During the COVID-19 outbreak, HOCl fogging offered a quick, affordable, and effective solution to disinfect larger areas. And because the fog lingers, it helps the mist envelop the office or room completely, disinfecting even those hard-to-reach spaces.
HOCl fogging is best used alongside other disinfection practices – it is not meant to be a replacement. Here, you can take a closer look at exactly what the hypochlorous acid can bring to the table. Including its regulations, applications, and how it can benefit your business.
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What Is Hypochlorous Acid?
Hypochlorous acid (HOCl) is one of the major disinfectants approved by the EPA. It is a natural antibacterial agent. An ideal sanitizer and disinfectant must be non-toxic when it comes in contact with the skin, and effective in various forms.
HOCl can be a practical disinfectant of choice for COVID in the surgery office. Pure HOCl is naturally produced in all mammals and can help protect the system against a wide range of microorganisms. HOCl is also a potent oxidizing agent.
For commercial use, HOCl’s efficacy and potency as a disinfectant will vary based on the concentration, method of application, and type of product you use. HOCl can be used for many things, like a mouth rinse. It has also made its way into many industries.
From restaurants to farming, chronic wound care, disinfection, and healthcare applications. The product can be used for hand sanitizing, disinfecting outpatient surgical centers, cleaning biofilm-contaminated implant surfaces, and so on. HOCl applied by foggers is a practical approach for disinfecting larger areas. (1)
For further reference: HOCL (HYPOCHLOROUS ACID WATER): ALL YOU NEED TO KNOW
HOCl Fogging – How Does It Work?
HOCl fogging is carried out with a machine, capable of creating a mist of tiny particles, which will envelop an enclosed space. A fogger uses the solution to form an aerosol mist, preferably less than 20 microns in size.
As soon as the mist gets released into the air, it will slowly land on objects and surfaces across the room. When it comes in contact with these surfaces, the mist starts destroying viruses and bacteria that have lingered. It takes just a couple of minutes to achieve the desired result, all the while the mist evaporates. (2)
HOCl fogs are very efficient in the microbial disinfection of both horizontal and vertical surfaces. It won’t damage the clothing or furniture.
The Benefits of HOCl Fogging
A HOCl fogging machine can become that natural weapon to fend off viruses. As well as harmful pathogens in offices, colleges, schools, daycare centers, and more. Not only will it sanitize the surfaces, but it can also keep the cleaning staff safe and drastically decrease the cleaning time.
For a first-time user, hypochlorous acid might sound a bit too ominous. But, it isn’t harmful to humans nor will it damage your surroundings. To figure out its true potential, check out the benefits of HOCl fogs below.
1. Sanitizes All Kinds of Surfaces and Hard-to-Reach Places
Toilets are teeming with bacteria. And during the pandemic, they are a key focus, especially when you are trying to keep the infections and pathogens at bay. According to research on public restrooms, E. coli was the most present, just on the toilet outdoor handle and flush tank levers. (3)
As a matter of fact, a toilet bowl can contain 3.2 million bacteria per square inch. You will be using the flush handle, which is also covered with bacteria. HOCl fogging is here to turn the tide. You can safely use it to sanitize a 6-cubicle toilet in just a couple of minutes.
This also means your staff is at far less risk when cleaning these surfaces. Besides, a fogging machine is very efficient. By creating and releasing fog into the air, all the beneficial properties of HOCl settle on the surfaces. Whether that is on the toilet seat, under the chair, desk, or in tiny corners. In other words, HOCL can help sanitize under every nook and cranny.
2. HOCl Fogging Offers Versatility and Convenience
HOCl fogging is currently the go-to choice for mitigating airborne C19 on any surface or within the ambient air. But, there is more to this fully biodegradable and environmentally friendly product than meets the eye. Disinfecting the air with HOCl can also be used to destroy:
- Fungi
- Spores
- Microorganisms
- Bacteria
- Pathogens
- Bird flu or other viruses
When a disinfectant agent comes in contact with a virus, it alters the protective protein coat. The mechanism of disinfection works by killing the cell wall of viruses or microbes. This lets the disinfectant completely inactivate or eradicate them.
HOCl is a powerful solution you can depend on. Because you can use it for many things, not just COVID-19, it can make for a practical disinfectant solution for your restaurant, home, office, etc. It won’t leave any specific scent that you should worry about.
For further reference:
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3. No Need for Manual Intervention
Fogging spaces with HOCl is a simple, affordable, and effective task. Since machines are designed to cover larger areas, there is no need for users to intervene manually. You can just sit back and let the HOCl do the work for you.
Because of its ease of use, fogging with HOCl can boost the confidence of clients and help you take better care of yourself. Fogging can disinfect areas that people might have missed. Besides, clients tend to feel at ease when they are spending time in sanitized spaces. Especially when they don’t need to worry about the chemical side effects.
HOCl is a combination of salt, water, and electricity – nothing but electrolyzed water. Meaning it is safe for plants, pets, and humans. By fogging your office or home, you can keep your customers, staff, and family happy.
4. Organic and Environmentally Friendly
Choosing “green”, natural, or organic products is more than just the latest trend. It is a practical long-term approach that has gained momentum over the years. People have turned to environmentally-friendly products to avoid the potential health risks that can come with chemicals.
Organic household cleaners can help with that. They can kill viruses and bacteria without releasing dangerous fumes into the environment. Probably, one of the best examples of green disinfectant is HOCl. Other natural alternatives, such as antibacterial or disinfectant products include vinegar.
