UVD Robots Deploys Nation’s Largest Fleet of Autonomous Disinfection Robots into a School District

37 robots play a crucial role in bringing New Mexico school students back to the classroom by helping district facilities reach higher levels of disinfection.

Blue Ocean Robotics, manufacturer of UVD Robots, announced today that it is to supply 37 of its robots to 34 schools, two administrative buildings, and one warehouse in New Mexico. The company was selected by the Gallup McKinley County Schools (GMCS) district to use its autonomous UV-C light robots to help fight microorganisms.

 “We wanted a larger, longer-term disinfection solution, adding a layer of protection that would disinfect the surfaces in our buildings for years to come,” said Gallup McKinley Superintendent Michael Hyatt.

GMCS is one of the largest geographical school districts in New Mexico, covering a community of many rural areas. These areas face infrastructure issues that make virtual learning a challenge for numerous students. In fact, many students experience internet connection issues and approximately 1,500 students have no internet at home. The district also educates many special education students who learn better in classrooms, making the quick return to in-person instruction a top priority. 

“Unlike stationary disinfection robots, the UVD Robot is a mobile, fully autonomous robot. It integrates UV-C light to disinfect against microorganisms and bacteria on surfaces,” said Claus Risager, CEO of Blue Ocean Robotics. The company was recently included on Fast Company’s Top 10 list of ‘Most Innovative Robotics Companies’ in 2021‘. 

”We selected UVD Robots after a rigorous review process of numerous disinfecting robots,” said Hyatt. “UVD Robots delivered on all of our needs and requirements of importance for our district including technical excellence, maturity and track record, quality of approach in deployment, response time in technical support and maintenance, and overall value.”

“We are excited to announce, what we believe is the largest deployment of autonomous disinfection robots in any school district in the country,” said Per Juul Nielsen, CEO at UVD Robots. “The autonomous UV light is a highly effective, chemical-free method that disinfects and reaches surfaces in a room, saving considerable labor through continuously repositioning versus stationary UV disinfection methods.”