Author: Milos Djordjevic

Why is air quality crucial for the health of children in schools and kindergartens?

Children spend a large part of the day indoors in schools and kindergartens, where air quality is crucial for their health and well-being. However, bacteria, viruses and allergens often accumulate in these environments, which can lead to increased rates of respiratory infections and allergic reactions.

Impact of poor air quality on children’s health

According to the World Health Organization (WHO), children are two to three times more susceptible to acute respiratory viral infections (ARVI) than adults. During the first year in kindergarten or school, a child gets sick on average eight to ten times a year. Poor air quality contributes to frequent sick days, reduced concentration and a general feeling of discomfort in classrooms.

Some of the consequences of polluted air in educational institutions are:
• Increased rate of respiratory infections
• Difficulties with concentration and learning
• Worsening of asthma and allergy symptoms
• Increased absence of children and teachers due to illness

How does POTOK technology improve air quality?

POTOK technology uses advanced air decontamination methods to eliminate pathogenic microorganisms and improve hygienic conditions in schools and kindergartens. Studies conducted in prestigious institutes and laboratories confirm the effectiveness of the POTOK system in reducing bacterial and viral contamination.

Key advantages of the POTOK system:
• Elimination of bacteria and viruses – Eliminates pathogens such as influenza virus, Legionella, E. coli and Staphylococcus aureus.
• Reduction in the number of aerosol particles – Confirmed by studies in Hungary, Germany and Korea.
• Improving concentration and academic success – Cleaner air has a positive effect on cognitive abilities.
• Environmentally friendly solution – Without chemicals and harmful emissions.

Application of POTOK technology in educational institutions

POTOK systems can be used in different areas of schools and kindergartens, including:
• Classrooms and amphitheaters – Better air quality for undisturbed learning.
• Kindergarten rooms and playrooms – Reducing the transmission of infections among the youngest.
• Fitness halls – Less spread of bacteria in spaces with intensive physical activities.
• Canteens and canteens – Protection of children during meals from invisible threats.
• School transport – Hygienic and safer environment for the daily transport of children.

Conclusion

Investing in air quality in educational institutions is a direct investment in the health and future of children. POTOK technology offers a solution that provides a safe and clean environment, reducing the number of infections and improving the general well-being of all participants in the educational process.

Learn more about how POTOK can improve the air quality in your school or kindergarten!

In the modern hospitality industry, guests’ expectations are growing day by day. It is no longer enough to offer only luxurious rooms or premium specialties. Today, details like air quality can become the deciding factor that sets your facility apart from the competition. This is where the revolutionary POTOK air purification technology comes into play, which changes the rules of the game.

Take care of the health and safety of your guests

Clean and healthy air is what guests notice – and remember. POTOK technology eliminates up to 99.9% of bacteria, viruses, allergens and pollutants from the air, providing a safe environment where guests and staff can breathe without worry. In a time of post-pandemic recovery, this is a key investment that demonstrates your commitment to caring for each guest.

An experience to remember

Wondering why some hotels and restaurants are always one step ahead? The answer is simple – every detail matters. The freshness and purity of the air become part of that experience. Guests don’t just notice the difference, they tell the story – through reviews, recommendations and coming right back to you.

Greater efficiency, lower costs

POTOK devices are designed to be energy efficient, consuming only between 10 W and 100 W of energy. This means you don’t have to worry about increased electricity bills, while at the same time enabling continuous air purification. In the long run, this is a smart move that reduces operating costs.

Sustainable leaders attract the right guests

Modern guests value sustainable practices. By implementing environmentally friendly technologies like the POTOK system, your facility sends a clear message – this is about the future. In addition to preserving the environment, this opens the door to a new segment of environmentally conscious guests.

Stand out in the market

Hospitality is a competitive sector. To attract and retain attention, you must offer something different, something innovative. POTOK technology is not just an add-on – it is an advantage that puts you ahead of the competition. Guests are looking for safety, quality and innovation. You can provide them with all that.

Be one step ahead – today!

