JP2008526466A - Integrated decontamination system - Google Patents

Abstract

A decontamination system for decontaminating an item includes an enclosure (10) with an inflatable structure (12) that is to be decontaminated when inflated. Define an internal space (30) for receiving the item. A source of decontaminant (106) is fluidly connected to the interior space. The source supplies the decontaminant to the interior space for decontaminating the item. The enclosure and other components of the decontamination system are easily transportable and items such as automobiles can be treated against harmful chemical or microbial agents at or near the location where the contamination is identified. It is possible to be done.

Description

  The present invention relates to the field of decontamination of the surrounding environment. The present invention finds particular application in connection with portable enclosures for the microbial, biological, or chemical decontamination of large devices, and will be described with particular reference thereto. However, it should be appreciated that the present invention is applicable to decontamination, treatment or isolation of both other large and small items.

  Small devices used in medical, pharmaceutical, food and other applications are frequently sterilized or microbially decontaminated prior to use or reuse. However, concerns arise when large equipment, such as vehicles, food and pharmaceutical processing equipment, mail handling equipment, etc. is contaminated by chemical or biological contaminants, such as pests or other species. Such equipment is often too large or inappropriate to be transported to a decontamination system such as a sterilizer. In addition, there are concerns that transporting contaminated equipment around facilities or off-site decontamination systems can pose a danger to personnel transporting the equipment, or may increase contamination around or into the facility. Often happens.

  Karle, U.S. Pat. No. 6,057,077 discloses an enclosure assembly that includes a frame structure formed from structural members and a flexible transparent enclosure, the enclosure assembly comprising isolation of patient equipment and the like. Provide an enclosed space for treatment. Treatment materials, such as hydrogen peroxide or other gas or vapor disinfectants, can be supplied to the enclosure to microbially decontaminate or treat the device. Since the enclosure is quickly assembled and quickly disassembled after use, it is suitable for the treatment of large equipment that cannot be moved quickly or that is too large to accommodate conventional sterilization equipment.

Karle's system is suitable for small enclosures where the height of the frame structure allows assembly. Because of the large number of components, there is a risk that important parts of the frame may be lost if the assembly was previously used and repacked without consideration.
US Patent Application Publication No. 2003/0133834

  The present invention provides a new and improved portable ambient environment enclosure and method of use that overcomes the above referenced problems and other problems.

(wrap up)
According to one aspect of the exemplary embodiment, a decontamination system for decontaminating an item is an enclosure with an inflatable structure, the inflatable structure being inflated. Define an internal space for receiving the item to be decontaminated. A source of decontaminant is fluidly connected to the interior space. The source supplies decontaminant to the interior space to decontaminate the item.

  According to another aspect of the exemplary embodiment, a method for decontaminating an item is provided. The method includes inflating an element of an expandable structure to form an enclosure in the interior space, allowing the enclosure to stand on its own, and transporting items to the interior space. The item is sealed within the enclosure and a gaseous decontaminant is introduced into the interior space to decontaminate the item.

  One advantage of at least one embodiment is that the decontamination system is easily transported to or near where contamination has occurred or where contamination is perceived.

  Another advantage of at least one embodiment is that the system can be used in a short time.

  Another advantage of at least one embodiment is that the system can be stored in a small volume when not in use.

  Another advantage of at least one embodiment is that the passages forming the enclosure are warmed by the inflation air to reduce decontaminant condensation between the decontaminant source and the interior of the enclosure. That is.

  Another advantage of at least one embodiment is that the enclosure is temperature controlled on all sides.

  Further advantages will become apparent upon reading the description and the claims herein.

  The drawings illustrate embodiments of the invention and are not intended to limit the invention. Further embodiments will be considered by those skilled in the art upon reading and exemplifying the detailed description. The present invention is construed to include all such further embodiments that are within the scope of the dependent claims or their equivalents.

  Referring to FIG. 1, a portable decontamination system A includes a portable enclosure 10, which is suitable for temporarily isolating and decontaminating large items. The enclosure 10 is constructed immediately when necessary to isolate contaminated or potentially contaminated items from the surrounding environment and decontaminate the items using a substantially gaseous or liquid decontaminant. . The gaseous decontaminant can be in the form of gas, vapor, mist, fumes, or mist. Suitable gaseous decontaminants include compounds of hydrogen peroxide with an oxidizing agent, especially with peroxides such as hydrogen peroxide, ozone, or co-agents such as ammonia or UV radiation. Including. Other suitable gaseous decontaminants include high temperature air and other gaseous decontaminants that are capable of destroying, inactivating, or making contaminants less harmful. While specific reference is made to vapor hydrogen peroxide, it should be recognized that other gaseous decontaminants and combinations of decontaminants are also contemplated.

