HAMILTON, N.J. — Robert Wood Johnson University Hospital Hamilton recently added a new member to its staff. Here’s the catch, the new worker isn’t a human. The hospital has invested in Tru-D, “Total Room ultraviolet disinfection,” a UVC disinfection robot that helps keep patients and staff safe from harmful germs.

The robot delivers one automated, measured dose of UVC light to consistently disinfect an entire room during one cycle. It operates from one placement within the room, ensuring significant pathogen reduction in direct and shadowed areas.

“We are excited to bring in this innovative and scientifically-validated technology to improve the experience for our patients and staff,” said Richard Freeman, President and Chief Executive Officer of Robert Wood Johnson University Hospital Hamilton.

The hospital said it invested in the UVC disinfection robot to improve patient outcomes and further decrease infection rates in the hospital, as an added measure of sanitary protection.

“This device will serve as a complement to our stringent manual cleaning process to add an extra layer of protection against harmful germs like C. diff, norovirus, MRSA and many others,” said Anne Dikon, RN,BSN, CIC, and Director of Infection Prevention.

UVC disinfection has proven to be a chemical-free and environmentally-friendly way of providing thorough room disinfection. While invisible to the human eye, UVC light, with wavelengths between 200 and 300 nanometers, is germicidal – meaning it is capable of inactivating a variety of microorganisms including bacteria, viruses and protozoa.