Tech Corner - COVID-19: Cleaning and disinfection of vending machine surfaces

The pandemic has had an immense impact on our lives and our operations and has forced us to rethink and adapt to new standards relating to the cleaning and disinfection of equipment surfaces. Our customers, in response to government public health recommendations, have set up teams to clean and disinfect their premises and sometimes due to lack of communication and training has resulted in some costly consequences for operators.

Here are some examples of cleaning practices that can damage equipment:

• Spraying liquid disinfectant directly on a touch screen, keyboard or any surface results in excess liquid that seeps into electronic components, causing a short circuit and sometimes replacement of the part;
• Repetitive and excessive use of liquids which may also contain bleach and discolor surfaces;
• Other common practices are the use of "brown paper" type paper towels which are abrasive and damages glass and plastic surfaces by acting like sand paper.

Following are a few practical guidelines that can help minimize damages.

• Use soft white paper towels or a clean soft microfiber style towel
•  Spray the disinfectant on the towel, not directly on the surface
•  Make sure there is no excess or residue disinfectant on surfaces.

Let’s not forget that the use of certain disinfectant products can be dangerous for our health so it is important to follow the manufacturer’s instructions and recommendations and to use adequate protective equipment when handling  the products.

With that, I wish you Happy Holidays and a Happy New Year 2022!