HTM 01-05 (Health Technical Memorandum 01-05) is a set of guidelines issued by the UK Department of Health that outline the requirements for the design, testing, and maintenance of medical devices used in healthcare environments. These guidelines provide recommendations for the decontamination and sterilization of equipment, and include specific requirements for dental equipment, such as dental chairs, handpieces, and other devices, as well as keyboards and other peripherals.
The guidelines are intended to help ensure that medical devices used in healthcare settings are safe, reliable, and effective for their intended use, and that they are properly cleaned and disinfected to prevent the spread of germs and infections.
For keyboards, the guidelines set out requirements for cleaning and disinfection, as well as other aspects of design, such as durability, ease of cleaning, and resistance to liquids. For example, HTM 01-05 recommend that keyboards be sealed to prevent the build-up of bacteria and other microorganisms inside the keyboard, and that they be able to withstand repeated cleaning and disinfection cycles.
HTM 01-05 compliance is important for keyboards and other medical devices used in healthcare settings because it helps to ensure that the equipment is hygienic and safe for use, and that it will function properly even in the presence of harsh cleaning chemicals and disinfectants. Additionally, compliance with the guidelines can help to prevent the spread of germs and infections between patients and healthcare workers, and reduce the risk of cross-contamination in healthcare environments.
ioniTOUCH™ keyboards are fully compliant with HTM 01-05 and are suitable for any clinical area.
How to sterilize and disinfect a keyboard?
Sterilizing and disinfecting a medical keyboard is an important step in ensuring that it is hygienic and safe for use in a healthcare environment. The specific methods used to sterilize and disinfect a keyboard will depend on the type of keyboard, as well as the type of disinfectant or sterilizing solution used.
Here are some general steps that can be taken to sterilize and disinfect a medical keyboard:
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Cleaning: Begin by removing any dirt, dust, or debris from the keyboard surface by using a soft brush or compressed air. This will help to remove any loose particles that may interfere with the effectiveness of the disinfectant.
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Disinfecting: Choose a disinfectant solution that is appropriate for use on the keyboard. The keyboard manufacturer should provide recommendations for the type of disinfectant that can be used. Be sure to follow the manufacturer's instructions for use and the recommended contact time for the disinfectant.
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Wipe down: Using a clean cloth or a wipe, apply the disinfectant solution to the keyboard surface and wipe it down thoroughly, making sure to get into all the crevices and spaces between the keys.
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Rinse: If the disinfectant solution requires rinsing, use a clean cloth or wipe to remove the solution from the keyboard, making sure that all of the solution is removed.
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Dry: Allow the keyboard to air dry completely before using it again.
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Repeat: It is recommended to repeat this process regularly, especially in high-risk areas, such as in a hospital or dental clinic.
ioniTOUCH™ devices provide antimicrobial protection and a fully sealed, waterproof design with water ingression protection up to IP68.
ioniTOUCH™ medical-grade QWERTY desktop keyboards are dishwasher safe, antimicrobial and robust. Designed to repel water, dust, dirt and any other foreign objects. The fully sealed nature of the design means nothing can hide behind the keys.