Drain decontamination using in-situ-generated ozone.

Area of Science:

• Environmental Microbiology
• Plasma Technology
• Infection Control

Background:

• Sink drains are a significant source of microbial contamination in healthcare environments.
• Pathogen aerosolization and splashback from flowing water contribute to contamination.
• Biofilms in drains harbor planktonic and sessile microorganisms.

Purpose of the Study:

• To demonstrate a novel method for ozone disinfection of drains.
• To suppress pathogen growth in drain sumps, including biofilms.
• To utilize a portable cold plasma device for in situ ozone generation.

Main Methods:

• Ozone was generated in situ using ambient air and a portable cold plasma device.
• The system incorporated safety mechanisms to prevent operator ozone exposure.
• Bacterial recovery was assessed post-treatment to quantify bioburden reduction.

Main Results:

• Significant bioburden reduction was observed in drain biofilms (approximately 5 log10).
• Biofilms in the sink area also showed substantial reduction (approximately 6 log10).
• The cold plasma device safely generated highly biocidal ozone.

Conclusions:

• Plasma-generated ozone is a safe and effective disinfectant for inaccessible drain pipework.
• This portable system offers advantages over liquid disinfectants, reaching all surfaces.
• Ozone disinfection is efficient, requiring minimal power and producing no toxic residues.