A shortage of personal protective equipment (PPE) remains a challenge for workers on the frontlines of the COVID-19 pandemic. To help, a University of Guelph researcher is adapting his technology for decontaminating fresh produce in order to sanitize N95 masks for reuse.
Through a partnership with Niagara-based company Clean Works, Keith Warriner, professor and food scientist at the university, developed a technology for waterless cleaning of fruits and vegetables to prevent contamination outbreaks, such as, listeria.
When the need for PPE became apparent, Warriner began discussions with Clean Works to adapt the technology. The team is able to sanitize up to 800 masks in an hour.
Following approval from Health Canada, the first portable decontamination units are being delivered to hospital health networks across Canada, including Hamilton Health Sciences and the Nova Scotia Health Authority.
To learn more, visit the University of Guelph.
