Decontamination Protocol

Disclaimer: This document summarizes the proposed cleaning and decontamination protocol for the snorkel mask and adapter. Please note that the following guideline is based on the OSHA procedure for cleaning respirators (it has not been approved for this virus or these snorkel masks). Further review of this protocol by infection disease specialists or EH&S officers in hospitals is required.

  1. Perform hand hygiene.

  2. Put on a gown, gloves, and a protective mask.

  3. Wipe the surface of the filter with 70% ethanol or hydrogen peroxide, and carefully remove the filter.

  4. Discard the wipe as biohazardous waste. Discard the filter if it is intended for single-use only. If you plan to reuse the filter, follow the instructions from the manufacturer of the filter to store it properly, and DO NOT WET the surface of the filter.

  5. Wash mask and filter adapter thoroughly in warm water (43℃ [110℉] maximum) with a mild detergent. A stiff bristle (not wire) brush may be used to facilitate the removal of dirt. Make sure to clean all the valves to avoid potential clogged valves.

  6. Rinse the mask and adapter thoroughly in clean, warm (43℃ [110℉] maximum), running water. Drain.

  7. Prepare a 50ppm chlorine solution: add one milliliter of laundry bleach per liter of warm water (43℃ [110℉] maximum). Prepare enough solution to fully immerse the entire mask. Remove all the air in the side channel to ensure full immersion. Please note that mixing bleach solutions with detergents can generate toxic substances. Make sure to wash out all the detergents before immersing the mask and adapter into bleach.

  8. Immerse the mask and adapter in the hypochlorite solution (50 ppm of chlorine) for 2 minutes.

  9. Wearing fresh gloves, rinse the mask and adapter thoroughly in clean, warm, running water (43℃ [110℉] maximum). The mask and adapter must be thoroughly rinsed with water to remove any detergents or disinfectants that may result in dermatitis or damage of the mask components.

  10. Dry the mask and adapter with a clean lint-free cloth or allow to air dry.

  11. Reassemble the mask and store in a clean space.