FMJ Facilities Management magazine providing industry-specific intelligence to FM and property professionals
St. Vincent’s University Hospital (SVUH), with the support of Bidvest Noonan, has become the first hospital in Ireland to adopt Stabilised Aqueous Ozone (SAO) technology, marking a significant advancement in cleaning and sustainability within the healthcare sector.
With an exceptional track record in infection control and innovation, SVUH has implemented SAO technology to further enhance its cleaning processes and environmental performance. Bidvest Noonan, which has successfully deployed SAO technology across various sectors for many years, collaborated closely with hospital stakeholders to conduct extensive testing prior to implementation. The results demonstrated outstanding effectiveness in maintaining hygiene standards and controlling infections.
Stabilised Aqueous Ozone, which is produced on site using ordinary tap water is a potent cleaning agent and disinfectant. This technology has been shown to outperform conventional cleaning products, meeting and exceeding Green Seal Standards as an industrial-grade cleaner.
After use, SAO reverts back to water and oxygen, making it completely safe to dispose of, with no harmful impact on waterways. Its environmental credentials are strengthened by the fact that it eliminates the need for single-use plastics and requires no rinsing, significantly reducing water consumption. SAO is a fitting solution for hospitals like SVUH, which are committed to minimising their environmental footprint.
Olivia Doyle, Assistant Director of Nursing for Infection Prevention and Control at St. Vincent’s University Hospital, stated:
“St. Vincent’s University Hospital is committed to promoting best practice in terms of sustainability. SAO provides an innovative alternative, reducing the number of chemicals being used. By using this technology, the high levels of cleanliness throughout the organisation are maintained without the use of toxins. The benefits include no odours, no chemical residue, and a simplified cleaning routine. Many of the benefits relate directly to the operatives and how it has simplified their processes.”
In healthcare, effective cleaning is crucial for Infection Prevention and Control (IPC). The introduction of SAO at SVUH is expected to enhance the hospital’s already rigorous IPC protocols, providing a powerful and environmentally friendly cleaning solution that is safe for use in sensitive environments.
Susan Howard, Director of Operations in Healthcare at Bidvest Noonan, added:
“We are proud to support St. Vincent’s University Hospital in leading the way with this innovative cleaning technology. SAO has proven to deliver excellent results and has helped the hospital achieve its infection control and sustainability objectives.”
