15 March 2024
Learn about the methodologies used by hospitals to ensure clean and safe air
In hospitals, maintaining a safe and clean environment is critical to preventing the spread of infections. While surface disinfection is commonly practiced, the importance of sanitizing environments cannot be overlooked. Contaminated air can carry pathogens, putting patients and health care workers at risk.
With this article, we at Newster will explore the methods and technologies used to sanitize the air in hospitals and health care facilities.
The hazards of contaminated air in hospitals and healthcare facilities
Hospitals are known to host several airborne pathogens, including bacteria, viruses, and fungi. These pathogens can be released into the air through coughing, sneezing or even during medical procedures. Contaminated air poses a significant risk to patients, particularly those with impaired immune systems, but also to healthcare professionals who are constantly exposed to these pathogens.
Traditional methods for air sanitization
For many years hospitals have been using traditional methods of air sanitization.
These methods include regular ventilation and air exchange, ultraviolet germicidal radiation (UVGI) and High-Efficiency Particulate Air (HEPA) filters.
Regular ventilation and air exchange involves the circulation of fresh air in hospital spaces, diluting and removing pathogens in the air. This method helps to maintain a clean and healthy environment.
UVGI is a proven method for air sanitization. It uses ultraviolet light to destroy the DNA and RNA of microorganisms, making them unable to reproduce. UVGI can be applied in two main ways: pipeline UVGI and superior UVGI. Pipeline UVGI involves installing UV lamps inside the HVAC system to sanitize the air as it passes through the ducts. The UVGI in the upper room, on the other hand, uses UV lamps mounted near the ceiling to sanitize the air at the top of the room.
Finally, HEPA filters are highly efficient filters that capture particles of 0.3 microns in size. These filters are commonly used in hospitals to remove bacteria, viruses and fungal spores from the air with efficiency greater than 99.97%. HEPA filters are particularly indicated in areas where patients with infectious diseases are treated.
Advanced techniques and the role of Newster
Innovations in the field of air sanitization have led to the development of advanced technologies that expand the effectiveness of traditional methods. In this context, Newster emerges as a key player with its I-Genico3 device, a revolutionary system for the treatment and sanitization of air in hospitals and healthcare facilities.
I-Genico3 by Newster represents a qualitative leap in the fight against airborne microorganisms. This device uses a combined function of ozzonization, HEPA filtration and UV disinfection.
Ozonation occurs by transforming air oxygen into ozone, which is deposited on surfaces for disinfection. In addition, the HEPA filter is constantly irradiated for inlet air sanitization, with an additional activated carbon filter to remove volatile organic compounds. The system is portable and suitable for environments with high flow of people and confined environments with high biological risk.
Practices for air sanitization in hospitals
The adoption of advanced technologies for air sanitization must be accompanied by management practices. It is crucial to maintain and monitor ventilation systems, thus ensuring their proper functioning and adequate air circulation. The cleaning and periodic replacement of filters is also fundamental, in order to avoid the accumulation of pollutants and maintain the high efficiency of sanitation systems. In addition, training healthcare personnel on infection control measures, such as hand hygiene and respiratory behaviour rules, helps reduce the spread of air infections.
Conclusions
In conclusion, air sanitization plays a key role in maintaining a safe and clean environment in hospitals. By understanding the risks associated with contaminated air and implementing effective methods and technologies, hospitals can significantly reduce infection transmission. Continuous improvement and investment in air sanitization methods are essential to ensure the well-being of patients and healthcare professionals.
Contact Newster now for more information or to improve the air quality of healthcare facilities!
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