Question to the Department for Education:

To ask the Secretary of State for Education, what steps the Government is taking to ensure disinfectant products being used in educational establishments meet the required high clinical standards and are effective against covid-19.

The measures set out in the guidance for safe working in education provide a framework for leaders to put in place proportionate protective measures for children, pupils, students and staff. This guidance can be found at: https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/safe-working-in-education-childcare-and-childrens-social-care/safe-working-in-education-childcare-and-childrens-social-care-settings-including-the-use-of-personal-protective-equipment-ppe.

All elements of the system of controls are essential, and all educational establishments must cover each of them. Due to the range of educational establishments, from schools to colleges, the implementation of the requirements will differ based on their individual circumstances. These controls include: enhanced cleaning measures, including more frequent cleaning of rooms and shared areas that are used by different groups; cleaning frequently touched surfaces; and using standard cleaning products, such as regular detergents and bleach.