With companies rapidly trying to re-open with the lockdown rule changes, everyone is bombarded with new terminology and devices to protect their staff and customers. It is becoming a mind field in deciding what is best.
We at Killis want to help you understand when and why you need certain products. With this in mind, fogging and spraying have become essential activities in the preparation. This article helps to make sense of the different options on offer.
Fogging
Fogging can be used to apply disinfectants and other chemicals to surfaces. The equipment produces a micro-mist formed of Ultra Low Volume droplets (ULV). Fogging machines use large volumes of air at low pressures to transform the liquid into droplets, which are dispersed into the atmosphere. The particles stay suspended in the air until they evaporate.
You cannot use some sanitisers and disinfectants in foggers as they can cause respiratory problems. You must check the safety data sheet to ensure it is safe to use for fogging. All water-sensitive fabrics such as pictures, metal objects, curtains etc., must be removed from the room before you start fogging—certain chemicals can damage these materials.
The correct PPE is needed when using foggers, and the room should be sealed for at least 24 hours afterwards to ensure that all airborne and surface-based pathogens have been destroyed. It will not be effective if you enter the room too soon after activating the fogger.
Electrostatic spraying
Electrostatic spraying applies a coating of disinfectant or another liquid by creating a positive electric charge through the solution to create a 3D wrapping effect around a surface. The particles contain an electric charge, allowing the disinfectant (or solution) to wrap around the surface and build an evenly distributed layer.
This type of spraying is only effective on conductive surfaces. You should not use electrostatic sprayers near computers or in server rooms as the positive charge will destroy the internal mechanisms.
Spraying
Normal spraying differs from electrostatic spraying as it does not have an electrostatic charge. This means spraying simply leaves a coat on the top surface where it has been directly sprayed.
A non-absorbent wipe needs to be used to move the applied solution in hard to reach areas such as under a door handle, or you should spray the solution onto a cloth to wipe down the surface.
Is fogging or spraying really required?
Fogging or spraying is a great solution to help prepare for COVID-19 as it destroys airborne pathogens and disinfects large areas quickly and effectively, ensuring better area coverage.
Top Tips
When using any of these devices, it is essential to remember:
Some solutions need a contact time of up to 5 minutes.
Flush the spray jet or pump through with clean water after use to remove any residue left in the device from the chemical.
Do not use near exposed electrics – all electrical items that need to be cleaned must be sealed, i.e. keyboards, screens, mouse etc.
Unplug all electrical devices.
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