Minimizing the Risk of COVID-19 Infection in Food Manufacturing

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What is COVID-19?

COVID-19 is a disease caused by a newly identified strain of coronavirus that emerged in 2019. It is also known as the Wuhan novel coronavirus, 2019-nCoV, WN-CoV, HCoV-19 (SARS-2), or SARS-CoV-2, where SARS stands for Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome, and CoV refers to Coronavirus. In this article, we'll refer to the illness as COVID-19 and the virus as SARS-CoV-2.

How Does It Spread?

The primary way COVID-19 spreads is through inhaling droplets or aerosols expelled when an infected person sneezes or coughs. A single cough can release up to 3,000 droplets, which can settle on nearby objects, people, or surfaces. Another potential mode of transmission is touching a contaminated surface and then touching your face, particularly the eyes, nose, or mouth.

Recent studies suggest that SARS-CoV-2 can survive on cardboard for up to 24 hours and for 2-3 days on plastic and stainless-steel surfaces. While we don't yet know the exact survival time on fabrics, several factors like temperature, humidity, and the type of surface play a role in determining how long the virus remains viable. The European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) has confirmed that there is no evidence suggesting food is a likely source of transmission for COVID-19. Past outbreaks involving similar coronaviruses showed no evidence of transmission through food consumption.

How Can Cleaning and Disinfection Help Minimize the Risk of Infection?

Viruses vs Bacteria

Bacteria are living organisms capable of reproducing independently, whereas viruses are non-living particles that require a host cell to replicate. Viruses are significantly smaller than bacteria, making them easier to transmit and adhere to surfaces. While SARS-CoV-2 has been shown to survive on surfaces for 2-3 days, certain bacteria can remain active for years. Organic matter, such as food residues or bodily fluids, might provide some protection to viruses and bacteria alike from disinfectants, but thorough cleaning practices can eliminate both effectively.

Since SARS-CoV-2 is relatively fragile compared to other pathogens, many standard disinfectants can neutralize it within minutes. Routine cleaning and disinfection protocols should continue as usual, but given the recent findings about the virus's persistence on surfaces, it’s wise to increase the frequency of cleaning high-touch areas like door handles, handrails, faucet knobs, and cleaning tools.

Consider implementing a disposable glove policy if feasible, ensuring that gloves are only worn when necessary and discarded properly afterward. Hand sanitizers containing at least 70% alcohol can be useful, but they shouldn’t replace regular handwashing. Additionally, if a key employee tests positive for COVID-19, it may be prudent to sanitize any surfaces they’ve interacted with.

Cleaning

Before disinfecting, visibly dirty surfaces should be pre-cleaned either manually (e.g., scrubbing, wiping) or mechanically (e.g., using vacuums or floor scrubbers). Proper cleaning minimizes contamination spread while maximizing dirt removal.

Disinfection

To disinfect small items like reusable tools or high-touch surfaces, use 70% ethyl alcohol applied with a spray bottle or disposable cloth. Always use a fresh cloth for each item to avoid cross-contamination.

Numerous disinfectants, including sodium hypochlorite and peracetic acid, are effective against viruses on surfaces. Food processors should consult with chemical suppliers to determine safe dosages and application guidelines. Alternatively, products certified under EN 14476:2013 + A1 2015 can be used at their highest recommended concentrations.

High temperatures, specifically at 133°F, can also deactivate the SARS coronavirus. Equipment and utensils can be sanitized using dishwashers set to this temperature for at least 15 minutes. Similarly, laundry items, including protective gear and cleaning cloths, can be disinfected in washing machines following the same thermal requirements.

Other Precautions

Everyone involved in food handling—from producers to distributors—should be mindful of potential transmission routes and follow WHO-recommended safety measures:

  • Wash hands frequently with soap and water for at least 20 seconds.
  • Cover your mouth and nose when coughing or sneezing.
  • Maintain social distancing (at least 6 feet).

Understand how aerosols and droplets contribute to contamination and how improper hand hygiene leads to indirect transmission. Cleaning tools can inadvertently spread the virus if not handled correctly, so opt for single-use items or hygienic designs that are easy to clean and disinfect.

For detailed guidance on disinfecting surfaces to prevent SARS-CoV-2 spread, refer to CDC recommendations.

References

  1. https://www.who.int/health-topics/coronavirus
  2. https://www.who.int/emergencies/diseases/novel-coronavirus-2019/events-as-they-happen
  3. https://www.nejm.org/doi/full/10.1056/NEJMc2004973?query=featured_home
  4. https://www.cdc.gov/hygiene/cleaning/facility.html
  5. https://www.who.int/csr/sars/survival_2003_05_04/en/
  6. https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/community/clean-disinfect/index.html
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Hotel Chair

Hotel chairs refer to seats used in hotel rooms, lobbies, restaurants, conference rooms, and other places. According to different functions and design styles, hotel chairs can be divided into multiple categories. Below, we will classify and introduce materials and design styles.
1. Material classification:
(1) Wooden chairs: Wooden chairs are one of the most common hotel chairs, commonly used wood including oak, beech, elm, etc. Wooden chairs have a natural and warm texture, making them suitable for use in high-end hotel rooms and lobbies.
(2) Metal chairs: Metal chairs are generally made of metal materials such as iron and aluminum, which are sturdy, durable, and stylish. They are suitable for use in hotel restaurants and meeting rooms.
(3) Plastic chairs: Plastic chairs are usually made of materials such as polypropylene, which are lightweight and easy to clean, making them suitable for use in budget hotels and outdoor spaces.
(4) Fabric chair: Fabric chairs are generally made of fabric or leather materials, with a comfortable texture, suitable for use in high-end hotel rooms and leisure areas.
2. Design style classification:
(1) Modern style: Modern style hotel chairs are designed with simple and smooth lines, emphasizing functionality and comfort. Commonly used materials include metal, plastic, and leather.
(2) Classical style: The design of hotel chairs in classical style emphasizes details and decoration, with commonly used materials such as wood and fabric, giving a sense of elegance and luxury.
Summary: Hotel chairs are classified based on material and design style, and different classifications are applicable to different places and needs. In the interior design of hotels, selecting appropriate hotel chairs can enhance guests' comfort and experience, while also coordinating with the overall design style to create a unique hotel atmosphere.

Wedding Chair,Throne Chair,Church Chair,Nordic Chair

Foshan Shengshi Zhihui Technology Co., Ltd. , https://www.officer-furniture.com