As well as isopropyl rubbing alcohol (with 60% concentration or more), hydrogen peroxide, and hot water (at 60 °C/ 140°F or more). However, none of these options can topple HOCl. That’s because HOCl is seen to be 100 times more effective than bleach. But, it is a lot gentler. (4)
How to Pick a HOCl Fogger
There are many different types of HOCl foggers on the market. For example, ventilated and vaporized types, hand-held and large ones, with prices in the $100 to $500 volume range, but some of the larger ones exceed $2,000.
Of these, we recommend the stationary types with ultrasonic method. The ultrasonic method is the fogging method primarily used in humidifiers, and thanks to the principle of the ultrasonic transducer, the mist emitted is very fine, about 5 microns, which is also called "dry mist". This fine mist takes the form of both gas and droplets to deliver active ingredients to surfaces throughout the room.
Furthermore, the stationary type can fog HOCl throughout the room with a simple switch, without human labor, providing an overwhelming return on investment compared to handheld foggers.
Also, when choosing a fogger, select a HOCl specialized product. HOCl, being chlorine-based, can cause corrosion, especially on the parts inside the fogger. In this case, if the fogger is not specially coated for HOCl, the product will soon become unusable. Consider using the following products:
What Are the Regulations for Using HOCl?
The EPA has taken further action to ease the availability and production of EPA-registered disinfectants. It’s important to stick to the EPA guidelines to protect public health. EPA typically requires disinfectant manufacturers to apply for and obtain EPA approval. Before altering the source of the active ingredient.
EPA continues to assess the quality and safety of a range of products. The eligible active ingredients include:
- Hypochlorous Acid (HOCl)
- L-Lactic Acid
- Hydrogen Peroxide
- Sodium Hypochlorite
- Glycolic Acid
- Hydrochloric Acid
- Ethanol
- Citric Acid
Manufacturers can source specific active ingredients from various suppliers. But, they would need to let the EPA know, after which the manufacturers can commence the production process. Given the fact that the final formulation is chemically similar to the current one.
Disinfectants and pesticides are packed with both inactive and active ingredients. The active ones kill, manage, repel, or prevent a pest. In the case of COVID-19, disinfectants can also come in handy. Whereas the inactive ingredients are there to affect the product’s usability and performance. (5)
How to Store HOCl?
HOCl is best stored away from direct sunlight. Since it poses no threat to safety and overall health, there are no unique storage requirements that you should pay attention to. However, you should be keeping the contents closed.
One research found that the initial chlorine concentration of commercial HOCl was roughly 550ppm. When stored open and at room temperature, the chlorine content dropped by 30% every 100 days. While homemade HOCl had a chlorine content of up to 257.6ppm, which was reduced by 65% after 100 days. This is something to have in mind when planning to store HOCl at home or in the office. (6)
Final Thoughts
For companies and businesses to get back on track, it’s important to create a safe environment for consumers. That means a clean and disinfected working space. That way, customers can feel at ease whenever they visit your establishment. Whether that is a hotel, office, restaurant, or anything else. Disinfecting with HOCl can give you that advantage.
You can make use of its properties to minimize the bacteria and viruses transfer. Therefore, creating a clean and safe space to work in. After all, no one wants to spend time in a place that can’t guarantee impeccable hygiene. With HOCl foggers, you can decontaminate any premises safely and quickly. It is an efficient solution that gets the job done. HOCl foggers have been in the market for quite some time now. So, make use of its effective and safe properties to get the desired result.
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FAQ
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How to use a HOCl fogger?
When you use the HOCl fogger, you can disinfect the area in just a few minutes. You will be using a fogging machine capable of releasing a mist of very small particles that can cover the entire space. After fogging, the room shouldn’t be wet. If it is, it means you are using too large particle sizes. The ideal HOCl concentration for fogging is about 200 ppm. (7) -
Is fumigation effective against COVID?
In indoor areas, routine use of disinfectants by HOCl fogging (also referred to as misting or fumigation) can help with COVID. It has high predictability for disinfecting against this particular virus. But, HOCl alone may not be enough to get the desired result. HOCl fumigation is best used together with other disinfection practices. Especially if someone is sick and you need to disinfect and clean the home regularly. In shared spaces, items and surfaces should be disinfected and cleaned after each use. That’s where cleaners and disinfecting wipes can help. -
What is hypochlorous acid used for?
Hypochlorous acid has a wide range of uses. It is popular in neutralizing chemical burns and wound cleaning, and it’s typically found in many eye care products. In other words, this is a strong yet gentle antimicrobial agent. Capable of curbing inflammation and fighting infection. As well as controlling the body’s response to injury. Thus, letting it heal properly. Hypochlorous acid is also used in veterinary medicine due to its potent virus and bacteria-killing compounds. -
Is hypochlorous acid a good hand sanitizer?
A HOCl-based hand sanitizer can be a solid alternative to alcohol. That’s because many people find alcohol-based hand sanitizers, sprays, gels, and wipes to be uncomfortable to use on sensitive skin. HOCl is safe to use and a natural germ-killer. You are getting a very effective sanitizing product that doesn’t contain any preservatives or synthetic fragrances that can irritate the skin. -
Is HOCl expensive?
This is a safe and inexpensive solution to work with. Not only does it disinfect all those difficult-to-reach places, but it is also easy to work with. It creates fast results and doesn’t require too much effort to get the desired outcome.
References
1. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7315945/
2. https://www.salafamilydentistry.com/how-fogging-can-protect-you-during-covid-19/
3. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7491804/
6. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/35307474/
7. https://www.lyfordsmiles.com/hypochlorous-acid-fogging-at-home-or-work-2/