  As used herein, the term “decontamination” encompasses microbial decontamination, ie the destruction or inactivation of biological contamination, which is a living microorganism and prion such as prion. Contains harmful and replicating biological material. The term also encompasses chemical decontamination, that is, the destruction or inactivation of chemicals that are harmful to the human body at low levels (eg, less than about 10 ppm), such as chemical warfare substances. Although not intended to encompass only the physical removal of such contaminants without involving destruction or inactivation as in the cleaning process, the process of decontamination can also have a cleaning effect. “Decontaminant” as used herein is a substance capable of providing decontamination. The enclosure 10 is configured to perform a decontamination process, particularly a chemical and microbial decontamination process, such as disinfection and sanitization, which is a lesser form of sterilization or decontamination.

  Items that can be isolated and decontaminated within enclosure 10 include ambulances, cars, trucks, buses, motorized passenger and freight vehicles such as road vehicles, tanks, personnel and munitions. Food and beverage processing equipment such as cooking equipment, processing equipment, refrigeration equipment, slicing equipment, packaging equipment, and bottling equipment, and pharmaceutical equipment. Other equipment, such as medical and veterinary equipment contaminated with bodily fluids or other sources of microorganisms, can also be treated, including beds, chairs, cleaning equipment, and the like. Pharmaceutical processing equipment, mail handling equipment, and other equipment can be isolated and treated. The item is generally known or suspected of being contaminated with chemical or biological contaminants that are harmful to the human body, such as chemical warfare substances, biological warfare substances, And naturally occurring chemical and biological contaminants. Without moving the item to a permanent, purpose-built quarantine unit, the item is immediately quarantined and treated, reducing the possibility of harmful microorganisms or other contaminants spreading around the facility. In addition, some equipment that is too heavy or too large to move conveniently can be cleaned in situ.

  The enclosure 10 includes a structure 12 that is flexible and inflatable. As shown in FIG. 1, when inflated by an inflation fluid such as air, the inflated structure 12 provides a hard, self-supporting walled enclosure. The structure 12 is self-supporting and there is no need for a frame structure of the support member formed from a hard material, but such a frame structure can be utilized if desired. Referring also to FIG. 2, the inflatable structure 12 includes a plurality of inflatable walls 14, 16, 18. The enclosure 10 is illustrated with a rear wall 14 that can be inflated and side walls 16 and 18 that can be inflated, the side walls 16 and 18 extending upwardly to form an arch, Although forming the roof 20 (FIG. 1), it is understood that any number of walls may be utilized as long as the enclosure can be inflated for the desired purpose. One or more of the walls 14, 16, 18, or part of the wall may include a non-inflatable portion. For example, the back wall 14 can alternatively be formed of one or two layers. The walls 14, 16, 18 define a support structure that can be inflated, which support structure defines a series of tubular members or other suitably shaped structural elements 21 that define an interconnected inflation passage 22. Formed by. When inflated and joined or secured as required, the enclosure has the ability to withstand wind speeds of up to about 100 miles per hour. The enclosure 10 optionally includes a floor 24 and is suitable for placement on a support surface 26. In one embodiment, the floor is thermally insulated to facilitate accurate temperature management. Alternatively, the support structure 12 is taped or closely attached to the support surface 26 as needed, and has a cross-shaped structure to help maintain the base portion of the wall in place. The enclosure 10 is light and can be stored in an appropriately sized bag 28 prior to inflation.

