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Contact with contaminated surfaces can be a route of infections for some respiratory viruses. Standard prudent laboratory cleaning and disinfection practices will generally be adequate for most disinfection needs. However, laboratories are encouraged to add cleaning of high-touch surfaces such as lightswitches, doorknobs, and equipment control panels to their routine practices. Good work practices include cleaning of laboratory benches/ biological safety cabinets prior to and after completing work, timely cleanup of spills and preventing contamination of common surfaces by laboratory materials (e.g., not using dirty gloves on common surfaces). Gloves are worn for many tasks in the laboratory, and when they are removed, they should not be reused, and hands should be washed with soap and water immediately. It is important to be aware that some laboratory chemicals may not be compatible with disinfectants, so take care if using disinfectant cloths in wiping down reagent bottles.

Other cleaning and disinfection considerations include:

• Core facilities and shared spaces should implement clear expectations for shared equipment and require that personnel clean and disinfect equipment prior to start and after the completion of all work.
• When equipment must be shared, implement cleaning and disinfection protocols for all laboratory users. Many of the common NIH disinfectants will be acceptable, and laboratory staff should consider the pros and cons when determining the best agent. Concerns include whether the disinfectant could corrode items, leave sticky film, etc. DOHS is available to answer questions as needed.
• Scientific equipment may require specialized disinfecting procedures to avoid damaging the equipment. Review manufacturer guidance prior to disinfecting.
• Consider using disposable benchtop coverings (e.g., Chux pads, diapers, etc.) and properly disposing after use. Disposable plastic covers may be considered for keyboards
• Follow the NIH Exposure Control Plan for further guidance.