Hydroxyl Generators: Battling Coronavirus in the Air
Coronavirus and the COVID-19 disease are still very much on everyone's mind, and for good reason. While a few states have seen a decent decline or flattening of the curve, many are seeing an increase. This is a major concern, and everything that can be done to combat the spread of the disease should be done. One piece of specialized equipment that not many people know about could help significantly, Hydroxyl Generators.
We look briefly at the current state of the virus and what measures can be taken to overcome the crisis. We then look specifically at what Hydroxyl Generators are, how they work, and how they could help reduce the risk of Coronavirus in your facility.
The threat
US COVID-19 figures from October 28th, 2020, put the number of cases at more than 8.8 million with deaths in excess of 227,000. While the death rate has decreased, it continues at an alarming rate. Worldwide, there have been more than 44 million cases with more than a million deaths. Few can dispute that these figures are alarming and a cause for concern.
What can be done
We are regularly told the basics of avoiding the Coronavirus and slowing the rate of infection. Basic measures such as effective handwashing, mask-wearing, and social distancing are drilled into us daily. We are also told to test regularly and self-isolate if infected.
While these measures are important, they are not enough now that most areas have reopened, many people are back at work, at school, and out in public. The key to protecting these areas is effective sanitizing & disinfecting.
Unfortunately, this is not something that can be done correctly by the average cleaning or janitorial company. It is best left to skilled and experienced professionals with the right training and equipment.
Sanitizing and disinfecting surfaces is critical, but that alone does not rid the air of respiratory droplets and airborne particles that can remain in the air for three hours or more. HEPA filtration with regular filter changing and cleaning of the HVAC system is important, and HEPA Air Scrubbers are a huge help. A machine that is proving particularly important to eradicate the problem is Hydroxyl Generators. They are effective on airborne chemicals, pollutants, and viruses. They also offer some treatment to surfaces.
What is a Hydroxyl Generator
The machines are rather complex, so for those not familiar with them, we will try and keep it simple while still giving you the relevant facts and the science behind these amazing machines.
Initially, they were used to remove VOCs (volatile organic compounds) and eliminate odors from the air. They are often used for bio jobs and restoration work after floods, fires, and other disasters. They are still great for this type of work but have proved to be effective against the Coronavirus.
They use UV radiation, the same range as we get from the sun, to cleanse indoor areas. This is a safe and natural process, similar to ozone, and when done correctly, is highly effective.
How do they work?
Nature can teach us many lessons. We can harness the ingenuity found in nature for the benefit of mankind. A Hydroxyl Generator is a perfect example of this. Just as the sun does, Hydroxyl Generators produce UV light with high-energy and multiple wavelengths. This light reacts with the water vapor and oxygen in the air, the same as happens in nature.
The result is the formation of Hydroxyl radicals (-OH) that are effective against VOCs, odors, and viruses such as Coronavirus. The radicals oxidize and break down the airborne chemicals, remove pollutants, and clean the air. It is also effective on most surface germs. It should be used in conjunction with more traditional sanitizing practices, but the process is powerful and effective.
Are Hydroxyl Generators safe?
Provided the correct equipment is used by trained professionals, Hydroxyl Generators are perfectly safe to use. One does not need to evacuate the area or keep it quarantined after use. They are natural and safe. This is one of the benefits of the technology. It means they can be used without closing the business or facility.
Hydroxyl Generators are also safe for sensitive materials, equipment, and surfaces in your facility.
They are relatively quiet, so they will not disturb the occupants of the business or facility. This means a cleaner and safer environment without any disruption to work or activity.
Are Hydroxyl Generators effective against Coronavirus?
Quality Hydroxyl Generators used correctly are effective against Coronavirus. Unfortunately, as in any industry, there are companies offering this service that have inferior equipment or lack the knowledge.