Infection Control Guidance for Aircraft Cleaning Crew SEVERE ACUTE RESPIRATORY SYNDROME (SARS)

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The following fact sheet has been developed to assist aircraft cleaning crew if there has been a suspect case of SARS reported on an aircraft. Please be advised that as more information about the cause of this illness becomes available, the information provided below may change.

Protective Masks

• From the information available on the spread of SARS, it is not necessary for cabin cleaning crew to wear masks after the passenger has deplaned. However, cleaning crews may choose to wear a mask for their own personal protection from inhaling cleaning fumes.

Cleaning Procedures

• Follow your recommended airline cleaning guidelines.
  
• Be sure to disinfect or destroy magazines and toys if there is any possibility the sick passenger may have contaminated them.
  
• Be sure to disinfect passenger furniture and environmental surfaces using detergent.
  
• Soiled linen: Linen, such as pillows or blankets, should be transported in leak resistant, closed laundry bags.
  
• Waste: Dispose of all waste in a plastic garbage bag and seal. Double bagging of waste is not necessary. Appropriate hand washing is required after handling waste such as tissues or napkins.

Hand washing is the most important hygiene measure in preventing the spread of infection.

• Plain soap may be used for routine hand washing.
  
• Gloves should be worn when handling any waste products such as tissues or napkins. Use of gloves should not substitute appropriate hand-washing procedures.

For general information on Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome (SARS), please see "Fact Sheet on Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome (SARS)", or visit the Health Canada website or phone 1-800-454-8302.