How Effective is UV Light to Kill Germs?

Originally posted at: https://www.light-sources.com/blog/how-effective-is-uv-light-to-kill-germs/

The effectiveness of UV light to kill germs is proven in many germicidal applications such as air purification systems and water disinfection applications. UV light also kills germs on surfaces and is used in many applications such as food buffets and grocery stores. UV germicidal lamps harness the power of UV radiation, which destroys bacteria, viruses, and many germs naked to the human eye, instantly upon contact.

Ultraviolet radiation is emitted in wavelengths and measured with nanometers (nm), with UV light broken down into 3 basic categories, UVA, UVB, and UVC radiation. UVA light is measured between 315 nm and 400 nm, UVB light is found in the range of 280 nm to 315 nm, while UVC radiation is between 200 nm to 280 nm with these powerful shorter wavelengths proven to have an extremely effective germicidal function specifically at 254 nm.

Use UV Light to Kill Germs at 254 nm

UVC radiation is emitted in the range of 254 nm is proven to eliminate viruses, bacteria, volatile organic compounds (VOCs) and harmful microorganisms. UVC radiation at 254 nm instantly penetrates the cells of these living organisms and alters the DNA to render it unable to replicate which leaves them completely harmless. Short-wave UVC radiation does not reach the surface of the Earth as it is filtered out by the Earth’s atmosphere. This wavelength of UV light to kill germs is extremely effective and is harmless to people.

Use UV Light to Kill Airborne Germs with Ozone at 185 nm

UVC radiation emitted at the short wave of 185 nm is useful in ozone-producing germicidal lamps to eliminate odors from the air. Ozone-generating germicidal lamps are used in air purification systems worldwide to keep air smelling crisp and clean and free from foul and stale odors. Airpurification systems with ozone lamps eliminate VOCs such as ammonia, mercaptans, and sulfides. Ozone-generating lamps decompress oxygen, O² to produce ozone, O³ which is a proven oxidizer.

Using UV Light to Kill Germs Provides Many Benefits

Using UV light to kill germs provides many benefits over other methods of disinfection. Many environmental regulations and codes exist to control the use of chemical disinfection and byproducts. UVC germicidal lamps are completely free from any harmful byproducts, meeting strict regulations and environmental codes.

Companies utilize UVair purification systems to provide a safe work environment and control potentially dangerous emissions to meet environment code compliance. UV germicidal lamps are used in water disinfection systems such as municipalities’ water treatment systems, fish aquariums, hatcheries, ballast water treatment systems, and many other water cleansing applications. UV light even kills some bacteria and viruses that chlorine does not, such as cryptosporidium and giardia.

UV light disinfection provides effective germ-killing properties, code compliance with strict environmental regulations, and is completely safe with no harmful byproducts. High-performance, high-quality germicidal lamps also provide long-lasting performance which requires little to no maintenance. With UV light germ-killing systems there is no need to purchase, store, or dispose of chemicals, providing maintenance-free disinfection systems which provide cost savings.

To summarize, UV disinfection provides the following benefits over other methods:

• Meets code compliance and environmental regulations
• Is completely safe with no harmful byproducts
• No need to maintain chemicals
• Long-lasting lamps require little to no maintenance
• Provides instant, effective disinfection
• Provides cost savings with long-lasting quality UVC germicidal lamps

With all of these benefits, it is easy to see why UV light is the preferred germ-killing disinfection process for many applications. Working with a reputable UVC germicidal lamp provider will deliver the best results with the right lamp for your process.

LightSources Offers High-Performance UVC Germicidal Lamps

LightSources is recognized as a leading global supplier of ultraviolet and fluorescent lamp solutions including custom-designed prototype products. The LightSources Group provides UVCgermicidal lamps used in air purification and water disinfection systems worldwide. We deliver first-to-market, patented products developed with proprietary technology as part of our commitment to delivering high-performance long-lasting, and energy-efficient solutions.

We offer a wide selection of UVC germicidal lamps such as our low-pressure Amalgam lamps developed with proprietary technology designed to withstand high current operation. Our low-pressure Mercury UVC lamps are available in quartz or soft glass and ozone-generating designs. Our high-output UVC lamps are designed to operate on higher currents with heavier filaments for more control and maximum UVC output.

 

UV Water Treatment Systems are Eco Friendly and Safe

Originally posted at: https://www.light-sources.com/blog/uv-water-treatment-systems-are-eco-friendly-and-safe/

UV water treatment systems are used around the world to provide environmentally safe, eco-friendly water disinfection. For a water treatment system to be considered “green”, it must not add any byproducts to the water. UV water disinfection is a physical process that adds nothing to the water and does not affect the dissolved oxygen content or chemical composition of water.

UV water disinfection is therefore considered to be a sustainable, or green technology. Thousands of municipalities worldwide are adopting UV water treatment systems in the construction of new water treatment plants and by converting existing chemical treatment processes. UV water treatment is environmentally friendly, safe, and cost-effective, providing many benefits to water treatment systems.

