The key to a successful microbial virus control application, or fogging, is to use the correct size of microscopic mist, pest control and hygiene specialists Service Master SA states.

The company suggests that the particle size of the sanitising fog needs to be between 10 μm and 50 μm to successfully deal with viruses such as Covid-19.

“Using an ultralow-volume fogging machine to deliver the metered out microbial disinfectant ensures that the disinfectant attaches to submicroscopic molecules effectively,” says Service Master SA national development manager Susan Steyn.

It also ensures that the solution is applied in every crack and crevice and that all surfaces in the room and/or space are treated, she notes, adding that it would be impossible to achieve this by simply spraying or wiping down surfaces.

The microbial disinfectant fog also prevents the buildup of pathogens even after it has been applied, so it does have a residual effect.

However, Steyn stresses that when any disinfectant is applied, the product targets the existing organic load; therefore, if the surfaces are particularly dirty or dusty the disinfectant will not be as effective.

She adds that Service Master has always recommended a thorough surface cleaning prior to microbial fogging, with a repeat fogging after a week. Subsequent fogging would then be conducted as and when the need arose or when financially viable for the client.

The cleaning would remove the dirt that harbours many pathogens. Consequently, the first microbial fogging can more efficiently eradicate the existing viral load, although most of the product is used during this process.

“The follow-up application provides a longer-lasting residual level of protection because by then, the organic load in the premises is reduced,” she points out. It is important to understand, she suggests, that the duration of efficacy is dependent on various contributing factors such as traffic in the area, dust and environmental factors and the surfaces themselves.

Meanwhile, there are no known local suppliers or manufacturers of ultralow-volume fogging machines in South Africa.

The unprecedented global increase in demand for microbial fogging and virus control services, caused by the sudden outbreak of Covid-19, has resulted in demand surpassing supply.

“Hygiene or pest control companies have noted an exponential increase in requests for fogging services, with ultralow-volume fogging machines already imported into South Africa having been sold out within weeks,” says Steyn.

Further, larger companies, including factories, retailers, mines and hospitals, are now also looking to buy the fogging equipment to microbially disinfect their premises as and when needed.

Steyn cautions that these businesses must be vigilant when selecting a company to conduct fogging at their premises. “Not all products that are registered as disinfectants are suited to virus control.”

Such ineffective products are also being applied incorrectly, which results in many businesses being misguided – believing that their premises are completely virus free, when that might not be the case.

In Progress

Service Master is an official distributor for medical equipment and disinfectant product producer Steritech/PrimeSafe, a long-standing South African manufacturer.

Steritech/PrimeSafe’s concentrated antimicrobial solution is being tested in a UK laboratory for efficacy against the Covid-19, which Steyn regards as being very exciting.

“We believe that it is the first local product to undergo these specific tests, which started on May 11. The results – hopefully positive – are expected any time after this month,” she enthuses.

Service Master ensures not only the safety of clients but also its staff.

In addition to adhering to the existing regulations and guidelines of Covid-19, the company has installed a dedicated ultralow-volume fogging machine at its entrance. The temperature of each staff member and client is taken and logged as required.

“We also have hand sanitising stations at every ablution, pause area and coffee station where people would typically congregate,” concludes Steyn.