OWD Security Systems Launches Device To Allow Gondolas To Be Disinfected In Seconds

From Christmas on, skilfts will be allowed to resume operations in Austria, with the health of the guests still a top priority. One measure concerns the regular disinfection of gondolas and cabins. The Salzburger company group ÖWD - one of the largest Austrian providers in the field of security and facility services - also carries out the “misting disinfection” of rooms with its company. Especially for cable car companies, ÖWD security systems has now developed a new device that completely removes viruses and germs from cabins in just two seconds. Demand at home and abroad has skyrocketed since the second wave of Covid-19, and the first devices have already been installed on Semmering and on the Bürgeralpe in Mariazell.

The winter season for skiers this year will be different than usual: Keep your distance, mouth and nose protection and hygiene will accompany winter sports enthusiasts on their trips to the slopes. Operators of the ski areas are faced with special challenges. Clean, sterile cable car cabins play an important role in protecting guests from being infected with the coronavirus. “Our disinfection system works fully automatically and in seconds. By means of nebulization or aerosol disinfection, so-called dry mist is generated from a liquid active ingredient. All surfaces and objects that come into contact with the fog - even in hard-to-reach areas - are effectively and safely disinfected within a very short time, ”explained Markus Grundner, Key Account & Operations Manager at ÖWD cleaning services.

Disinfection is carried out in the mountain station

A technology called “BiOxi” from the Lower Austrian partner company Brandner Hygiene is used. The ÖWD disinfection system is set up in the mountain station, and the fogging is triggered by a light barrier. No additional staff is required for operation. “Depending on the size of the cabin, the operator can program exactly how long the fogging should last. Normally one second is enough, but when it comes to large cabins that can accommodate around 20 people, the length of the fogging can vary, "says Christian Sageder, Head of Salzburg and Tyrol at ÖWD security systems, who is responsible for the mountain railway Project is responsible. ÖWD security systems has already received inquiries about the new device from cable car companies in Austria, Italy and Switzerland. 

Fast implementation, smooth cooperation 

“In addition to other measures such as the establishment of an online ticketing system, the distribution of free masks or weekly tests for our employees, the important topic of ongoing disinfection in our gondolas was also on our agenda,” says Johann Kleinhofer, Managing Director of Mariazeller Bürgeralpe. “The cooperation with the ÖWD went smoothly. The system was purchased and installed in a very short time. The implementation happened very quickly, which was particularly important to us. So we have done this important point before the runway opens and we don't have to worry about disinfection.