Sanitising surfaces and basic office equipment:
- Wiping down surfaces with solutions of detergent/soap is effective at killing the virus. Even the common hand soap and dishwashing detergents are effective – they do not have to be the antibacterial variants. Detergents and soaps also remove soils and other contaminants that would render disinfectants less effective. This is also why regular hand washing with soap is the most effective personal protection.
- Solutions of detergent/soap are also appropriate to use on basic equipment, as long as care is taken to not wet sensitive electronics such as keyboards, computer mice, phones, etc. Detergent solutions should be prepared so that suds/bubbles are visible on application to the surface. More information available here.
- Alcohol wipes can be used if available. However, use sparingly as there is currently a supply shortage.
- Hand sanitiser is not recommended for cleaning equipment as it may leave residues from gelling agents. An alternative approach is to use hand wash or hand sanitiser following use of the equipment.
- Alcohol or alcohol solutions may be advisable for especially sensitive equipment (e.g. microscopes, cameras) as it will leave no residue. If you have equipment needing sanitisation via alcohol, you are encouraged to approach your School/Faculty for technical support to access alcohol stocks and to be instructed on appropriate handling.
Information on alcohol types:
Ethanol (synonyms: ethyl alcohol / absolute alcohol / denatured ethanol / denatured alcohol)
- Must be used in concentrations of 60% vol and higher and is commonly used for cleaning electronics. Unlikely to strip off markings from equipment, but do test prior to full application. Denatured ethanol is also suitable.
- Pure ethanol is regulated. Teams managing pure ethanol will be required to keep accurate stock and dispensing records. Contact healthandsafety@curtin.edu.au if you are unsure of this requirement.
- More information available here.
Isopropyl alcohol (synonyms IPA / rubbing alcohol / Propan-2-ol / 2-Propanol)
- Must be used in concentrations of 70% vol and higher. It is suitable for electronics but take care of gaskets and rubber components which may be affected by IPA. Unlikely to strip off markings from equipment, but do test prior to full application.
- More information available here.
