To better protect consumers during the COVID-19 pandemic, the South Carolina Equipment Distribution Program (SCEDP) has acquired a new decontamination chamber for equipment. This “UV-Box” will be used to sanitize returned equipment and other items so they can be redistributed to consumers safely.

The UV-Box is manufactured by the company Air Science and uses high intensity ultraviolet (UV) lamps to produce short-wave UV light. This destroys exposed surface DNA and bacteria, leaving equipment virtually free of contamination. During the current COVID-19 outbreak, UV lamps are being used to help reduce and control the spread of the virus.

The sanitization process requires staff to place equipment inside the box and seal the door with a turning lock mechanism. Within the UV-Box, UV lamps are strategically placed to eliminate blind spots, and stainless-steel surfaces naturally reflect UV radiation to ensure contents are fully irradiated from all directions. Equipment is left in the UV-Box for roughly 30 minutes.

The UV Box has safety features built into its design. Staff are protected from UV radiation by the UV absorbing window and with safety controls to ensure that lamps cannot be activated until the cabinet door is securely closed. Other safety features include a UV timer, hanging rod, and shelf to support or suspend items for decontamination.

UV decontamination has been implemented for years in environments like hospitals and healthcare facilities.

For more information on SCEDP, visit the SCEDP website.