# Evaluating the Efficacy of EcoSAFE: A Superoxidized Solution With HOCl at Neutral pH for Infection Control

## TL;DR

This study evaluates EcoSAFE, a neutral pH disinfectant containing HOCl, and finds it effectively reduces hospital microbial contamination without harmful effects.

## Contribution

Demonstrates EcoSAFE's efficacy as a safe, efficient alternative to conventional disinfectants in hospital settings.

## Key findings

- EcoSAFE achieved 100% reduction in microbial growth on surfaces and in the air after application.
- The disinfectant acted rapidly, required no protective equipment, and left no residues.
- It was effective in high- and moderate-risk hospital areas without disrupting operations.

## Abstract

Background

Hospital-acquired infections (HAIs) pose a major challenge to healthcare systems, increasing patient morbidity, mortality, and costs. Contaminated air and surfaces in hospitals serve as key sources of infection transmission. Developing safe, reliable, and efficient disinfection methods is essential to minimizing microbial contamination in these environments.

Objective

This study assessed the effectiveness of EcoSAFE superoxidized solution containing hypochlorous acid (HOCl) at neutral pH in reducing microbial contamination and improving infection control in hospital settings.

This study aimed to assess the effectiveness of EcoSAFE in preventing and controlling infections in high and moderate-risk areas within hospital settings. The results highlight EcoSAFE's serve as a safer, practical and more efficient alternative to conventional disinfectants for infection control. Therefore, EcoSAFE will be of great interest in the development of continuous room disinfection methods, surface disinfectants and equipment cleaning in hospitals.

Methods

The evaluation was carried out at the Rajan Babu Institute of Pulmonary Medicine and Tuberculosis Hospital (RBIPMTH), New Delhi. EcoSAFE was applied for routine disinfection of operation theaters and hospital surfaces by both spraying and fumigation. Air and surface samples were collected before and after treatment, and microbial counts were determined by measuring colony-forming units (CFUs) to assess the reduction in bacterial and fungal load. A total of 1,056 surface swab samples (528 pre- and 528 post-disinfection) and 960 air-exposed plates were analyzed. Microbial load was assessed before and after treatment by quantifying colony-forming units (CFUs).

Results

Following the EcoSAFE application, there was a 100% reduction in growth on all 528 post‑fumigation surface swabs and up to 100% reduction in airborne colony counts in both high‑ and moderate‑risk areas. The solution demonstrated rapid antimicrobial action, achieving significant reduction within minutes of contact. Disinfection did not require the closure of operation theaters, and no odor, irritation, or post-cleaning residues were noted. The product was convenient to handle, non-corrosive, and entirely safe near hospital personnel and patients; no personal protective equipment (PPE) was needed during use.

Conclusion

EcoSAFE proved to be an effective, safe, and easy-to-use disinfectant for healthcare environments. Its quick action, neutral pH, and absence of chemical residues make it a practical option for routine use. Adoption of EcoSAFE in hospital infection control programs may help reduce microbial contamination and contribute to the prevention of HAIs.