Chemical or bio-fogging has been around a long time as a way of sanitising interior spaces in buildings. But what once was a highly specialised (and costly) cleaning technique for clean rooms, hospitals and the food processing sector is now seeping into the mainstream.

There are various factors spreading its appeal. As in other areas of cleaning, the progress made in developing new chemical treatments has been remarkable. Historically, various chemicals including formaldehyde, phenol-based agents and compounds of ammonium have been used in fogging. Many had not been properly tested for potential effects on human health, some were toxic and others even damaged materials they came into contact with.

Advances in biocidal technology have bypassed these problems so that bio-fogging is now known to be both safe and effective. In practical terms, not only is it now far more straightforward to carry out fogging, we can demonstrate how effective it is through simple before and after tests, using ATP monitors.

From schools and offices to public transportation, premises managers are responding to these higher expectations and their organisations’ duty of care to staff, students, passengers and everyone using their facilities.

As well as the threat of disruption to any organisation and financial loss to business, there is the risk of reputational damage too, especially if the response to an outbreak is slow or ineffectual.

In parallel to these developments, the more enlightened PH Techs 268 cleaning service providers are expanding and enhancing their capabilities to support their goals, including more affordable and professional services and healthy workplaces.