EPA List S: Disinfectants Effective Against Bloodborne Pathogens
Disinfectant reference
What Is EPA List S?
EPA List S is the Environmental Protection Agency’s current reference for EPA-registered antimicrobial products effective against the bloodborne pathogens HIV, hepatitis B, and hepatitis C. It combines information previously maintained across several separate disinfectant lists, making it easier to verify a product by its EPA registration number and label directions.
Product verification process
How to Check Whether a Product Is on EPA List S
Use the EPA registration number and the product label together. A product name alone is not always enough to confirm the exact formulation, approved surface, pathogen coverage, or directions for use.
Find the EPA Registration Number
Check the product label for “EPA Reg. No.” and record the registration number exactly as shown. See EPA’s disinfectant-list guidance for an example.
Recognize Distributor Numbers
Supplemental distributor products may add a third number to the primary EPA registration number. For example, a product labelled 12345-12-2567 may correspond to primary registration 12345-12.
Search List S by Registration
Search the live EPA list using the primary registration number. This is more reliable than relying on a similar product name or packaging design.
Confirm the Label Directions
Check that the label covers the relevant pathogen and states directions for disinfection, including the approved surface, use site, application method, and required wet contact time.
Products on EPA’s Bloodborne Pathogen List
EPA List S identifies registered antimicrobial products whose labels include directions for use against HIV-1, Hepatitis B, and Hepatitis C. Always confirm the EPA registration number, relevant use directions, surface suitability, and required contact time on the product label before use.
View the Current EPA List SThe EPA maintains this list directly; it is more reliable than embedding a static product PDF.
How to Use Products on the Bloodborne Pathogens List Effectively
A disinfectant is only effective when it is used exactly as its EPA-registered label directs. Products can have different directions and contact times for HIV, Hepatitis B, and Hepatitis C, so check the label for the relevant pathogen before using it.
Choose the Relevant Claim
Check the product’s listed efficacy for the pathogen relevant to your cleanup procedure. A List S entry may show a claim for all three viruses, only some of them, or “N/A” where a claim is not listed.
Keep the Surface Wet
Contact time is the period the disinfectant must remain wet on the surface to work effectively. Follow the label’s stated time for the specific pathogen rather than assuming one time applies to every use.
Follow the Full Label
Also confirm the product is suitable for the surface, use site, and application method. Dilution, pre-cleaning, ventilation, and PPE instructions can all affect safe and effective use.
