CapitaLand Singapore malls test new technology in virus fight

CapitaLand Singapore plans to roll out “innovative tech solutions” in its properties as the city-state prepares for phase one reopening tomorrow, June 2.

Among the measures: anti-microbial coating for high-contact areas including lifts and lift buttons, door entrance buttons, handrails, touch screens, toilet cubicles and basins, family rooms and customer service counters; disinfected floor mats which clean shoe soles when walked on; and disinfection robots.

“CapitaLand malls have continued to operate and serve the daily needs of Singapore throughout the circuit breaker period,” said Chris Chong, MD of retail at CapitaLand Singapore. “Now that the nation is gearing up for Phase 1 safe reopening, we are committed to take the necessary precautions to protect the health of our shoppers, tenants and employees as they gradually return to their workplaces.”

The robots will be deployed to the basement floors and level one of Tampines Mall and Bukit Panjang Plaza, two of the company’s busiest centers, before being progressively rolled out at other CapitaLand properties.

Meanwhile, PhotoPlasma air disinfection systems will be introduced in CapitaLand’s lift cars to “energize atmospheric air into a plasma state, in turn eliminating air-borne and surface microorganisms such as virus and bacteria”.

Another technical innovation being used is automatic escalator handrail disinfection at The Atrium@Orchard. An Ultra UV device installed in the escalator system will disinfect handrails while the escalators are running.

And two lifts at The Atrium@Orchard will also be fitted with a QR code registration device, allowing tenants and shoppers to scan a QR code and activate the lifts without contact with lift buttons.

All visitors to the company’s malls will be required to undergo temperature checks upon entry and must wear masks at all times. Signs and queue markers will enforce safe distancing

“With precautionary measures in place, we create a safe environment to welcome the community back to our malls upon the gradual easing of Singapore’s circuit breaker,” said Chong.