How to: Green cleaning

How to...

HOW TO... / 27/ 27

...disinfect sustainably

As onboard hygiene moves up the agenda, Arash Mahin, co-founder Aero HygenX, tells us how airlines can implement more sustainable disinfection regimes with UV-C light...

THINK DIFFERENTLY

In the wake of Covid-19, airlines are highly focused on delivering a new level of cleanliness for passengers and crew. I was previously director of application development and maintenance at Air Canada and know the challenges of implementing a more sustainable disinfection regime, especially when looking to improve efficiency too.

COME CLEAN

Many post-Covid regimes involve repeated use of harmful chemicals which actually pose significant threats to people and the environment. They often contain corrosive and toxic formulas and aren't suitable for all areas of the interior, such as the cockpit – where chemical pooling or fogging can damage sensitive equipment.

LIGHTEN UP

UV-C light has proven effectiveness in disinfecting hospitals and water treatment facilities, and is now being applied as an alternative for onboard aircraft. It is highly efficient against viruses and bacteria – destroying the pathogens linked to many illnesses including Ebola, SARS, MERS and Covid-19.

CUT CHEMICAL COSTS

UV-C is a safe and effective way to sanitise multi-touch aircraft surfaces and can cut chemical costs. It can include an autonomous UV-C disinfection solution which also improves turnaround times and reduces labour costs, freeing crew to complete other jobs, and protecting them from any possible exposure to UV wavelengths. Autonomous functionality also ensures consistency of disinfection standards, eliminating the risk of human error. To disinfect small spaces, like lavatories, crew rest areas, cockpits or driver cabs in ground-handling equipment, there are portable UV-C solutions. Be sure to check the availability and replacement plans associated with bulbs as some generate ozone (which is itself bad for the environment).

CELEBRATE SUCCESS

UV-C success stories can be shared through your inflight magazine and digital channels showing you’re keeping passengers safe and protecting the environment. •

FACT FILE

UV-C technology can be put to work on jet-bridges, lounges, crew workstations, vehicles, airport security, trains and cruise ships.

Solutions like RAY (top image) and SparX Aero HygenX are designed for the rigours of aviation.

The improper application of chemical disinfectants can cause corrosion, embrittlement, flammability, and even electrical short circuits.