Even before the novel coronavirus outbreak, researchers have been studying ways to reduce acquired infections in group settings like elder care. A TIME story features a team of researchers from Ireland that has developed a robot equipped with ultraviolet light to kill harmful pathogens, yet be safe for use alongside residents. They named the new robot Violet, and are working on testing its capability. Other companies are working on implementing similar technologies. UVD Robots, from Denmark, is already in production and shipping disinfecting robots to hospitals. This technology is sure to help control future outbreaks of infectious disease and keep more people safe—a perfect use for robot technology. – Beth Sciaudone, DTC Civil Water Resources & Environmental Instructor
