A north-east hotel is believed to be the first in Scotland to take delivery of a “revolutionary” mobile decontamination device capable of combatting superbug micro-organisms.
Ardoe House Hotel and Spa, at Blairs, near Aberdeen, is using the Disinfect+ machine to make sure its premises are free of Covid-19 and any other unseen dangers in the run-up to its reopening after lockdown.
The unit, one of only two in the UK, is said to kill nearly 100% of bacteria and viruses.
It has been tested on the microorganisms which cause Covid-19, ebola and the norovirus, or winter vomiting bug.
The technology was developed in Austria, predominately for use in hospitals, and is being used at a variety of locations in its country of origin by the Red Cross.
Because it is 100% mobile and designed for “plug and play” operations, it is suitable for use in many other sectors.
Ardoe House general manager Chris Hodgens said: “We are keen to get the hotel operational again by summer 2020, so have a robust plan in place for a phased opening.
“Having access to medical-grade equipment is a game-changer, not just for the hospitality industry but for every sector that wants to look after its workforce and wider society.
“I really believe this will be a major part of health, safety and customer confidence in businesses from now on.”
Aberdeenshire-based marketing expert Lee Brett and a business partner took over the local “master” franchise for Disinfect+ just two months ago.
Mr Brett, who has worked with global brands including Emirates, Pepsi and Pizza Hut, said: “The time is now right to start looking at the rejuvenation of the Scottish economy and it’s crucial this is done in the safest manner possible. In addition to public and private care providers, we expect to be working with the retail, oil and gas and medical sectors, including GP and dental surgeries and pharmacies, all of whom are in need of clinical standards of protection and reassurance as we manage the ‘new normal’.”