As shown in FIG. 2, the interior space 30 within the enclosure 10 can be sealed from the surrounding atmosphere, creating a substantially airtight isolation chamber for performing a decontamination process. In particular, the enclosure floor 24 is sealed adjacent to the lower end of the wall. The rear wall 14 is hermetically sealed with the adjacent lateral wall 16 and lateral wall 18. The inlet opening 32 is located at the end of the enclosure opposite the rear wall 14 and is sealed by a closure during decontamination. The closure includes an inner door 34 and an outer door 36 and defines an antichamber 38 between the doors. Each of the door 34 and door 36 includes a series of closure members in the form of flexible panels 40, 42, 44 (FIG. 1) and may be formed of the same material as the inflatable structure 12. The panel is folded, rolled or pulled sideways as shown in FIG. 3 to provide access to the enclosed space 30. Fasteners 46 are along the edges of the panels 40, 42, 44 and allow the panels to be sealed to each other and the floor when closed. Suitable fastening members 46 are hook and loop tapes (eg, Chico ^™ hook and loop tapes available from Stretchline (Textiles) Ltd, Tetbury, Gos., UK, or Velcro ^™ tape). Including. Other suitable fastening members include zippers and are Ziploc® type closures. For example, Chico ^™ hook and loop tape is a fire retarding tape made of 100% nylon. The tape has a cushioning effect, blocks and reduces vibrations, serves as an effective dust filter when closed tight, and in one embodiment has snow and sand impermeability.

  In FIG. 1, the exterior door has a central panel 40 that includes a transparent portion 48 and provides a window to the interior space 30. The central panel 40 can be rolled up from the floor and is held by a tape or tie 50 attached to the fixed panel 52 to provide access to the interior 30 (FIG. 3). The two lateral panels 42, 44 are also held by appropriately positioned tapes or straps 54 attached to the structure 12 that can be pulled laterally and inflated. The internal door 34 is assembled in the same manner.

  With continued reference to FIGS. 1 and 2, the inflation system 60 is connected to the interconnected inflation passage 22 prior to inflation. The expansion system 60 includes a compressor 62 or other suitable blower that pressurizes atmospheric air. A suitable blower is an electrically operated pump, and a manually operated pump may alternatively be used. The expansion system also optionally includes a heating and / or cooling device 64 to heat / cool the air prior to entering the passage 22. The compressor 62 may have more than one operating speed and provides a low and high flow rate of air. A high flow rate is used when the structure 12 is initially expanded, and a low flow rate is used to maintain the expanded structure.

Temperature controlled air enters the passage 22 and provides a temperature adjustable blanket around the interior space 30 to achieve a suitable temperature at which effective decontamination is maintained in the interior space. In the case of hydrogen peroxide vapor, a suitable temperature is one that removes or minimizes the condensation of hydrogen peroxide vapor on the walls of the enclosure or items being decontaminated, Above the temperature of the surrounding external environment. A switch (not shown) or the like is optionally provided on the pump 62 to allow the user to switch the pump from the expansion mode to the deflation mode. The inflation system 60 generally operates at about 1 to 300 m < ³ > / min. Depending on the size of the blower and the size of the structure that can be inflated, the enclosure can be self-supporting in a relatively short time, usually about an hour. For larger enclosures, multiple fans can be used, increasing the rate of expansion.

  The inflation system 60 is connected to the interior 30 via the inlet port 70 of the inflatable enclosure. As shown, a heat blocking air conduit 72 extends between the expansion system and the enclosure wall 18. In one embodiment, the end of the air conduit is mated with a suitable coupling member 74 and quickly mates with a corresponding coupling member 76 extending from the inlet port 70. Alternatively, a permanent connection may be provided between the conduit 72 and the wall inlet port 70. The inflation system 60 also optionally provides fresh air to the subchamber 38 via single or multiple inlets 78. The air can be heated or cooled as far as the air in the passage is concerned, thereby ensuring a temperature controlled environment on all sides of the enclosure 10.

  As shown in FIG. 2, the enclosure walls 14, 16, 18, and the roof 20 are formed from internal and external panels 80 and 82 of flexible material and are usually arranged parallel to each other. . The panel 80 and the panel 82 are connected to each other by a connecting member 84 extending vertically, and the connecting member 84 can be formed of the same material. The inner and outer layers and the connecting member together form a tubular member and define a through passage 22. The walls 14, 16, 18 may be inclined adjacent to the roof portion 20 inwardly in the direction of the vertical or top end, as illustrated in FIG. The passages 22 defining the lateral walls 16, 18 and the roof part 20 thus usually extend vertically from the floor 24 to form the first lateral wall 16, span the roof part 20 and continue from the other wall 18 to the floor. Go down. The connecting member 84 defines an opening 86 that allows air to flow from end to end of the passageway to equalize the pressure. An outlet check valve 88 in the outer panel 82 of the wall 16 opposite the inlet allows the release of excess pressure above a preselected maximum pressure, and the passage is continuous if desired. Or it can be refilled with intermittently heated or cooled air.

