FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
March 26, 2020
Contact: Mary Peck, 720-428-0441, mary.peck@state.co.us
Broomfield, Colo. - With the spread of COVID-19 in Colorado and the concern that surfaces and objects may be contaminated, many new resources and companies may be offering products or services to disinfect businesses and homes. Consumers are reminded to be aware that disinfectants/antimicrobials and antiviral cleaning or disinfecting agents are pesticides, and must be applied according to their label directions to ensure their safety and effectiveness.
The Colorado Department of Agriculture (CDA) Pesticides Program regulates the distribution and use of all pesticides by any person in the state. When purchasing products or services to protect against the COVID-19 virus, taking the following actions will help ensure products and services being offered meet state and federal law:
- When purchasing any antimicrobial/disinfectant product, be sure the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) approves the product for use against COVID-19 by checking the EPA List of Approved Products for COVID-19 and make sure it is registered with CDA for distribution in the state of Colorado.
- Confirm that any person or business offering their own “special/unique” disinfectant product to provide protection from the COVID-19 virus is using a federally and state registered product that meets the efficacy requirements to kill the COVID-19 virus.
- When using outside services to disinfect your business or home, confirm that the antimicrobial disinfectant product being applied is labeled for the site of application. Ask the service provider for a copy of the product label or request the product name and EPA registration number to research yourself.
To get answers to additional questions or concerns regarding a particular antimicrobial/disinfectant product a provider intends to use, please contact CDA’s Pesticide Program. We will be happy to review the pesticide product label to confirm all allowed uses.
For more information, contact the CDA Pesticides Program at: CommercialApplicators@state.co.us.
The Colorado Department of Agriculture exists to support the state's agriculture industry and serve the people of Colorado through regulation, advocacy and education. Our mission is to strengthen and advance Colorado agriculture, promote a safe and high-quality food supply, protect consumers, and foster responsible stewardship of the environment and natural resources.