Investing in advanced air purification systems is not just a trend; it is a strategic step towards success. Improve the quality of stay, increase guest satisfaction and become a leader in the hospitality industry. With POTOK technology, your facility is not just a place to stay or have a meal – it becomes a destination for health, safety and an exceptional experience.

Contact us today and find out how POTOK can transform your business space!

Regulation of the European Union (EC) no. 853/2004 sets strict hygiene standards for food of animal origin, thereby strengthening the protection of consumers and public health. For food business operators, compliance with these requirements is mandatory. By integrating advanced air decontamination solutions like POTOK technology, businesses can not only ensure compliance, but also take food safety to the next level.

Key hygiene requirements according to Regulation (EC) no. 853/2004

This regulation defines specific obligations for operators in the food sector, especially for those who handle products of animal origin. Key provisions include:

• Hygiene in facilities: Facilities must maintain strict cleanliness and apply effective measures to control and reduce the risk of contamination.
• Temperature control: Meat, fish, dairy products and eggs must be stored and transported under strictly defined temperature conditions to preserve freshness and safety.
• Prevention of cross-contamination: It is necessary to implement measures to prevent contamination between raw materials, processed food and external factors such as air quality.
• Identification marks: All products must bear an identification mark that confirms compliance with EU food safety standards.

These provisions require effective solutions that protect air quality, reduce risks of microbial contamination and ensure optimal processing conditions.

The role of air quality in food safety

Airborne contaminants pose a significant risk in food production environments. Microbiological particles, including bacteria, viruses and fungi, can compromise food safety and quality. Regulation (EC) no. 853/2004 emphasizes the importance of hygiene throughout the production chain, making advanced air decontamination systems a necessary part of compliance.

How POTOK technology supports compliance and brings additional benefits

POTOK technology, an innovative solution for air decontamination, offers unparalleled advantages in maintaining strict hygiene standards. Here’s how it contributes to compliance with Regulation (EC) no. 853/2004:

• Superior air cleaning:
– POTOK technology works on the principle of a strong electric field that eliminates all microorganisms from the air with an efficiency of 99.99%.
– Avoids ionization, ozone generation and the use of HEPA filters, which provides a safe and environmentally friendly solution.
• Prevention of cross-contamination:
– By continuous air decontamination, POTOK reduces the risk of pathogens landing on food surfaces or equipment.
• Regulatory compliance:
– Non-selective air decontamination ensures that facilities meet and exceed the hygiene requirements prescribed by EU regulations.
• Global validation:
– The effectiveness of POTOK technology has been confirmed by leading research institutes, including Fraunhofer and Gamaley, and its safety has been recognized in Germany, USA, Russia, Spain and many other countries.

Benefits for food business operators

Application of POTOK technology brings numerous advantages:

• Increased safety: Protects products from airborne contaminants, ensuring superior quality.
• Cost efficiency: Eliminates the need for frequent filter replacements, reducing maintenance costs.
• Environmentally friendly solution: Avoids ozone and harmful byproducts, aligning with sustainable practices.
• Consumer trust: Demonstrates commitment to exceeding regulatory standards, which enhances brand reputation.

Conclusion

Compliance with Regulation (EC) no. 853/2004 is a key element of food safety in the European Union. By integrating POTOK technology into their operations, food operators can not only meet, but exceed these stringent standards. This innovative solution ensures a cleaner and safer manufacturing environment, providing both regulatory peace of mind and a competitive edge in the marketplace.

For more information on how POTOK technology can transform your food production process, contact us today!

The vital role of POTOK technology for air decontamination in the hospitality industry.

In the world of catering, where quality, speed and hygiene are key, the importance of air decontamination becomes an unavoidable topic in improving food safety. While hygiene standards always take center stage, air quality in professional kitchens is often neglected, even though it directly affects health and safety.

Air in the kitchen: an invisible risk

Airborne contaminants such as bacteria, mold and viruses can contaminate surfaces, ingredients and prepared meals. This invisible problem not only compromises food quality, but also increases the risk of health incidents and cross-contamination.