  The panels 40, 42, 44, 80, 82 are sealed to each other at their respective edges to provide an airtight or substantially airtight interior space 30. It will be appreciated that each panel may be formed from two or more separate panels whose respective edges are sealed together. By being substantially airtight, air at a pressure equivalent to a water depth of about 3.8 cm is supplied to the enclosure and allowed to equilibrate for 2 minutes and then the supply of air pressure is cut for an additional 5 minutes. The pressure within the subsequent enclosure is at least about 2 cm deep, and in one embodiment at least about 2.5 cm deep. The enclosure may be subjected to a leak test prior to use, eg, pressurized to balance pressure at a depth of about 1.5 cm for 1 minute, and an acceptable pressure level, eg, 2 minutes later By testing to ensure that a pressure of, for example, a depth of 1.0 cm is maintained, it is ascertained that the enclosure is substantially airtight.

  The enclosure floor 24 can optionally be warmed to heat the interior space 30. For example, as shown in FIG. 4, the floor comprises a lower layer and an upper layer of flexible material 90 and 92. A flexible resistive heating element 94 or other heat source is located in the gap 96 between the two layers. In one embodiment, the floor 24 has a cross section, each cross section having a heat source associated with it.

The gas decontaminant mobile source 100 supplies gas decontaminant to the interior space 30. As shown in FIG. 2, the source 100 is located outside the enclosure, but it is contemplated that the source is alternatively transported inside prior to decontamination. A suitable source 100 for providing vapor hydrogen peroxide is a source 102 of dissolved liquid hydrogen peroxide, for example, an aqueous hydrogen peroxide reservoir at a concentration of about 20-40% of the weight of hydrogen peroxide. Including. The hydrogen peroxide liquid is supplied to the evaporator by a pump 104 where the hydrogen peroxide and water components are evaporated on a heated surface (not shown). Vapor is carried in a carrier gas, such as air or other flow medium. The carrier gas is supplied by a source of carrier gas 108, such as a blower or a pressurized reservoir. The blower 108 can operate at about 1-300 m ³ / min. Multiple mobile sources can be used for larger enclosures. The air is optionally dehumidified by a dehumidifier 110 and heated by a heater 112 prior to mixing with hydrogen peroxide vapor.

One suitable mobile source 100 for sterilization is STERIS VHP 1000 ^TM hydrogen peroxide vapor generator. Other suitable evaporators are disclosed in Centanni et al. US Pat. No. 6,734,405 and Zelina et al. US Patent Application Publication No. 2002/0159915. Other suitable mist, mist or haze generators for generating gaseous decontaminants are also contemplated. Alternatively, the gaseous decontaminant is produced naturally in the enclosure or supplied from a pressurized container (eg in the case of ozone).

  The evaporator 106 is connected by one or more heat shielded supply conduits 114 that pass through corresponding access ports 116 in the enclosure walls 16 and 18 and into the interior of the passage 22 to the interior 30. Carried to or through it. Internally, the conduit 114 branches to provide a gas decontamination distribution network 118. Port 116 is sealed around the conduit to reduce leakage. Alternatively, conduit 114 and network 118 may be connectable by a selectively releasable connection member, such as air supply conduit 72.

  Distribution network 118 includes a plurality of foldable flexible conduits 120. The conduit 120 transports gaseous decontaminant to a plurality of decontaminant supply inlets 122 in the form of vents or nozzles spaced around the interior 30. The heated air in the passage 22 helps prevent or limit the condensation of hydrogen peroxide or other vapor decontaminant between the source 100 and the nozzle 122. The nozzle 122 supplies gaseous decontaminant to the internal space 30. The nozzle can be directional to assist in circulating the decontaminant. One or more fans 124 or other circulation devices optionally assist in delivering the gaseous decontaminant from end to end. The conduit 120 can be assembled into the passage 22 where it can be folded flat or held in place by a clip or tie 126 appropriately positioned therein.

