Machines which use technology first developed by NASA are being supplied by a Cumbrian firm to help sanitise the air.

K&S McKenzie, based on Carlisle’s Kingstown Industrial Estate, supply a wide range of motor parts and other equipment.

It has also invested in Viro Tech Mini machines, which the company says are able to rid the air of of 99.99 per cent of surface bound and airborne viruses, bacteria, odours, and allergens.

The machines uses natural catalytic conversion and ionization technology which is based on research by NASA.

NCC technology was developed for space missions to control ethylene gas which no existing filter could manage due to its tiny particle size.

Viro Tech Mini machines cover an area of up to 279 metres squared.

K&S McKenie says they can be used for offices, gyms, hospitals and other buildings.

Director Stuart McKenzie said: “We are constantly looking for ways to expand our offering and help businesses navigate the ‘new normal’ as lockdown eases across the county.

“We have already launched a vehicle sanitisation product that has proven very popular and know that these innovative machines will make a real difference to a number of local businesses when it comes to keeping their staff and customers safe.”

Earlier this year the company teamed up with WAI-Global to supply innovative vehicle sanitisation kits which are sprayed on surfaces.

K&S McKenzie was one of the first firms to open on the Kingstown Industrial Estate and was set up by Stuart’s parents, Keith and Sara, in 1968, supplying parts to the commercial vehicle market.

Stuart and his brother Alistair now head up the company, which has diversified into different markets.

Earlier this year it opened a new tool centre on the nearby Blackdyke Road, for their existing commercial clients and for the general public to visit, which saw the company double in size.