Revised July 2024
Power Tool Institute Guidance on Cleaning of Tools to Help Control the Spread of Common Illnesses
Should a tool, battery or charger need to be cleaned to help control the spread of common illnesses, (e.g. common cold, flu and COVID -19), care should be taken to ensure that it is carefully performed to increase effectiveness and prevent damage to the product. This guidance is provided to assist in the safe cleaning of a product.
When cleaning a product, there are a few important things to remember:
- Always unplug any devices and remove batteries prior to cleaning.
- Wear PPE (e.g. surgical gloves) or use a proper hand sanitizer before and after cleaning.
- People cleaning should avoid touching their face with unwashed hands and immediately wash their hands or use a proper hand sanitizer before and after cleaning to help prevent contamination.
- There are different recommendations for batteries compared to tools and chargers. Be sure to follow the correct advice for the product you are cleaning.
For batteries:
- Remove the battery from the product, then clean in accordance with the cleaning instructions provided in the operator's manual for the product.
- When wiping batteries, be sure to avoid the terminal area where contact is made between the battery and the product.
- If there are no instructions within the operators’ manual, follow CDC guidelines for cleaning.
- Do not use bleach to clean batteries.
For tools and chargers only:
- Unplug the device and remove any batteries, then clean the tool or charger in accordance with the cleaning instructions provided in the operator's manual for the product.
- Dampen a clean cloth or sponge with a diluted bleach solution*, ensuring the cloth or sponge is not dripping wet.
- Gently wipe each handle, grasping surface, or outer surface, using care to ensure liquids do not flow into the product.
- Electrical terminals of products and the prongs and connectors of power cords or other cables must be avoided.
- Allow the product to air dry completely before reapplying power or reattaching the battery.
When cleaning with bleach, it is important to adhere to the warnings below:
- Observe the bleach manufacturer’s precautions when cleaning with bleach.
- Do not use the tool or charger if you detect degradation of the housing, cord or other plastic or rubber parts of the tool or charger after cleaning with the diluted bleach solution.
- The diluted bleach solution should never be mixed with ammonia or any other cleanser.
*A properly diluted bleach solution can be made by mixing:
- 5 tablespoons (1/3rd cup) bleach per gallon of water; or
- 4 teaspoons bleach per quart of water
Please note: This guidance does not apply for cleaning products where there is a risk of other health hazards, such as blood, other blood borne pathogens or asbestos.
This guidance is for information only and is further subject to the recommendations of the Centers for Disease Control ("CDC"), OSHA, and those of state and local health departments. Please follow the applicable guidelines of these agencies.
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