Pre-cleaning is a necessary step for disinfection, mold removal and other uses when visible soil or other contaminants are present on a target surface. To pre-clean a surface, spray Step 1 directly onto soils, scrub and wipe clean with a dry paper towel or cloth.

For cleaning floors, add one cup Step 1 per gallon of water in bucket and clean with a sponge, mop, or pad. To clean other nonporous surfaces, spray soiled area, then wipe clean with a damp sponge, mop, or cloth. For hard to reach areas, apply Step 1 with compression sprayer, or misting device.

To spot clean nonporous surfaces, spray Step 1 directly onto soiled area, scrub and wipe clean with damp sponge, mop or cloth.

To spot clean carpets, spray Step 1 on soiled area until wet. Gently blot area with a clean, damp, color safe cloth. Repeat as needed for stubborn stains. Let air dry.

Spray a light, even coating of Step 1 over soiled areas until wet. Allow to remain wet for 60 minutes. Deep clean carpet following your carpet cleaning machine’s guide.

Successful treatment of carpet and textiles requires that cleaning removes sufficient visible mold growth, and that the material can be thoroughly moistened with Step 1. Mold infested carpets and textiles are difficult to adequately clean. If carpet or textile is not readily accessible for application of Step 1 to obtain thorough wetting, the carpet or textile must be removed and discarded in a manner consistent with application regulations and instructions.

CLEANING METHODS: For small spots of mold growth, apply Step 1 by cloth, hand-spray, electric or compression sprayer, paintbrush, roller, immersion, wipe, brush, sponge or use extraction device with undiluted Step 1 to remove mold growth. Dry carpet within 24 hours to eliminate conditions favorable to mold growth. To assist the drying process, the use of fans, dehumidifiers, heaters or other methods of ventilation are encouraged. Please consult with your local county extension office or EPA, (www.epa.gov/mold/moldresoures.html ) for more information.

After through drying, the carpet or textile should be vacuumed thoroughly, and the vacuum cleaner bag discarded in a well seal plastic bag or container. If a bagless vacuum is used, spray container with undiluted Step 1 and let stand for 10 minutes. After a flood or water damage, vacuum or extract as much water as possible before application. Apply full strength with sprayer until moist to carpet nap, and rake or brush in. Allow to remain until dry. For best results carpets should be cleaned before application.

To stop and prevent the growth of odor-causing bacteria on sponges, spray sponge with Step 1 until saturated and allow to stand for 5 minutes.

Step 1 eliminates even the toughest, deep-set odors, including odors from tobacco and fire smoke, ammonia, sulfur, pet urine, commercial and residential kitchens and bathrooms, garbage cans, animal kennels, barn stalls and more. Step 1 doesn’t mask odors, but instead oxidizes and eliminates them on a molecular level, at their source, leaving treated areas smelling fresh and clean.

For deodorization, simply spray, fog, or wipe on full strength and let air dry to provide long lasting residual deodorizing action. When fogging to deodorize, apply 1 quart per 2,000 cubic ft., following fogger manufacturer’s directions for use. Step 1 must come into contact with the cause of the odor to be effective. For pet urine stains in carpets, blot urine as dry as possible, then saturate stain with Step 1 through carpet pad.

Spray Step 1 into system intake vents while system fan is running. Allow enough spray time for Step 1 to contact air duct system surfaces. Repeat application as necessary.

Spray until slightly damp to eliminate odors. Step 1 must come in contact with the cause of the odor to be effective.

To clean and remove specified allergens, spray target surface with Step 1, wait one minute, wipe excess and allow to air dry. If streaking is observed, wipe with a clean, damp cloth or paper towel.

To Kill Fungus on hard, non-porous surfaces, remove visible surface dirt by cleaning. Spray or fog Step 1 onto surface until thoroughly wet. Wait 10 minutes. Re-apply when cleaning or when new growth appears.