A selective hose 128 is formed in the inner and outer panels 80 and 82 to ensure that the decontaminant contacts parts of the item where the decontaminant effect is difficult to reach. It communicates between the evaporator and the interior 30 via a possible port 130 and is most preferably shown in FIG. The flexible hose 128 may be routed to areas that are difficult to reach, such as through a vehicle window to be decontaminated. In the illustrated embodiment, the port 130, when not in use, is covered with a flexible flap formed of a closure 132, such as a Chico ^™ or Velcro ^™ hook and loop tape or other suitable sealing member. A flexible hose 128 is fed through the lateral walls 16 and 18 when needed, so that the hose 128 extends between the interior and exterior. Port 130 is configured to securely grip the hose and minimize leakage from the interior 30. Additional sealing members, such as duct tape, are optionally used to help seal around hose 128 and port 130. Alternatively, a distribution tube assembled in the passage 22 terminates with an operable / sealable connection port along the interior.

  Referring to FIG. 4, the sensor 140 within the enclosure may include one or more parameters of the interior space 30, such as temperature, humidity, decontaminant concentration (eg, hydrogen peroxide concentration), contaminants (eg, anthrax spores or chemicals). The concentration of the product of the reaction between the contaminant and the decontaminant (for example, the product of the reaction between the chemical war material and hydrogen peroxide) is detected. In one embodiment, several sensors 140 of each type are located around the interior space 30. The sensor is suspended from a properly placed hanger or strap 142 attached to the inner panel 80 and is monitored and controlled by a suitable optical or electrical connector 146 such as a microprocessor located outside the enclosure 10. Communicate with. Biological and / or chemical indicators 148 are optionally located within the enclosure and inspected after the decontamination process. Suitable biological indicators include the number of spores or something that are difficult to control. The presence of live spores remaining after decontamination is an indication that the decontamination process was inadequate. Appropriate chemical indicators show a visual or other detectable change in response to a preselected minimum decontaminant concentration.

  The monitoring and control system 144 includes a monitoring function 150 that records input from the sensor and determines / stores the value of the sensed parameter. The system 144 also includes a control function 152 that provides feedback control to the decontaminant source 100 in response to the sensed parameter. The control function 152 uses the information provided by the monitoring function 150 to change variables such as hydrogen peroxide vaporization rate, carrier gas flow rate, carrier gas temperature, expansion gas temperature and flow rate, power to the heater 94. And other operating parameters to maintain the desired state for decontamination within the enclosure.

  For example, if the concentration of hydrogen peroxide detected in the interior 30 is outside the preselected range, the control function 152 commands the decontaminant source 100 to produce hydrogen peroxide production rates. Increase or decrease. Alternatively or additionally, the control function 152 provides feedback control to other components of the system. For example, if the temperature within the enclosure is outside the preselected range, the control function 152 may instruct the heater 64 to adjust the temperature of the air entering the passage to its rate of introduction, or The floor heater 94 is commanded to adjust the floor temperature and brought to a preselected temperature. In this way, the components of the system can be adjusted to maintain the concentration of hydrogen peroxide in the interior space 30 within a preselected range. The preselected range is about 0.1-5 mg / L (72-3600 ppm), such as 0.1-0.2 mg / L, avoiding reaching saturation concentrations. In one embodiment, the concentration of hydrogen peroxide is at least about 0.7 mg / L (400 + ppm). A temperature in the interior space 30 of about 15-120 ° C can be used, for example at least 25 ° C. The concentration of steam hydrogen peroxide is selected to be below the saturation point, which is a function of the temperature in the interior space 30.

  As shown in FIG. 2, spent steam mixed with air from the interior 30 optionally exits the enclosure 10 via the outlet conduit 154 connected to the outlet port 156 and is released to the atmosphere. Is advantageously transported to a catalytic converter 158 or other destroyer before being removed. Filter system 160 in the outlet conduit removes traces of contaminants remaining in the air present. For example, the filter system 160 includes a HEPA filter that traps microorganisms. Chemical filters are optionally included to remove certain harmful chemical factors. The pump 162 is used in the illustrated embodiment to actively remove used steam. One or more outlet valves 164 are located on the wall of the subchamber 38 and are connected to the outlet conduit 154 by a suitable flexible hose 165 to remove air from the subchamber.

  Alternatively, or additionally, all or a portion of the steam optionally passes through catalytic converter 168, dehumidifier 110, and heater 112 before being recirculated to the evaporator via return line 166. It is circulated (Fig. 2).

