May 29, 2020
Baycrest recently purchased an ultraviolet (UVC) disinfection system to address the cleaning needs related to COVID-19. The
Surfacide Helios® System is an evidence-based, automated, disinfection system, which also eradicates drug resistant organisms, such as C.diff, MRSA and VRE.
The new system utilizes multiple emitters that release UVC energy to disinfect all exposed areas of a healthcare environment in a single cycle. Unlike single emitters, which must be re-positioned throughout the room, resulting in a longer cleaning cycle, the
Surfacide UVC system does not require any additional re-positioning after room set up. This one-cycle approach results in a thorough disinfection and fast room cleaning turn-around time.
The UVC emitters are connected electronically to a tablet via wireless interconnection and the tablet is connected to a web portal for report viewing. Following the manual room cleaning process, the Baycrest staff member sets up the system, initiates the clean cycle and lets it run, during which the staff member may continue working elsewhere on the campus. The clean cycle generally lasts approximately 20 – 25 minutes. The system’s laser mapping feature allows it to identify every exposed surface to ensure the disinfecting UVC energy has been delivered effectively.
Additionally, the UVC system has the ability to detect anyone entering the room and shuts off the three emitters instantly, ensuring client and employee safety.
“The Environmental Services team, as well as clinical staff, are very happy to have this new technology,” said Jannet Tagaza, Environmental Services Manager for Baycrest. “Being able to use the new UVC disinfection system in combination with our leading infection prevention practices gives staff, as well as our residents, patients and their families, the peace of mind that we are doing all we can to keep everyone safe from the spread of infection.”