POTOK technology: a revolution in air decontamination

POTOK air decontamination technology uses an advanced application of an electric field to eliminate microorganisms with an efficiency greater than 99%. This technology was developed for the strictest standards of space missions, which makes it a reliable ally for professional kitchens and catering establishments. Without filters, chemicals and additional maintenance costs, POTOK devices offer a sterile environment that directly contributes to food quality.

Benefits for the hospitality industry

1. Reduction of cross-contamination: The elimination of pollutants in the air prevents their deposition on surfaces and ingredients, which significantly reduces the risk of food contamination.

2. Extended shelf life of products: Maintaining a clean air environment helps preserve the freshness of ingredients and ready meals, reducing waste and increasing profitability.

3. Compliance with regulations: POTOK technology enables easier implementation of strict health standards such as HACCP and ISO 22000, providing safety for employees and guests.

4. Improving conditions for workers: A sterile work environment reduces exposure to microorganisms, which positively affects the health and productivity of the culinary team.

Integration of the POTOK system: a smart investment

POTOK appliances are easily integrated into kitchen spaces, contributing to maintaining high standards of hygiene and efficiency. Hospitality establishments that adopt this technology not only raise their standards, but also stand out in the competitive market thanks to reliability and quality of service.

Conclusion

Air decontamination using POTOK technology represents a strategic advantage in the hospitality industry. This innovative technology not only improves food safety, but also creates a healthier working environment, setting new standards for the industry. By adopting the POTOK system, we are opening the door to a more sustainable and safer culinary future, where every meal exudes purity, quality and trust.

In the world of hospitality and food preparation, where speed, precision, and quality are paramount, the discussion of a clean and safe environment cannot be avoided. While maintaining exceptional hygiene has always been a priority in the industry, today the importance of air decontamination is an element that is reshaping our perspective on food safety.

The air we breathe: care from a kitchen perspective.

Amidst the busy and dynamic environment of the catering kitchen, attention is often directed towards the creative art of culinary preparation, careful planning and flawless execution. However, an invisible factor that significantly affects the overall hygiene of the food preparation area is the air we breathe. Airborne contaminants, including bacteria, molds and yeasts, can compromise the quality and safety of food being prepared.

The need for air decontamination technology

POTOK air decontamination technology appears here as a silent guardian, tirelessly working on air purification and creation of a healthier working space in professional kitchens. POTOK systems use advanced technology for air decontamination, and by applying strong electric fields, they destroy all types of microorganisms and viruses in the air, contributing to a sterile environment.

Benefits for food safety

Reduced Cross-Contamination: Airborne contaminants can easily travel and settle on surfaces, leading to cross-contamination. Air decontamination reduces this risk, ensuring that the food preparation area remains a safe and sterile zone.

Extended shelf life: Contaminated air can accelerate the spoilage of ingredients and prepared meals. By maintaining a clean air environment, foodservice businesses can extend the shelf life of their products, reducing waste and increasing overall efficiency.

Compliance with health standards: Strict health and safety standards are paramount in the hospitality industry. Using POTOK air decontamination technology helps businesses meet and exceed these standards, protecting both staff and customers.

Improved employee well-being: A clean and healthy workplace is not only reflected in the quality of food; it also positively affects the well-being of the culinary team. Reduced exposure to airborne viruses and microorganisms can contribute to a healthier work environment, boosting morale and productivity.

Adoption of POTOK technology for air decontamination in the food preparation process

Adopting POTOK technology for air decontamination is a strategic investment that pays off in the long run. Catering companies that prioritize food safety and quality can be distinguished by competitive market, earning the trust and loyalty of clients.

With the further development of the hospitality industry, our approach to food safety must also evolve. POTOK air decontamination technology is a key ally on this journey, ensuring that every culinary creation is made in an environment that prioritizes cleanliness, safety and excellence.

By integrating POTOK advanced systems into food preparation areas, we not only raise the standards of the hospitality industry, but also pave the way for a healthier and more sustainable culinary future.

