Since the pandemic, facilities worldwide have prioritized indoor air quality through various disinfection strategies. However, an important question remains: Is air disinfection alone sufficient to protect against the full spectrum of infectious pathogens?
The Challenge of Surface Pathogens
While airborne pathogens capture much attention, several dangerous microorganisms primarily spread through surface contact. Common surface pathogens like Staphylococcus aureus (including antibiotic-resistant MRSA), Norovirus, and E. coli can persist on surfaces for extended periods—from weeks to months. These pathogens create a transmission network as people move through spaces:
Pathogens settle on high-touch surfaces
People contact these surfaces during daily activities
Cross-contamination occurs as individuals touch multiple surfaces
Infection risk increases through unconscious face-touching
Limitations of Current Approaches
Traditional air quality solutions such as HEPA filtration, improved ventilation, and air recirculation reduce airborne pathogen concentrations. However, these methods have two key limitations:
They don’t address existing surface contamination
Airborne particles eventually settle on surfaces, creating new contamination
While manual intervention through hand hygiene and surface disinfection can help, human inconsistency makes these measures less reliable as standalone solutions.
A Dual-Action Solution
An effective pathogen control strategy must address both air and surface contamination. Automated systems that provide continuous air and surface disinfection offer several advantages:
24/7 operation without relying on human intervention
Simultaneous treatment of both air and surfaces
Consistent, measurable results
Reduced reliance on manual cleaning protocols
Implementing a Comprehensive Strategy
The most effective approach combines multiple protective measures:
Automated air and surface disinfection systems
Regular cleaning and disinfection protocols
Proper hand hygiene practices
Adequate ventilation
Regular monitoring and maintenance
By addressing both airborne and surface transmission routes, facilities can create a more robust defense against pathogen spread.
For additional information on surface contamination and disease prevention, the CDC provides extensive resources and guidelines for implementing effective control measures. https://youtu.be/KmyxsnuREGs
If you are unfamiliar with ASHRAE Standard 241-2023: Control of Infectious Aerosols (241), keep reading for a basic introduction. Developed by ASHRAE at the request of the White House, this standard was created in just six months. Its goal? To offer an alternative solution to widespread shutdowns in the event of another pandemic.
Prior to 241, standards like 62.1, 62.2, and 170, focused on Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs) and particulate levels when it comes to IAQ . These standards are typically focused on outside air and air exchanges to improve IAQ through dilution and filtration. However, standard 241 introduced pathogens as a critical component of IAQ.
VOCs and particulate levels can be measured by sensors, with either automated or human responses triggered to address the underlying cause of an imbalance. Furthermore, most VOCs are putrid, and people instinctively move away from them. But pathogens are silent, and potentially deadly. People in the incubation period of a virus can be contagious and infect people in the spaces they occupy long before showing symptoms.
While 241 is still very new, the impact on future facility development is unquestionable. Between the awakening of the pandemic and the release of 241, both people within the industry and in the general public are more aware and concerned about pathogens than ever. 241 is a big step in the right direction and brings infectious aerosols to the forefront of all conversations within ASHRAE about IAQ.
Harbor Transit’s fleet now boasts newly-installed CASPR disinfection systems, adding another
layer of protection for its passengers and employees. The CASPR (which stands for Continuous
Air & Surface Pathogen Reduction) transit model is specifically designed for buses and trains
and destroys 99.96% of pathogens both in the air and on surfaces, including COVID-19 and
other viruses, bacteria, mold, and odors.
CASPR utilizes a Natural Catalytic Converter (NCC) to create highly effective and safe levels of
hydrogen peroxide molecules out of ambient air. CASPR’s molecules then circulate the air and
land on all surfaces, destroying harmful pathogens at the cellular level. These units create no
noise, odor or residue, ensuring a safe environment for all passengers. New and returning
customers can have confidence in riding Harbor Transit with CASPR units purifying air and
surfaces on each bus 24 hours a day.
