Navajo casinos install new air purification technology to prevent COVID-19

The Navajo Nation Gaming Enterprise (NNGE) announced Wednesday the installation of ActivePure Technology Air Purification Systems for air sanitization at each of its facilities to optimize air quality for its employees and patrons. 

As the company stated in an official release, the technology used in the active air cleansing systems manufactured by ActivePure was initially developed for use on the International Space Station to help provide clean air for the astronauts to breathe and for growing food. It is proven to be effective in multiple independent laboratory testing and real-world use. 

“From the outset of the pandemic, the Navajo Nation was unwavering in its commitment to protecting the Navajo People and leading by example with mobilizing all resources necessary to develop and implement a multi-phase Safety and Reopening Plan. The NNGE then proceeded with deploying its own Workplace Safety Plan that remains fully in effect today”, the company said. 

NNGE Interim CEO Brian Parrish spoke in a press release about this new measure and said: “The health, safety and general welfare of our employees and our guests has always been a top priority for our Board of Directors and management team. The installation of ActivePure Air Purification Systems, combined with our advanced heating ventilation and air conditioning systems and continued deployment of our COVID-19 virus containment measures, create multiple layers of air sanitization that our employees and patrons can trust in”.

“I am very proud of our Team and the work that has been done to keep everyone safe. Presently, 85% of our Team Contact: Brian D. Parrish Navajo Nation Gaming Enterprise [email protected] Members have been fully vaccinated and we’re providing fact-based information from medical services providers for the folks who are hesitant to get vaccinated so they can make an educated decision for themselves and their families,” Parish concluded.

Active Pure Technologies Chairman and CEO Joe Urso added: “ActivePure Technology has been tested at some of the world's top biosafety testing facilities, including the University of Texas Medical Branch (UTMB), where the technology inactivated over 99.9% of highly concentrated airborne SARS-CoV-2 virus (the virus that causes COVID), in an enclosed setting in just 3 minutes to below detectable levels. ActivePure has also demonstrated in other Biosafety Level (BSL) laboratories to inactivate over 99% of bacterial and fungal pathogens, along with other Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs), in the air and on surfaces. While nothing can guarantee 100% protection from infections, ActivePure has demonstrated material reductions in pathogens in test after test”.

Dr. Deborah Birx, Former White House Coronavirus Response Coordinator and Chief Medical and Science Advisor for ActivePure Technology commented, “There is a critical need for increased and layered protections in indoor settings due to the increased transmissibility of the Delta variant. The extraordinary steps the Navajo Nation Gaming Enterprise is taking, including masking, ensuring physical distancing, and investments in improved air quality, are essential to help protect patrons and staff." 

“We continue to work side-by-side with the Navajo Nation Department of Health and the Health Command Operations Center to stay ahead of the Delta variant and any other challenges of the pandemic. Public health indicators are presently improving but there could be a resurgence of the virus during the winter months. We have confidence in the steps that we have taken but it is not time yet to let our guard down,” shared NNGE Board Chairman Quincy Natay. 

NNGE operates four casinos and a travel plaza in New Mexico and Arizona. The Fire Rock Navajo Casino is near Gallup, New Mexico. Flowing Water Navajo Casino, Northern Edge Navajo Casino, and Twin Arrows Navajo Casino Resort are the other three gambling properties.