Facilities

Disinfecting protocols after a known COVID-19 positive case

Facilities staff will follow these protocols when disinfecting a space after a known COVID-19 positive case:

  1. If possible wait 24 to 72 hours before cleaning while increasing ventilation in the space (office, suite, floor[s] or building).
  2. Personnel entering the space will use the appropriate protective equipment (masks, gloves, etc.).
  3. All personal items (books, backpacks, etc.) will be relocated and contained for later disinfection.
  4. The entire space will be cleaned using EPA-standard approved cleaning products.
  5. High-touch areas will be wiped or sprayed with additional disinfecting products.
  6. The entire space will be sprayed using EPA disinfecting products.
  7. Reoccupancy may occur 12 hours after the space has been sprayed.
  8. Before occupants are allowed to return, the space will receive a thorough inspection to include (as applicable):
    • Operation of all plumbing fixtures
    • Flushing of the HVAC system
    • Lighting

Enhanced Cleaning and Disinfecting Protocols

MATC will operate in accordance with the increased cleaning and disinfection protocols recommended by the Centers for Disease Control, using products that are effective against the COVID-19 virus. Throughout the pandemic, MATC has monitored and adopted CDC recommendations.

The CDC’s “Considerations for Institutes of Higher Education,” May 30 updated guidance specifically recommends routine disinfecting and cleaning of surfaces and objects that are frequently touched using the cleaners typically used, according to the directions on the label. The CDC says that most common registered household disinfectants should be effective.

At a minimum, there will be twice daily disinfecting of high-touch areas throughout campus. Classrooms will be disinfected daily during routine cleaning. Sanitizing cleaner will be provided in classrooms and other spaces for use by the occupants. 

In accordance with CDC and college guidelines, all staff members and students will wear the required personal protective equipment including face masks/coverings while on campus.

In addition to normal cleaning routines, employees will also disinfect frequently touched surfaces or high-touch points and objects. Examples of frequently touched surfaces and objects that will receive the minimal twice-daily disinfection are:

  • Tables in common spaces
  • Doorknobs
  • Light switches
  • Door handles
  • Hand railings
  • Bathroom stalls
  • Sink handles
  • Grab bars
  • Water fountains

Sanitizing will be made available through each building so that commonly used surfaces and objects can be wiped down before use. For soft surfaces such as carpeted floors or fabric in seating areas, guidance indicates to continue cleaning with cleaners appropriate for use on these surfaces and disinfecting with appropriate product for the specific surfaces; vacuum carpets as usual.

Hand Sanitizing Products and Touchless Features

  • Hand sanitizing stations will be located at key areas within all campus buildings.
  • Sanitizing products such as hand pumps will be available at key locations (ingress/egress, lobbies, etc.) and can be obtained throughout the facility.
  • Foot pulls will be installed on doors of high-use areas such as restrooms.
  • Soap and paper towel dispensers with touchless products are in restrooms.

These practices will continue to evolve as the CDC releases new recommendations.

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