Scientists at Skoltech (Skolkovo Institute of Science and Technology) in Moscow have come up with a self-contained robotic platform that can disinfect large facilities.

The disinfector robot is reported to be able to map out its best possible route all on its own. It can be used on large areas, such as stores and hospitals.

The machine is equipped with UV lamps on both sides and can cover up to 4,000 square meters for six-seven hours without recharging. Users are recommended to deploy such robots at nighttime to safeguard humans against unnecessary exposure to UV; however, deploying some during the day shouldn’t cause concern, as the robot will immediately notice a person nearby and has been taught to turn off its lamp on the side closer to the human.

The developers are currently in talks with stores and hospitals over their product.