  Hydrogen peroxide is a particularly effective decontaminant against many airborne microorganisms and other toxic raw materials, including chemical and biological warfare substances. Hydrogen peroxide is effective against a wide range of vegetative bacteria, endospore-forming bacteria (eg, anthrax), fungi, viruses, yeasts, and prions. It is also effective against many chemical warfare substances including organic sulfur factors, such as mustard gas (H, HD, HS), tabun (GA), sarin (GB), soman (GD), G series nerve factor (organophosphate nerve factor) such as cyclosaline (GF), V series nerve factor such as VX, VE, VG, VM and V gas, especially used in combination with ammonia It is effective when the ratio of hydrogen peroxide to ammonia is between 1: 1 and 1: 0.0001. The spores responsible for Bacillus anthracis and other microbial contamination are immediately destroyed using, for example, a few minutes of short exposure to hydrogen peroxide. The destruction of chemical warfare materials can take hours. In one embodiment, the decontaminant reduces the concentration of living microorganisms or the weight of harmful chemical factors to less than 1% of the original value, and in one embodiment, no contaminants can be detected. Reduce to the correct level.

  Ozone is also known to neutralize most known biological and chemical contaminants. Chemical and biological contamination can also be treated with another decontaminant such as UV radiation.

  Prior to the introduction of steam, a slight negative pressure can be applied to the interior 30 of the enclosure to speed up the introduction and dispersion of steam.

  The enclosure 10 has the ability to maintain an internal pressure slightly above atmospheric pressure or slightly below atmospheric pressure. A pressure below atmospheric is preferred when it is desired to minimize any leakage of contaminants carried by the air from the enclosure. In one embodiment, against decontamination with steam hydrogen peroxide, the enclosure can withstand about three times the pressure of normal operation with a water depth of 2-5 cm, providing a safety margin.

In one embodiment, the enclosure 10 is formed of a flexible sheet material, such as vinyl or polyvinyl chloride (PVC), which is airtight and waterproof. The material is also resistant to chemical decontaminants such as hydrogen peroxide. One suitable material is sold under the trade name V3F Polytrap, which is a woven polyester fabric weighing 77 g / m ² , laminated on both sides with flexible PVC, about 580 g A material of / m ² is generated. This material resists cracking at temperatures of -25 ° C and above. The enclosure can therefore be used for decontamination at varying indoor and outdoor temperatures between about −50 ° C. and + 50 ° C.

As illustrated in FIGS. 1 and 5, in one embodiment, some of the walls 14, 16, 18 are transparent so that an operator outside the enclosure can see what is happening internally. I will provide a. For example, the window 170 is formed in the wall by forming central portions 172, 174, 176 of the inner and outer panels 80 and 82 and a connecting member 84 made of a transparent material panel such as a clear PVC sheeting. Formed. One suitable PVC sheet material has a thickness of 0.5 mm and a weight of 646 g / m ² , and is available from Wardle Stories Ltd. , Earthy, Colne, Lanciashire, UK, sold under the trade name Velbex ^™ . The seams between the various seating panels can be double wrapped and sewn, glued together, fused with heat, and the like. The wall inner panel 80 can be painted with an antifungal, UV stabilized, water repellent paint. The water repellent raw material prevents vapor condensation on the enclosure wall, while the antifungal component inhibits the growth of the enclosure fungus during storage.

The size of the enclosure 10 varies and depends on the size of the item to be decontaminated. Generally, the internal volume can be from about 20 m ³ to about 10,000 m ³ . For example, for a vehicle to be decontaminated, such as an ambulance, the interior may define a volume of about 10 m × 8 m × 4 m. For larger vehicles, such as aircraft, the enclosure can be much larger. For larger enclosures, eg, enclosures above about 500-1000 m ³ , the structure 12 cannot be sufficiently self-supporting, in which case an internal or external frame (not shown) such as a metal post is assembled. And the enclosure is supported thereby.

  In addition or alternatively to being able to supply gaseous decontaminants therein, the enclosure 10 is optionally adapted to facilitate the treatment of items in other ways. For example, as shown in FIG. 4, the liquid conduit 180 is optionally connected to one or more spray nozzles 182 in the interior space 30 to clean or treat the item to provide water, detergent, liquid decontaminant, Alternatively, solid contaminants that can be removed by a combination thereof are removed. Drain 184 is formed in the floor and enclosure and allows used liquid and associated dirt and contaminants to flow to drain 186 formed in the support surface. The liquid collected in the sump is optionally placed in a bag and disposed of by a hazardous waste disposal facility or appropriately processed to remove contaminants.