Transportation Director Scott Borg is hopeful that the installation of the CASPR units will
reassure those who have been hesitant to ride the bus. “This cutting-edge technology now
implemented in our fleet is the future of safety in public transportation,” Borg said. “With the
continuous disinfection CASPR units provide on each bus, we certainly hope that anyone who
has been hesitant to return to public transportation will now feel safe to do so.”
Harbor Transit saw a steady increase in ridership in 2022, with numbers approaching pre-
pandemic levels.
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Since 1975, Harbor Transit has provided quality public transportation services to the Tri-Cities
Community. Now with a 55-square-mile service area and a fleet of 28 accessible buses, Harbor
Transit is dedicated to serving the City of Grand Haven, Grand Haven Township, City of
Ferrysburg, Village of Spring Lake, and Spring Lake Township communities. Offering on-
demand curb-to-curb service, the Lakeshore Trolley, and Beach Express, Harbor Transit
maintains its reputation for exceptional service that is accessible to all.
A Natural Catalytic Converter ® for Continuously Inactivating Air and Surface Pathogens with More Effect than Ventilation and Filtration
By Dr. Margaret Scarlett, Brett Duffy
ARTICLE ABSTRACT
Study Objective: The purpose of the study is to present independent laboratory testing for a novel technology in air and on surfaces. Since 2020, public health goals have focused on improving indoor air quality. This includes protection from airborne pathogens, such as tuberculosis, RSV, SARS-CoV-2, common cold or influenza viruses, measles, and others. Engineering controls are highly effective at reducing hazardous pathogens found in indoor air and from recontamination of surfaces. This occurs from a continuous cycle of settling of small, sustained airborne pathogens, which may become dehumidified, becoming airborne again, carried by room air currents around indoor spaces, then repeating the cycle.
Methods: The novel technology utilizes a catalytic process to produce safe levels of hydrogen peroxide gas that are effective in reducing pathogens in the air and on surfaces. Air testing was performed with the MS2 bacteriophage, the test organism for ASHRAE standard 241, and methicillin-Resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA). Surface testing was performed with SARS-COV-2 (Coronavirus COVID-19) and H1N1 (Influenza). Typical ventilation and filtration does not effectively remove disbursed pathogens from the entire facility, due to inconsistent air circulation and surface deposits of pathogens.
Results: MS2 was reduced by 99.9%; MRSA was reduced by 99.9%; SARS-CoV-2 was reduced by 99.9%; H1N1 was reduced by 99.9%.
Conclusion: This novel catalytic converter reduces a variety of pathogens in the air (99%) and on surfaces (99%), by actively disinfecting with the introduction of gaseous hydrogen peroxide. This active disinfection provides a strong solution for protecting the entire facility and its occupants.
CASPR Technologies Introduces New Home PRO System for Residential Spaces
HVAC-installed System Sets a New Standard in Indoor Air Quality
Mandeville, LA (July 9, 2024) – CASPR Technologies, a leader in innovative air and surface purification solutions, announces the launch of its Home PRO line, designed to revolutionize indoor air quality management in single-family homes and residences. Built on CASPR’s cutting-edge technology, the Home PRO units offer unparalleled effectiveness in reducing odors and providing relief from allergies, ensuring a healthier indoor environment for homeowners and occupants.
The Home PRO units utilize advanced purification technology developed by CASPR, leveraging the natural elements found in the air to create powerful oxidative molecules. These molecules effectively neutralize odors and reduce airborne pathogens, bacteria, & allergens without the use of chemicals, making them safe for continuous use around families, pets and plants.
“We are thrilled to introduce our Home PRO line, which represents a significant advancement in indoor air quality technology in the home,” said Nick Licata, CEO of CASPR Technologies. “Contrary to HEPA filter technology, CASPR’s technology is mounted in the HVAC ductwork, and effectively treats air quality at the source, providing 24/7 silent protection from pathogens, common surface contaminants and allergens while improving air quality in any home environment.”
