Newcastle upon Tyne-based Modular Security Solutions has launched Steri-Pod, a containerised, self-cleaning high security unit which offers a hygienic laboratory environment for applications such as Covid-19 testing and vaccinations.

Steri-Pod features UVC (Ultraviolet C) germicidal irradiation technology from Oldham-based infection control specialist Plasma Clean. This provides 24-hour protection – at a rate of 99.99% – against Covid viruses, bacteria, spores and fungi.

Steri-Pod is the only containerised laboratory to use Plasma Clean – Airklean and RoomKlean UVGI (ultraviolet germicidal irradiation) infection control solutions. These units can be mounted on walls and ceilings and use UVC germicidal lamps which emit light at a wavelength of 254nm and are designed to eliminate airborne microbes. They ensure that Steri-Pod can offer 24-hour disinfection without the use of cleaning chemicals, which can be potentially harmful to the environment.  

Plasma Clean’s technology is designed to operate in enclosed spaces where people are present. Therefore, operational downtime is reduced as there is no need for staff to leave a facility while cleaning takes place.

In creating Steri-Pod, Modular Security Solutions – a high security composite panels specialist – has blended the convenience of an iso container with security and hygiene.

Modular Security Solutions’ high security composite panels are used to line out the container, creating a secure envelope and giving it a high level of resistance to attack and forced entry.

Steri-Pod includes hygienic, wipe-clean and dust-resistant security walls, ceilings and floors, making it suitable for a CL3 laboratory environment.

Modular Security Solutions’ high security composite panels are available with both rockwool and PIR insulation core types, which offer a high level of fire efficiency and a thermal U value of up to 0.22W/m2K.

Through Modular Security Solutions’ partnership with Beaverfit Ltd, the company can provide Steri-Pod as a bespoke fit-out package, which can include mechanical and electrical fit-out, ventilation, heating and cooling systems, hygienic cabinet and storage options, racking and alarm systems.  

Modular Security Systems has already successfully delivered high security, hygienic containerised medical units to the NHS in the West Midlands.

Modular Security Solutions designs and installs high security walling systems and enclosures that can be used to create new buildings, superstructures and can also be retro-fit into existing buildings to security harden specifically identified areas.

Plasma Clean applies its plasma and UVC technologies across infection control, indoor air quality and kitchen ventilation, and its systems are used by organisations such as Hilton, Burger King, McDonald’s and Tesco.

Mark Sutherland, Projects Director of Modular Security Solutions, said: “We’re delighted to have worked in partnership with Plasma Clean and Beaverfit to bring Steri-Pod to the market.

“Drawing on our extensive experience in high security composite panelling systems and Plasma Clean’s specialist expertise in UVC technology, we’ve designed a solution which has multiple applications for healthcare organisations and the life sciences sector.

“The Steri-Pod has all the convenience of an iso-container, but has the benefits of high security, hygiene, thermal insulation, acoustic insulation and fire protection.”

Dr David Glover, founder and technical director of Plasma Clean, said: “It’s been very exciting to work with Modular Security Solutions on creating this practical, ‘self-cleaning’ solution for the healthcare sector – and it’s been particularly pleasing to see the results of our collaboration come to life during the UK’s national lockdown.

“Both ourselves and Modular Security Solutions are innovators in our respective fields, and Steri-Pod is proof that some ‘out of the box’ thinking can lead to a solution capable of rapidly meeting specific technical demands.

“Unlike ‘fogging’ and other methods of disinfection, our UVC technology ensures that laboratories can remain continually operational for long periods of time, as there is no need for staff to leave the environment in order for cleaning to take place. This has significant advantages for healthcare organisations who, for instance, need to rapidly process test results.”

Steri-Pod features high security, hygienic door sets and is available with a wide range of locking options and integrated vision panels, if specified.

Modular Security Solutions’ high security composite panelling systems are rapidly installed and offer a significant reduction in labour costs, site down time and on-site trades, due to their convenient male/female slip joint and pre-finished appearance, which comes in a wide range of standard colours and finishes.

Modular Security Solutions offers a complimentary Security Design Package with every project, which details secure installation methods and ensures the interfaces between its systems and doors, windows, ventilation louvres and service penetrations are inbuilt and secure.

The company’s high security composite panelling systems – which are available in a range of resistance levels– are designed to be lightweight and space saving and provide excellent fire and thermal efficiency.

Designed to withstand determined attack from a wide range of tools and forced entry, the high security composite panelling systems protect people, cash, high value equipment and assets in a range of sectors.