RPF Environmental Testing Services Related to COVID-19
COVID-19 Post-Cleaning Verification Services in New Hampshire, Maine and Massachusetts
RPF Environmental is considered an essential business by the states we serve, as well as
the Department of Navy for various shipyard activities. Therefore, our
office will be open during normal business hours.
Based on the information provided by the CDC, the virus can be spread from person-to-person, typically among close contact. There is current evidence suggesting that the virus may be present on surfaces from a few hours up to a few days upon contamination. Thus, it is important to keep all common surfaces clean, and be aware of the space limitation between yourself and another person, 6 feet is recommended.
We are now offering these new services:
- Swab and air testing for the presence of Covid-19
- Post-cleaning verification services for facilities undergoing clean up associated with COVID-19
- ATP surface testing
Swab and air testing for the presence of Covid-19
RPF will collect swab samples from representative surfaces in the building for laboratory analysis to determine the presence of Covid-19 utilizing quantitative RT-PCR technology. Studies indicate that the SARS-CoV-2 virus may remain viable and infective on surfaces for hours or even days on some material types. In addition, ambient air testing can be performed for the presence COVID-19, as well as surrogates such as bacteria and mold.
Post-Cleaning Verification
Once your cleaning company has completed its work, RPF Environmental can assist our clients by helping to ensure an effective cleaning process.
Some organizations may want, or even be required to have, a level of 3rd party oversight and review of cleaning efforts. This may mean checks of
engineering controls used, proper methods for cleaning, and spot checks
of surfaces for signs of visible debris following cleaning efforts.
ATP Surface Testing
In addition to visual observations, you may also request random on-site spot checks of cleaning efforts using Adenosine Triphosphate (ATP) Tests. ATP measures the residual organic matter present on a surface after it is cleaned. This method doesn’t detect specific types of bioburden, pathogens or viruses such as COVID-19; however, it will help provide a qualitative measure of cleaning efforts on each surface, and it requires only seconds to complete. Healthcare systems and the food industry also frequently use ATP monitoring to help verify cleaning efficacy while still recognizing that it is not sufficiently sensitive to be used as guarantee of full disinfection.
If outsourced, be sure to only hire a qualified cleaning firm specifically trained for COVID-19 cleaning and disinfection efforts. For 3rd party review, a qualified industrial hygiene firm should be contacted, such as RPF Environmental or you can visit the American Industrial Hygiene Association ( www.AIHA.org ) to find a list of Certified Industrial Hygienists in your area.
As indicated by the CDC, the timing and location of cleaning and disinfection after persons suspected or confirmed to have COVID-19 have been in the facility can vary.
Please read the latest updates and recommended guidelines from the CDC on proper cleaning and disinfection.
Learn more about setting up your HVAC for covid-19 in our blog: Click Here
Contact us today to schedule your swab testing for the presence of Covid-19, post cleaning verification, or ATP surface testing. Serving clients in New Hampshire, Maine, Massachusetts, and across the nation.
