Chemical fogging, particularly H2O2 or hydrogen peroxide fogging, is an efficient and effective way to sanitize a controlled or indoor environment. The hydrogen peroxide itself is a powerful decontaminate, and when released in an aerosol form, it is capable of achieving a 6-log kill. This results in 99.9999% elimination of pathogens such as viruses, bacteria, fungi, and other microbes in an environment.
Types of Chemical Fogging
When it comes to hydrogen peroxide fogging methods, you have a few options:
- Room Fogging
Room fogging is referred to as an “isolation approach” because the entire room that is being fogged should be vacant during the procedure. Room fogging is used mainly for cleanrooms and vivariums where the HVAC unit can be shut down and direct exhaust systems exist. Shutting down the HVAC during fogging allows the aerosol to disperse evenly, and the direct exhaust helps the room become safe to enter more quickly.
With room fogging, a mathematical formula that incorporates the area’s cubic footage and a set time frame is used to calculate the appropriate amount of product to release. When the positively charged H2O2 particles are released, the room is treated evenly and quickly. Every nook and cranny is filled with fog and sterilized at a molecular level. - Direct Fogging
Direct fogging is a good option for areas where shutting down the HVAC unit is not an option, like in certain cleanrooms and laboratory spaces. As the name implies, direct fogging involves spraying the aerosolized chemicals directly on the surfaces or objects that need to be sterilized. Of course, you should wear the appropriate personal protective equipment and take the necessary safety precautions. In general, H2O2 fog should not be inhaled. - Touchpoint Fogging
Touchpoint fogging is most commonly used in non-controlled environments that could still benefit from sterilization and decontamination efforts. Another telling name, touchpoint fogging, involves spraying the fogging chemicals on frequently touched surfaces like door handles, workstations, desks, chairs, etc. Again, the appropriate protective gear should be worn, and adequate safety and ventilation or isolation measures should be taken.
Regardless of the fogging method used, some chemical fogging standards can be counted on across the board, like the H2O2 won’t affect the HEPA filters and the fog will not leave a residue.
The approach that makes the most sense for your sanitization needs will depend on the environment or objects that need to be decontaminated, but H2O2 fogging can be counted on to nearly eliminate bacteria, fungus, viruses, and more in entire rooms or on specific objects and surfaces.
With COVID-19 raising society’s awareness of the prevalence of viral contaminants and increasing the demand to keep those contaminants under control, there’s never been a better time to explore your Cleanroom Cleaning options.
