CLEANING AN INSTRUMENT
While Intoximeters does not wish to endorse any single product, we have found that there are a few products offered in
single–sheet wipes that appear to be only slightly damp, and would therefore be less likely to drip liquid into the unit.
While many products would likely be effective in cleaning and disinfecting the instruments, it is important that any
substance used be tested first on a small part of the device’s case to ensure that it does not discolor or otherwise
damage the case before applying the solution to the entire case. As well, if the cleaning material is alcohol based, an
adequate amount of time must be allowed after cleaning the instrument (for the alcohol to dissipate) before further
subject testing occurs. Waiting to test for ten minutes after cleaning the instrument should be enough time for this to
occur.
Other important precautions when cleaning an instrument:
1. Be certain not to get liquid into the sample system (fuel cell, infrared bench or pressure sensor) or onto the
instrument’s circuit board(s).
2. Do not immerse the instrument in a liquid. Use a moist, but not dripping, cloth to apply the cleaning solution to
the exterior surfaces that you wish to clean.
3. Clean exterior surfaces where the subject or subject’s breath has come in contact with the instrument.
4. If cleaning internal surfaces of the instrument is required, a factory maintenance technician should be employed
to provide this service. Under no circumstances should the user remove case covers to access internal
components for cleaning. This may void your warranty.
5. Let the instrument dry completely and then observe a ten minute waiting period before subject testing resumes.
For further information you may wish to contact the EPA (
http://www.epa.gov) or the CDC (http://www.cdc.gov).