Disinfecting bots: The future of sanitation

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  Quantumrun Foresight
• November 29, 2021

The COVID-19 pandemic has sparked a surge in the use of disinfecting bots, offering a safer and more efficient method of sanitation. These bots, capable of using ultraviolet radiation or disinfectant mist, are being adopted by hospitals and businesses, improving safety and potentially reducing cleaning costs. However, this trend also brings challenges, including the need for new regulations, potential job displacement in the cleaning sector, and the importance of sustainable design for robotics.

Disinfecting bot context

The COVID-19 pandemic highlighted the need for safe and efficient sanitation methods to reduce the risk of the disease. To meet this need, industry is gradually turning to robots. 

For example, Montreal hospitals are testing disinfecting bots that use ultraviolet radiation to kill dangerous bacteria and viruses on different surfaces. The Research Institute of the McGill University Health Centre stated that disinfecting bots will improve patient safety and protect hospital staff. Researchers are also currently looking into how well disinfecting bots work on sanitizing stretchers and N-95 masks. Experts believe that the algorithms developed for disinfecting bots allow them to spot and clean infection hotspots better than existing sanitation systems. 

Companies like Avidbots are seeing greater demand, collecting up to 36 billion dollars in funding in 2021. Their disinfecting bot, called Neo, can thoroughly clean floors. Co-founders of Avidbots are stressing the dangers faced by cleaning staff in light of the pandemic, putting forth their robot as a solution that doesn’t risk lives. Similarly, the bot named Breezy One, developed by Build With Robots, uses a disinfectant mist to clean. However, one disadvantage of disinfecting steam is that developers will need to adjust the bot to disinfect rooms with different airflows properly. 

Disruptive impact 

Disinfecting bots can become an integral part of consumers’ daily routine, providing a safer and cleaner living environment. This trend is especially important for those with compromised immune systems or those who live in densely populated areas where the risk of disease transmission is high. The convenience of scheduled disinfections can also free up time for individuals, allowing them to focus on other tasks.

For companies, disinfecting bots can play a crucial role in maintaining a healthy workplace. This service can lead to fewer sick days, increased productivity, and a boost in employee morale. Companies may also see a reduction in cleaning costs as these bots can operate around the clock without the need for breaks. Furthermore, businesses that operate in sectors where cleanliness is paramount, such as the food industry or healthcare, can benefit significantly.

Governments can also leverage the use of disinfecting bots in public spaces, such as schools, hospitals, and transportation hubs. This effort can help to reduce the spread of infectious diseases. In the long run, this could lead to healthier communities and potentially lower healthcare costs. Additionally, the use of these bots can send a strong message about the government's commitment to public health, which can boost public confidence and trust

Implications of disinfecting bots

Wider implications of disinfecting bots may include: 

• Traditional cleaning companies reducing human cleaning staff while investing in expensive sanitation bots for select large clients.
• Businesses replacing some cleaning and janitorial staff with robots as a cheaper or more effective alternative.
• Adverse effects on the population since, ironically, overly sanitized may impair people’s natural immune systems from being exposed to and building natural defenses against various germs, diseases, viruses, and fungi. 
• Growth in the robotics industry leading to job creation in sectors such as manufacturing, programming, and maintenance.
• New regulations to ensure their safe and ethical use, leading to a more robust framework for the governance of robotics and artificial intelligence.
• Innovation in related fields, such as sensor technology and machine learning.
• A greater emphasis on sustainable design and end-of-life management for robotics.

Questions to consider

• Do you think disinfecting bots are more cost-effective than cleaning staff?
• How long do you think it will take for disinfecting bots to replace traditional cleaning services?