New ultraviolet (UVC) light kits unveiled by Smiths Detection

Smiths Detection has announced the launch of its new ultraviolet (UVC) light kits, which it states are capable of destroying up to 99.9% of microorganisms present on baggage trays at the security checkpoint.

It notes that demonstrating heightened hygiene standards will be important as airports seek to restore the confidence of travellers and staff during and after the COVID-19 pandemic.

“UVC is one way that airports can do this, while providing longer-term protection against bacteria or viruses,” says Smiths Detection.

“Helping to protect passengers and staff from tactile transmission of contagious disease as they pass through security checkpoints at airports, Smiths Detection UVC kits automatically disinfect trays as they are being transported from the reclaim area back to the divest station.

“Thanks to its specially designed casing and other safety measures, the UVC lights pose no exposure risk to staff or passengers and can be installed quickly and easily into existing tray handling systems.”

The company adds that this proven technology has been successfully used for the disinfection of surfaces in industries with high hygiene requirements, such as the food and health sectors, for many years.

Its application at checkpoint security, it claims, will reduce the risk of contamination and therefore reassure passengers and staff about the safety of the security process.

“A trusted advisor within the industry, Smiths Detection have been working with airports globally to deliver necessary enhancements to their infrastructure that can be made in response to the pandemic,” said the company’s global director for aviation, Richard Thompson.

“UVC lights are a practical, straight-forward way that airports can help reduce the transmission of any bacteria or virus that might be on the surface of its trays now and in the long-term.”

Trials of the solution are underway on site at airports, and it is available immediately for installation with very short lead times.