Frequently asked questions: Everything you need to know about SABER D-FEND^®, our disinfection solution.

General Questions

Q. What sets SABER D-FEND^® apart from other disinfectants?

A. SABER D-FEND^® is a fast-acting disinfectant offering one of the widest ranges of efficacy in Canada among products that meet hospital tender requirements*. It provides broad-spectrum disinfection with a fast 30-second contact time against bacteria, viruses, and mycobacteria, including the tuberculosis agent. A 1-minute contact time is required to disinfect fungi. Its gentle yet highly effective formula has been laboratory tested to help preserve frequently used surfaces over time in healthcare and institutional environments, including stainless steel, laminated surfaces, glass, and rubber, and both rigid and flexible plastic such as polypropylene, polyurethane, polyethylene, PVC, acrylic, and fiberglass.

*Based on an internal analysis of Health Canada (DIN) ready-to-use (RTU) and concentrated disinfectants for hard, non-porous surfaces that meet criteria commonly used in Canadian healthcare facility tenders, as of April 2026. The comparison is based on the number of pathogens claimed on Health Canada-approved labels. Data were obtained from public sources and product labels.

Q. What are the benefits of a 30-second fast-acting disinfectant?

A. A fast contact time helps simplify daily cleaning and disinfection procedures. It enables teams to quickly treat high-touch surfaces while making it easier to comply with product usage requirements.

Q. Is the product certified?

A. Yes. SABER D-FEND^® is registered under DIN 02548429 (bamboo wipes) and DIN 02548496 (ready-to-use solution). It is approved by Health Canada and has been tested using recognized methods for antimicrobial efficacy in healthcare settings.

Q. What are the available formats?

A. SABER D-FEND^® is available in 1 L ready-to-use solution and as disinfecting wipes in 150-count canisters.

Q. What is the product’s shelf life?

A. Both the ready-to-use solution and wipes have a one-year shelf life when stored according to label recommendations (in a suitable location, in their tightly closed container, and protected from freezing).

Q. Is SABER D-FEND^® made in Canada?

A. Yes. SABER D-FEND^® Ready-to-use is formulated and manufactured in Canada. SABER D-FEND^® Wipes are also manufactured at our Canadian facility and formulated in Canada. However, due to labeling regulations and the origin of certain raw materials, only the ready-to-use version qualifies for the “Made in Canada“ designation.

Efficacy

Q. What type of pathogens is SABER D-FEND^® effective against?

A. SABER D-FEND^® offers broad-spectrum efficacy against various pathogens, including bacteria, viruses (including norovirus), fungi, and mycobacteria, including the agent causing tuberculosis, commonly present in healthcare and institutional environments.
To learn more about SABER D-FEND^®, download the product sheet from the following page: https://www.sanimarc.com/product-sheet/saber-d-fend

Q. How is your product effective against pathogens such as MRSA, VRE, norovirus, and hepatitis viruses?

A. Our product is proven effective against critical pathogens such as MRSA, VRE, norovirus, and hepatitis viruses, ensuring thorough disinfection and optimal protection. SABER D-FEND^® also appears on Health Canada’s list of products recognized for efficacy against emerging viruses.

Q. Is the product effective against resistant bacteria and hard-to-kill viruses?

A. Yes. SABER D-FEND^® is effective against multiple resistant microorganisms, including MRSA and VRE, as well as both enveloped and non-enveloped viruses, in accordance with approved claims.

For the complete list of pathogens, download the product sheet from the following page: https://www.sanimarc.com/product-sheet/saber-d-fend

Q. Does the product remain effective in the presence of dirt or organic matter?

A. Yes. As with all disinfectants, pre-cleaning is recommended for heavily soiled surfaces to ensure optimal disinfection. For fungal disinfection, surfaces must be cleaned before applying SABER D-FEND^®.

Q. Can SABER D-FEND^® be used to clean up blood or bodily fluid spills?

A. Yes. SABER D-FEND^® is approved for the cleanup of bloodborne pathogens when used in accordance with the label directions. Soils including blood, bodily fluids, or fecal matter must be removed before applying the product to ensure optimal effectiveness. All contaminated material must be disposed of in accordance with local regulations.

Surface Compatibility

Q. On which surfaces can SABER D-FEND^® be used?

A. SABER D-FEND^® can be used on a variety of hard, non-porous, high-touched surfaces in healthcare facilities and institutional buildings, including:

• Metals such as stainless steel, aluminum, and copper
• Glass and fiberglass
• Rubber
• Rigid and flexible plastics, such as polypropylene, polyurethane, polyethylene, PVC, acrylic, and polycarbonate
• Hospital-grade covers made of PVC, polyurethane, and polyester
• Computer screens
• Painted and laminated surfaces

Q. Can the product be used on mattresses or medical furniture?

A. Yes. SABER D-FEND^® is suitable for use on a range of coated and waterproof flexible surfaces, including certain mattresses and medical furniture coverings. For more information, please refer to our technical bulletin: https://www.sanimarc.com/document/saber-d-fend-effectiveness-safety-and-surface-compatibility-in-healthcare-settings

User Safety

Q. Is the use of personal protective equipment (PPE), such as gloves and masks, required?

A. Although SABER D-FEND^® is non-irritating to skin and eyes, users should always follow the label directions and safety recommendations. No specific EPI is required under normal conditions of use. However, users should comply with their facility’s hygiene and safety protocols, including the use of appropriate personal protective equipment when required.

Q. Is SABER D-FEND^® safe for residents and staff, including those with sensitivities or health conditions?

A. SABER D-FEND^® is a safe solution with low VOC emissions, making it appropriate for use around sensitive individuals, including those with asthma, COPD, or allergies.

Q. How does SABER D-FEND^® stand out in terms of odour and user comfort during application?

A. SABER D-FEND^® is formulated without added fragrance and has a light almond scent from its active ingredients. It provides excellent user comfort through a naturally pleasant odour, a non-irritating formulation for skin and eyes, and no residue. Its low VOC emissions allow for use without ventilation, improving overall user experience.

Q. Do you provide support for product implementation or use?

A. Yes. Sani Marc offers technical support, training, and supporting materials to help teams optimize their cleaning and disinfection protocols.

Environment

Q. Does the product leave any persistent residues in the environment?

A. Hydrogen peroxide breaks down into water and oxygen. The product’s ingredients are selected to ensure effective disinfection while minimizing persistent residues when used as directed.