The Coronavirus pandemic has heightened public awareness around hygiene and cleanliness in all spaces, which includes riding in vehicles and other modes of transportation. Car rental companies, and ride-sharing services face unique contamination concerns due to the nature of the confined spaces and many touchpoints to potentially spread the virus. To meet the needs of passengers and employees alike, Rentokil launched a service to disinfect vehicles. 

Rentokil’s Disinfection Service, which works to create a healthier environment for drivers and passengers, is designed for organizations implementing precautionary hygiene measures, adhering to state and municipal mandates or responding to COVID-19 exposure incidents. 

“Vehicles, trains, and other shared transportation spaces have unique contamination risks,” said Rentokil President & CEO, John Myers said in a statement. “With so many touchpoints and close quarters, there is an increased chance of transmission of the virus."

The disinfection service for vehicles will begin with an assessment to understand the fleet processes and address specific touch points in the vehicle. The certified specialist will determine the appropriate level of disinfection and protection needs. Prior to beginning service, the specialist will set up a special staging area for donning and removing the protective gear they will wear while performing the service. This helps reduce the risk of transmission of pathogens from the area. 

During the disinfection service, the specialists use liquid dispersal technology to ensure the disinfectant contacts all areas in the vehicle, including the hard to reach areas. The formula, registered with the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, inactivates pathogens on hard, non-porous surfaces within 10 minutes including COVID-19, norovirus, H1N1, SARS, MRSA, E. coli, Salmonella, and more. The non-harmful formula also has added benefits of leaving no harsh fumes and eliminates odors. 

Some materials and areas will require special treatment, such as leather, suede and the underside of curved areas, and the specialist will use surface wipes to achieve full disinfection. 

“This service is designed to put drivers and passengers at ease,” Myers said.