The COVID-19 pandemic has changed many processes at Edon Management, from meeting protocols to interacting with co-workers to how we clean our offices and work spaces.
As we thought about re-entering work spaces in the spring, Edon decided to invest in electrostatic cleaning systems, not only for our own facilities but also to be available for our clients’ properties. Our goal was to set a new standard in work space disinfection – especially in high-traffic and high-touch areas, so that everyone could have more confidence about coming back to work.
This is where the use of electrostatic disinfection comes in.
You might be wondering: “What is electrostatic cleaning and how is it different or better than conventional cleaning methods?”
Time-Saving and Effective for Hard-to-Reach Surfaces
Even with the most thorough cleaning, it is very difficult and time-consuming to fully disinfect hard-to-reach or larger areas with conventional cleaning methods. Electrostatic cleaning is the process of spraying an electrostatically charged mist onto surfaces and objects. A specialized solution is combined with air and atomized by an electrode inside the sprayer. The positively charged mist clings to and coats any surface it is aimed at.
Using electrostatic spraying ensures every surface in the room can be fully disinfected and in less time. This is so important in facilities where disinfection is vital, such as hospitals and schools. The spraying method also offers promise in controlling foodborne illnesses in restaurant or food-processing facilities.
‘Set-and-Forget’ Application
Once the disinfectant is sprayed on a surface, it remains wet for 5-10 minutes, the recommended time to effectively kill germs. Then it is simply left to air dry. In conventional spray-and-wipe disinfecting, a surface is sprayed and immediately wiped, not allowing the required time for a disinfectant to work.
Electrostatic disinfecting is a time-saver because it is a “set-and-forget” application. For example, in a restroom, the entire room can be sprayed with disinfectant and left to air dry – allowing the disinfectant to fully work.
Efficiency and Less Downtime
Here are some ways that electrostatic cleaning is superior to conventional cleaning in an 18,000-square-foot building:
- The electrostatic sprayer system can cover up to 18,000 square feet per hour, compared to around 3,100 square feet with conventional cleaning.
- Surface coverage is up to five times faster with electrostatic disinfection.
- 65% less disinfecting product is used, compared to traditional trigger sprays.
- Disinfecting a building that size takes around five hours less time, or about 40%.
What Else Should you Know About Electrostatic Disinfecting?
- It is safe to use around standard office equipment, such as laptops, desktops, keyboard and monitors, but should NOT be applied to sensitive electronics. Office workers are asked to clear their desks of personal belongings to allow for a thorough cleaning.
- Once electrostatic cleaning has been completed, the room can be used immediately.
- 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 contaminated once the area has been used again.
- Here are some examples of where electrostatic cleaning is beneficial: Health-care spaces for terminal patients; classrooms, fitness equipment, wrestling mats, bathrooms, lunchrooms and buses; food service (sanitizing equipment and surfaces); odour counteraction in bathrooms and other enclosed spaces.
To learn more about electrostatic cleaning contact Yassin Zamani, Edon’s Custodial Services Business Manager, at yassin.zamani@edonmgmt.com or call Office: (403) 245-1941 ext.533