SMC India Integrated Facility Management Solutions, a subsidiary of SIS Group, has partnered with US-based AIRIA to deploy advanced germicidal ultraviolet (UVC) and air filtration systems in Tuberculosis (TB) hospitals across India.

Under the initiative, more than 2,100 UVC-based airborne disinfection units will be installed across 116 high-risk TB hospitals spanning 23 states. The deployment will cover over 4,500 beds dedicated to TB, drug-resistant TB (DR-TB) and multi-drug-resistant TB (MDR-TB) patients. The project aligns with the Government of India’s National TB Elimination Programme, which aims to reduce airborne transmission within clinical settings.

Prem Prakash, Senior Vice President – Engineering Solutions, SMC Integrated Facility Management Solutions, said the germicidal UV systems ensure maximum pathogen elimination while maintaining safety standards for occupied healthcare spaces. 

India records approximately 2.6 million TB cases annually, with around 2.2 lakh deaths attributed to the disease. Given that TB spreads through the air, hospitals and healthcare facilities remain critical transmission points, underscoring the importance of robust airborne infection control measures.

Edward D’Souza, CEO of SMC Integrated Facility Management Solutions, described the collaboration as a blend of American innovation and Indian execution to address one of India’s most pressing public health challenges.

The UVGI (Ultraviolet Germicidal Irradiation) technology being deployed operates at a wavelength of 253.7 nanometres, a globally validated standard for air and surface disinfection in healthcare environments. Unlike HEPA filters, which trap airborne particles and are relatively expensive, UVGI systems actively neutralise pathogens by disrupting their DNA structure, rendering them harmless. The technology also demonstrated effectiveness during the second wave of Covid-19 by breaking down viral DNA and reducing transmission risks.

Bill Palmer, CEO of AIRIA, added that the systems are designed to provide continuous, scientifically validated protection, enhancing safety for both patients and healthcare workers.

Similar airborne infection prevention solutions have already been successfully deployed at Doon Medical College, Haldwani Medical College and Jodhpur Chest Hospital. SIS Group, the parent company of SMC India, is a USD 1.5 billion Indian multinational with over 3,00,000 employees and is also the largest security solutions provider in Australia.