AIR QUALITY
spaces like the operation theatre. Supplementary HEPA filtration offers a practical, evidence-based layer of defence, particularly in older theatres or during periods of high demand. High-Efficiency Particulate Air
(HEPA) filters are capable of trapping 99.97% of airborne particles as small as 0.3 microns. This includes bacteria, viruses, fungal spores, and dust. When paired with effective ventilation, HEPA filtration significantly reduces airborne contaminant levels and improves the air quality in operation theatres. Multiple peer-reviewed studies support the value of filtration. A study published in the Journal of Hospital Infection found that operating theatres with integrated HEPA filtration had significantly lower bacterial counts than those relying on standard ventilation alone.8 Another report in BMJ Open
Respiratory Research confirmed the benefits of portable HEPA filtration units in rapidly clearing airborne particles from enclosed hospital spaces.9 Filtration is not just a clinical
improvement; it’s a strategic one. Cleaner air leads to fewer complications, which in turn shortens recovery times and reduces demand on already stretched bed capacity. In many ways, investing in filtration is less about adding something new and more about filling a gap that can
Cleaner air leads to fewer complications and shorter recovery times.
no longer be ignored. It also provides a buffer against variables that ventilation alone can’t manage. Whether it’s a door left open too long or an unexpected spike in theatre activity, filtration ensures the air is still being cleaned. That kind of reliability is not just helpful, it’s vital. It takes pressure off clinical teams and gives estate teams more control over indoor air quality. The takeaway? Filtration improves air quality at a
level that ventilation alone simply cannot achieve. While Smart Air’s Blast air purifiers are not a replacement for true laminar airflow (LAF) systems, hospitals in South Asia have successfully used them as a supplementary air quality measure in operating theatres lacking dedicated ultraclean ventilation (UCV). By strategically placing two Blast units to create a controlled directional airflow, these purifiers help reduce airborne contaminants in the surgical zone. This approach demonstrates how filtration can play a vital role in maintaining cleaner surgical environments, especially in theatres without specialised airflow systems. Advanced filtration systems can be deployed with minimal disruption in a range of ways depending on facility size, infrastructure, and budget. These include: n Portable HEPA units: These standalone units can be easily deployed without the need for invasive installation or changes to the existing HVAC system. They are ideals for ad hoc upgrades, temporary surgical areas, or as supplementary protection in high- risk scenarios. Their flexibility makes them particularly useful during times of increased demand, such as during respiratory virus seasons or outbreaks.
n Ceiling-mounted filtration systems: These systems integrate with the theatre ceiling and continuously clean air within the room. They are more permanent than portable units and are often installed in wards and consulting rooms. While they may require some infrastructural modifications, they provide continuous air purification without occupying floor space which is critical in maintaining theatre workflows.
n Air Handling units (AHU) upgraded filtration: Portable HEPA air filters in AHU rooms ensures that filtered air is delivered to theatres via existing ductwork. This method offers a more centralised and scalable solution.
Flexibility is key. Filtration does not need to delay theatre schedules or trigger estates-wide upheaval.
Sustainability and cost-efficiency Many Trusts have an immense pressure to improve clinical standards while reducing environmental impact. Smart filtration systems are increasingly helping address both these issues. Traditional HVAC overalls can be expensive, time-consuming and highly disruptive. In contrast, adding or upgrading filtration systems – especially the portable
Combining smart filtration with robotic technology
Smart Air’s Blast and Blast Mini HEPA purifiers (with high airflow and low noise) are ideal for healthcare environments on their own. When paired with the Akara Robotics ‘smart’ module and IoT sensor, they offer a powerful, plug-and-play solution for improving air quality in healthcare settings. Designed to meet NHS England’s guidance10
on portable HEPA filtration
in clinical spaces, the system adapts automatically to room occupancy and delivers full visibility through a single, central dashboard. Some key features include: n Pre-configured to room size and the number of air changes required.
n Confirms status of air purifier. n Real-time logging of pressure differential for accurate filter life tracking.
126 Health Estate Journal October 2025
n Automated notifications for maintenance and deviations from set air changes and hour.
n Thermal camera that detects the number of people in a room.
n Switches purifiers on/off based on room occupancy.
n Adjusts airflow based on room load, balancing air cleaning and comfort.
n One thermal sensor can control multiple air purifiers in one space.
n Automated data collection reduces admin and eliminates need for paper-based checklists.
n Energy savings of up to 70%, when compared with an equivalent traditional ventilation system.
This simple system requires no installation
– the modules are pre-configured and assembled, so users can simply plug it in and connect to the WiFi.
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