Background
The Centers for Disease Control (CDC) has issued guidelines and recommendations for cleaning and disinfecting surfaces at home and in the workplace. Pacific University operates a number of facilities with shared computer resources, such as computer labs and healthcare clinic exam/charting computers, where disinfection of frequently touched surfaces may be critical to limiting the spread of infectious diseases.
Cleaning recommendations and best practices
The CDC considers computer keyboards a high touch, or frequently touched surface, in addition to doorknobs, light switches, phones, and more. The CDC recommends following manufacturer instructions for cleaning and disinfecting, and to use alcohol-baesd wipes or sprays containing at least 70% alcohol. More information from the CDC is available at this webpage
For Apple products, a microfiber cloth moistened with 70 percent isopropyl alcohol or Clorox Disinfecting Wipes may be used on nonporous surfaces. More information is available from Apple on How to clean your Apple products webpage
For Dell products, some visible cosmetic changes to finishes can occur over time as a result of repeated cleanings depending on the material. A microfiber cloth moistened with 70 percent isopropyl alcohol is generally recommended. More information is available from Dell on keeping your Dell technologies and equipment clean webpage
Damage can occur if electronic components come in contact with liquid. Follow these guidelines to minimize this risk:
- Unplug all external power sources and cables whenever possible prior to cleaning
- Use a soft, lint-free cloth such as a microfiber cloth. Avoid abrasive fabrics, such as paper towels. Launder or replace the cleaning cloth regularly
- Never spray liquids directly onto the product. Instead, spray liquids onto a cleaning cloth
- Cleaning cloths should be damp, not wet
- Avoid excessive wiping, or applying excessive force while wiping as this can express liquid from the cleaning cloth into the product
- Do not allow moisture to drip into areas like keyboards, display panels, etc.
- Avoid glass-cleaning products that contain ammonia or chlorine-based cleaners, such as bleach
- Avoid aerosol sprays and abrasives unless recommended for your product by the vendor
Optional purchases
Keyboards can be extremely difficult to clean. A wipe-able or washable silicon keyboard cover is an excellent, relatively inexpensive purchase to improve sanitation procedures for keyboards.
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