Year: 2025
Type: article
Abstract: Background Sink drains can be a significant source of microbial contamination in healthcare settings due to aerosolization and splashback of pathogens caused by flowing water. Aim To demonstrate a method of ozone disinfection of drains using a novel generation process that suppresses pathogen growth in the drain sump, whether planktonic or dwelling in biofilms. Methods and results Highly biocidal ozone was generated in situ in the drain using the ambient air sealed between the water trap and a portable cold plasma device. Safety mechanisms in the device ensured that the operator was not exposed to ozone. Subsequent bacterial recovery illustrated an approximate bioburden reduction of 5 log 10 for biofilms in the drain itself, and 6 log 10 for biofilms located in the sink. Conclusions Plasma-generated ozone is a safe and effective method for controlling bioburden in periodically wetted, otherwise inaccessible pipework and drains. Significance and impact of study The portable ozone disinfection system described has demonstrated potential for controlling the escape of pathogens from drains. Compared with conventional liquid-based disinfection techniques, the portable ozone disinfection system has the following advantages: (i) a gaseous biocide can reach all surfaces inside the treatment target, without any restriction from orientation or surface tension; (b) ozone is effective in reducing planktonic and biofilm bacterial counts; and (c) ozone is generated at the point of use from air, using minimal electrical power, requiring no chemical delivery or storage, and producing no toxic residues.
Source: Journal of Hospital Infection
Institution: University of Glasgow
Language: English
Subfield: Infectious Diseases
Field: Medicine
Domain: Health Sciences
Open Access status: hybrid
Estimated APC paid: $4,000
OpenAlex ID: W4407596604