Apple has published new support pages advising on how to assemble, use, and clean the face shields it is producing and distributing to front-line healthcare employees combatting COVID-19.
On Sunday, Apple CEO Tim Cook revealed via Twitter that Apple was designing and producing face shields, with the intention of shipping them to medical workers dealing with the coronavirus pandemic. On Tuesday, Apple added new support pages to its website explaining how to use and care for the personal protective headwear.
The page titled "Assemble and adjust your Face Shield" outlines the item as being made of three parts: the Face Shield itself, a forehead band, and a latex-free silicone strap. The three-piece design and simple components are designed to pack flat to 100 per box, and can be assembled in less than two minutes.
According to the instructions, slots on the headband are aligned with similar versions on the Face Shield, depending on the size of the user's head. The silicone strap is then fed through the slots of both the Face Shield and the forehead band, in such a way that it can be easily adjusted, with the strap going behind the user's head.
Apple warns users to "wear the face shield in addition to other personal protective equipment.
For reusing and cleaning the Face Shield, Apple advises to avoid exposing the item to high heat, and to handle it gently to prevent drops and scratches. For sterilization, Apple states it is "evaluated to be compatible" with chemical cleaners containing 70% ethanol, 70% isopropyl alcohol, 6% bleach, or 3% hydrogen peroxide, though the bleach "may leave a residue."
Additional help is provided in the form of a video tutorial for assembly, a printable copy of the in-box instructions, and an email address.
The small-print disclaimer tells users to use appropriate personal protective equipment according to their institution's standards. The Face Shield is also not tested nor qualified to prevent or reduce infection, does not provide particulate filtration, isn't designed for surgical settings, and were not disinfected or cleaned by Apple before shipment.