Steelcase today announces an exclusive agreement with Kontrol Technologies Corp. to offer customers in the U.S. and Canada access to Kontrol BioCloud® viral detection technology. Kontrol, a leader in smart buildings and cities, will offer its air quality monitoring device exclusively in the contract furniture market through Steelcase's extensive dealer network. BioCloud provides real-time detection of airborne pathogens such as SARS-CoV-2.
BioCloud samples the air continuously through a combination of three independent capture techniques. When the device detects a virus, it sends a communication in the Cloud or over local intranet, notifying workplace leaders in real time. With this actionable information, employers can take the measures needed to mitigate virus outbreaks in the office.
"Steelcase research shows that when people return to the workplace they will expect a greater emphasis on safety — citing air quality and adherence to safety protocols as top needs," said Allan Smith, Steelcase global vice president of marketing. "The office can play a role in helping to mitigate the spread of disease and collaboration with Kontrol BioCloud will help our customers in their efforts to create healthy spaces for their employees when they return to the office."
The Importance of Air Quality and Safer Workspaces
As organizations plan to bring employees back to the office in the coming months, creating safer workplaces will be a critical step in returning to normal. With findings that aerosol transmission is the primary means of spreading COVID-19 (as well as other viruses like influenza A, SARS and viral meningitis, among others), air management is a key area of focus when it comes to creating a safer workplace. Real-time air monitoring can play an important role in establishing the confidence needed for organizations to succeed in the current environment and beyond.
"Kontrol is excited to enter into a marketing alliance with Steelcase, a global leader in workplace solutions that help people feel safe and productive through adaptable furniture and technology. We look forward to delivering air quality and real-time space monitoring technology to the work environment through the extensive Steelcase dealer network," said Paul Ghezzi, CEO of Kontrol. "The marketing alliance with Steelcase provides Kontrol BioCloud with a significant platform into the United States office market as well as an established corporate customer base."
Starting in early September, organizations across the U.S. and Canada can access Kontrol BioCloud through Steelcase's dealer network, the largest and most reliable dealer network in the industry. Through the exclusive partnership, Steelcase's dealer network will be the only major contract furniture dealer network to offer BioCloud in North America.