In a post-pandemic society, health and wellness spaces face a significant hurdle: sanitizing their space so thoroughly that members return and can trust the process.
Ozone (O3) technology may be the solution.
Ozone is formed naturally by the ultra-violet rays from the sun and lightning. Ozone can also be created synthetically by passing air through a corona discharge ozone chamber (electrical reaction) or ultra-violet lamp (photochemical reaction).
Many studies conclude O3 gas is a highly effective method to eliminate mold, bacteria, viruses and other microorganisms from the air and surfaces. Some studies also suggest O3 gas is superior to traditional towel-based (manual) cleaning approaches.
Ozone is extremely active. When it encounters microorganisms, ozone will interfere with the metabolism of their cells, through inhibiting and blocking the operation of the enzymatic control system. A sufficient amount of ozone breaks through the cell membrane and leads to the destruction of the microorganism. Thereafter, the rest of ozone naturally reverts to oxygen very quickly.
This technology has been cited in several studies over the last two decades, referencing its use as an effective virucidal and antibacterial agent, and its efficacy against salmonella and inactivation of the influenza virus.
A multitude of sites are now using ozone to disinfect their spaces, including the Fort Lauderdale Fire Station and Mumbai hospital chambers. An O3 tunnel was constructed at a Mexican food market to keep doors open during the coronavirus pandemic. Now, religious leaders in Saudi Arabia have even been using ozone gas to clean Islam’s holiest site, the Kaaba in Mecca.
Non-invasive, byproduct free, powerful and safe, it removes the need for manual sterilization using traditional cleaning supplies, saving businesses countless hours and valuable profit margins.
As fitness spaces like Eagle Yoga House and a sports equipment brand BroZone begin utilizing this technology in the fitness sector, its value to the community cannot be understated.
Could ozone be the way forward for fitness spaces and health clubs?
Amber Hudson is the director of marketing at Clean-Site. She can be reached at info@clean-site.org or visit clean-site.org.