For effective control of the fungus Trichophyton interdigitale, the surface must be completely wet with Step 1 for 10 minutes.

To kill and prevent mold and mildew on floors, walls, ceilings and fabric, remove as much visible surface dirt, grime, mold and mildew as possible by cleaning. Next, spray Step 1 onto surface from a distance of 12 inches until visibly wet, and allow to air dry. The surface must remain visibly wet with Step 1 for 10 minutes.

Step 1 can be used as part of a comprehensive mold remediation or water damage restoration program, which should also include:

• Monitoring for, and eliminating conditions favorable to mold growth, such as water leaks, moisture ingress and high relative humidity.
• Drying affected areas to below 20% moisture content.

When water damage is suspected, first eliminate the water source. Next, remove excess water and dry surfaces thoroughly. Step 1 can be used on materials removed for disposal. If excess water is removed within 24 hours and surface is thoroughly dried, spraying affected surfaces with Step 1 will inhibit growth. Structural members and/or contents exposed to water in excess of 24 hours may have extensive microbial growth that is not visible. Prepare a complete assessment and remediation plan to incorporate Step 1 use. Surfaces treated must be completely wet with Step 1 for 10 minutes. Step 1 must come in direct contact with mold to be effective.

Recommended Mold and Mildew Remediation Websites:

• IAQA -Indoor Air Quality Association (www.iaqa.org )
• EPA - Environmental Protection Agency (www.epa.gov )
• New York City "Guidelines on Assessment and Remediation of Fungi in Indoor Environments" (www.nyc.gov )
• IICRC - Institute of Inspection, Cleaning and Restoration Certification (www.iicrc.org )
• “Standard and Reference Guide for Professional Water Damage Restoration" (IICRC S500) published by the Institute of Inspection, Cleaning and Restoration Certification (www.iicrc.org )”

DIRECTIONS FOR USE:

1. Remove visible soil. Clean surface soil from contaminated area with Step 1. Use a cleaning tool, cloth or cleaning pad suitable for the surface being cleaned. Remove as much dirt and mold as possible and ensure surface is thoroughly dried.
2. Apply Step 1 on area until evenly wet.
3. To promote drying and to avoid residue marks, wipe off excess wetness with a clean cloth or paper towel.
4. Allow treated surfaces to dry completely.
5. If mold stains remain following treatment, reapply Step 1 and wipe or scrub away stains. In some cases staining may be irreversible. If, following treatment, additional steps are taken to remove stains, reapply Step 1 as a final step and allow to air dry to protect area from regrowth.

LARGE AREAS: Areas larger than 30 square feet require special procedures and individuals trained in remediation. Refer to the above recommended websites for guidelines on remediation. Before using Step 1 to mitigate large areas, you should understand one or more of these guidelines. Follow these guidelines to apply Step 1. When water damage is suspected, first find the source of water and eliminate it. Next, remove excess water and thoroughly dry surfaces. See IICRC S500 (under Recommended Mold and Mildew Remediation Websites above) for guidance on water removal. If excess water is removed within 24 hours, spraying affected surfaces with Step 1 will prevent growth. Structural members and/or contents exposed to water in excess of 24 hours may have extensive microbial growth that is not visible. Prepare a complete assessment and remediation plan to incorporate Step 1 use, provide for user and occupant safety, and to document and monitor the remediation process. Step 1 can be used on materials removed for disposal and in other applications where antimicrobial use is indicated.

REAPPLICATION: Reapply Step 1 weekly on hard surfaces and monthly on fabrics, or whenever new growth appears. Determine and correct the cause of re-growth and ensure the surface has been thoroughly dried before reapplication. Reapply Step 1 if surfaces are washed or painted.

PERSONAL PROTECTION EQUIPMENT SUGGESTIONS FOR APPLICATORS: For areas less than 30 square feet, an N-95 respirator, gloves and goggles/eye protection are recommended to avoid mold or mold spore exposure. For areas greater than 30 square feet, use an N-95 respirator or half- face respirator with HEPA filter, disposable overalls, gloves and goggles/eye protection.

