How To Properly Clean COVID-19-Related Structures

Tent structures are popping up everywhere, but not for parties. In the era of COVID-19, structures are being used more frequently for businesses looking to provide a location for customers and employees to properly social distance.

When a structure has been up all day or week with potentially sick people in it, how can you be sure that it’s clear of the virus that causes COVID-19? It is important to know how to properly clean a structure to stop the spread of the coronavirus.

At Lafayette Tents & Events, we have over 100 years of experience installing temporary structures. Recently, because of COVID-19, we’ve provided structures for colleges and universities, grocery store and retail pickup locations, expanded break rooms for businesses and COVID-19 testing shelters for medical facilities.

How to Clean a Structure

COVID-19 is transmitted through droplets that can exist on surfaces for hours or several days. The disease is spread when someone touches one of these surfaces and then touches their face. Vinyl, metal and other common structure materials are not immune to the virus. In fact, the virus can live on these surfaces for hours.

To answer the question of how to clean a structure, we turn to vinyl experts who back their products’ reliability and safety. The Tent Rental Division of the Industrial Fabrics Association International (IFAI) works with cleaning experts, vinyl manufacturers, and others to determine the best practices for disinfecting structures and their support materials.

Materials You Need to Clean Your Structure

Before you clean a structure, make sure you have the proper materials and detergent on hand to clean it properly.

Since you are dealing with harsh chemicals, it is important to have personal protective equipment (PPE), which includes:

Waterproof/disposable gloves
Face masks
Goggles
Protective gown and shoe covers
Soap and water

You will also need a quaternary disinfectant that is recommended by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and is on the EPA-registered “N List” as an effective treatment for COVID-19. Quaternary ammonium chloride is one of the best known chemicals to treat COVID-19 while also protecting the integrity of the fabric. You can find these disinfectants at janitorial supply stores and cleaning supply companies. Be sure to follow the correct diluting instructions.

The Structure Cleaning Process

Many structures are set up for several months at a time and should be cleaned regularly. When cleaning, spray the dry inside with the quaternary disinfectant. Be sure to spray all the materials, including poles, framework, and flooring from bottom up to prevent streaking and ensure full coverage. Let the disinfectant sit for 10 minutes before touching or rinsing the structure. Afterwards, wash the top of the structure again with soapy water to remove any missed contaminants.

You Can Rely on Lafayette Tents & Events for a Clean Structure Every Time

Whether you need overflow outdoor seating at a bar or restaurant, a COVID-19 testing drive thru structure, or an emergency shelter, Lafayette Tents & Events is here 24/7 for your structure needs. Contact us today to learn more about how to clean your structure or to request a quote for renting a structure.

Testimonials

Keven and his team at Lafayette Tents & Events provided a completely seamless experience. From beginning to end, they communicated well, paid attention to our needs, and exceeded every expectation. Can't wait to work with them again next year.

G.D., Owner of Event Management Company

I want to tell you how very pleased I was with both set-up and take-down of the tents. The installers were freindly, helpful and all around great guys. It was raining and muddy during the take-down, yet these guys were great! Thank you for all of the help.