In an effort to provide an easier, more effective way to prevent the spread of germs, UNC has set up chemical-free sanitation stations across campus for student and faculty use.
Located at these stations are Ultraloop devices — large metal boxes that sanitize everyday objects using high-frequency ultraviolet light.
Jared Porter, a sophomore who serves as Ultraloop’s chief operations officer, said the sanitation devices benefit students and faculty by solving an issue that most people do not even think about.
“While hand sanitizer is effective in cleaning one’s hands, once contact is made with a different unsanitary object, such as your wallet, phone or keys, the process of sanitizing one’s hands becomes negated,” Porter said. “However, with the use of our Ultraloop device, the chain of infection from dirty personal items becomes broken.”
Porter also said he has noticed the impact of Ultraloop devices since they arrived at UNC this semester.
“I definitely believe that the implementation of our devices has made a positive impact on UNC’s campus for both faculty and students,” Porter said. “Whether it is our friends from class, or a new face to us on campus, when anyone on the Ultraloop team goes to check on one of the devices, we are always met with excitement.”
Aditya Bhatt, founder and chief executive officer of Ultraloop, said it has been encouraging to see the excitement surrounding the Ultraloop devices.
“It is motivating for us to know that they are excited about this,” Bhatt said. “Even some of our own professors came into class and told everyone in the class about it.”
Regarding the future of the device on campus, Porter said there is a wide range of possible applications. He said the organization plans to provide sanitization options in various locations, such as kitchens, dining halls, recreational centers and athletic facilities.
