What is UV-C?
UV-C is one of the leading forms of disinfection in the world. It is a quick and easy approach to destroying harmful bacteria from both items and surfaces. There are a few different forms of UV light. There is UV-A, UV-B, and UV-C light. While ultraviolet disinfection methods have been used for centuries, the COVID-19 pandemic has sparked a broader interest in eliminating pathogens of all kinds among all types of businesses. As a result, many organizations have created new and improved mandates to eradicate viruses and bacteria from their offices, hospitals, hotels, schools, and other spaces where people frequently interact. Let’s take an in-depth look at UV-C disinfection and bring it back to the basics.
What is UV-C disinfection?
UV-C light is a component of the electromagnetic spectrum that falls in the range of visible light and X-Rays. It has a wavelength range of 200 nm to 280 nm, which makes it useful for disinfection. UV-C disinfection is one the leading forms of disinfection due to it being easy to use and highly effective at killing bacteria. When organisms are exposed to UV-C light, that light gets absorbed into their DNA. When that light is absorbed, cell walls rupture and kill the organism. The cells can no longer replicate, meaning they can no longer infect.
When was UV Disinfection founded?
In the form of germicidal lamps, UV-C light has been used since the late 1800s to kill micro-organisms that often cause indoor air quality (IAQ) issues such as bacteria, mold, yeast, and viruses. Ultraviolet light disinfection was discovered in 1801 and UV germicidal irradiation was used for disinfection in 1910.
Is UV-C Effective?
UV-C is the most effective disinfection method, especially in today’s times. Not only is UV-C disinfection chemical free, but it is a quick, safe, green, and reliable option. There is a shorter wavelength in UV-C light that targets germs in their DNA or RNA. This deactivates the bacteria so that they can no longer replicate and spread. UV-C typically kills 99.9% of bacteria, so yes UV-C is extremely effective.
Why is UV-C the best disinfection option?
Rapid technological advancements have made it possible for UV-C disinfection technology to be deployed in an ever expanding field of applications. There are a plethora of markets that UV-C disinfection could make a positive impact. Some of these include the healthcare field, retail spaces, restaurants, tourism attractions, hotel industry, public transportation spaces, airports, corporate buildings, etc. The list could go on and on. UV-C disinfects a plethora of items, devices, or even spaces.
UV-C is cost-effective and is a non-toxic form of disinfection. UV-C is a green form of disinfection compared to disinfection wipes and sprays. There is no waste being emitted and the light is eco-friendly. It is compact and able to move to desired locations that make the most sense for your workplace or space where you are wanting a UV-C disinfection unit. Overall, UV-C carries a much higher efficacy than other disinfection options.
Do you have any questions regarding UV-C? Want to inquire about implementing a UV-C Disinfection unit in your workplace? Contact us at sales@icleanse.com. We are happy to talk to you about UV-C disinfection and would love to discuss the best possible devices that would fit your company’s needs.
Resources:
1. https://www.healthline.com/health/does-uv-kill-coronavirus#uv-light-and-germs
2. https://www.uvtglobal.com/what-is-uv-c/the-history-of-uv-c/?v=79cba1185463