CASPR Technologies is also actively seeking new contractors and supply houses to join its network and help distribute the Home PRO line across various regions. By partnering with CASPR, contractors and supply houses can offer their customers a premier product that promotes a healthier living environment and meets the growing demand for enhanced indoor air quality solutions.
“During Covid we did a lot of research ourselves to find the best line of indoor air quality. There are a million types of indoor air quality products, but we only wanted to sell the best and most effective,” said Tyler Biel of Eagle AC and Heating in Louisiana. “During our research period, we came across CASPR, and were very pleased with what we found and the overall results of the products, and even more impressed with the customer service provided. We now install the CASPR units on every new system install because we know the importance of having a healthy home. We highly recommend the CASPR system for all homes.”
For more information about CASPR Technologies, or how to become an HVAC partner for the Home PRO residential units, visit https://casprtech.com/caspr-home-pro/.
About CASPR Technologies: CASPR Technologies is a pioneer in air & surface purification solutions, dedicated to developing innovative technologies that improve indoor air quality across residential, commercial, and healthcare sectors. With a commitment to sustainability and effectiveness, CASPR continues to lead the industry in providing safe and reliable air purification solutions.
CASPR Technologies has announced its new HVAC division, which will build manufacturing partnerships and sales networks to bring CASPR’s innovative disinfection technology to multiple industries.
This division will help meet the growing demand for advanced air and surface disinfection solutions delivered through HVAC systems. Read the full story here.
Recent reports about avian flu, particularly the H5N1 strain, have emerged, with more than 40 cattle facilities testing positive since March 2024, as of this writing. About 20 percent of retail milk tested is positive for the virus.1 Therefore, avian flu poses a significant threat to animal health and a potential threat to human health. Global experts have been closely monitoring this threat, now reality, since 2020.
While only one symptomatic case of avian flu among a farm worker in Texas was investigated last month, experts are closely watching to monitor other farm workers with surveillance testing, and assessment of any symptoms of illness. Concerns about the potential threat of human-to-human transmission has been expressed, with the CDC (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention) now testing wastewater supplies to detect any spikes in flu that could be attributed to Avian Flu. 2
Originally detected among poultry and wild birds, avian flu virus or highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) spreads rapidly, expanding its reach, infecting various animal species. During fall and spring wild bird migrations, avian flu cases can be expected to rise, particularly in-flight migration zones. This is why the US government allocated 200 million dollars towards a rapid response to the spread of avian flu this month. 3
How quickly the virus has spread this year has surprised scientists, with this outbreak believed to have begun in December 2023. The origins of bird flu trace back to China’s Guangdong region in 1996, where a new highly pathogenic strain, H5N1, was first identified in a farmed goose. By 1997, the first human deaths from avian flu transmitted among farm workers were reported in Hong Kong. Since then, it has expanded its reach, infecting other animal species. Low pathogenic avian influenza, initially non-fatal in wild birds, can mutate into different strains of HPAIs in farm-raised poultry. HPAIs can, cause severe illness and death among birds. 4
Even in remote regions of the world, there is evidence for the global spread of avian flu. These include HPAIs found among wild birds in Antarctica’s Northern Weddell Sea. Veterinary pathologists, like Lineke Begeman, have been at the forefront, braving harsh conditions to analyze the impact of the virus on wildlife. 4 Their efforts provide crucial insights into the virus’s trajectory and its potential consequences. For more than two decades, global and US national public health authorities, defense and civil authorities have worked on avian flu preparedness and response.
How it Spreads: Bird flu viruses can infect humans when a sufficient amount of the virus enters a person’s eyes, nose, or mouth, or when inhaled. This transmission can occur through airborne virus particles, such as droplets or potentially dust, that are breathed in by a person. Additionally, transmission can occur when a person touches a surface contaminated with the virus and then touches their mouth, eyes, or nose. 5
Human infections with bird flu viruses typically occur following close, prolonged, and unprotected contact with infected birds. In such instances, individuals may encounter the virus through direct exposure to infected birds or their bodily fluids, such as saliva, mucus, and feces.5 Within poultry facilities, feces may dry out and become airborne during activity. These can be inhaled by workers in some facilities. Protective measures, such as gloves or other personal protective equipment (PPE), are essential to reduce the risk of infection during contact with infected birds or contaminated surfaces.
