A number of specialist companies have combined their expertise in security, container fitout and hygiene to create a new, rapidly-deployable laboratory and test facility solution for the healthcare sector.
Newcastle-upon-Tyne-based Modular Security Solutions has launched Steri-Pod, a containerised, self-cleaning, high-security unit which offers a hygienic laboratory environment for applications such as COVID-19 testing and vaccinations.
Steri-Pod features Ultraviolet (UVC) germicidal irradiation technology from Oldham-based infection control specialist, Plasma Clean, providing 24-hour protection – at a rate of 99.99% – against COVID viruses, bacteria, spores and fungi.
Steri-Pod is the only containerised laboratory to use Plasma Clean – Airklean and RoomKlean ultraviolet germicidal irradiation (UVGI) infection control solutions.
Unlike ‘fogging’ and other methods of disinfection, our UVC technology ensures that laboratories can remain continually operational for long periods of time, as there is no need for staff to leave the environment in order for cleaning to take place
The units can be mounted on walls and ceilings and use UVC germicidal lamps which emit light at a wavelength of 254nm and are designed to eliminate airborne microbes.
They ensure that Steri-Pod can offer 24-hour disinfection without the use of cleaning chemicals which can be potentially harmful to the environment.
Plasma Clean’s technology is designed to operate in enclosed spaces where people are present, reducing operational downtime as there is no need for staff to leave a facility while cleaning takes place.
In creating Steri-Pod, Modular Security Solutions has blended the convenience of an iso container with security and hygiene.
Its high-security composite panels are used to line out the container, creating a secure envelope and giving it a high level of resistance to attack and forced entry.
And Steri-Pod includes hygienic, wipe-clean and dust-resistant security walls, ceilings and floors, making it suitable for a CL3 laboratory environment.
Drawing on our extensive experience in high-security composite panelling systems, and Plasma Clean’s specialist expertise in UVC technology; we’ve designed a solution which has multiple applications for healthcare organisations and the life sciences sector
The high-security composite panels are available with both rockwool and PIR insulation core types, which offer a high level of fire efficiency and a thermal U value of up to 0.22W/m2K.
Through Modular Security Solutions’ partnership with Beaverfit, the company can provide Steri-Pod as a bespoke fit-out package, which can include mechanical and electrical fitout, ventilation, heating and cooling systems, hygienic cabinet and storage options, racking and alarm systems.
Mark Sutherland, projects director of Modular Security Solutions, said: “We’re delighted to have worked in partnership with Plasma Clean and Beaverfit to bring Steri-Pod to the market.
“Drawing on our extensive experience in high-security composite panelling systems, and Plasma Clean’s specialist expertise in UVC technology; we’ve designed a solution which has multiple applications for healthcare organisations and the life sciences sector.
“The Steri-Pod has all the convenience of an iso-container, but has the benefits of high-security, hygiene, thermal insulation, acoustic insulation and fire protection.”
The facility uses Plasma Clean UVGI solutions
Dr David Glover, founder and technical director of Plasma Clean, added: “It’s been very exciting to work with Modular Security Solutions on creating this practical, ‘self-cleaning’ solution for the healthcare sector – and it’s been particularly pleasing to see the results of our collaboration come to life during the UK’s national lockdown.
“Both ourselves and Modular Security Solutions are innovators in our respective fields, and Steri-Pod is proof that some ‘out of the box’ thinking can lead to a solution capable of rapidly meeting specific technical demands.
“Unlike ‘fogging’ and other methods of disinfection, our UVC technology ensures that laboratories can remain continually operational for long periods of time, as there is no need for staff to leave the environment in order for cleaning to take place.
“This has significant advantages for healthcare organisations who, for instance, need to rapidly process test results.”
Steri-Pod features high-security, hygienic doorsets and is available with a wide range of locking options and integrated vision panels, if specified.
The composite panelling systems are rapidly installed and offer a significant reduction in labour costs, site downtime and onsite trades due to their convenient male/female slip joint and pre-finished appearance, which comes in a wide range of standard colours and finishes.
Designed to withstand determined attack from a wide range of tools and forced entry, the panelling systems protect people, cash, high-value equipment and assets.
