Recommended Disinfectants
Note: Disinfectant used may vary based on available supply and is at First Student’s discretion.
First Student’s cross-functional team of experts has partnered with governmental agencies, health care organizations, and university research teams to test and share information about disinfection methods; examining virus reaction and dwell time, instantaneous disinfection, and prolonged environment protection.
This research underpins our recommended cleaning protocols and our preferred cleaning products, listed below in order of preference.
1. Zoono-Z71™ Monthly Disinfectant
First Student’s preferred disinfectant is Zoono-Z71. We trust Zoono-Z71 because it provides superior protection for up to 30 days and replaces the need for chemicals and alcohol. Zoono is different because when applied, it leaves behind a molecular layer that bonds to surfaces and fabrics. These molecules form a barrier of microscopic spikes that (through ionic action of negatively and positively charged particles) attract, pierce, and destroy pathogens (including COVID-19).
How Zoono Destroys Viruses
Zoono creates an antimicrobial coating on surfaces, technology the WHO (World Health Organization) describes as the “nearly perfect disinfectant” to prevent cross-contamination.
Note: All Zoono products are EPA-registered and/or FDA-compliant. Zoono-Z71 is pending CDC approval.
2. Signet® Neutral Disinfectant DS1
If the district prefers daily disinfection, First Student has chosen Signet® Neutral Disinfectant DS1 due to its non-corrosive effect on school buses. The solution is an EPA-registered disinfectant, that is bactericidal, viricidal, fungicidal, and meets the OSHA Bloodborne Pathogen standard for decontamination of blood and bodily fluids.
Disinfection PPE
When cleaning or disinfecting a bus, First Student employees will use the product manufacturer’s recommended PPE (personal protective equipment) to minimize their exposure to disinfectants, including:
- Safety glasses with eye shields
- Cloth face cover or disposable mask
- Non-slip shoes
- Splash goggles (where applicable)
- Disposable gloves (where applicable)
Disinfection Process
- Battery-powered backpack sprayers will be used to apply disinfectant to the interior of buses.
- Disinfectant will be applied uniformly on seat tops, the seat’s front and back, bus handrails, and window latches.
- First Student’s best practice for bus disinfection is using a back-to-front and then front-to-back application.
Additional Cleaning
This document outlines the best practice for all vehicles. For park out vehicles unable to return to the depot or for districts preferring daily disinfection, an EPA-registered disinfectant must be used and applied via hand sprayer.