Prevention
Preventing avian flu requires avoiding exposure to sick or dead animals and birds, especially poultry. Protective measures, such as wearing gloves, masks or face shields and other appropriate PPE, are essential when farm workers are handling potentially infected animals. Intermittent cleaning and sanitation of surfaces is important. 5 Continuously operating engineering products can provide an extra layer of protection for reducing both air and surface contamination, like CASPR (Continuous Air & Surface Pathogen Reduction). Hazard and risk reduction is the goal of prevention activities customized for facilities.
Impact and Response
While human cases of avian flu remain rare at this writing, the mortality rate among those people infected is disturbingly high, exceeding 50%. However, the virus’s impact on animals has been devastating, leading to the slaughter of millions of farmed birds every year since 2020, mostly in Asia. In addition, avian flu is causing significant mortality among wild bird populations. 4 To assist in mitigation strategies, the US Department of Agriculture shared data, obtained through routine collections of wild bird samples, that identifies areas with an increased AIV risk. 6
Efforts to prevent avian flu include enhanced surveillance, biosecurity measures on farms, and vaccination programs with some strains to poultry in high-risk areas. However, challenges remain, including the reluctance of some nations to implement vaccination, due to trade barriers, loss of income to farmers and producers when birds found to be positive are slaughtered, and concerns about disease detection in vaccinated flocks.
Since March, the detection of H5N1 among dairy cows in the United States underscores the need for comprehensive monitoring and response strategies for the remainder of this year, and beyond. While the transmission of the virus to humans remains rare, the potential for animal to human transmission highlights the importance of vigilant surveillance and implementation of public health measures to limit the spread.
The Importance of Monitoring Spread
All the commercial milk supply in the U.S. comes from farms that participate in the Grade “A” milk program and follow the Pasteurized Milk Ordinance (PMO), ensuring safety. Pasteurization and diversion or destruction of milk from sick cows are crucial measures in the federal-state milk safety system.
USDA Image: See https://www.aphis.usda.gov/livestock-poultry-disease/avian/avian-influenza/hpai-detections/livestock
As of May 10, the USDA states that 46 facilities have tested positive, with 1 in 5 retail milk samples analyzed being positive for the virus on May 2, 2024. 7 The virus has been reported to spread from cattle to other mammals, namely a few barnyard cats and a raccoon, in addition to poultry and wild birds. This impacts food safety and security.
Evidence to date indicates that adaptation of the HPAI A(H5N1) virus has occurred, since it has become established among cows. What worries many epidemiologists is the risk to public health, should the virus continue to affect other parts of the food supply, such as pigs. Unlike cattle, pigs often are infected with other influenza A viruses and are genetically closer to being able to infect humans. A few of these influenza viruses have already adapted and infected humans. Should these pig viruses mutate or exchange genetic material with H5N1, a more virulent strain of the virus or even a pandemic strain is possible. Therefore, extra measures are needed to limit the spread of HPAI to pigs, and to carefully monitor pig populations for HPAI.
Recommendations and Conclusion
The FDA recommends against consuming raw milk or raw milk products, particularly from cows showing symptoms of illness or exposure to avian influenza viruses. Producers are urged to take precautions when discarding milk from affected cows to prevent further spread. Destruction of poultry in affected facilities is made with appropriate state and national food/agricultural safety workers and veterinarians.
