UltraViolet SANitizing System for Sterilization of Ambulances Fleets and for Real-Time Monitoring of Their Sterilization Level
Zuleika Michelini, Chiara Mazzei, Fabio Magurano, Melissa Baggieri, Antonella Marchi, Mauro Andreotti, Andrea Cara, Alessandro Gaudino, Marco Mazzalupi, Francesca Antonelli, Lorenzo Sommella, Silvia Angeletti, Elena Razzano, Arnaud Runge, P. Petrinca
Abstract
BACKGROUND: The contamination of ambulances with pathogenic agents represents a potential threat for the public health, not only for common pathogens but also for severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2). The aim of this project was to exploits the germicidal effect of the UVC radiation at 254 nm to sanitize the patient's compartment of ambulances with an advanced UltraViolet SANitizing System (UV-SAN) and assess its relevance for avoiding the spread of COVID-19 and other drug resistant pathogens. METHODS: The system is equipped with UVC lamps that are activated when the ambulance compartment is empty and sanitize the environment in less than 15 min. An Ozone sensor continuously monitors the gas concentration, ensuring it does not exceed threshold value harmful for patients and operators' health. The system is relying on GNSS data and a satellite communication link, which allow to monitor and record traceability (when, where and what) of all the sanitation operations performed. This information is real-time monitored from a dedicated web-application. RESULTS: and the UV-SAN system is effective against multi drug resistant (MDR) bacteria up to >99.99%, after 10 to 30 min of irradiation. CONCLUSIONS: UV-SAN can provide rapid, efficient and sustainable sanitization procedures of ambulances.