Case Studies
Hospital Unit
CS011 · Healthcare · Hospital — Queensland
Case Study — CS011
Hospital Unit (High Humidity)
Client: Hospital — Queensland | Sector: Healthcare
Situation
A hospital unit in Queensland, Australia, is located in an area that experiences almost 100% humidity at certain times of the year. This condition leads to a significant mould infestation on all indoor surfaces, including the air conditioning ducting.
To address the infestation, the hospital undertook expensive remediation on a regular basis. The air conditioner was also used in a manner to dehumidify the input air. To date, the remediation plan previously adopted had no longevity. The hospital was investigating alternative solutions.
Treatment
The client decided to trial SAN-AIR and conduct a microbial study over a 4 month period. During this time, the humidity range was recorded between 60–74%, with temperature ranging between 29–36°C.
Test Methodology
- 01As standard practice, a baseline reading was taken prior to introducing SAN-AIR into the system.
- 02After taking microbial swab readings, SAN-AIR was placed in the Air Handler's Fan Box within the Hospital's Plant Room.
- 03Due to the high temperature of the supply air and the velocity of the air handler, SAN-AIR was replaced every 3 weeks.
- 04A return visit was organised 4 months later to take final readings.
Result
- The hospital unit experienced a 63% reduction in mould counts after SAN-AIR was introduced
- Regular microbial readings measured over 4 months showed that the reduced counts were maintained over that period
- After 4 months the usual mould growth issues arising from previous mould treatments did not occur
- Equipment maintenance was easier as the coil fins were in a clean condition
BEFORE SAN-AIR — December 2013
>300 mould/cm²
Coil showing build up of dirt / growth medium
AFTER SAN-AIR — April 2014
<100 mould/cm²
Coil is visibly cleaner
Conclusion
SAN-AIR was able to reduce the mould on the surfaces of the air conditioning system by 63%.
The effects of the remediation work undertaken by SAN-AIR continued after the 4 month period.