The complexity of organizing air quality in dental offices has been one of the most acute problems in the last few decades. The most important factor that is an indicator of the sanitary and hygienic state of the air environment is the contamination of the air with microorganisms, including pathogenic microflora that exist in the air.

The number of patient visits to dentists ranks second after visits to general practitioners. In modern conditions, the patient seeks dental help in state dental offices, private organizations and surgeries.

Air disinfection – a mandatory requirement for the safety of every dental office

The existence of pathogenic microorganisms in the air of the room represents a very big danger for patients. The cause is air-droplet (aerosol) transmission of infections, which in epidemiology is considered the fastest and most efficient way of transmission. At the same time, pathogenic microorganisms can spread both horizontally (between transit rooms on one floor) and vertically (between floors) with the air current. As a result, the quality of the air environment significantly affects the quality of the provision of dental services, and as a result, potentially real complications and the reputation of the treatment process itself.

What elements affect the quality of treatment:

– the condition of the patient;
– microbiological cleanliness of the room;
– high resistance of microorganisms to disinfectants used;
– the efficiency of the air disinfection technologies used.

The result of the dentist’s work, and therefore the health of the patient, is very important for the working conditions and health condition of the health worker himself. According to statistics, the morbidity of healthcare workers (a whole series of infections) is significantly higher than that of other population groups.

That is why in dental institutions special importance is attached to the prevention of nosocomial infections (HI) at every stage of providing dental services. In our country, the average number of patients who get a hospital infection is 4.3 per 100 patients. Such patients stay in the hospital 2-3 times longer, discharge from the hospital is extended by 10 days, the cost of treatment increases by 3-4 times, and the probability of a fatal outcome increases by 5-7 times. The monetary value of the annual economic damage amounts to 30-40 billion dinars.

In order to solve the existing situation, complex equipping of institutions with equipment can help, among other things, the one that can effectively disinfect the air and ensure the safety of the dental office.

Air disinfection devices used in many organizations can be classified into three categories:

– HEPA (High efficiency particulate air) filters that provide filtration of microorganisms;
– appliances that have “active filtration”. They perform the inactivation of microorganisms that remain on the filter through the influence of chemical active substances or gases (ozone, hydrogen peroxide) generated by the device;
– devices for reducing the activity of microorganisms using the action of physical factors (UV bactericidal radiation, stable electric field, etc.) with further filtration of particles using high-efficiency filters.

The HEPA method has been known for the longest time, and that is why its disadvantages are defined:

– HEPA technology does not kill microorganisms, but only prevents them from entering the room. There is only retention of particles and microorganisms in the pores of the filtration material and their accumulation during the operation of the apparatus. Therefore, the amount of microorganisms only increases and they become a source of considerable microbiological danger;
– HEPA filters are supposed to achieve filtration efficiency of up to 99.99% and more. However, the fact is that their efficiency falls under the influence of numerous factors (air humidity, properties of aerosol particles, seal tightness, etc.). In addition, HEPA filters cannot retain virus particles that are smaller than the pores of the filter, so they are not effective in preventing viral infections;
– The efficiency of the HEPA filter often decreases after stopping the ventilation system, and its reactivation can lead to a strong expulsion of microorganisms into the room;
– The need for frequent replacement of filters and technical maintenance of equipment elements.

Devices that have so-called active filtration also have disadvantages:

– Low speed of lowering the activity of microorganisms;
– Possible danger of harmful substances for humans in the event that they reach the doctor’s office, which are released by the device;
– Selective action of a chemically active substance or gas on different types of microorganisms (due to differences in the resistance of microorganisms);
– Low efficiency and preservation of persistence of air disinfection.
-Cause accumulation of microorganisms on the filters and the probability of their strong ejection into the premises;
– The need for frequent replacement of filters and technical maintenance of device elements.

UV bactericidal lamps are often used in dental clinics. Their disadvantages are also well defined:

– the bactericidal effect of the UV lamp is seen only in a narrow wavelength range (200-300 nm) and only if the microorganisms receive an adequate bactericidal dose;
– spores and molds have a certain insensitivity to radiation and that is why in the process of disinfecting the air in the premises, the efficiency of their inactivation is not so significant;
– during the use of UV lamps, the efficiency of air disinfection decreases;
– most UV lamps cannot be used in the presence of people, or they can be used for a limited time, because ozone is formed during the operation of the UV lamp, which is harmful to human health.

