Chemical resistance of body worn cameras to common cleaning agents

Body worn cameras can be used in environments where hygiene requirements are rigorous. Cleaning of the camera exterior could be required daily or even several times a day.

This white paper discusses the recommended cleaning and disinfectant procedure for AXIS W100 Body Worn Camera and AXIS W101 Body Worn Camera. We also present the testing that Axis has done to verify that the cameras withstand this procedure.

For general cleaning of a body worn camera, use a non-abrasive, solvent-free neutral soap or detergent with water and a soft cloth. Wipe off with clean lukewarm water. Dry with a soft cloth to prevent water spotting.

For disinfecting the camera, use a soft cloth with either isopropanol (IPA), sodium hypochlorite (a chloride-based bleach), or hydrogen peroxide, mixed with water. These chemical solutions are all commonly used as cleansers or disinfectants for healthcare equipment.

It is up to the user to ensure that the cleaning products they use are based on the recommended chemicals and do not contain substances that can have a negative effect on the camera. If you need to use a spray product, you should spray on a cloth and wipe the camera with the cloth.

Cleaning simulation tests were performed to simulate repeated cleaning over more than three years of usage.

The chemicals that were used are:

• Isopropanol (70%)

• Hydrogen peroxide (3%)

• Sodium hypochlorite (< 5%)

The tested cameras were AXIS W100 Body Worn Camera and AXIS W101 Body Worn Camera (black and white versions).

Each camera was mounted in a piece of automated test equipment that repeatedly swiped the camera with a soft cloth that was saturated with the selected chemical. The swipes were done using pressure typical for cleaning, and the cloth was resaturated regularly. The cameras were tested for a minimum of 1110 cycles, which corresponds to daily cleaning for three years.

After completed testing, the cameras were evaluated for scratches, cracks, discoloration, wear of logotype, and other defects.

The test results showed that AXIS W100 Body Worn Camera and both the black and white versions of AXIS W101 Body Worn Camera can withstand daily cleaning for at least three years with the tested chemicals.

The plastic materials of the camera casing withstand regular and frequent chemical wiping with a soft cloth. There is no chemical reaction between the plastics and the recommended cleansers. Even with daily chemical wipedown, the physical integrity of the camera is maintained.