FAAN approves new disinfectant for airports, aircraft

The Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN), has approved Zoonocide Z71 residual microbial disinfectant for use at airports and on-board operating aircraft for safety during the COVID-19 new normal.

The Authority’s endorsement follows the positive and long-lasting effects of the disinfectant coupled with its trial by United Airlines. United Airlines is currently applying the coating each week on more than 30 aircraft to seats, tray tables, armrests, overhead bins, lavatories and crew stations, and expects to add it to its entire mainline and express fleet before the end of the year.

Zoonocide Z71, a United States Environmental Protection Agency, EPA-registered antimicrobial coating, forms a long-lasting bond with surfaces, inhibits the growth of microbes, and adds to the airline’s already rigorous safety and cleaning procedures.

The National President, Pest Control Association of Nigeria (PECAN), and Managing Director of Pesticorp Associates Limited, Kunle Williams, disclosed the recent approval, adding that Zoonocide provides an answer to the frustration of repeated disinfection procedures daily, or applying sanitizers hourly.

Williams said: “The Zoonocide microbial shield, when applied, creates a layer that bonds with the objects and surfaces, creating a thong-like shield that resembles microscopic pins. Once dry, it will attract microbes and pathogens, rupture the cell walls and membranes, thereby keeping such objects or surfaces sanitised for the next 28 days. The chemical is non-corrosive and classified by the EPA as Category IV, which is the lowest level of toxicity.

“Pesticorp Associates is proud to provide the Nigerian Airports with the most advanced application of antimicrobial protection to their aircraft, as they are proud distributors for Zoono West Africa Limited.”

United’s Chief Customer Officer, Toby Enqvist, said: “As part of our layered approach to safety, antimicrobials are an effective complement to our hospital-grade HEPA air filtration system, mandatory mask policy for customers and daily electrostatic spraying. We have overhauled our policies and procedures and continue to implement new, innovative solutions that deliver safe on-board experience.”