Use Step 1 to treat microbial growth and other contamination, including odor causing bacteria, mold fungus, and odor causing fungi in furnaces; air handlers; packaged units including rooftops and packaged terminal air conditioner (PTAC) units; fan coil units; air distribution components such as air handlers, mixing boxes, transfer boxes, transitions, and turning vanes, dampers, fans and fan housings, and associated components; condensate drain pans; unlined sheet metal ducts; air supply and return ducts and plenums fabricated with plywood, OSB or other wood like material; flexible air ducts fabricated of metal or plastic; humidifiers; dehumidifiers (both desiccant and refrigerated); registers, grills, and other air intake and discharge devices.

APPLICATION INSTRUCTIONS: Although Step 1 will not stain any material not stained by water, we suggest testing for compatibility on surface of concern first.

To disinfect surface, remove any grime, dirt, mold, or other barrier between Step 1 and surface. Fog or spray Step 1 on surface until wet, giving special attention to cracks and crevices. Allow 10 to 20 minutes for drying. No rinsing or wiping is required. Following the elapsed drying time, it is best practice to purge the system by increasing the negative pressure through the outdoor exhaust or negative air machine, or by turning on the vacuum used to pre-clean the HVAC system, while removing the duct openings seals. This will minimize the release of scent into the spaces served by the system.

Spray Step 1 into system intake vents while system fan is running. Allow enough spray time for Step 1 to contact air duct system surfaces. Repeat application as necessary.

APPLICATION FREQUENCY: Normally, infrequent application (every 3 months for HVAC Systems and every 6 months to every two years for air ducts) will provide effective microbial control. Some critical applications such as HVAC and duct systems serving critical healthcare spaces or clean rooms, where it is essential to minimize the generation of particulate matter that may be released as a byproduct of microbial growth, may require more frequent treatment. Do not apply more often than monthly, and then only if there is evidence of re-growth. This product must only be used in those cases where visible microbial growth has been detected in the system and then only after removing that growth and identifying and correcting the conditions that led to that growth. Prior to reapplication in such cases, investigate to determine the cause of re-growth and correct that problem prior to re-application. Make sure the reoccurrence of microbial growth does not have another cause such as persistently high humidity, standing water, or hidden leaks.

Prior to reapplication, the interior of the ducts and other surfaces must be inspected and found to be free of accumulated soil. If soil or growth is found, the cause should be determined and corrected and then the ducts cleaned in accordance with accepted industry practice. If microbial growth persists in air ducts following application, re-inspect for duct leaks, carryover of water from cooling coils or humidifiers, and other sources of moisture promoting growth. Eliminate such sources of moisture before retreating.

For one-step, 99.9% sanitization of hard, non-porous, non-food contact surfaces (Staphylococcus aureus - ATCC 6538 and Enterobacter aerogenes - ATCC 13048), mix 1 part Step 1 with 9 parts tap water. Apply diluted Step 1 solution as a one-step cleaner/sanitizer (5% organic soil load) by wetting thoroughly with spray, fog, sponge, mop, or by immersion in solution, and let stand 5 minutes. Wipe and allow to air dry. No rinse required. For immersion, replace solution daily, or more frequently if it becomes significantly soiled or diluted.

See Manufacturer's Instructions for Use.

For 99.999% sanitization of food contact surfaces (Staphylococcus aureus - ATCC 6538 and Escherichia coli - ATCC 11229), mix 1 part Step 1 with 9 parts tap water.

For all food contact surfaces, including glassware, utensils, cookware, and dishware: Scrape and pre-wash, then wash with a good detergent. Rinse with potable water, then sanitize by immersion in diluted Step 1 solution for 1 minute (or longer if specified by government sanitary code). Place on a rack or drain board to air dry. Do not rinse or wipe.

