April 7, 2020

Post COVID-19 Better Get to Know Your DIN's 

Introduction

Once the recreation facility industry opens the doors post pandemic, facility managers will need to be well educated on cleaning and disinfection standard operating procedures. Many of our past practices will not be considered effective. Staffing levels will need to be evaluated. It will be important for staff who are responsible for sourcing cleaning and disinfection supplies to carefully research what chemicals will work and on what surfaces. Will the methods and solutions being used perform as required? Part of the learning curve to this new way of facility management and operations will include understanding the Drug Identification Number (DIN) system.

What is a DIN

A Drug Identification Number (DIN) is a computer-generated eight-digit number assigned by Health Canada to a drug product prior to being marketed in Canada. Cleaning disinfection chemicals fall into this category. A DIN identifies the following product characteristics: manufacturer; product name; active ingredient(s); strength(s) of active ingredient(s); pharmaceutical form; route of administration. The DIN serves as a tool to help in the follow-up of products on the market, recall of products, inspections, and quality monitoring. Any product sold in Canada without a DIN is not in compliance with Canadian law.

How DIN Works

Health Canada oversees the DIN program. More 

Facility managers will need to select the correct disinfection chemical for their facility. To determine if the product is approved by Health Canada, visit this section of their web site and put in the DIN# to confirm its approval. More 

Conclusion

Facility managers will need to understand everything about hard-surface disinfectants that meet Health Canada's requirements for emerging viral pathogens. Adopting the use of authorized disinfectants in a dedicated cleaning and disinfection plan will be key to having and maintaining healthy facilities post pandemic.