High-reliability test for the detection of coronaviruses on surfaces
In these times that encourage change and sometimes even reinvention, Sinergies and Genosalut, two Mallorcan companies based in Palma, have established a collaboration agreement. The union has been made possible thanks to the platform promoted by the Institut d’Innovació Empresarial (IDI) of the Govern de les Illes Balears. This platform was created with the aim of bringing together companies in the Balearic Islands capable of providing practical solutions, products and services to address the new needs and problems that have arisen as a result of the SARS-CoV2 coronavirus pandemic.
We offer a test, which is performed according to the PCR procedure, to detect traces of the virus on (almost) all types of surfaces in buildings, premises, outdoor areas and means of transport.
The PCR test has the highest reliability of all those offered for the detection of the SARS-CoV2 virus. Its results are not immediate, as the sample has to be processed in a biotechnological laboratory.
Why is surface analysis so important?
The COVID-19 pandemic has spread very rapidly and, together with the airborne route, contaminated surfaces (fomites) represent a very important vector of transmission. The detection of these surfaces is therefore a basic tool for verifying the effectiveness of the measures adopted to prevent the spread of the disease. In this way, we believe that the service we offer will help to bring industrial, commercial and recreational activities back to the so-called “new normal”.
Which companies is the test aimed at?
The test is aimed at companies in all sectors. Those that have not closed, those that have recently resumed their activity or will resume it shortly or in the future during the de-escalation period. The main objective is to certify the effectiveness of the cleaning and disinfection methods, in order to convey the image of a “safe establishment”. In addition to guaranteeing the health of its employees and also that of its customers.
Which surfaces should be analysed?
It is recommended to analyse the areas where there is the greatest influx of people or risk of contamination, depending on the type of activity of the establishment.
For example, in a supermarket it would be advisable to analyse shelves, checkouts or counters. In a small shop or service company, the reception and customer service area, toilets, offices or vehicles should be analysed.
How often should surfaces be analysed?
Depending on the profile of the establishment, the most appropriate frequency will be recommended, taking into account the influx of users and their cleaning protocols, as well as the time or phase of deconfinement in which we find ourselves. The aim of this test is to check and certify that the leisure and work areas are free of the virus.
What is the protocol to be followed?
After contacting the customer, we arrange a date and time to go to their establishment and take samples from the chosen surfaces. The sample is collected using a swab. After the sample has been taken, the following steps are established:
● Transport of the swab in virus-inactivating medium. This medium causes the virus to lose its infectious capacity, but it is still detectable.
● Extraction of genetic material and performance of PCR. If virus is present in the sample, the technique will specifically detect and report it.
● Delivery of results. Results will be reported as a PDF report by email. The result “absence” will mean that the cleaning and disinfection processes are being carried out in a correct and proper way.
What is the price of the service?
Since the needs of each company are different, due to the type of service they provide and the surfaces to be analysed, please request a quote adapted to each case.
Sinergies and Genosalut, a partnership at the service of local businesses
Sinergies
Sinergies is a company specialised in carrying out analyses, defining cleaning and self-monitoring protocols on HACCP, health and safety, legionella and swimming pools, and providing training activities. Since 2004, it has been providing services to improve management from the point of view of quality, the environment, sustainability and food and water safety.
Genosalut
Genosalut is a biotechnology-based company, created in Palma in 2012, with the aim of using scientific advances in genomics to improve people’s quality of life.
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