Food Contact Immobile Surfaces (food processing equipment, counter tops, tables, appliances): Remove all gross food particles and soil by cleaning and rinse with potable water. Apply diluted Step 1 solution by wetting thoroughly with fog, spray, sponge, mop, or by immersion in solution and let stand for 1 minute (or longer if specified by government sanitary code). Let surfaces drain and air dry. Do not rinse or wipe.

For immersion, replace solution daily, or more frequently if it becomes significantly soiled or diluted. Final Sanitizing Bottle Rinse: Step 1 may be used as a final sanitizing rinse for returnable and nonreturnable bottles when diluted at the rate of 9 parts water to 1 part Step 1.

To sanitize soft surfaces, such as fabrics and upholstery by spot treatment, mix 1 part Step 1 with 9 parts tap water. Spray fabric with diluted Step 1 solution from a distance of six to eight inches from surface, until wet. DO NOT SATURATE. Let stand for 5 minutes. Allow to air dry. For difficult odors or heavy fabrics, repeat application. Visible soil must be removed prior to sanitizing.

For synthetic carpet fibers such as nylon, olefin, or polypropylene (not intended for use on wool carpets). Test for color fastness in an inconspicuous area. Carpet should be clean and free of excessive soil before applying. Mix 1 part Step 1 with 5 parts water, or use full strength. Apply at a rate of 2.5 oz per sq. ft. Dampen carpet but do not saturate. Work Step 1 down to the pad of the carpet with a rake or a brush. Step 1 must come into contact with contaminate to work. Allow to dwell for 10 minutes. Do not rinse. You may use an extraction wand and dry stroke carpet to remove excess moisture. Carpet can air dry or fans may be used if carpet needs to dry faster.

See Manufacturer's Instructions for Use.

Mix 1 part Step 1 with 5 parts water, or use full strength. Spray a light even coating on soiled area until wet. Allow to remain wet for 60 minutes. Gently blot area with a clean, damp, color-safe cloth. Repeat as needed for stubborn stains. Let air dry.

Step 1 cleans, disinfects and deodorizes hard, nonporous surfaces in one step with no rinsing required. For disinfecting hard, non-porous surfaces such as glass, plastic, painted wood, laminate, chrome, stainless steel, polyurethane coated hardwood floors, glazed ceramic tile, sealed concrete & linoleum floors, appliance exteriors, bed frames, cabinet handles, wheelchairs, child car seats, counters, cribs, doorknobs, tables, tubs, exterior toilet surfaces, faucet handles, handrails, jungle gyms, keyboards, light switch covers, patio furniture, showers, sinks, stovetops, telephones, toys, walls, waste containers and more, apply Step 1 undiluted, full strength to surfaces, wetting surface thoroughly with spray, sponge, mop, or by immersion in Step 1. Allow surfaces to remain wet for 5 minutes, or 10 minutes for full virus inactivation (refer to the viruses table for contact times). For immersion, replace solution daily, or more frequently if it becomes significantly soiled or diluted

For Mycobacterium Bovis-BCG disinfection, follow “DISINFECTION” instructions, being sure treated surfaces remain wet with Step 1 for 10 minutes.

Step 1 cleans, disinfects and deodorizes hard, nonporous hospital and medical surfaces in one step with no rinsing required. Step 1 is a germicidal disinfectant cleaner and deodorant designed for general cleaning and disinfecting of hard, nonporous inanimate surfaces when use directions for disinfection are followed.

