Post-Session Sanitation for COVID

Post-Session Checklist

It takes 10 minutes for some cleaning products to effectively kill pathogens. Given this fact, and the other protocols necessary, we believe it is prudent to allow 30 minutes before your next client.

Room Turnover Sanitation Protocols

  • If you have windows, open them immediately after a client has left and while you turn over the room to get as much air circulation in the room as possible (if they are not already open). If you don’t have windows, consider adding a high-efficiency particulate air (HEPA) purifier to the space.
  • Remove all table setup items; fold linens in on themselves and place in lined, lidded hampers positioned outside the treatment space to minimize the possibility of dispersing virus in the air.
  • Use hospital grade, EPA-approved disinfectants to clean anything the client came in contact with, including your table, face cradle, stool, bolsters, door knobs, side tables, chairs, etc. Follow more stringent state or regulatory agency protocols as required. Follow the product manufacturer’s recommendations for contact time (or how long a surface must stay visibly wet before the disinfectant destroys the pathogen). For some products, this can be 10 minutes. Be mindful of porous surfaces on tables and chairs, which can start to be damaged with the use of disinfectants; consider using barrier methods.
  • Per CDC recommendations, clean all equipment, devices, and surfaces between each client interaction, including oil or lotion dispensers. This process includes cleaning:
    • Hard (Non-Porous) Surfaces: If surfaces are dirty, they should be cleaned using a detergent or soap and water prior to disinfection. For disinfection, use EPA-approved disinfectants for use against the virus that causes COVID-19. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for all cleaning and disinfection products for concentration, application method, and contact time, etc. Additionally, diluted household bleach solutions (at least 1000ppm sodium hypochlorite) can be used if appropriate for the surface. Follow manufacturer’s instructions for application, ensuring a contact time of at least 1 minute, and allowing proper ventilation during and after application. Check to ensure the product is not past its expiration date. Never mix household bleach with ammonia or any other cleaner. Unexpired household bleach will be effective against coronaviruses when properly diluted. Prepare a bleach solution by mixing 5 tablespoons (1/3 cup) bleach per gallon of water or 4 teaspoons bleach per quart of water
    • Soft (Porous) Surfaces: For soft (porous) surfaces such as carpeted floor, rugs, and drapes, remove visible contamination if present and clean with appropriate cleaners indicated for use on these surfaces. After cleaning, if the items can be laundered, launder items in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions using the warmest appropriate water setting for the items, and then dry items completely. Otherwise, use products that are EPA-approved for COVID-19.
    • Electronics: For electronics such as tablets, touch screens, keyboards, remote controls, and ATM machines, remove visible contamination if present. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for all cleaning and disinfection products. Consider the use of wipeable covers for electronics. If no manufacturer guidance is available, consider the use of alcohol-based wipes or sprays containing at least 70% alcohol to disinfect touch screens. Dry surfaces thoroughly to avoid pooling of liquids.
    • Linens, Clothing, and Other Items That Go in the Laundry: In order to minimize the possibility of dispersing virus through the air, do not shake dirty laundry. Remove all linens, blankets, and table setups; fold items in on themselves before putting in a closed bin or hamper. Wash items as appropriate in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions. If possible, launder items using the warmest appropriate water setting for the items and dry items completely.
  • Repeat your handwashing protocol and reset the table and treatment space for next client.

Sanitation Between Clients

  • Continue to wipe down bathroom surfaces (doorknobs, toilet handles, sink areas, light switches, etc.), reception-area countertops, point-of-sale equipment, and chairs (arm rests).

Sanitation at End of Day

  • Empty all trash cans (each trash can has a liner), then use cleaning cloths to wipe the inside and outside of the garbage can thoroughly.
  • Do end of day post-client cleaning, including the phone, keyboard, thermometer, and all light switches and doorknobs, as well as the bathroom and any other surfaces clients came in contact with.
  • Remove bagged laundry from the dirty bin for washing and replace the hamper with a new liner.

News

Ohio Adopts Interstate Massage Compact

The Ohio legislature adopted Senate Bill 56 on June 21, becoming the second state to enact the Interstate Massage Compact. Massage therapists will soon be able to obtain a multistate license that will reduce holdups and delays that often occur when moving to a different state.

US Department of Education 150% Rule Update

A federal judge has granted a preliminary injunction that halts the enforcement of the US Department of Education’s new Bare Minimum Rule, also known as the “100% rule,” until the court takes further action. This is the first step in what could be a lengthy battle to ultimately delay enforcement of the rule, providing schools more time to adjust their programmatic standards, or overturn the rule altogether. Find out more and what your school needs to do to prepare.

Colorado Bill Requires Local Background Checks

Governor Jared Polis signed into law House Bill 24-1371, requiring local government (counties, cities, or municipalities) to conduct periodic criminal background checks for massage establishment operators, owners, and employees.

Blog

Perform Your Best with MassageBook

Illustration of computer and phones displaying MassageBook sites.

MassageBook wants to help you focus on delivering exceptional care to your clients and building the practice of your dreams.

Julie Plachta: Serving the Underserved

Woman massages a client who is lying facedown on a massage table.

As we get closer to celebrating Massage Is for EveryBody, July 14–20, 2024, we wanted to share more of Julie Plachta’s story, which exemplifies the inclusive values of this campaign.

Benefits

Featured ABMP Discount Partner: Hyperice

ABMP members save 10% on all Hyperice percussive and heat/ice technology massage devices, including the Hypervolt, Vyper Vibrating Fitness Roller, and Ice Compression.

Featured ABMP Discount Partner: Yomassage

ABMP members receive 20% off Signature Yomassage, Mindful Touch by Yomassage, Barefoot Yomassage, Table Yomassage, and Yomassage Facials certifications.

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