Illinois-based vertically integrated health system Carle Health in the US has implemented UV-C air disinfection technology from environmental health service company R-Zero in its facilities.

The technology harnesses the capabilities of UV-C light, AI, IoT-connected hardware and sensors.

This initiative covers six of the health system's facilities that include the Carle Foundation Hospital, the only Level 1 trauma centre in the region.

Carle Health’s use of R-Zero's Arc IoT-connected mobile devices, which neutralise harmful microorganisms on surfaces and in the air through UV-C light, is said to enhance the safety and quality of indoor air.

According to the vendor, its connected indoor health technology reduces the requirement for chemical disinfection in patient rooms after discharge, and in the hospital's operating rooms during night.

Currently, R-Zero's solutions are also used in schools and colleges, senior care communities, and corporate campuses, among others.

Carle Health environmental services director Bruce Osborne said: "Our partnership with R-Zero to add UV-C light disinfection to our cleaning process has increased the effectiveness of our environmental services team's efforts as we work to support consistent, clean space for clinical team members to care for patients.

"Offering a clean healthcare environment helps us continue to provide high-quality care for our community."

R-Zero CEO Jennifer Nuckles said: "We're thrilled to partner with Carle Health to deploy our UV-C disinfection technology, which will help make its facilities safer for patients, visitors, and staff."