A Warren software firm has developed a portable UV-C system designed to kill a wide range of viruses and bacteria, and its CEO believes the system, launched in Ireland last month and North America earlier this month, will also help in the fight against the COVID-19 virus.

AVTECH, headquartered out of the Cutler Mill, has been manufacturing computer environmental monitoring systems for more than 30 years. The firm's foray into UV-C (ultraviolet) protection is just an extension of its goals, CEO Michael Sigourney said.

"UV-C is proven and more reliable when applied in supplement of basic precautions than any other option," he said. 

The system works by hitting all surfaces in a room with high intensity ultraviolet-C light, and can be carried from room to room as needed. The firm's system works on a timer, with the exposure time set based on the room's dimensions. Apart from determining the correct exposure time, the learning curve required to use the system effectively is quite small, Mr. Sigourney said.

"The four UV-C lightbulbs (in the unit) work to kill bacteria and viruses with a 99.9 percent efficiency," according to AVTECH literature. "No special training or certifications are needed."

The system's launch in Ireland last month was a success, AVTECH COO Richard Grundy said. 

"Owners, administrators and managers who are concerned about re-opening their facilities and protecting the health of their people quickly realized the benefit ... when combined with their usual cleaning procedures," he said. The system "is easy to use and can be deployed in nearly any environment."

While Mr. Sigourney is enthusiastic about the system's long term use in industry and business, he said it can also play an immediate and crucial role in the state's schools, where the Covid-19 virus can easily spread. Four of the eight school districts in the East Bay are already AVTECH customers, and he was working this past week to set up a webinar to discuss the system with the East Bay's eight superintendents.

We're really excited about the system," he said.

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