Scott Mitchell solves problems every day, working as an engineer on new technology and innovation for Magna. When Scott saw the spread of COVID-19 earlier this year and the strain it was putting on supplies of masks and other protective equipment for health care workers, he thought about an invention he and some colleagues developed a few years back, a consumer product to take the nasty smell out of hockey equipment.
That product known as Puro is now poised to play an important role in the continued fight against the pandemic.
“In light of the COVID crisis and knowing our ozone-generating product was proven to be effective against MRSA*, we wanted to see if we might have something that can help save lives,” said Mitchell.
Mitchell and his team quickly ramped up their efforts to conduct further testing. Arrangements were made with labs at multiple universities in Ontario in order to run four required tests at the same time -- for example while one lab ran the test to confirm it kills the virus, another was testing to confirm the masks were not damaged and would be reusable after the ozone treatment. Tests have recently confirmed Puro kills the COVID-19 virus on N95 masks, and Scott and his team are now applying for approval for use of the Puro as a medical device in Canada and the U.S.
Hospitals and other health care facilities will be able to place the cooler-sized device directly within their dedicated COVID wards, so masks can be decontaminated and reused without having to leave the secured area. We still have a critical shortage of PPE and continue to leave health-care workers in the lurch, particularly as we gauge readiness for a potential second wave of the pandemic, the president of the Canadian Medical Association recently stated.
The PURO system energizes oxygen molecules, converting the air inside the device into ozone molecules. These molecules are used for decontamination then safely converted back to oxygen through a neutralization cycle. It’s safe for people and the environment and plugs into a regular wall outlet to use.
Plans to manufacture units are under way. Magna’s Techform plant in Penetanguishene, Ontario, is tooling up and preparing for production in the fourth quarter.
Helping people solve problems with technology and innovation, supporting the communities where we work and live, and showing leadership during challenging times: Mitchell and the Puro team provide an outstanding example of what makes Magna great.
*Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus bacteria
Helping people solve problems with technology and innovation, supporting the communities where we work and live, and showing leadership during challenging times: Mitchell and the Puro team provide an outstanding example of what makes Magna great.
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