Farm and Home Biosecurity
Livestock/Row Crop Producer
Commonly Used Disinfectants
Quaternary ammonium compounds (Roccal D)
These compounds work well on clean surfaces. Many compounds in this class
have some detergent activity but will often become inactive if they contact
soaps or residues on surfaces that are left behind by soaps. Any organic
material that is not removed inactivates them. If you use these compounds, be
sure to clean the surface and then rinse off any soap you may have used.
Phenol compounds (One Stroke Eniviron, Osyl and Amphyl)
These are made from coal-tar and have a very strong odor. When added to
water, the mixture often turns a white, milk-like color. These compounds are not
inactivated by hard water or the presences of some organic debris. They have a
wide spectrum and are a good general-purpose disinfectant.
Chlorine compounds (Hypochlorites) (Bleach, Halazone) ( Nolvasan)
These compounds are inactivated by organic debris. They are usually more
effective if mixed in warm water. These compounds are often unstable and should
not be allowed to stand for long periods before use. They can be used with soaps
but do not mix with any acids (vinegar). These compounds can be harmful to
clothing, rubber and some metals and can irritate your eyes and nose.
Iodine-based compounds (Iodophors) (Betadine, Weladol)
These are iodine-based compounds that are combined with a molecule that
allows them to mix in water. These are very effective disinfectants but are
inactivated by organic debris, some metals and sunlight. They can stain clothing
and some porous surfaces. If mixed with quaternary ammonium compounds (Roccal
D), they are inactivated. Doctors and veterinarians have used these compounds to
disinfect surgical sites for many years.
Oxidizing agents (Virkon S)
Virkon S is a combination of an oxidizing agent, an organic acid and a
penetrating agent (surfactant). Because it is an acid, it has a low pH (2.6 when
mixed), however the label says it is not irritating to skin. It has a wide
spectrum of activity and can be effective if some organic debris is present. It
is recognized by the USDA as effective against the FMD virus. The label
indicates it can be used on livestock equipment such as grooming brushes,
saddles and buckets.
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