Protecting the Reliability and Integrity of Electronic Products and Assemblies
The COVID-19 crisis has prompted increasing inquiries on how to disinfect electronic equipment and assemblies without detrimental impact on the electronics.
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Authored By:
iNemi
Summary
The COVID-19 crisis has prompted increasing inquiries to iNEMI and its membership for guidance on how to disinfect electronic equipment and assemblies without detrimental impact on the electronics. This is relevant since some SARS-CoV-2
(COVID-19) disinfecting substances and/or application methods can initiate intermittent or permanent failures due to potential intrusion into the equipment and corrosivity. These failures can occur immediately or within months after exposure.
In response, a team of experts from across iNEMI member organizations reviewed key industry, government and technical sources and assembled this Best Practices document. The team evaluated the chemicals published by the US EPA List N: Disinfectants for Use Against SARS-CoV-2 (COVID-19)1 and common application methods, highlighting any potential hazards to the reliability of the electronic products and assemblies.
Conclusions
Ensure adequate ventilation during use and storage of disinfectants. When using and storing any disinfectant, care must be exercised for flammability and compatibility with other materials. When possible, electronic equipment should be powered off for cleaning and disinfecting. Use the disinfectant as directed on the label to ensure worker protection and the appropriate contact time with the surface.
Workers should be trained on the safe use of disinfecting chemicals, including the use of appropriate personal protective equipment suitable for protection from the chemical and the physical hazards and equipment damage associated with ESD. Other chemicals, including hand sanitizers, pose risks to electronic assemblies6 and their use should be controlled.
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