Achieving the complete destruction of microorganisms and obtaining the required infectious safety of the air environment can be achieved using the fundamentally new technology for air disinfection POTOK.

It differs from analogs that are used in the principle of operation. Thus, in the beginning, all types of microorganisms are destroyed, and then highly efficient filtering of inactivated biomass and aerosol particles is carried out.

Stage 1. In the inactivation zone, a combined multiple action is performed on microorganisms using constant electric fields, which leads to irreversible damage to microbial cells. After inactivation, cells are not capable of regeneration.

Stage 2. In the filtration zone, the remains of destroyed microorganisms are caught and a significant level of filtration of the disinfected air is ensured.

Accordingly, the accumulation of microorganisms in the filtration zone is not possible, and a higher quality and more reliable microbiological purity and safety of the disinfected air is achieved.

The existing significant practical experience of applying POTOK air disinfection technology shows that its application helps by:

– guarantees the absolute destruction of all types of microorganisms and viruses that enter the air being processed. This allows air to be introduced into the room that fully meets the requirements prescribed for medical facilities;
– increases the efficiency of the treatment process, reduces the number of cases of sepsis, fatal outcomes, postoperative complications and others;
– prevents cross-infection in dental offices;
– creates maximum safety conditions for the work of dentists;
– excludes the possibility of microorganisms mutating and acquiring resistance;
– reduces costs for purchasing disinfectants;
– reduces the costs of replacing filters and other consumables.

Do you know that the air in closed spaces is on average 10 times more polluted than outside? When we cough, sneeze or talk, we expel thousands (10,000 – 20,000) of droplets containing microorganisms. Although present forever, the problem of biological safety of indoor air came into the public spotlight with the pandemic caused by the SARS-CoV-2 virus. Solving this problem is a serious challenge and requires taking complex and, above all, effective measures, including changing the consciousness of individuals and changing the legal norms of countries and world society as a whole.

When disinfecting a space, the emphasis is mainly on the disinfection of floors, work surfaces and equipment, while completely ignoring air contamination, which remains one of the main problems in medicine, agriculture, the food industry, traffic and other areas. According to data from the World Health Organization, the causative agents of even 90% of registered infectious diseases are transmitted by airborne droplets. Bearing in mind that every closed space is a suitable environment for the reproduction of microorganisms, the existence of devices and systems for air disinfection in them is necessary in order to stop the growth of microbes.

Today, various solutions for air disinfection can be found on the market, which are mostly characterized by insufficient efficiency. In addition, many solutions are technically outdated and, above all, unsafe for people and the environment. POTOK technology offers an innovative, energy-efficient and safe solution for air disinfection. POTOK air disinfection technology solves the problem of destroying microorganisms that characterizes traditional air purification methods and ensures the necessary biological safety of air in the most diverse areas (health and social institutions, food industry, public transport, public institutions, kindergartens, schools, sports centers,…). This technology is unique in that, during air disinfection, the bioinactivation (destruction) of microorganisms is first performed, followed by highly efficient filtration of inactivated biomass and aerosol particles, which ensures the removal of 99.99% of all types of microorganisms and viruses present in the air, including corona viruses. During inactivation, microbes are irreversibly damaged, so they cannot regenerate, which excludes the possibility of accumulation of living organisms in the device and their spread around the room. The efficiency and non-selectivity of the POTOK technology are made possible by the functional elements of the POTOK 150-M-01, which use a strong electric field to destroy the present microorganisms and viruses.

