Coronavirus: how can you keep devices clean?

Many users will need to continue working throughout this crisis, especially those that fall into key worker categories such as paramedics, firefighters and police officers. It is vital that germs, dirt and impurities are removed from surfaces to lower the risk of spreading infection. Using chemical disinfectants to kill germs that remain on surfaces after cleaning will further lower the risk of spreading infection.

Organisations should, says Motorola Solutions, apply 0.5% detergent-water solution with a cloth, then use a stiff, non-metallic, short-bristled brush to work all loose dirt away from the device. A soft, absorbent, lintless cloth or tissue can then remove the solution and dry the device. To prevent damage, it is essential that no solution remains next to connectors, cracks or crevices.

Devices can also be disinfected by wiping them down with over-the-counter isopropyl alcohol (rubbing alcohol) with at least 70% alcohol concentration. Motorola Solutions advises that the alcohol should never be applied directly to the device. It should be applied to a cloth, which is then used to wipe down the device.