April 27th 2020
We are receiving requests about the correct disinfection procedures for our personal protective equipment, with regards SARS-CoV-2 (COVID-19).
COVID-19 is new to all of us and as such the information is changing regularly, however, there have been some trials and studies conducted to understand the Stability of SARS-CoV-2 in different environmental conditions. A copy of the Test results, published in the Supplementary appendix of the article by Chin A W H, Chu J T S, Perera M R A, et al. Stability of SARS-CoV-2 in different environmental conditions. Lancet Microbe 2020; published online April 2., can be viewed by clicking on the link.
As standard, ISC recommends that our products can be cleaned using a mild detergent and water with a temperature of 40oC. Following the cleaning procedure which includes detergents, the items should be rinsed in cold water. The device should then be allowed to dry naturally in a well-ventilated area away from any direct heat source.
The general consensus is that Bleach, Alcohol or Hydrogen Peroxide based products are the best options to remove the risk of transmission of Covid-19 from high-touch metallic items, without the ability to go through the full clean, wash and dry procedure. Since Alcohol based products are the easiest to control, it is suggested that a solution of 70% IPA would be a good option for wiping down product surfaces.
There is some evidence that some solutions containing bleach can damage webbing and stitching, so for webbing products ISC recommends following the prescribed cleaning procedure as the best option.
There is evidence that using just hot water at 56oC for 30 minutes shows no presence of the coronavirus – see test results, published in the Supplementary appendix of the article by Chin A W H, Chu J T S, Perera M R A, et al. Stability of SARS-CoV-2 in different environmental conditions. Lancet Microbe 2020 and the study performed by U.S. Department of Agriculture, Forest Service, National Technology and Development Program, “Effects of Pathogen Decontamination on the Strength of Climbing Rope and Harness Equipment” which suggested that it is possible to soak textiles in water up to 55oC with little effect to overall strength.
ISC also advises that you contact the specific rope or harness manufacturer for bespoke inspection and care instructions pertaining to your particular products in use. Included with this notice is information specific to Teufelberger.
https://www.teufelberger.com/en/products-services/safety-and-rescue-ropes/application-specific-menu-safety-and-rescue-ropes/covid-19-corona-virus-rope-disinfection.html
Disclaimer: All of ISC recommended disinfecting solutions are advisory only. ISC assumes no liability for improper use of the products. It is the user’s responsibility to inspect their gear before each use, and should any doubt arise about its condition for safe use, the product should be immediately withdrawn from use and not used again until confirmed in writing by a competent person that it is safe to do so. Users should additionally follow government guidance relating to general rules to minimise the transmission of COVID-19.
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