Sharing a computer? FDA Approves Germ-killing Keyboard

The Food and Drug Administration has cleared the Vioguard self-sanitizing computer keyboard for use in hospitals and clinics.

The keyboard was developed by Kirkland-based Vioguard LLC.

Vioguard LLC, owned by two Microsoft Hardware alums and their business partners, sees its device as an alternative to manual cleaning. After use, the keyboard automatically retracts into an enclosed monitor stand to be bathed in ultraviolet light.

Computers are becoming more common in hospitals because of electronic medical records, and shared keyboards are one of the major ways that disease can spread.

The Ultraviolet “Class C” light used by the Vioguard keyboard is a well-known germicide. Vioguard cites outside lab tests showing the effectiveness of its system, which it claims can rid highly contaminated keyboards of bacteria related to the deadly MRSA infection and other diseases in as little as 10 seconds.

Vioguard was awarded a patent in December, and the keyboard went through a clinical trial. The results were recently published in the American Journal of Infection.

“We’re very pleased with the FDA clearance, which substantiates our medical claims and allows hospitals and clinics to make use of this new tool,” Larry Ranta, president and CEO of Vioguard, said in a statement Tuesday. “Conventional computer keyboards have been identified as a key point of transmission of viruses and bacteria, especially within the medical setting. The Vioguard keyboard takes the guesswork out of sanitization efforts, reduces labor costs, and helps fight the spread of harmful and often deadly superbugs.”

Ranta said Vioguard is seeking partners to help bring the keyboard to market.

Here is how Vioguard describes how the keyboard works:

Vioguard’s self-sanitizing keyboard has the look and feel of a standard notebook keyboard, and requires no software or special hardware to function. A powerful microprocessor controls UV exposure, operation of the sensor, and monitors safety interlock switches and lamp status.
On a user-triggered or predetermined basis, the keyboard automatically retracts into its own clean, light-tight enclosure. The keyboard is then safely flooded with high power germicidal UV light. By waving a hand within inches of a built-in motion sensor, the motorized keyboard drawer quietly opens and presents a completely sanitized keyboard and touchpad.

Greg Lamm, Staff Writer – Puget Sound Business Journal