CPR Antimicrobial Treatments & Disinfection 2 — Questions and Answers
Question 1: When applying antimicrobials via ULV (ultra-low volume) fogging, the technician must ensure that:
- Occupants remain present to confirm coverage
- The area is vacated and ventilated per the product label instructions (Correct answer)
- HEPA filters are removed from air scrubbers to avoid trapping the product
- Windows are sealed tightly to prevent chemical escape
Correct answer: The area is vacated and ventilated per the product label instructions
ULV fogging disperses fine airborne droplets that pose an inhalation risk, so the area must be vacated and properly ventilated as directed by the product label.
Question 2: According to EPA standards, a surface sanitizer must reduce the bacterial population by at least:
- 90% (1-log reduction)
- 99% (2-log reduction)
- 99.9% (3-log reduction) (Correct answer)
- 99.999% (5-log reduction)
Correct answer: 99.9% (3-log reduction)
The EPA defines a sanitizer as achieving at least a 99.9% (3-log) reduction in bacterial populations on inanimate surfaces.
Question 3: A disinfectant differs from a sanitizer primarily because a disinfectant must:
- Only be used on food-contact surfaces
- Kill a broader spectrum of pathogens including viruses and fungi (Correct answer)
- Achieve a 100% kill rate on all microorganisms
- Require a shorter dwell time than sanitizers
Correct answer: Kill a broader spectrum of pathogens including viruses and fungi
Disinfectants are formulated and tested to kill a broader spectrum of pathogens (bacteria, viruses, and fungi), whereas sanitizers primarily target bacteria.
Question 4: Which PPE combination is most critical when applying concentrated antimicrobial solutions?
- Hard hat and steel-toed boots
- Chemical-resistant gloves, eye protection, and appropriate respiratory protection (Correct answer)
- High-visibility vest and hearing protection
- Tyvek suit and rubber boots without gloves
Correct answer: Chemical-resistant gloves, eye protection, and appropriate respiratory protection
Chemical-resistant gloves, eye protection, and respiratory protection guard against the primary exposure routes (skin, eyes, inhalation) when handling concentrated antimicrobials.
Question 5: What is the primary purpose of an antimicrobial encapsulant applied during mold remediation?
- To accelerate structural drying by sealing moisture pathways
- To seal residual mold spores after remediation and prevent their release into the air (Correct answer)
- To replace removed materials with a mold-resistant substrate
- To provide a visible indicator of treated areas
Correct answer: To seal residual mold spores after remediation and prevent their release into the air
Antimicrobial encapsulants coat and seal residual spores after remediation is complete, preventing them from becoming airborne.
Question 6: An EPA-registered antimicrobial product label claim means that:
- The EPA directly tested the product in its own laboratory
- The EPA has reviewed and verified the efficacy data and label claims submitted by the manufacturer (Correct answer)
- The product is approved for use only by licensed contractors
- The product has been certified safe for use around food and children
Correct answer: The EPA has reviewed and verified the efficacy data and label claims submitted by the manufacturer
EPA registration means the agency reviewed the manufacturer's submitted efficacy and safety data and verified that the label claims are supported.
Question 7: When using quaternary ammonium compounds (quats) as disinfectants, a common problem on heavily soiled surfaces is:
- Quats become acidic and corrode metal surfaces
- Organic soil inactivates quats, dramatically reducing their efficacy (Correct answer)
- Quats require heating to above 140°F to activate
- Quats leave no residue and must be reapplied immediately
Correct answer: Organic soil inactivates quats, dramatically reducing their efficacy
Quaternary ammonium compounds are readily inactivated by organic soil and hard water, which is why pre-cleaning is essential before their application.
CPR Antimicrobial Treatments & Disinfection 2
When applying antimicrobials via ULV (ultra-low volume) fogging, the technician must ensure that: