To combat this, many get-safe-quick schemes and safety measures have cropped up. One such solution is the disinfectant tunnel.

Like every solution known to mankind, these tunnels also have their pros and cons. Let’s take a look at them.

A detailed look at the advantages of disinfectant tunnels

• An added line of defense against the virus.

A disinfectant or sanitization tunnel is essentially meant to ward off infections and curb the spread of communicable disease by sanitizing the external part of a person. This makes people believe that it will be effective against the COVID-19 that is wreaking havoc throughout the world.

• It reduces the chances of the virus spreading.

The disinfectant tunnel works by spraying a solution to kill off germs and reduce the spread of stronger viruses. However, its effect on the Covid-19 virus remains to be seen.

• It removes any biological threats that can be passed on to others

Communicable diseases (whether they are as simple as a common cold or as complex as the COVID-19) are easily spread. Therefore, a whole body sanitization may ensure that these diseases are not passed on to others.

• A disinfectant tunnel cleans the entire body, not just hands.

Medical personnel have repeatedly advised the public to maintain the highest levels of hygiene to avoid contracting the Coronavirus. People have been instructed to wash and sanitize their hands regularly with a combination of soap and water or an alcohol based sanitizer. The disinfectant tunnel goes a step ahead and disinfects ALL body parts.

• It is economical to install

Such new technologies and innovations are often thought to be expensive (especially when an acute shortage of funds grips the market). However, many disinfectant tunnels are extremely economical besides being updated with specialized spraying mechanisms and sensors.

• Suitable enough for high footfall places

Public spaces like airports, metro stations, shopping malls, etc., are thronged by a high number of people on a daily basis. In such places, many asymptomatic carriers of the COVID-19 may brush shoulders with others, increasing the spread of the virus. Disinfection tunnels provide safety against such possibilities.

A detailed look at the disadvantages of disinfectant tunnels

• Its safety is debatable.

For a virus that has baffled scientists across the world, using an unconfirmed solution could prove to be dangerous. And, so it is with disinfection tunnels. The disinfectant tunnel has not been properly tested, and has yet to be checked for safety.

• The safety of chemicals being used in disinfection tunnels is questionable

The solutions used by disinfection tunnels have been repeatedly questioned by medical experts and scientists. The main chemical being used is sodium hypochlorite, which if inhaled, can cause irritation and lead to severe health issues. This solution is traditionally used to disinfect large water bodies inanimate objects. The effects of spraying it on humans might lead to some adverse effects.

• The World Health Organization’s stance

The World Health Organization (WHO) has not advised people to install the disinfectant tunnel, which means that no authentic body has so far claimed its effectiveness. In fact, it warns that these tunnels are meant to supplement, and not replace other measures like washing hands regularly, maintaining proper hygiene, wearing a mask, and maintaining social distancing.

• The human angle

How humane is it to spray dozens of people with a chemical to ensure that they don’t contaminate others - especially when it is not established as the most effective means?

A disinfectant tunnel may seem like a good way to discourage the sickness from spreading, but for now, its effectiveness and safety remain debatable.

So before installing a disinfection tunnel - think of the potential advantages and disadvantages before going ahead with just a good pitch and low cost!