Unique Solutions to Community Problems: Sanitizing Essential PPE for Front-Line Workers

COVID-19 is a global pandemic with local effects. The Sheriff’s Office is seeing a limited supply of the personal protection equipment designed to keep those working on the front-lines safe. Forensic scientists at the Johnson County Sheriff’s Office Criminalistics Laboratory have adapted a method for the sanitation and reuse of some of these valuable resources for our first responders. 

By repurposing evidence drying cabinets and with the use of UV lights, forensic scientists are able to sanitize multiple N95 masks in 60 minutes or less, allowing for reuse by first responders. The Sheriff’s Office Crime Lab has been able to reutilize three cabinets that have been placed at various fire departments and Johnson County MED-ACT buildings throughout the county for immediate use.

The Johnson County Sheriff’s Office is continually looking for unique solutions to the problems our community faces. We know supplies are limited in light of the COVID-19 pandemic and the Sheriff’s Office will continue to do what we can to ensure supplies are being used in the most efficient manner.

To watch a video of this process, please find us on Facebook, @JoCoSheriff.

For more information, contact the Johnson County Sheriff’s Office Public Information Office at 913-715-5455.