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Procedure for the Prevention of Spreading Flu on IT Equipment

The people who maintain workplace computers along with end users will undoubtedly use some of the same equipment from time to time. But when the flu virus enters the workplace, it seems to spread like wildfire. If a company runs in shifts with several people using the same equipment, and one worker is ill, it is difficult to keep germs in check. Implementing a few simple procedures can help.

  1. How Long Do Cold and Flu Germs Live on Surfaces?

    • According to the Center for Disease Control, cold and flu viruses usually spread when an infected person coughs or sneezes. The flu virus has a lifespan that can range anywhere from a few seconds to 48 hours outside the body. The length of time the virus lives depends on the type of virus and the kind of surface on which it exists. Flu viruses are able to survive for longer periods of time if they are deposited onto non-porous surfaces such as plastics, woods or metals. They tend to have a shorter lifespan when on paper and fabric surfaces. Since it has been determined that the virus can live up to 48-hours on a non-porous surface, it makes sense to disinfect those surfaces to eliminate the possibility of spreading the virus.

    Personal Cleanliness

    • For years doctors have advised regular hand washing to prevent the spread of the flu, as well as other illnesses. Many people have switched to antibacterial soaps, but the cause of the flu is a virus, not bacteria, so an antibacterial soap would have no effect on the flu virus. Alcohol-based hand sanitizers will kill the flu virus and should be used regularly. Doctors also recommend cleaning hands after blowing or wiping your nose; using the bathroom; touching doorknobs, telephones and handrails that may be used by others; before handling food as well as before and after eating. And they strongly recommend hand washing after coming in contact with a person who is already ill.

    Sanitizing Wipes

    • Each workstation should have a bottle of hand sanitizer and antiviral wipes within easy access. All surfaces should be wiped down using an alcohol-based wipe before and after use by each person. Desktops/workstations need to be cleaned before and after each use. For keyboards, make sure to clean the entire surface wiping not only the surface of the keys, but between the keys and any other parts that may be touched by another person. Clean the buttons, and other exposed surfaces on printers and scanners before and after each use since these items are usually shared. Copy machines should also have wipes and hand sanitizers close by. Monitors need to be cleaned and close attention should be paid to the on/off switch or any other control buttons on the monitor. Telephone equipment should be cleaned regularly, paying special attention to the mouth and ear piece, as well as the hand grip.

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