more frequently—ideally every two to four hours, or after each use when possible.

Which disinfectants are most effective against norovirus?

Norovirus is known for its resilience and resistance to many standard disinfectants. The most effective products for combating this virus are chlorine-based disinfectants, specifically those containing sodium hypochlorite in concentrations ranging from 1,000 to 5,000 parts per million (ppm).

When selecting a disinfectant, it’s important to choose EPA-registered products labeled for norovirus use and to follow the manufacturer’s guidelines for correct dilution and dwell time.

Is fomite transmission still a concern for COVID-19?

Although SARS-CoV-2 spreads primarily through respiratory droplets and aerosols, fomite transmission—via contaminated surfaces—remains a potential secondary risk.

This is particularly true in places where hand hygiene practices are lacking and surface disinfection is inconsistent.

Health authorities continue to recommend regular cleaning and disinfection of high-touch surfaces to help reduce any remaining risk, especially in environments shared by multiple people.

How can I tell if my cleaning provider follows infection control best practices?

There are several indicators to look for:

• Certifications such as ISSA CIMS, GBAC STAR™, and adherence to OSHA guidelines
• Use of EPA-approved disinfectants, including those on List N for SARS-CoV-2 and chlorine-based products for norovirus
• Clear documentation of cleaning protocols and logs showing that procedures are consistently followed
• Transparent communication about cleaning methods, the products used, and compliance with CDC and WHO recommendations
  It’s also a good idea to request their Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) and proof of staff training in infection prevention to ensure they’re meeting industry standards.

 

References

1. Meister, T., Dreismeier, M., Blanco, E., Brüggemann, Y., Heinen, N., Kampf, G., Todt, D., Nguyen, H., Steinmann, J., Schmidt, W., Steinmann, E., Quast, D., & Pfaender, S. (2022). Low risk of SARS-CoV-2 transmission by fomites - a clinical observational study in highly infectious COVID-19 patients.. The Journal of infectious diseases. https://doi.org/10.1093/infdis/jiac170
2. Horoho, S., Musik, S., Bryant, D., Brooks, W., & Porter, I. (2020). Questioning COVID-19 Surface Stability and Fomite Spreading in Three Aeromedical Cases: A Case Series. Military Medicine. https://doi.org/10.1093/milmed/usaa548
3. Rasheed, A., Sharma, S., Kabi, P., Saha, A., Chaudhuri, S., & Basu, S. (2021). Precipitation dynamics of surrogate respiratory sessile droplets leading to possible fomites.. Journal of colloid and interface science, 600, 1-13 . https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jcis.2021.04.128
4. Zhao, J., Eisenberg, J., Spicknall, I., Li, S., & Koopman, J. (2012). Model Analysis of Fomite Mediated Influenza Transmission. PLoS ONE, 7. https://doi.org/10.1371/journal.pone.0051984
5. Guleria, A. (2024). Spread of infectious diseases by microorganisms present in fomites. World Journal of Advanced Research and Reviews. https://doi.org/10.30574/wjarr.2024.24.1.3161
6. Kraay, A., Hayashi, M., Hernández-Cerón, N., Spicknall, I., Eisenberg, M., Meza, R., & Eisenberg, J. (2018). Fomite-mediated transmission as a sufficient pathway: a comparative analysis across three viral pathogens. BMC Infectious Diseases, 18. https://doi.org/10.1186/s12879-018-3425-x

 

Conclusion

Fomite transmission is a real, yet highly preventable, risk in workplaces and shared environments.

Pathogens such as norovirus, rhinovirus, influenza, and even SARS-CoV-2 can survive on high-touch surfaces for hours, days, or even weeks—making contaminated surfaces a potential source of infection.

However, this risk can be significantly reduced with evidence-based cleaning protocols and consistent infection control practices.

Professional commercial cleaning services play a vital role in stopping the spread of disease by targeting these high-risk surfaces.

Through routine disinfection, the use of EPA-registered products, strict adherence to dwell times, and cross-contamination prevention strategies, professional cleaning providers create healthier, safer environments for employees, clients, and visitors.

If you're ready to protect your workplace from surface-borne pathogens, contact us today.

Our customized commercial cleaning solutions are designed to reduce infection risks and keep your facility compliant, productive, and safe.

If you would like more information regarding the effectiveness of high-performance infection prevention and control measures, or if you would like to schedule a free, no-obligation on-site assessment of your facility's custodial needs, contact us today for a free quote!

In Bakersfield, CA, call (661) 437-3253

In Fresno, CA, call (559) 206-1059

In Valencia, CA, or Santa Clarita, CA, call (661) 437-3253

In Palmdale, CA, or Lancaster, CA, call (661) 371-4756