A recent test of Boeing's advanced disinfection tools by Dr. Charles Gerba of the University of Arizona demonstrated significant progress in fighting COVID-19 and other pathogens.
Boeing's Advanced Disinfection Technologies Vs. COVID-19
A recent series of tests conducted by the University of Arizona's professor Dr. Charles Gerba on the efficacy of advanced cleaning tools onboard unoccupied Boeing passenger jets showed encouraging results in the fight against SARS-CoV-2.
The test was conducted against the bacteriophage virus MS2, which is considered more difficult to kill than SARS-CoV-2 using a UV wand that uses 222-nanometer UVC light, which research indicates effectively inactivates pathogens.
Additional tests were conducted with chemical disinfectants by wiping the product onto contaminated surfaces and applying the disinfectant via an electrostatic disinfection appliance.
While each test ranged in effectiveness against the virus, all were successful at eliminating it.
According to CleanLink;
The University of Arizona analyzed each area post-disinfection to determine effectiveness.
The results showed various levels of effectiveness, but ultimately all the recommended products, methods, and technologies successfully destroyed the MS2 virus.
Boeing Study Says Cleaning Tools Work Against COVID-19 On Airplanes
The UV wand technology is so effective that Boeing agreed to license the prototype to Healthe for mass production and distribution to other airlines--functioning models are anticipated for production use as early as Fall of 2020.
The UV wand technology is being deployed alongside Boeing's high-performance air filtration systems, which capture more than 99% of particles in the air, further reducing the likelihood of airborne pathogen transmission.
Healthe will produce and distribute the commercial wand, helping airlines and potentially others combat the coronavirus pandemic.
The technology could be available for airlines in late fall.
The device is an addition to sanitizing and protective measures already in place, which include the use of high-efficiency particulate air filters that trap more than 99.9 percent of particulates and prevent them from re-circulating back to the cabin.
Practical Applications for Schools and Businesses
Boeing's tests further demonstrate the feasibility of non-chemical disinfection technologies in the fight against deadly pathogens.
While UV technologies are limited--only exposed surfaces are disinfected--they present an extraordinary alternative to constantly applying harmful and corrosive disinfection chemicals to high-contact touchpoints multiple times per day.
When combined with high-performance air filtration systems, which capture and filter out airborne pathogens, and electrostatic disinfection appliances, which are designed to coat hard to clean surfaces and impossible to reach spaces with specialized disinfectants, facility health and safety can be significantly improved while reducing environmental impacts and occupant exposure to harmful chemicals.
References & Resources
- Boeing and University of Arizona Show Cleaning Tools and Techniques Effective Against COVID-19
- Boeing Licenses Ultraviolet Wand to Healthe, Inc. to Counter COVID-19
Takeaway
The SARS-CoV-2 pandemic has forced significant innovations in the war against deadly germs and bacteria.
UV touchpoint disinfection tools, high-performance air purification systems, electrostatic disinfection appliances, no-touch scrubber vacs, and automated floor scrubbers with internal dilution systems reduce the environmental impact of facility cleaning as well as the number of cleaning service personnel required to fully sanitize a facility, ultimately resulting in an improved level of health and safety in a fraction of the time and cost previously required.
A proven and cost-effective method for ensuring the highest cleanliness and safety standards is outsourcing daily and specialized custodial services to an experienced service provider.
If you would like more information regarding the effectiveness of high-performance infection prevention and control measures, or if you would like to schedule a free, no-obligation onsite assessment of your facility's custodial needs, contact us today for a free quote!
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