Many people are concerned about using public touch screens, especially in the midst of a pandemic. Fortunately, there are ways, and tech tools, to keep touch screens cleaner.
In the midst of a pandemic where everyone is wearing a mask and social distancing, anything that is touched can be a breeding ground for viruses and bacteria. After bacteria was found on the self-service kiosks of eight McDonald’s locations around the U.K., many people are wary about using customer-facing touch screens and kiosks. However, there are ways of keeping interactive kiosks hygienic through suitable cleaning regimes and technological advances.
Regularly Clean Interactive Kiosks
In QSR venues, it is important to keep kiosks sanitised as customers often touch their food after ordering on self-service kiosks. If digital kiosks are not regularly cleaned, the risk of bacteria growing increases. This potentially leads to customers cross-contaminating their food. Venue staff can be tasked to regularly and thoroughly clean these kiosks using sanitizing wipes and/or microfibre cloth and disinfectant. Hand sanitizing gels can also be provided for customers to use before and after they touch an interactive kiosk. Moreover, a daily deep cleanse must also be done to avoid the build-up of bacteria and germs in the nooks and crannies of digital kiosks that are difficult to clean.
Below are some steps to follow when cleaning public display touch screens.
- Use non-abrasive glass cleaner only and avoid aerosol sprays, bleaches, and vinegar-based solutions
- Lightly dampen the microfibre cloth with the cleaner and gently wipe the screen
- Avoid using too much pressure when cleaning the screen and do not pull any visible cables
- Allow the touchscreen to dry no less than five minutes before public use
- Do this several times per day on public touchscreens
When cleaning public display touch screens, it is always advised to follow the manufacturer’s recommendations, especially when using cleaning agents.
Critical Design Factors
The addition of sensors to interactive kiosks allows the displays to detect touch even through a protective plastic covering. This creates a touchscreen design that is stylish and easy to disinfect. Additionally, projected capacitive sensors can detect the touch not only of a bare finger but also a gloved hand or a conductive stylus, giving the users more options when interacting with the kiosks. It is also possible to incorporate antimicrobial glasses or coatings to a touchscreen to slow down the spread of pathogens. Once installed, these antimicrobial screens require no chemical cleaners for disinfection.
A good example of a notable and hygienic kiosk design is Samsung’s all-in-one kiosk for contactless ordering and payment. The unit is designed to provide a variety of payment options, is easy to install, and has a built-in printer, Wi-Fi system, and barcode and QR code readers. Additionally, it has an antimicrobial coating to inhibit bacterial growth and a protective shatterproof film to prevent the glass from dispersing in case of an accident for increased safety.
Another notable COVID-19 solution is BrightSign media players’ touchless sensors that enable user engagement via buttons and sensors that do not require physical touch.
Both solutions lessen the need for face-to-face interaction and minimise the spread of germs. Allowing safe and efficient business operations with less risk of contracting COVID-19.
Touch Screens Are a Safer Alternative to Human Interaction
In this digital age, touch screens are an incredible technology that has shaped the way we connect. Interactive kiosks can help businesses optimise their systems and save money on operational costs. Additionally, they’re a great solution for reducing lines and wait times in service facilities and hospitality venues and can also aid in avoiding unnecessary human interaction. These measures are a part of a bigger picture towards battling COVID-19.
Interested in Digital Signage?
If you would like to know more about how to utilise advertising digital displays to enhance your business, don’t hesitate to get in touch. There are so many great benefits, and we’re always around to help. We have heaps of knowledge to share and can advise you on the best solution for your business.
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