Quaternary Ammonium Compounds (Quats) (Examples: Barquat, Omega, Parvosol, Roccal, Zephiran, Quintacide)
Quats are organic compounds combined with ammonia. Because of their chemical composition, these agents may function as a detergent and help to remove organic debris from contaminated objects. Quats are inexpensive, are relatively safe and inactivate many types of bacteria, some viruses and Chlamydophila. Soap and organic debris may inactivate quats. They should not be used for removing spores, Mycobacteria (the organisms causing TB), fungi, many nonenveloped viruses and Pseudomonas. Quats are difficult to rinse off and may leave a slimy residue. Ingestion of quats and possibly inhalation can cause respiratory paralysis and even death! These agents are not recommended for objects that will be in direct contact with herps.
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