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This document outlines recommendations for disinfecting Cisco® enterprise networking equipment, including suggested cleaning solutions and best practices.
Note that Cisco equipment is intended for enterprise use and is not qualified for sterile environments such as operating rooms.
Disinfecting cisco networking equipment
Disinfecting cleaners – Isopropyl Alcohol (IPA)
Cisco’s enterprise networking equipment can be disinfected using a solution of 70% Isopropyl Alcohol (IPA) and 30% water.
IPA is colorless and highly evaporable, making it ideal for cleaning and sanitizing networking equipment. It is also highly flammable and easily inhaled. Therefore, the following precautions should be taken when using IPA:
● Ensure that there are no ignition sources near the area being disinfected. This means that electronic equipment should be powered down and unplugged.
● Ensure that the area is well ventilated to avoid the accumulation of vapors.
● When storing IPA, take potential fire hazards into account.
● When using IPA, wear a respirator to prevent inhalation of the fumes.
● When disposing of excess IPA, follow any local or national guidelines on hazardous liquid disposal. Guidelines printed on IPA containers and packaging should also be followed.
IPA-based cleaners are safe for plastic resins of PC/ABS materials and for powder-painted surfaces. Avoid prolonged exposure and heavy wetting of surfaces that allows pooling of the IPA solution. The same applies for cables, connectors, and transceivers. Cisco recommends that equipment be powered down and unplugged prior to disinfecting.
Disinfecting cleaners – spor-klenz
Cisco’s enterprise networking equipment may also be disinfected using Spor-Klenz, a liquid sterilant/disinfectant formulated for a variety of uses.
Like IPA-based cleaners, Spor-Klenz is safe for plastic resins of PC/ABS materials and for powder-painted surfaces. Also like IPA, avoid prolonged exposure of the equipment to Spor-Klenz by heavy wetting or pooling.
Unlike IPA-based cleaners, Spor-Klenz is made of inert chemicals that do not pose an ignition or fire hazard. Cisco recommends that equipment be powered down and unplugged prior to disinfecting.
When disinfecting Cisco enterprise networking equipment, consider the following best practices:
● Do follow all local and national guidelines and regulations for disinfecting, wearing personal protection, and disposing of materials, in addition to requirements for use from the product manufacturer.
● Do power down equipment, disconnect peripherals, and disconnect from power sources before disinfecting. Fumes from disinfectants can be flammable.
● Do use gloves when handling disinfecting liquids and cleaners.
● Do ensure that all surfaces are completely dry and free from cleaner residues before powering the equipment back on.
● Do use a dust-free cloth such as a microfiber towel and discard it after use.
● Do spray cleaners onto a cloth and not directly onto the equipment.
● Do Not expose internal components to cleaning products, either by wiping or spraying them.
● Do Not spray liquid into vents or other openings. Apply disinfectant to a cloth and wipe down the surface.
● Do Not allow disinfectants to pool on equipment surfaces.
● Do Not apply too much pressure during the disinfecting process. This can cause surface discoloration and may damage protective coatings.
● Do Not apply IPA to product screens or displays, as it can remove their coatings. Only products specifically identified for cleaning displays are recommended.
● Do Not oversaturate the disinfecting cloth, as this could allow the chemical to get into the equipment and potentially damage it.
● Do Not use the following chemicals on Cisco enterprise networking equipment, cables, connectors, or transceivers:
◦ Bleach
◦ Solvents such as acetone, paint thinner, benzene, etc.
◦ Ammonia
◦ Ethyl alcohol