POTOK devices do not have expensive filters that need to be changed frequently due to the accumulation of microbes in them, but permanently destroy microbes without side effects. Simply put, if an infected person enters a space that has a POTOK device, it is almost impossible for someone to get infected no matter how much time they spend there because POTOK will KILL EVERYTHING HARMFUL IN THE AIR and thus maintain a healthy environment. For every square meter of space, or cubic meter of air, there is a dedicated device that guarantees maximum efficiency. The application of POTOK technology is absolutely safe for human health and the environment, because during its operation the equipment does not require the use of consumables, chemicals or a special method of disposal at the end of its working life, which is almost unlimited. Patented POTOK technology is the only technology successfully used in International Space Stations (NASA and Roskosmos). The effectiveness of the technology has been tested and recommended for use by numerous scientific institutes around the world, including the Faculty of Medical Sciences of the University of Kragujevac. Bearing in mind the changes caused by the pandemic and that there are increasingly loud rumors that in the near or distant future there will be an outbreak of a new epidemic or the appearance of the so-called superbacteria resistant to all known antibiotics, we must not allow ourselves to be unprepared again. In this preparation for a “new tomorrow”, the POTOK technology gives us a great advantage and guarantees a healthier life and survival.

In an era where air pollution and pollutants pose a significant threat to our health, the demand for effective air decontamination technologies has never been greater. As we become more aware of the impact of airborne pollutants on respiratory health, the race to develop cutting-edge solutions for purifying the air we breathe has intensified. This blog explores the evolution of air decontamination technologies and the innovative solutions that are reshaping the way we provide clean, healthy air for all.

The quality of the air we breathe directly affects our overall well-being. Unfortunately, rapid industrialization, vehicle emissions, and various other sources contribute to increasing concentrations of air pollutants. The World Health Organization (WHO) estimates that 91% of the world’s population lives in areas where air quality exceeds guideline limits. These alarming statistics highlight the urgent need for advanced air decontamination solutions.

Evolution of air decontamination technologies:

1 – HEPA Filtration: High Efficiency Particulate Air (HEPA) filters have long been a staple in air purification systems. These filters can capture particles as small as 0.3 microns, effectively removing dust, pollen and other larger pollutants from the air.

2 – UV-C technology: Ultraviolet-C (UV-C) light has gained popularity as a powerful tool in air decontamination. UV-C light interferes with the DNA of microorganisms, such as bacteria and viruses, rendering them inactive. This technology is particularly effective in hospitals, laboratories and other environments where maintaining sterile conditions is critical.

3 – Activated Carbon Filters: Activated carbon filters are excellent at capturing and neutralizing odors, volatile organic compounds (VOCs), and other chemical pollutants. These filters use the porous structure of carbon to adsorb molecules, providing an additional layer of protection against harmful substances.

4 – Photocatalytic Oxidation (PCO): PCO is an advanced oxidation technology that uses a catalyst, typically titanium dioxide, to break down organic pollutants into harmless byproducts. This process is particularly effective in eliminating volatile organic compounds and other hazardous substances.

5 – Electrostatic precipitation: This technology uses an electrostatic charge to capture particles in the air. The air passes through the ionization chamber, where the particles are charged and then attracted to the collection plates. This method is effective in capturing both large and small particles.

6 – POTOK technology: Innovative technology that, by applying a strong electric field, destroys all types of viruses and microorganisms in the air, without the use of filters and chemicals. Originally designed for air purification in space stations, this technology is now widely used in all closed rooms, primarily in medical facilities and the food industry.

The future of air decontamination:

As technology continues to advance, the future of air decontamination holds exciting possibilities. Researchers are exploring the use of artificial intelligence (AI) to optimize air purification systems, allowing them to adapt in real time to changing air quality conditions. Additionally, the integration of smart sensors and IoT connectivity enables remote monitoring and control of air decontamination devices.

Conclusion:

The quest for clean breathing air has led to significant advances in air decontamination technologies. From traditional HEPA filters to state-of-the-art POTOK technology and AI systems, the options available today are more diverse and efficient than ever before. As we navigate a world filled with evolving environmental challenges, the continued development of air decontamination solutions remains critical to preserving our health and ensuring a cleaner, safer future. Easy breathing is no longer just a wish; is becoming a reality through innovative technologies that are shaping the air purification landscape.