The Xenex Germ-Zapping Robot, a lab-certified disinfecting robot that uses pulses of ultraviolet (UVC) light, is reportedly being considered for use in Hollywood productions as the industry looks at creative ways to make sure sets are sanitary.
SARS-CoV-2, the virus that causes COVID-19, can live on some surfaces for days and so high-touch areas pose a potential risk for the safety of cast and crew. Xenex’s robots, which can be rented on a per-month basis or purchased for roughly $125,000, are already used in more than 500 health care facilities and hospitals around the world and is able to deactivate 99.99% of the novel coronavirus in two minutes with its LightStrike technology.
The devices also do not need warm up or cool down periods, are simple to use, and are able to disinfect dozens of rooms each day. A trained individual puts the device in a designated area, turns it on and then exits the room. Within 15-30 seconds it generates bursts of high-intensity, full germicidal spectrum UVC light (more intense than sunlight) for several minutes.
While UVC doesn’t damage skin, there can be damage to the eyes after prolonged exposure so it’s important not to be in the room when the device runs. Motion sensors automatically cut off the device if it detects humans or animals.
CBS’ “Blue Bloods” has reportedly shown serious interest in the machines, putting one of them on hold to potentially use in the future. Those behind the device have reportedly approached major studios and streamers, including Netflix, Amazon and Sony, in recent weeks about the robots.
New safety and sanitary protocols are expected to be put into place on most productions moving forward, bringing many up to a standard more in line with hospitals. This includes possibilities like temperature and pulse oximeter entry screenings, high-temperature laundry services, social distancing infrastructure planning and more.
Source: THR