SPECIAL INSTRUCTIONS FOR CLEANING AND DECONTAMINATIONS AGAINST HIV-1, HBV, and HCV ON SURFACES/OBJECTS SOILED WITH BLOOD/BODY FLUIDS: STEP 1 KILLS HIV-1, HBV, AND HCV ON PRE-CLEANED ENVIRONMENTAL SURFACES/OBJECTS PREVIOUSLY SOILED WITH BLOOD/BODY FLUIDS IN HEALTH CARE SETTINGS OR OTHER SETTINGS IN WHICH THERE IS EXPECTED LIKELIHOOD OF SOILING OF INANIMATE SURFACES/OBJECTS WITH BLOOD OR BODY FLUIDS AND SURFACES/OBJECTS LIKELY TO BE SOILED WITH BLOOD OR BODY FLUIDS THAT CAN BE ASSOCIATED WITH THE POTENTIAL FOR TRANSMISSION OF HUMAN IMMUNODEFICIENCY VIRUS TYPE 1 (HIV-1) (ASSOCIATED WITH AIDS), AND HUMAN HEPATITIS A, B AND C VIRUS. WHEN HANDLING ITEMS SOILED WITH BLOOD OR BODY FLUIDS, USE DISPOSABLE LATEX GLOVES, GOWNS, MASKS, AND EYE COVERINGS.

THIS PRODUCT IS NOT TO BE USED AS A TERMINAL STERILANT/HIGH LEVEL DISINFECTANT ON ANY SURFACE OR INSTRUMENT THAT (1) IS INTRODUCED DIRECTLY INTO THE HUMAN BODY, EITHER INTO OR IN CONTACT WITH THE BLOODSTREAM OR NORMALLY STERILE AREAS OF THE BODY, OR (2) CONTACT INTACT MUCOUS MEMBRANES BUT WHICH DOES NOT ORDINARILY PENETRATE THE BLOOD BARRIER OR OTHERWISE ENTER NORMALLY STERILE AREAS OF THE BODY.

Step 1 removes dirt, grime, fungus, mold, food residue, blood and other organic matter commonly found in hospitals and in health care facilities. It also eliminates odors, leaving restroom surfaces smelling clean and fresh. Use where odor is a problem. Step 1 may be used to pre-clean or decontaminate critical or semi-critical medical devices prior to sterilization or high-level disinfection. Blood and other body fluids must be thoroughly cleaned from surfaces and objects prior application of this product.

To disinfect pre-cleaned, hard, non-porous surfaces, apply Step 1 full-strength (undiluted), wetting thoroughly with spray, sponge, mop, or by immersion in solution. Allow surfaces to remain wet for 5 or 10 minutes for virus inactivation (refer to the viruses table for contact times). For immersion, replace solution daily, or more frequently if it becomes significantly soiled or diluted.

TUBERCULOCIDAL: For Mycobacterium Bovis-BCG disinfection, the surface must remain wet with Step 1 for 10 minutes.

Blood and other body fluids should be autoclaved and disposed of according to Federal, State, and local regulations for infectious waste disposal.

Hold eye open and rinse slowly with water for 15-20 minutes. Remove contact lenses after first 5 minutes and continue rinsing. Call a Poison Control Center or doctor for treatment advice. Have Step 1 container or label with you when calling a poison control center or doctor, or when going for treatment.

Store in original closed container in a cool, dry place away from heat and open flame. Do not allow Step 1 to become overheated in storage. Avoid prolonged storage in temperatures above 40℃, 90℉, and keep away from direct sunlight, as this may cause increased degradation of the product which could decrease product effectiveness. Containers are non-refillable, or may be refilled only with Step 1. Do not reuse or refill container unless the directions for use allow a different concentrate of Step 1 to be diluted in the container. Do not transfer with metal drum pumps.

Container Disposal: Rinse and offer empty container for recycling. If recycling is not available, discard container in trash. Wastes resulting from the use of this product may be disposed of on site or at an approved waste disposal facility. Discard excess or used Step 1 solution in drain with running water.

Coverage Rate is 1,000 square feet per gallon when applied with a coarse-spray, trigger spray bottle and 8,000 square feet per gallon when applied with a properly sized Electrostatic or ULV fogging device.

Note: Coverage rates can vary greatly based upon surface type and application methods.

To view Step 1’s COVERAGE RATES AND DILUTION RATIO GUIDE, please Click Here .