Since introducing electrostatic disinfection as a new service offering, we’ve received many questions from customers. For example, is it safe and does it work?
Electrostatic disinfection allows us to effectively and safely disinfect more square feet in less time. To learn more about this method of disinfection and why it has become a popular method of disinfection against COVID-19, keep reading.
How does electrostatic disinfection work?
Electrostatic disinfection is a quick and easy way to achieve 360 degree, touchless disinfection. While it may sound complicated, the technology is simple to understand.
Electrostatic sprayers use positive and negative charges to make disinfecting solutions electromagnetically stick to targeted surfaces. For example, no matter which angle you disinfect a surface from, the charge created by the electrostatic sprayer makes the disinfectant wrap around and cling to the entire surface.
While there are a variety of electrostatic sprayers on the market, we use EvaClean’s electrostatic sprayers, which have ETL Certifications. This means that their equipment meets all the minimum safety standard requirements established by OSHA and carried out by Nationally Recognized Testing Laboratories. Their disinfecting tablets are EPA registered.
What does it fight against?
This will depend on the disinfectants used. EvaClean’s electrostatic sprayers paired with their PUR:ONE or PURTABS kill 99.99% of bacteria found in biofilm, C. Difficile, TB and other viral and fungal infections in just 4 minutes.
Is it effective against COVID-19?
Yes. Both the PURTABS and PUR:ONE tablets have 1 minute kill claims for coronavirus. Electrostatic disinfection paired with the right chemicals is our number one recommended coronavirus disinfecting service.
Aren’t you already disinfecting my facility?
Yes, OctoClean personnel are trained in touch point disinfection. This is the disinfection of commonly touched surfaces like phones, handles, facets and horizontal surfaces. Electrostatic disinfection is not a replacement to your regularly scheduled service. But it is a great addition that guarantees that all surfaces, even small areas or upholstered surfaces that can’t get wiped down, are disinfected. Remember, it’s not just disinfecting the tops of surfaces but underneath and all the way around too.
How long does electrostatic disinfection take?
This will depend on the size of the area being disinfected. According to EvaClean, it takes approximately 30-45 minutes to clean and disinfect each room in a hospital using traditional methods. The EvaClean system can reduce cleaning and disinfecting times by 40%.
It is important to follow application instructions in order to meet kill claims. It takes the EvaClean system 4 minutes to thoroughly disinfect. After that, you are ready to use your facility.
How long does it last?
Electrostatic disinfection does not create a protective barrier. It disinfects, or kills, unwanted pathogens from every targeted surface, but won’t protect those surfaces from becoming infected again.
That being said, institutions like medical facilities, schools and gyms may require electrostatic disinfection more frequently because they are introduced to new, potentially harmful pathogens on a daily basis.
Does it leave a residue?
Electrostatic disinfection can leave a light layer of residue. Disinfectants must dwell on surfaces, or remain visibly wet, for specified amounts of time in order to be effective and this can lead to streaking. Always follow the instructions for use on labels for the correct dwell time of a disinfectant. If surfaces are regularly cleaned in between disinfection as they should be, there shouldn’t be a build up of residue over time.
Is it safe to use on/around electronics?
Electrostatic disinfection can be safely performed around electronics such as laptops, monitors and keyboards as long as it is not applied directly at close range. We recommend putting away paper documents, along with anything else you don’t want sprayed before the scheduled service.
Is it safe for the person applying it?
It is safe for the person applying and all people present during the service. Masks and protective gear are not required, but may be used especially in medical settings where certain protective gear is required.
How do I request a demo/more information about electrostatic disinfection?
There are many benefits to electrostatic disinfection. It’s time-saving, it is effective and touchless application means zero cross contamination. If you are ready to protect yourself and others, you can request more information about our electrostatic disinfection program.
How long does it last? When will you need to treat again?
Hi, Salah! Thank you for leaving a comment. The electrostatic sprayer doesn’t create a protective barrier. It disinfects, or kills, the pathogens on the targeted surfaces, but won’t prevent them from becoming infected again. The frequency is really up to the facility. For example, a gym, school or medical facility may want the service performed daily or weekly because they are dealing with germs in and out of their facility regularly. We hope this was helpful. If you have any more questions, please let us know!
Is the process approved by the CDC? Does a third party protocol have to be written by an industrial hygienist in order to apply your process?
Hi, Mike! The CDC does not monitor or regulate disinfectants, the United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) does. All of the disinfectants we use, for electrostatic and standard wiping, are EPA registered and approved. In response to the current pandemic, the CDC recommends disinfectants listed on their N LIST. The disinfectants we use meet this criteria. A third party protocol does not need to be approved. We are happy to provide you with more information. You can reach our office at (888) 540-0828. Thank you!
Electrostatic disinfection is safe to use around electronics as long as it is from a distance. You have the ability to decide which areas of your facility get electrostatically disinfected and which do not. We can always wipe down more sensitive areas you are concerned about. Please do not hesitate to contact us for more information. Thank you!