IS-Instruments (ISI) has secured government funding to develop a fluorescent imaging device that could extend the usable life of PPE. The device assesses contamination levels on cleaned protective equipment to determine whether items remain safe for reuse. This innovation could reduce unnecessary waste and protect vital PPE stocks.

The award forms part of the UK Government’s Fast Start competition, managed by Innovate UK under UK Research and Innovation (UKRI).

Responding to a Global PPE Shortage

During the COVID-19 pandemic, the world faced an unprecedented shortage of PPE. The crisis emerged suddenly and overwhelmed global supply chains. Existing manufacturing systems were designed for industrial and healthcare demand, not mass public use.

There are several long-term strategies to address such shortages:

  • Expanding supply chains sustainably

  • Creating new PPE designs for wider distribution

  • Making better use of existing PPE through reuse or improved replacement schedules

The third option offers dual benefits.

It not only preserves supply but also supports climate goals by reducing plastic waste and encouraging responsible reuse.

Developing a Fluorescent Imaging Solution

Frontline healthcare workers require reliable PPE to safeguard both themselves and their patients. However, understanding when to replace certain items remains difficult. While gloves must be changed frequently, the guidance for other items, such as face shields or reusable respirators, is less precise. Current recommendations are mainly qualitative, referring to items as being “damaged,” “soiled,” or “difficult to use.”

If PPE could be quantitatively assessed for contamination, waste could fall significantly without compromising safety. ISI’s fluorescent imaging device aims to meet that need. It measures contamination on used PPE and cleaned equipment, determining whether items remain safe for continued use. This could transform PPE management in healthcare environments and other sectors that are sensitive to contamination.

Dr Jonathon Storey, Director at IS-Instruments, said:

“Winning funding under the Business-led Innovation in Response to Global Disruption call was deeply meaningful.

Around that time, my uncle was hospitalised with COVID-19 and sadly passed away a week later.

Writing the proposal helped me channel the feeling of helplessness into something constructive.

Our device detects fluorescent responses from viruses or contaminants on PPE and hard surfaces.

It could show whether items such as face shields are safe to reuse.

While this can’t bring my uncle back, I hope it helps protect others in future pandemics.”

Environmental and Practical Impact

Dr Michael Foster, Director at IS-Instruments, highlighted the broader impact:

“Most PPE is made from plastic, and COVID-19 caused a surge in global plastic pollution. Cleaning and reusing PPE where possible reduces waste, but only if users can trust that it’s clean. Our portable imaging system verifies cleanliness with accuracy and confidence. It’s a sustainable solution that maintains frontline safety.”

He added:

“This system could also map how viruses transfer between surfaces and spaces. That data could feed computer models to help prevent and contain future outbreaks.”

Expanding Applications Beyond Healthcare

ISI’s technology could also assess cleanliness in hospital facilities, laboratories, and food production environments. In the food sector, it could verify that preparation areas and packaging lines remain free from contamination throughout processing. Therefore, this innovation offers benefits far beyond pandemic response, supporting safer, cleaner, and more sustainable industries.

About the Project

ISI will assess the feasibility of producing a simple, portable fluorescent imaging device for real-time use in healthcare settings.