Gas detectors: How to disinfect?

Combustible and toxic gas detectors utilize electrochemical and catalytic bead technology sensors which are designed to be highly sensitive to specific hazardous gases.

The performance of these sensors can be affected by the presence of other chemical compounds, such as those found in some cleaning products and antiseptics. The use of such products to clean or disinfect gas detectors may cause temporary or permanent changes in the sensitivity of a sensor.

Below is a list of active ingredients that you should definitely avoid using when included in a cleaning product:

• Alcohol, including products like Purell® and Lysol ® or Lysol wipes.
• Sodium hypochlorite or chlorine (bleach), including products such as Clorox ® or Clorox wipes.
• D-limonene, including products like Dawn ® or Sunlight ® dishwashing liquid
• Silicone, including products like Armor-All or Armor-All wipes.

If users use products with these ingredients in their workplace they should be sure to take extra care when handling gas detectors and their sensors. If possible, antiseptic products should be removed from all areas where gas detectors are used and stored.

If products with these ingredients are used to sterilize employees' hands, wait sufficient time for the active ingredients to evaporate before handling the gas detectors.

For routine cleaning and disinfection of gas detectors, it is best to use hand soap and water that does not include any of the cleaning agents mentioned above and wipe the detector with a soft, damp cloth. Stations and accessories should be cleaned using the same method. A soft cloth towel should be used to dry the exterior of the unit.

Excessive humidity can damage electronic devices.