Businesses and services all over the world have been trying to find solutions to lessen the risk of COVID19 spreading further, often merging technology with innovative design. One such example is Hong Kong International Airport’s newly unveiled disinfection technologies that includes special disinfection channels, antimicrobial coating and autonomous cleaning robots.
Created in an effort to protect passengers and airport staff from COVID19 infection, Hong Kong International Airport is the world’s first to have a trial of “CLeanTech”, a full-body disinfection channel facility. People passing through the facility will have a temperature check before entering an enclosed channel for the 40-second disinfection and sanitizing procedures. The interior surface is equipped with an antimicrobial coating which can remotely kill virus and bacteria on human bodies and clothing by using the technologies of photocatalyst and “nano needles”, while sanitizing spray is also applied for instant disinfection.
According to the airport, the channel is kept under negative pressure to prevent cross-contamination between the outside and inside environment. The facility is currently designated for use by staff who take part in public health and quarantine duties at the airport in relation to arriving passengers. Meanwhile, a test is underway that involves applying antimicrobial coating to destroy germs, bacteria and viruses on high-touch surfaces in the terminal, including handles and seats of Automated People Movers and passenger buses, smart check-in kiosks and check-in counters, toilets, seating areas and elevator buttons.
“The safety and wellbeing of airport staff and passengers are always our first priority. Although air traffic has been impacted by the pandemic, the AA spares no effort in ensuring that the airport is a safe environment for all users. We will continue to look into new measures to enhance our cleaning and disinfection work,” Steven Yiu, Deputy Director, Service Delivery of the AA said.
Following the trial, a decision will be made on whether to implement the disinfection measures long term. Autonomous cleaning robots with ultra violet light and air sterilising technology are also deployed to ensure disinfection of public areas and passenger facilities.
