FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

What is DIFFICIL-S^®?

DIFFICIL-S^® is a powerful disinfectant/cleaner that can be used on most hard surfaces, mattresses, equipment, utensils, walls, floors and soft furnishings and is one of the most powerful broad spectrum disinfectants ever developed.

DIFFICIL-S^® has received a Recommendation 2 from the Department of Health’s Rapid Review Panel which no other product in its class has achieved.

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How is DIFFICIL-S^® different to other disinfectants currently on the market?

Unlike most disinfectant/cleaners which commonly use chlorine as their active ingredient, DIFFICIL-S^® uses chlorine dioxide which has many unique advantages:-

DIFFICIL-S^® gives a 5-log reduction (99.999%) within 5 minutes against pathogens including Clostridium difficile (& spores), MRSA and Norovirus.

DIFFICIL-S^® can be used on mattresses with no delamination and no rinsing required.  it is also non-cytotoxic.

DIFFICIL-S^® is non-corrosive on metal fittings.

DIFFICIL-S^® is non-carcinogenic when used in combination with organic spills ie. blood, faeces & vomit.

DIFFICIL-S^® working solution retains its efficacy for 14 days when kept in the provided airtight containers.

DIFFICIL-S^® releases no harmful or unpleasant gases whilst giving a powerful 5-log reduction against pathogens.

DIFFICIL-S^® can safely be used on most carpets and soft furnishings without a bleaching effect on the colour.

Where else can DIFFICIL-S^® be used?

DIFFICIL-S^® can be used on most hard surfaces as well as mattresses, equipment, floors including most carpets, soft furnishings and food preparation equipment. 

It has a near neutral pH allowing it to be used on metal surfaces without the pitting normally caused by chlorine-based disinfectants. 

DIFFICIL-S^® has completed independent tests showing it to be non-cytotoxic on mattresses allowing easy facilitation of cleaning without the need to rinse.  In addition, DIFFICIL-S^® will not delaminate the mattress fabric. 

DIFFICIL-S^® can safely be used on organic spills (blood, faeces & vomit) without producing chloramines.  

Does the use of DIFFICIL-S^® need protective clothing?

DIFFICIL-S^® has a low pH and therefore will not cause irritation if it comes into contact with skin. However, we would recommend the use of gloves when handling any chemical. DIFFICIL-S^® is also non-carcinogenic as no cancer causing compounds are produced by combination with organic waste.

How do I prepare DIFFICIL-S^®?

DIFFICIL-S^® is presented as a two-part powder in sachet form which is added to 10 litres of cold water in the provided mixing container. The solution only needs 10 seconds to dissolve and can then be kept for up to 14 days with no loss of efficacy in the airtight mixing container. DIFFICIL-S^® is then decanted into the provided 500ml variable angle cap or trigger jet bottles. Alternatively the solution can be further diluted with water for use on large surface areas.

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How long does DIFFICIL-S® last once prepared?

DIFFICIL-S^® retains its efficacy for 14 days when kept in the provided airtight mixing container or 500ml bottles.

Do I need to use different dilutions of DIFFICIL-S^® for different areas?

Follow the instructions for the preparation of DIFFICIL-S^® and then the solution can be used at the same strength everywhere, whatever the challenge. For large surface areas, the ready mixed solution can be further diluted by adding 200ml of DIFFICIL-S^® to each litre of water in your cleaning bucket.

Do you provide training for the preparation and use of DIFFICIL-S^®?

We are committed to providing full support for all training in the preparation and use of DIFFICIL-S^® by way of a dedicated nurse trainer who will be available on-site during the duration of the training. We also provide an instructional DVD and training literature.

How should the product be stored?

Store in a cool dry place below 35°C. Do not store with acids or combustible materials. The sachets can be stored for up to 30 months with no loss of efficacy.

What should I do if I spill the solution on myself?

The following safety procedures should be followed when using DIFFICIL-S^®:-

If DIFFICIL-S^® comes into contact with skin - flush with water

If DIFFICIL-S^® comes into contact with eyes - flush with water and locate your nearest earwash station

If DIFFICIL-S^® is ingested - wash out mouth with water and drink small quantities of water but do not induce vomiting

For large scale spillage of DIFFICIL-S^® - mop with water and ventilate the area if possible

Avoid powder dust inhalation

All accidents must be reported to your supervisor immediately

Laminated posters itemising the above points are distributed free of charge together with instruction posters & leaflets.