It has come to our attention that customers are concerned about the effectiveness of fogging as a means of disinfection. This is understandable, as establishments such as the Church of England (CoE) and the NHS-IPC (National Health Service - Infection Protection Control) have made statements regarding their inability to recommend fogging as a disinfection method.
Following the release of the statement by the IPC, Electrox Water Limited reached out to understand why they could not recommend fogging as a disinfection method for care homes. Their response was as follows:
“Our rationale around the 'fogging' came about from a number of homes asking if we would recommend it, these homes had been approached by independent companies offering 'fogging' as a service to come in and decontaminate their homes at a cost. The chemicals used by each organisation differ, so we are unable to comment on the effectiveness of such services without knowing the exact chemicals and methods used.” In addition, the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) have also commented on the use of fogging “During the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic, fog, mist, vapour or UV treatments may be suitable options to help control the spread of the virus, by cleaning and disinfecting a larger space or room.”
Both IPC and HSE in the UK see fogging as a legitimate method of disinfection provided the user “ensures the correct concentration of the active chemical is used.” Our sister company who produces an identical product has published a scientific journal, showing a 5log reduction (99.998%) in bacteria by fogging the product. Our active substance also holds an EN 14476 certification for full virucidal activity (this includes activity against all coronaviruses).
The World Health Organisation (WHO) also have another concern as fogging “may pose harm to individuals.” Unlike other electrolysed water companies, Electrox has recognised that there is no inhalation data available for the active substance during fogging as this is a very new method and so following the advice of the European Chemicals Agency (ECHA), we put in a workplace exposure limit of that of chlorine gas (a known highly toxic gas). This does not mean our product is hazardous if inhaled but since there is no available data this is the most appropriate decision to ensure our customers safety.
It is important to note that in the statement from the CoE, they explain there is the potential for damage to historical surfaces. The artifacts that churches possess, and even the buildings themselves, hold huge importance to British and religious heritage. Even though Electrox is not classified as hazardous/corrosive, it is not recommended to fog Electrox directly or in close proximity of items of concern. Finally, it is imperative to reiterate that fogging Electrox is a method of surface disinfection and the user must ensure the surfaces are physically clean before fogging.
For further information from the Health and Safety Executive on fogging: https://www.hse.gov.uk/coronavirus/disinfecting-premises-during-coronavirus-outbreak.htm
