In this second part of the series, we continue to review the various Air Sterilisation Technologies for indoor occupied areas.
In this article, it’s a question of ‘The Good and the Good’
UV Sterilisation
Ultraviolet germicidal irradiation (UVGI) is a disinfection method that uses short-wavelength ultraviolet (ultraviolet C or UV-C) light to kill or inactivate microorganisms by destroying nucleic acids and disrupting their DNA, leaving them unable to perform vital cellular functions.
In June 2020, Signify, a Netherlands based company, published their research on their treatment of inoculated material with different doses of UV-C radiation, coming from a signify UV-C light source, and assessed the inactivation capacity under various conditions. The team applied a dose of 5mJ/cm2, resulting in a reduction of the SARS-CoV-2 virus of 99% in 6 seconds.
UV-C light is not without its hazards and the World Health Organisation has advised Ultraviolet (UV) radiation is a known cause of skin cancer, skin ageing, eye damage, and may affect the immune system in both people and animals. Any UV-C device must have a fully controlled and shielded UV-C irradiation zone to sterilise the air, preventing direct UV-C contact with people and animals, therefore rendering it safe to use in occupied indoor spaces.
We would therefore advise against the use of any form of handheld UV-C devices, hand dryers fitted with UV lights that ‘disinfect’ your hands, and in general any device with an exposed UV lamp, even if the product manufacturer has fitted a movement sensor.
UV-C lamp manufacturing is a very specific process and UV-C lights must be specified to an exact wavelength of 254nm to be effective against viruses. At this frequency, it is not visible to the human eye and will not generate harmful Ozone. Be informed against the risks associated with cheap UV-C lamp manufacturers, both in terms of the correct frequency and creating Ozone.
https://www.signify.com/global/innovation/uv-c
As is evident, if correctly designed and manufactured, UV-C technology can be very effective in destroying SARS-CoV-2 virus and rendered suitable for occupied indoor space. When selecting an air purifier or air sterilisation unit, ensure that you make an informed decision.
If you pay peanuts, you get monkeys.
Seek an expert opinion.
Stay Safe, Stay Open
