Coronavirus: Dubai rolls out germ-busting robot to combat Covid-19

The clean machine uses ultraviolet light rather than sprays to sterilise public spaces

Dubai has rolled out its latest weapon in the fight against Covid-19 - a germ-busting robot which can disinfect hospital wards, malls and offices using ultraviolet light.

Sanitizexperts, a home, office and industrial cleaning firm, said its automated UVC robot offers a smarter, safer and more efficient way to combat the spread of coronavirus and wipe out other bacteria.

The hi-tech device is able to provide 360-degree disinfection of any area it glides through, without the need for chemicals and sprays.

The cyber sanitiser deploys artificial intelligence to plot its path and judge the time required to disinfect the environment it finds itself in.

“The automated UVC Robot is an exciting development against Covid-19, which we’re very excited to introduce to the UAE," said Omar Chappuis, chief executive of Sanitizexperts.

"Whether in a hospital, airport, mall, home or the office, the robot will ensure that bacteria are eliminated, allowing for clean, safe living.”

It is equipped with radar vision and ultrasonic obstacle avoidance abilities to allow it to roam freely without colliding into anything in its path.

The robot's ultraviolet light can operate for up to 8,000 hours, while the machine is able to recognise when a human being is within reach so it can automatically shut down the powerful lamp.

Research carried out by the the International Ultraviolet Association, a non-profit organisation dedicated to advancing the industry, has noted that  UV disinfection technologies are a valuable tool in reducing the transmission of Covid-19.

The robot can sterilise an 800 square metre area in 150 minutes, said to be around 10 times the efficiency of other disinfection methods.

The clean machine is operated through Wi-Fi and can be managed via a PC or an app.

The software assists users in mapping the area to be sanitised and it is possible to have multiple automated UVC robots working simultaneously. When the battery level energy is low, the robot it will automatically go back to its station and charge.

The robot is available for rental or purchase through the company.