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Contamination Restoration & Remediation​Restoration Training/EducationAsk the ExpertCleaning and Sanitation

Ask the Expert

Beyond the Spray: Disinfectant Protocols That Work with Clay Hernandez

Clay Hernandez breaks down disinfectant protocols and common mistakes in restoration work

By Kayla McGowan
July 30, 2025

On this episode of Ask The Expert, we discussed the ins and outs of disinfectants with industry professional and expert Clay Hernandez, the National Director of Technical Sales and Training at Artemis Bio-Solutions. He has 20+ years of restoration and remediation experience, product strategy, training and protocol development. In addition to his experience, he has handled large-scale field operations including pandemic response at Signal Restoration Services and held several leadership roles at EcoShield, Innovative Decon and Service Master. Not only does Clay have an extensive background and experience, he also holds several certifications in mold assessment, trauma scene recovery, HAZWOPER and he also consults with Element Building Sciences on environmental testing and IAQ. Last but certainly not least, he sits on the medical advisory board for decontamination protocols for Element Building Sciences.


Key topics we cover are:

  • The importance of understanding and properly following EPA label instructions when using disinfectants, including understanding concepts like dwell time and load reduction.
  • Common mistakes and misconceptions around disinfectant application, such as spraying and wiping immediately instead of allowing the product sit for its proper dwell time.
  • The process of properly applying disinfectants, including pre-cleaning/load reduction, dwell time and reapplication.
  • The risks of improper disinfection, including potential health and legal consequences.
  • The value of post-remediation verification testing.


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KEYWORDS: decontamination disinfection services

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Kayla mcgowan author

Kayla McGowan is the SPAR Partner Manager for PuroClean, where she manages and strengthens the company’s vendor partnership ecosystem. In her role, she serves as a key liaison between PuroClean, approved vendor partners, internal stakeholders, and Franchise Owners, helping connect the network with trusted tools, services, and products that support operational success.

With more than 10 years of experience in marketing and communications within the restoration and cleaning industry, Kayla has built her career around connecting people, ideas, and resources that move the industry forward. She is the former Editor-in-Chief of Restoration & Remediation (R&R) Magazine and continues to contribute to R&R as a writer, bringing her industry knowledge and perspective to its audience.

Kayla holds a B.S. in Criminal Science and an M.S. in Public Safety and Emergency Management from Grand Canyon University. She also serves as Co-Chair of the Restoration Industry Association’s Marketing Committee.

Her industry credentials include Microbial Warrior®️, Certified Forensic Operator®️, and High Risk/High Level Decontamination Specialist™️. Passionate about elevating the restoration industry and the professionals within it, Kayla enjoys building meaningful relationships, sharing knowledge, and creating opportunities for collaboration. Outside of work, she is a food lover who enjoys spending time with her family and being outdoors.

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