Some sort of vector image of a brain inside of a transparent human body

Contributed By AFFLINK

Electrostatic sprayers were first developed in the 1930s and used primarily for industrial applications. Today, the pandemic has made them one of the most essential disinfecting tools the professional cleaning industry has, to help stop the spread of COVID-19.

As to how they work, "these systems place a positive charge on to the antimicrobial [droplets] as they are misted or sprayed onto surfaces," said Michael Wilson with AFFLINK, which now markets these systems and appropriate antimicrobial cleaning solutions through its distributor-members throughout the country. "The charge allows the antimicrobial to adhere to targeted surfaces, providing complete and in some cases, persistent coverage."

When he said "persistent coverage," Wilson is claiming that some antimicrobials used with electrostatic sprayers can kill pathogens for up to 90 days. However, for these systems to work effectively – and safely – Wilson said cleaning professionals should know the following:

- Always wear a mask and goggles when using electrostatic sprayers.

- While there is no need to wipe or spread the mist over a surface, keep a cleaning cloth or disposable wipe handy just in case.

-  Work in one direction, left to right or right to left, so that everything is properly covered. 

"It is not necessary to spray from the top down a wall," said Wilson. "The antimicrobial should adhere to the surface and not drip down the wall."

- Building users can be in the area when using electrostatic sprayers, "however it’s best if everyone is out of the work area when these systems are being used," said Wilson.

- Surfaces must be cleaned and disinfected first before misting. The cleaner should also be cleaned between applications of disinfectants and antimicrobial cleaning solutions.

- The mist can be applied directly or over, chairs tables and counters; the antimicrobial will filter down onto these surfaces.

"As with all antimicrobials, dwell time is necessary for the disinfectant to work effectively," said Wilson. "However, with some antimicrobials, the mist will start eliminating pathogens immediately and, if it is engineered to provide persistent coverage, remain effective for up to 90 days."