New Ultraviolet Disinfection System Being Used at Woodstock Hospital

Tuesday, 7 April 2020 12:09

The new Ultraviolet disinfection system, combined with manual cleaning efforts, quickly and effectively kills harmful pathogens found in health care settings.

WOODSTOCK - A new ultraviolet disinfection system has arrived at the Woodstock Hospital.

The new system, combined with manual cleaning efforts, quickly and effectively kills harmful pathogens found in health care settings. The disinfection system uses remote sensors to ensure the correct dosage of ultraviolet light in the C spectrum is delivered to disinfect all areas and surfaces in the room.

Director of Housekeeping, Medical Device Reprocessing Department and Portering Services Janis Humeston says patient safety is a top priority at the Woodstock Hospital.

“The ultraviolet light disinfection system does not replace regular housekeeping protocols. Once staff have manually cleaned the room, they bring in the ultraviolet light disinfection system for enhanced cleaning. Depending on the size of the room, the disinfection system may take 15-45 minutes to disinfect the area. Currently, we are using it to
disinfect patient rooms and operating rooms.”

When a patient is discharged or moved from one area of the hospital to another, Infection Prevention and Control and Housekeeping staff work together to ensure the room is properly cleaned and disinfected for the next patient.

The Woodstock Hospital Foundation’s 21st Annual Charity Golf Tournament was held in June of 2019 at Craigowan Golf Club. Senior Development Officer with the Foundation Jocelyn Jenner says the golf tournament raised money to support the purchase of the ultraviolet light disinfection system which cost $87,950.

“We would like to thank all of the participants, sponsors and the Golf Committee that made last year’s golf tournament a success. Your involvement helped us purchase this piece of equipment, which further enhances patient care and safety at Woodstock Hospital.”

While the fundraising efforts for the disinfection system occurred last year, the equipment arrived at the end of March 2020. Woodstock Hospital President and CEO Perry Lang says the new system arrived just time in time.

“We are fortunate that the ultraviolet light disinfection system arrived in time to assist in the fight against COVID-19,. This leading edge technology will allow housekeeping staff to enhance cleaning throughout the facility.

The Woodstock Hospital Board of Trust recently approved the purchase of a second, similar UV light.