For the last two decades, public health authorities have been developing preparedness plans to combat avian flu as a global health concern. Now, these are being utilized, along with the mobilization of funding for US activities. 8 The recent, rapid emergence and spread of HPAI is a cause for concern, necessitating urgent action for monitoring and surveillance of poultry and pig production farms, while escalating adherence to safety protocols. While human to human transmission has not been reported with this HPAI, efforts are underway and continuing to monitor and limit any additional mutations of HPAIs among animals that could potentially impact humans. The CDC asks health officials to maintain flu surveillance this summer despite transmission of seasonal flu viruses dropping to minimal levels in the Northern Hemisphere. Even in the off-season, staying alert of any signs of human-to-human spread will minimize the risk 9 of H5N1 transmission. Continued collaborative action among food production facilities, public health authorities, communities and civil authorities are essential to safeguard both the food supply and human susceptibility to any further HPAI mutations.
The timeline of H5N1’s global spread 4
1996: Detected in poultry in Guangdong, China
1997: First human deaths reported in Hong Kong
2005: Spilled over into wild birds in a major way; new strains emerge
2020: A strain emerges that can sustain in wild bird populations year-round
2020-22: Becomes endemic in wild bird populations
2021: Arrives in North America
2022: Detected in South America
2024: Confirmed in Antarctica
Resources
Bird Flu Outbreak in Dairy Cows Is Widespread, Raising Public Health Concerns | Infectious Diseases | JAMA | JAMA Network
CASPR is proud to announce its Transit 2.0 solution has been selected as a recipient of the 2023 EMSWorld Innovation awards. The award recognizes the industry’s most pioneering products of the year that were on full display at EMS World Expo, held September 20–22 in New Orleans.
Dive into an illuminating Q&A session with the Bus and Transportation Manager from Kingman Unified School District, Tandy Janson, as she shares her firsthand experience with the implementation of cutting-edge technology. Gain valuable insights into the reactions from both students and staff and unravel the workings of this transformative technology. Situated in the vast expanses of Arizona, Kingman Unified School District operates 62 buses, serving a sprawling area of 3,300 square miles. Join us in exploring the intersection of innovation and education in this insightful conversation.
Bus & Transportation Manager, Tandy Janson
Q1: How did you find out about CASPR Technologies?
“A Bus Summit Seminar.”
Q2: When choosing a solution to disinfect your transportation fleet, what were you looking for?
“Something that was high quality, and easy to use.” Q3: How was the CASPR Technology explained to you?
“It was explained in detail. I was sold after the first three sentences.”
Q4: Why do you think CASPR is the best solution for disinfection on your buses?
“This is a continuous cleaning product. It doesn’t need to be manually done. There’s no physical labor. It’s disinfecting when the bus is full and running.”
Q5: How was your experience with the sales and service team at CASPR Technologies?
“Very helpful, they answered all my questions and were never pushy. Simply told me to look at the data they provided. They’d also update me whenever I wanted and their confidence in their products sold me.”
Q6: Now that you have chosen CASPR Technologies to protect your drivers and students in route, what benefits do you see?
“The drivers, monitors, mechanics, and office staff can all feel the difference in our building. Those with allergies don’t have red, itchy eyes, sneezing, or coughing when they are inside the facility or the buses. I don’t spend enough time with the students to gather enough insight but if it’s anything like our indoor unit, I’m excited to see it.”
Q7: Are you happy with CASPR Technologies? (Sales, Prices, Service, Performance & Support)
“Yes, I look at this as a one-time purchase with the occasional upkeep on the filters that are not even close to the original purchasing price. Over an extended period, the cost would be well worth it as we wouldn’t have to keep purchasing chemicals and towels only to just throw that stuff away and repurchase it again right after. Also, my drivers won’t have to worry about purchasing gloves or getting chemicals on their hands. Overall, we are saving more money with CASPR than without it.”
Q8: What could you say about CASPR Technologies that would be helpful for a school director that is looking for disinfection solutions in their schools?
