Stadium of Light works with NHS deep cleaning experts ahead of reopening to SAFC fans

Joanne Merrilees (NHS Deep Cleaning and Advisory Service client engagement manager), Stadium manager Chris Ferguson, Tony Sullivan (NHS Deep Cleaning and Advisory Service environmental and decontamination manager) SAFC cleaning supervisor Colin Reed and Julie Holmes (NHS Deep Cleaning and Advisory Service environmental and decontamination team leader)

placeholder image — Joanne Merrilees (NHS Deep Cleaning and Advisory Service client engagement manager), Stadium manager Chris Ferguson, Tony Sullivan (NHS Deep Cleaning and Advisory Service environmental and decontamination manager) SAFC cleaning supervisor Colin Reed and Julie Holmes (NHS Deep Cleaning and Advisory Service environmental and decontamination team leader)

Ahead of supporters returning to the Stadium of Light, Sunderland AFC is continuing to work alongside the NHS Deep Cleaning and Advisory Service to control and prevent the spread of Covid-19.

Up to 10,000 fans could be permitted to return to the stadium from May 17, 2021.

In preparation, a team from the NHS Deep Cleaning and Advisory Service has been brought in by the club to ensure the safety of fans and staff alike, helping protect them from the spread of bacterial and viral diseases, such as Covid-19.

Sunderland AFC’s Head of Operations, David Moses, said: “As we prepare to welcome supporters back to the Stadium of Light, we are working diligently behind the scenes to ensure all visiting the venue can do so in a safe and contented fashion.

"The past 12 months have reinforced why cleanliness and hygiene are of paramount importance and collaborating with the excellent team at the NHS Deep Cleaning and Advisory Service provided a simple and effective solution to an incredible challenging and complex operation.

"This has ensured that when our supporters return to the stadium, and our colleagues return to work, they can feel comfortable and confident within the environment irrespective of their personal circumstances.”

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The NHS Deep Cleaning and Advisory Service, which also developed England’s first official protocol for domestic cleaning and hygiene, has provided a thorough audit of the stadium, Academy of Light and club offices.

Joanne Merrilees, Chris Ferguson, Tony Sullivan, Colin Reed and Julie Holmes

Sunderland AFC’s dedicated cleaning team have undertaken the extensive training provided by the service, which is examined – rather than accreditation by attendance only – and requires a pass mark before certification is awarded.

The club has also been provided with a Hypochlorous fluid, produced by Tutum Health, that decontaminates and cleans surfaces, killing 99.9999% of tested Hospital Associated Infection pathogens.

Tony Sullivan, Environmental and Decontamination Manager at the NHS Deep Cleaning and Advisory Service, added: “It’s brilliant working with Sunderland AFC.

"They totally understand the need to protect their fans when they open back up and our service is helping make this happen.

"We have worked really closely with their domestic cleaning team to make sure they have everything they need to open a safe environment, so that fans can feel confident at coming back and watching their team play again.”