CLEANING &
DISINFECTION

This is a guide to cleaning the CleanSpace respirators, masks and accessories. Depending on the application and hazard, the method of cleaning will vary. See the glossary below for definitions of cleaning, sanitization, disinfection, sterilization and decontamination.

Cleaning
Sanitization & Disinfection
Sterlization
Decontamination

Your facility, in conjunction with you Heath and Safety Manager, should review thoroughly the information provided prior to selecting the appropriate cleaning method and agent for your equipment. Please read the Important Notes On Cleaning below.

IMPORTANT NOTES ON CLEANING:

  • CleanSpace power units are Electronic Devices (containing the battery and a circuit board) and should not be submerged in water. Sterilization process such as ethylene oxide, radiation and steam will damage components and should not be used.
  • DO NOT use compressed air or a brush to clean the filter. HEPA filters are damaged by compressed air or by brushing. Misuse by cleaning the filter may result in overexposure to contaminants and lead to sickness or death.
  • When cleaning the power unit, use the Cleaning and storage Set (PAF-0074) to prevent contaminates from entering the unit when a filter is not in place.
  • When using cleaning agents, wash the equipment with fresh water after cleaning to remove all traces of the agent before use. For Power Units, do not rinse or immerse equipment (see note above).
  • Do NOT use water temperatures above 50C/122F.
  • DO NOT use hot air blowers or compressed air to clean or dry the equipment
  • Components of the equipment may become damaged over time with prolonged cleaning or extended use of cleaning or disinfecting agents. Before use, wearers must carefully inspect the equipment after each cleaning cycle and prior to use. Consult the User Instructions prior to use.
  • For disinfection regarding potential exposure to ‘Level 3’ biological infectious agents or pathogens (e.g. Ebola virus) always, refer to the latest information from government agencies in your territory: i.e. US Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (US CDC), the European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control (ECDC) and the World Health Organisation (WHO) regarding selection, use, maintenance and cleaning of personal protective equipment. For information regarding these infectious agents, please contact our technical team.
GLOSSARY OF TERMS:

Cleaning

This is the process for removal of all foreign material from the equipment. Typically, this is done with warm water (50C/122F) with a mild PH-neutral (pH 6 – 8) detergent cleaning solution and physical removal (i.e. rubbing, scrubbing).

Sanitisation

A process to reduce the number of micro-organisms on the equipment to “safe” levels but may not destroy the organisms completely. Examples of areas that are sanitised are clinical hard surfaces or food preparation areas.

Disinfection

A process that inhibits or destroys pathogens (bacteria and virus), but does not kill bacterial spores. There are three (3) levels of disinfection: High, Intermediate and Low level. The process involves bactericidal chemicals, heat and/or ultraviolet light. NOTE: Failure to remove foreign material before disinfection, will make the process ineffective.

Sterilization

A validated procedure to render a product free of ALL forms of viable organisms including bacteria, viruses, spores and fungi. NOTE: Failure to remove foreign material before sterilization, will make the process ineffective.

Decontamination

This refers specifically to HAZMAT contamination, where the purpose of decontamination is to make an individual(s) safe, by physically removing toxic substances quickly and easily within an isolated washing bay or containment. Removal is with typically water systems/showers. If the contaminant is a liquid/oil then an emulsifier (soap) may be required. In industrial and laboratory situations (not first responder/emergency), where decontamination is standard practice when exiting the contaminated area, the respirators are typically worn throughout the decontamination process. Decontamination of equipment (ie asbestos or lead abatement) is conducted in purpose built, certified facilities by trained operators.

This information is a guide only and should be reviewed thoroughly by your HSE manager prior to selecting the disinfecting product for your equipment and specific application. Please note CleanSpace has not evaluated the effectiveness of any agents with regard to inactivating biological material on these products. IMPORTANT: Components of respiratory systems may become damaged over time with prolonged or extended use of disinfecting products.