  The enclosure 10 is particularly suitable for the treatment of vehicles and items that can be transported into the enclosure, for example on vehicles such as carts or conveyors with wheels.

  General decontamination proceeds as follows. Contamination events, such as the release of chemical warfare material or biological warfare material, are communicated to an operator who transports the contracted enclosure 10 and all or some of the associated devices 60, 100, 158, 160, etc. to the site In, decontamination of contaminated or potentially contaminated items is performed. For example, the enclosure 10, the steam generator 100, the blower 60, etc. are mounted on a truck and transported to an indoor or outdoor site or facility at or near the location of a contamination event. This minimizes the risk of spreading contamination.

  The enclosure 10 is unloaded from the heel 28 and is ready for expansion. The blower 60 is connected to the port 70 and begins to expand, optionally with air and / or floor heating / cooling. As soon as the enclosure reaches a sufficiently stable inflated condition, the vehicle or other item to be decontaminated is transported into the enclosure by personnel wearing protective clothing. Vehicle doors, windows, etc. are opened to allow decontaminant access. Sensor 140 and chemical / biological indicator 148 are suspended from the enclosure or disposed within interior space 30. Flexible conduits 120 and 128 are pushed into their respective ports, eg, from the inside to the outside, and connected to decontaminating source 100. The flexible conduit 128 is positioned so that the outlet is located in a part of the vehicle that is not easily accessible, and the conduit 120 is suspended from the clip 126. Prior to the introduction of the gaseous decontaminant, the enclosure interior and exterior doors 34 and 36 are closed and the hook and loop tape 46 are sealed together. The pressure in the interior space 30 can be lowered slightly below atmospheric pressure to minimize contaminant leakage and speed up the introduction of decontaminants.

  If cleaning operations or liquid decontamination are to be performed, this is optionally performed prior to decontamination of the gas. However, it can alternatively be performed after gaseous decontamination or in a timely manner.

The gaseous decontaminant is introduced into the interior space 30 to achieve a concentration sufficient to ensure decontamination of the item to an acceptable level within a preselected period, such as minutes to days. For example, in the case of hydrogen peroxide, a concentration of about 400-1000 ppm at a temperature of 20-50 ° C. will reduce microbial contamination by 6 logs (ie, 10 log) in less than about 2 hours, usually about 30 minutes or less. It is usually sufficient to reduce the number of ⁶ spore solids to 1). Similar concentrations and temperatures can be used to destroy chemical factors or reduce their activity to a level that is not considered dangerous. However, longer times may be required. When the decontamination period is complete, the internal space 30 is exposed to air, for example, by switching off the evaporator 106 and introducing dehumidified external air by the blower 108, and the one or more vents. Remove air from 156.

Alternatively or additionally, vents 188 in the inflation passage 22 release air into the enclosure. It vents 188 when not in use, in a manner similar to the vent hole 132 may be closed by cover flap with hook and loop tape Chico ^TM or Velcro ^TM. In order to keep the flap open, the hook and loop tape are temporarily attached by hook and loop tape corresponding to the hook and loop tape fabric attached to the inner wall 80. The mesh screen 90 covers the ventilation holes and allows air to freely pass therethrough. Aeration is continued until the concentration of decontaminant in the enclosure has decreased enough for the operator to reenter. In the case of hydrogen peroxide, a safe level is considered 1 ppm or less. The aeration phase can last several hours or more. Vehicles or other decontaminated items may need to be tested for residual contaminants before being used again. Or, if appropriate, the item can be disposed of.

  After use, the inflatable enclosure 10 can be deflated and refilled into the transport bag 28 for subsequent use. Prior to repacking, the enclosure is optionally subjected to a suitable decontamination process, such as a gaseous decontamination process, for example using hydrogen peroxide vapor. Such a decontamination process can be used to decontaminate both external and internal surfaces of the enclosure. Alternatively, the enclosure is used only once and then disposed of using an appropriate and safe disposal method.

  It should be appreciated that multiple items can be decontaminated simultaneously within the enclosure, depending on the size of the item and the size of the enclosure.

  Thus, preferred embodiments have been described and claimed.

FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a decontamination system according to the present invention. FIG. 2 is a top view of the decontamination system of FIG. 3 is a perspective view of the decontamination system of FIG. 1 with the front door open. FIG. 4 is a cross-sectional view of the enclosure. FIG. 5 is an enlarged perspective view of a part of the lateral wall of the enclosure of FIG.