“Keep track of the time you pay your employees to sanitize the bus twice a day or three times a day, depending on how many schools they service along with the cost of the products to sanitize. Then compare it to the initial cost of CASPR products plus the 2-year replacements. For us, savings started within the first year. If the savings start within 1 to 2 years, it’s worth the money. The CASPR system is continuous, and if you replace the filters and cells every 2 years…It’s forever. It saves us time, labor, and money, while providing a healthier environment.”
Q9: Would you choose CASPR again and why?
“Yes, I have spoken with the assistant superintendent and finance from the transportation department, and we are going to try to get CASPR throughout every one of our schools. We are going to do what we can each year to make sure that our schools have the system throughout to protect our students, our teachers, and our staff.”
Wrapping up this insightful Q&A, it becomes apparent that CASPR Technologies is a notable player in the field of advanced indoor air quality and surface disinfection solutions. With a strong dedication to promoting health and wellness, CASPR Technologies actively contributes to shaping the educational landscape through its innovative products and services. By consistently mitigating the presence of harmful microorganisms and enhancing air quality, CASPR empowers educational institutions to establish safer and healthier indoor environments for both students and staff. Let’s collectively welcome a future of education where well-being takes center stage.
Pastor Luter says that Franklin Avenue’s mission statement is simple: To spiritually impact our families, neighborhoods, city, and state by Exalting the Savior, Equipping the Saints, and Evangelizing the Sinners. On August 29, 2005, the church faced its first big disaster when Hurricane Katrina flooded the original church with nine feet of water. In December 2018, the congregation moved into a brand new 3,500 seat sanctuary with separate areas for children and youth worship services. Currently, Franklin Avenue Baptist Church is still growing in members which have left the church finding new ways to adapt to any potential future disasters.
Because of Katrina, their New Orleans services could be seen live over the internet every Sunday morning for their displaced members. This has proven useful to this day given the pandemic preventing the older generation and the immunocompromised from attending in-person service. Thanks to CASPR Technologies this will no longer be an issue. Ever evolving, FABC has recently decided to partner with CASPR Technologies and take a proactive approach against future pandemics. From Pastor Luter, “We are really excited about the investment we made to continuously clean our air and surfaces for our congregation and staff. CASPR gives us the confidence to open our doors without worry.” After COVID-19, FABC knew action to clean the air would be just as important as disinfecting surfaces. CASPR Technologies provided the perfect solutions as our products continuously disinfect the air and surfaces 24/7.
So, what does this mean for the congregation? It means opening the doors without the fear of spreading illnesses, germs, and having an overall peace of mind. Now, members won’t have to worry about chunky, big equipment taking up a bunch of space. Instead, CASPR Technologies provided a solution that is fully automated, requires little maintenance, discreet, and easily installed into the church’s HVAC system. If the air is on, CASPR is behind the scenes continuously disinfecting and protecting the church.
What changes can be expected with this partnership? Accessible education when members and guest enter the church that will show a short clip on our display screens located throughout the building on how the technology works with door clings at all main entrances of the church. These door clings will provide a QR code for members to scan to learn more about the technology.
Now, what exactly is this new technology? CASPR is an innovative “no-touch” disinfection technology that utilizes a Natural Catalytic Converter (NCC) to create gaseous Hydrogen Peroxide out of ambient air. Hydrogen Peroxide is nature’s natural disinfectant and CASPR recreates that same organic process indoors making it very effective against viruses, bacteria, mold, fungi, VOC’s and even odors. By treating and destroying pathogens at the cellular level on a continuous basis CASPR eliminates the periodical approach, human error and extra labor needed to truly disinfect our indoor environment.
Franklin Avenue Baptist Church is not exempt from facing its fair share of changes and obstacles. However, this has not dimmed the hope of the congregation and the staff. Pastor Luter, since his election, has maintained the church’s vitality. Furthermore, thanks go out to the Trustees, Finance, and Leadership Teams for their proactive thinking and diligent steps in ensuring the safety of everyone at FABC. Prioritizing investment in CASPR Technologies and ensuring the safety of the community remains a top focus, made achievable through the generous support of faithful donor.
