Air Purification Technology Installed at Big Island School to Stem Spread of COVID-19

The installation of new air purifying technology is adding another layer of security to one Big Island school as they get ready to welcome students for in-person instruction for the 2021-22 school year.

Hawai‘i-based company ABC Corporation has installed ultraviolet (UVC) air purification units at Nā‘ālehu Elementary School as well as several schools on O‘ahu in an effort to stem the spread of COVID-19.

Installed in ceilings, these beehive-like devices clean the air in 1,000 square feet of space. Units were installed in Nā‘ālehu’s cafeteria and gym.

The technology has been proven in Japan to kill airborne germs. It is already being used in the country’s bullet train stations, airports, and other public spaces.

“As schools and businesses bring more folks back for in-person work, this technology is the perfect way to protect everyone. It’s invisible technology with visible results,” said ABC Corporation’s Innovations and Marketing Executive Harris Nakamoto.

Each of the air purification units costs about $6,500 installed. ABC Corporation has engaged with other Hawaii public schools, providing bacteriological testing, bio-risk assessment information, and training for their custodial workers.

ABC Corporation, founded in Honolulu in 1933, is the exclusive United States distributor of both the air purification and surface protection technology, which are available on all islands statewide. The company has also installed the technology at various stores, restaurants, unions, banks, and other Oahu businesses.

The company has also installed UVC air purification units in the band room and locker rooms at Farrington High School on O‘ahu, with other units scheduled to be set up in Farrington’s cafeteria. Kalani High School had similar units installed in its band room, while Waipahu Elementary obtained mobile units to accommodate indoor meetings in its cafeteria, library and elsewhere.

ABC Corporation also partnered with Honowai Elementary School, equipping Principal Kent Matsumura and staff with a triple-safety system using UVC air purification units, nano platinum catalytic protective coating of surfaces as well as Environmental Protection Agency-registered, hospital-grade, food-grade disinfectant for Honowai’s cafeteria.

ABC Corporation also provides invisible nano platinum technology that creates a long-lasting, protective anti-bacterial and anti-viral barrier which is especially helpful in keeping high-touch areas such as door handles, restroom faucets, and tabletops clean.

The non-corrosive coating lasts up to two years, making it ideal for workspaces, dining outlets, and other high-traffic areas. After experiencing COVID-19 cases, facilities have benefited from the treatment by avoiding long-lasting and widespread shutdowns and instead experienced targeted quick-turnaround cleaning.