The IPS2021 was a fantastic occasion for members of infection control across the UK and internationally to come together to network, chat and celebrate all of the great work the NHS has done during the pandemic. We thoroughly enjoyed meeting many of you and discussing the importance of high-level disinfectants in a post-pandemic world. We want to thank every one who attended, and to everyone who could not make it for all your hard work.

For those of you that we did not get chance to speak to at the event, Sky Chemicals presented an alternative to the conventional disinfectants dominating infection control, NADCC tablets and chlorine dioxide. This alternative is Peracide, an in-situ, colour activated cleaner disinfectant and deodoriser that is sporicidal in seconds. Testing has proven that Peracide has the highest efficacy against all microbes, and unlike chlorine-based disinfectants, retains its efficacy in soiled conditions, with Peracide being able to kill C. diff spores in 15 seconds at 4000ppm in soiled conditions. Due to its efficacy in soiled conditions, and the addition of surfactants, Peracide is able to clean and disinfect surfaces in one clean, removing the need for two products for one job. In addition, staff only need to be trained on one product, and will not need to carry around and use two products, saving them time and money.

We demonstrated our innovative colour change system. When the tablets are placed in water the solution will become purple, indicating that the peracetic acid is still being generated to reach its high sporicidal activity. After around 5-10 minutes the solution will become pink, showing it is at its peak efficacy and is ready to use. This prevents the issue of disinfectants potentially being used before they are efficacious, as staff can visibly see when the product is ready to use, making it very quick and easy for staff to be trained on how to use Peracide.

After approximately 24 hours the solution will become clear, biodegrading into the non-toxic by-products; water, carbon dioxide, oxygen and vinegar. These can be safely disposed of down any drain or sink. With the solution becoming clear when no longer efficacious for hospital standards, it allows for staff and supervisors to be able to visibly monitor when Peracide is still effective and whether or not they need to prepare a fresh solution. This method of disinfection in colour is one of the key features that makes Peracide visibly better than the competition.

We also discussed the necessity for disinfectants to be environmentally friendly, something Peracide prides itself in. Unlike chlorine-based disinfectants, Peracide does not produce any toxic fumes while in use, and will not bioaccumulate due to breaking down into non-toxic by-products in the environment meaning it is safe for the staff, patients and the environment. In addition, Peracide can be used on both hard and soft surfaces including fabrics and beds, prolonging the lifespan of these expensive pieces of hospital equipment.

In summary, Peracide presents a quicker, more efficient and visibly better solution to disinfectants in healthcare environments, saving staff precious time and money on multiple products for one job.

Lastly everyone at Sky Chemicals wants to thank everyone at the NHS for all their hard work, please follow us on social media including LinkedIn, Twitter and Instagram to stay up to date with all our latest projects and news. If you would like more information, or to arrange an appointment for you trust, please contact me at david@skychemicals.co.uk or call at 0114 278 0222.