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Phenolic disinfectant
Also called: phenolics, synthetic phenol
An older family of strong surface disinfectants based on phenol compounds.
Phenolics are surface disinfectants made from phenol-type chemicals. Some products carry a TB claim. Porous materials can soak them up, and the leftover product can irritate tissue. They are not FDA-cleared as high-level disinfectants for instruments. Skin lightening (depigmentation) has been reported with some phenolic detergents.
How to spot it
- Ingredient names with phenol or phenylphenol in them.
What it is used for
- Surface disinfection following the label's directions and contact time.
Safety and care
- Wear gloves; avoid skin contact.
- Not for use as an instrument soak.
Related
Sources: CDC. Guideline for Disinfection and Sterilization in Healthcare Facilities (2008): Chemical Disinfectants, CDC. Guidelines for Infection Control in Dental Health-Care Settings, 2003. MMWR 2003;52(RR-17), EPA. List B: EPA's Registered Tuberculocide Products Effective Against Mycobacterium tuberculosis