What are the most effective disinfection techniques for airborne pathogens?

1 UV-C Radiation

One of the most effective disinfection techniques for airborne pathogens is ultraviolet germicidal irradiation (UVGI), which uses short-wavelength ultraviolet light (UV-C) to inactivate or destroy the DNA and RNA of microorganisms. UV-C radiation can be applied in various ways, such as in-duct systems, upper-room systems, portable units, or robots. However, UV-C radiation also has some limitations and risks, such as the need for direct exposure, the potential damage to materials and equipment, and the harmful effects on human skin and eyes. Therefore, UV-C radiation should be used with caution and in compliance with the standards and guidelines of the American Society of Heating, Refrigerating and Air-Conditioning Engineers (ASHRAE), the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), and the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA).

2 Hydrogen Peroxide Vapor

Another effective disinfection technique for airborne pathogens is hydrogen peroxide vapor (HPV), which uses a liquid solution of hydrogen peroxide that is heated and vaporized to create a dry mist that can penetrate hard-to-reach areas and surfaces. HPV can kill a wide range of microorganisms, including bacteria, viruses, fungi, and spores, by disrupting their cell membranes and oxidizing their components. HPV is also environmentally friendly, as it decomposes into water and oxygen after use. However, HPV also has some drawbacks and challenges, such as the need for airtight sealing, the long cycle time, the compatibility with materials and equipment, and the residual concentration. Therefore, HPV should be used with care and in accordance with the standards and guidelines of the Association for the Advancement of Medical Instrumentation (AAMI), the CDC, and the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA).

3 Electrostatic Spraying

A third effective disinfection technique for airborne pathogens is electrostatic spraying, which uses an electrically charged liquid solution of a disinfectant that is sprayed onto surfaces and objects. Electrostatic spraying can enhance the coverage and adherence of the disinfectant, as well as the contact time and efficacy. Electrostatic spraying can be used with various types of disinfectants, such as quaternary ammonium compounds (QACs), hypochlorous acid (HOCl), or peracetic acid (PAA). However, electrostatic spraying also has some limitations and considerations, such as the need for proper ventilation, the personal protective equipment (PPE) requirements, the compatibility with materials and equipment, and the operator training and certification. Therefore, electrostatic spraying should be used with prudence and in alignment with the standards and guidelines of the EPA, the CDC, and the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA).

4 Air Filtration and Ventilation

A fourth effective disinfection technique for airborne pathogens is air filtration and ventilation, which uses mechanical or natural methods to remove or dilute the concentration of microorganisms in the air. Air filtration and ventilation can be achieved by using high-efficiency particulate air (HEPA) filters, which can capture 99.97% of particles that are 0.3 microns or larger, or by increasing the outdoor air supply, which can reduce the recirculation of contaminated air. Air filtration and ventilation can also be combined with other disinfection techniques, such as UV-C radiation or HPV, to enhance the overall effectiveness. However, air filtration and ventilation also have some challenges and costs, such as the need for regular maintenance, the energy consumption, the noise level, and the space availability. Therefore, air filtration and ventilation should be used with optimization and in accordance with the standards and guidelines of the ASHRAE, the CDC, and the World Health Organization (WHO).

6 Here’s what else to consider

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