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The virus that causes COVID-19 is thought to spread mainly from person to person, mainly through respiratory droplets produced when an infected person coughs or sneezes. These droplets can land in the mouths or noses of people who are nearby or possibly be inhaled into the lungs. Spread is more likely when people are in close contact with one another (within about 6 feet).

COVID-19 seems to be spreading easily and sustainably in the community (“community spread”) in many affected geographic areas. Community spread means people have been infected with the virus in an area, including some who are not sure how or where they became infected.

The CDC reports that the virus has been detected in the air for as much as 3 hours after it is aerosolized and up to 17 days on some inanimate surfaces. Not all surfaces have been tested and it is not yet know how much of the virus material is required to contract COVID-19. CDC currently does not have enough information about SARS-CoV-2 to be able to make a definitive statement on how long to quarantine an area for it to be reduced to an acceptable risk level.

There is no restriction against an employer cleaning and disinfection their own facility; however, there are certain regulatory requirements that must be met in order to be in compliance with OSHA and EPA regulations:

OSHA’s Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) standards (29 CFR 1910 Subpart I), require training when using gloves, eye and face protection, and respiratory protection.
When respirators are necessary to protect workers, employers must implement a comprehensive respiratory protection program in accordance with the OSHA’s Respiratory Protection standard (29 CFR 1910.134). This includes a written program, respirator fit tests and medical clearance to wear air purifying respirators. NOTE: Facemasks that are worn to protect others from the spread of pathogens and not to protect the wearer do not have the fit test and medical clearance requirements.
OSHA has issued a statement regarding COVID-19 Waste: “…use typical engineering and administrative controls, safe work practices, and PPE, such as puncture-resistant gloves and face and eye protection, to prevent worker exposure to the waste streams (or types of wastes), including any contaminants in the materials, they manage. Such measures can help protect workers from sharps and other items that can cause injuries or exposures to infectious materials.” Failure to properly manage the waste could lead to cross-contamination and further infection risks.
CDC says that most household disinfectants are effective at reducing the risk of infection, but it is important to use only disinfectants that are registered with the EPA. Specifically, those that have emerging virus claims offer the best protection against SARS-CoV-2 pathogens.
OSHA has recently issued a pamphlet entitled, Guidance on Preparing Workplaces for COVID-19. This document is valuable source of information for employers who want to address the COVID-19 situation. It will help identify at risk employees and provide risk mitigation strategies to employ.