Claims (26)

A decontamination system (A) for decontaminating items,
An enclosure (10) with an inflatable structure (12), the inflatable structure (12) for receiving the item to be decontaminated when inflated An enclosure (10) defining an interior space (30);
A decontaminant source (106) fluidly connected to the interior space, characterized by the decontaminant source supplying the decontaminant to the interior space for decontaminating the item. Attached decontamination system.   The decontamination system of claim 1, further characterized in that the source of decontaminant comprises a source of gaseous decontaminant.   The decontamination system of claim 2, further characterized by the source of gaseous decontaminant comprising a source of hydrogen peroxide.   From the claim 1 further characterized in that the source of decontaminant is located outside the enclosure and communicates with the interior space through the enclosure walls (14, 16, 18). 4. The decontamination system according to any one of 3.   The decontamination system according to any one of the preceding claims, further characterized by an inflation system (60) connected to the enclosure and inflating the inflatable structure.   The system of claim 5, further comprising a heater (64) associated with the expansion system for heating air supplied to expand the structure.   Decontamination system according to any one of the preceding claims, further characterized by a closure (34, 36) for selectively sealing the interior space.   The closure includes internal and external doors (34, 36) that define a sub-chamber (38) therebetween, the sub-chamber between the external environment and the internal space; 8. A decontamination system according to claim 7, further characterized by spacing.   The inflatable structure includes an inflatable tubular element (21), the inflatable tubular element being a lateral wall (16, 18) of the enclosure. ) And a roof (20). The decontamination system according to any one of claims 1 to 9, further characterized by defining a roof (20).   The inflatable structure defines an inflated rear wall (14) of the enclosure when inflated, the inflated rear wall being connected to the lateral wall and the roof. The decontamination system according to claim 9, further characterized by:   11. A decontamination system according to claim 9 or 10, further characterized in that at least a part of the tubular element is made of a transparent material defining a window (170).   The decontamination according to any one of claims 9 to 11, further characterized in that the enclosure further comprises a floor (24) connected to the lateral walls (16, 18) of the enclosure. system.   The decontamination system of claim 12, wherein the floor is further characterized by including a drain (184).   14. A decontamination system according to claim 12 or 13, wherein the floor is further characterized by including a heater (94).   The inflatable structure defines a plurality of interconnected inflatable passages (22), the passages being on a structure that supports the structure when inflated. 15. A decontamination system according to any one of the preceding claims, further characterized by defining an element (21) of:   The source of decontaminant is fluidly connected to the internal space by at least one conduit (114), the conduit being at least one of the internal passages of the inflatable structure. The decontamination system according to claim 15, further characterized by   17. A vent (188) attached to the inner panel 80, further characterized by a vent defining one wall of the inflatable passageway. Decontamination system. The vent is
A flexible flap (132);
18. A decontamination system according to claim 17, further characterized by comprising a hook and loop fabric for holding the flap open.   19. A decontamination system according to any one of the preceding claims, further characterized by a sensor (140) supported by the inflatable structure and detecting a parameter in the interior space.   20. A contamination according to claim 19, further characterized by a monitoring and control system (144) connected to the sensor, wherein the monitoring and control system controls the source of decontaminant according to the sensed parameter. Removal system.   19. A decontamination system according to any one of the preceding claims, further characterized by the interior space being sized to fit an automobile. A method for decontaminating items,
Transporting items to the internal space (30) of the enclosure (10) according to claim 1;
Supplying the decontaminant to the interior space to decontaminate the item. Adjusting the temperature of the expanding gas;
23. The method of claim 22, further characterized by expanding the expandable structure with the expanding gas, whereby the temperature of the interior space is adjusted. The enclosure is further characterized by including a floor (24) attached to the inflatable structure, the method comprising:
24. The method according to claim 22 or 23, further comprising adjusting the temperature of the recording bed of the enclosure, thereby adjusting the temperature of the enclosure. Sensing a parameter in the interior space;
25. A method according to any one of claims 22 to 24, further characterized by controlling the source of decontaminant according to the detected parameter. A method for decontaminating items,
Inflating the inflatable structural element (21) of the enclosure (10) having an internal space (30) to hold the enclosure in a self-supporting state;
Transporting items within the interior space;
Sealing the item in the enclosure;
Introducing a gaseous decontaminant into the interior space to decontaminate the item.

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