A team of scientists at the University of West England in Bristol are developing technology that could allow businesses and organisations to detect viruses including Covid-19 on surfaces as the UK transitions out of lockdown.
The Safe Surface Sensor uses AI technology to determine whether a location has been properly sanitised and warn people if it detects a virus or bacteria in the area.
The sensors are placed in any public area where the transmission may occur before the sanitation process.
The area is then sanitised, ideally using a ‘fogging’ method, before a mobile app instantaneously scans the sensors and receives a result on the presence of any contamination.
The results are then sent to a central database that allows potential customers to confirm the area has been effectively sanitised by using a QR scanner.
The team behind the sensors, which are made from biodegradable paper, has projected they will cost 10p each and say they can provide companies with a cost-effective solution to ensure their facilities are safe as social-distancing measures are relaxed.
The technology powering the sensor was initially developed by Safe Surface Sensor’s parent company Eco Sensing, which helps airlines measure and reduce the carbon footprints of their aircrafts.
Currently in the final stages of testing, with a scheduled release date of the second half of 2021, the sensors are being trialled by Stagecoach, Bristol Ambulance and Clifton High School to demonstrate their application across different industries and sectors.
Graham Mimms, co-founder of Safe Surface Sensor, said the technology could help workers and customers feel safe to return to offices and venues, and allow the economy to “bounce back as quickly as possible.”
Mr Mimms said: “The reopening of offices and the removal of the ‘work from home recommendation’ is essential here, particularly if we are going to provide another boost to surrounding restaurants and shops.
Sign up for more business news straight to your inbox Stay up to date with our daily newsletter, email breaking news alerts and weekly round-ups. To sign up, find out more and see all of our newsletters, follow the link here“Yet this will only happen once individuals feel comfortable that they are in variably safe and Covid-free surroundings and here, hygiene technology is essential.
“With Safe Surface Sensor, the control is put back in the hands of staff members, who can then make an informed decision as to whether they want to enter a given workspace.
“The impact that this could have on employee confidence is self-evident, and we would urge the government and companies across the private sector to seriously consider the adoption of technology, which is cost-effective, easy to use and accessible to every type of organisation.”