Benefits of UV Water Treatment Systems

UV water treatment systems provide many benefits over other types of water disinfection methods, including chlorine-based processes. UVlight is proven to eradicate Giardia and Cryptosporidium, microorganisms that are chlorine-resistant and proven to cause thousands of illnesses each year. UV water disinfection offers a host of advantages which include:

• Environmentally Friendly – UV water treatment is an environmentally friendly method of disinfecting water with no harmful by-products added during disinfection.
• Safe – UV light is safe for humans and poses no risks to employees handling chemicals. With UV water disinfection, there is no need to purchase, store, or dispose of harmful chemicals.
• Effective – UV radiation is proven to destroy 99.99% of harmful microorganisms including bacteria, viruses, fungi, E-coli, Giardia, Cryptosporidium, salmonella, typhoid fever, infectious hepatitis, meningitis, and many other pathogens.
• FDA Approved – UV water treatment is one of four methods approved by the FDA for safe and effective water disinfection.
  Reliable – UV light works around the clock with consistent and reliable performance.
• Efficient – UV radiation instantly kills germs for fast and effective water disinfection.
• Cost-Effective – UV water treatment systems are extremely cost-effective with little to no maintenance required and no man hours needed to handle chemicals. With long-lasting, high-performance UVC germicidal lamps, UV water disinfection is trouble-free, saving time and money.

Treating water with UV disinfection methods provides these benefits and many others. High-performance, quality UVCgermicidal lamps are the key to realizing the maximum advantages offered by UV water disinfection.

Germicidal Lamps for UV Water Treatment Systems

The most common types of germicidal lamps used in UV water treatment systems are low-pressure mercury lamps and rare gas discharge UV lamps. UVC germicidal lamps are designed without the phosphor coating which is typical of most fluorescent lamps. This allows the right amount of UV radiation to flow through the body of the lamp for effective disinfection.

The body of germicidal lamps is filled with either a mix of gases such as Argon, Mercury, Neon, Zenon, Krypton or others or may be filled with pure Argon. The germicidal application will determine the right mix of gases for the most effective disinfection.

There are a few different styles of lamps that are effective for UV water disinfection such as:

• Low-Pressure Amalgam Germicidal Lamps
• Low-Pressure UVC Germicidal Lamps
• Medium Pressure Mercury Discharge Germicidal Lamps
• Quartz sleeves and electronic ballasts

UV radiation emitted at precisely 254 nm, the measurement which refers to the wavelength of light, is the most effective wavelength for germ-killing disinfection.  Ozone-emitting lamps operate at 185nm and are also very effective at eradicating harmful contaminants and odor. These UV lamps may be designed with Quartz, soft glass, or Quartz and Titanium.

LightSources Provides High-Performance UVC Germicidal Lamps

LightSources is a leading global supplier of high-performance UVCgermicidal lamps used in water disinfection processes. LightSources in the United States and LightTech in Europe are recognized as an authority on UV technology and developing lamp and lighting solutions. We offer a wide selection of Low-Pressure UV lamps, Amalgam Lamps, Medium-pressure UV Lamps, Quartz sleeves, and electronic ballasts. Our skilled design and engineering team possesses in-depth knowledge of UV radiation and offers custom-designed lamps made to meet your specifications.

Our Amalgam lamps are developed with proprietary technology, providing up to three times the UVC output over comparable lamps of the same size. We will custom-design the right mix of gases to achieve the optimum output for your germicidal application.

 

Learn How UV Light for Eczema Gives Patients Relief

Originally posted at: https://www.light-sources.com/blog/learn-how-uv-light-for-eczema-gives-patients-relief/

Eczema is an irritating skin condition that causes painful, itchy patches of dry skin in varying degrees of severity and UV light for eczema is proven to provide relief. Eczema can cause emotional stress to those suffering from this skin condition who only want relief. There are different types of eczema, which include:

• contact dermatitis
• atopic dermatitis
• seborrheic dermatitis
• nummular eczema
• stasis dermatitis
• dyshidrotic eczema

Symptoms can be different among people suffering from eczema, although most people experience the most common symptoms reported as extreme itching, inflamed red skin, rough scaly patches of skin, dry, sensitive skin, and areas of swelling. Itchiness is associated with all types of eczema and can make symptoms worse if people scratch too much. Eczema may develop in babies and children who may outgrow the condition, or eczema may develop in adulthood.

Eczema currently has no known cure, although there are effective treatments in the form of topical ointments, creams, and ultraviolet (UV) light therapy.

How UV Light for Eczema Works

Topical treatments may work for some people, although UV light for eczema has been proven to give relief to many patients. UV light therapy, also called phototherapy, should be in a controlled setting under a physician’s care with the proper type of UV lamp. The right type of lamp must be used with the proper wavelength administered as exposure to the wrong type of UV radiation could worsen symptoms.

Some people notice an improvement in their symptoms during the sunny, summer months, these patients are more likely to see improvement with UV light therapy. People living in the northern hemisphere may notice that a UV lamp improves their symptoms during the winter months when sunlight is scarce. Consistency is key with UV light for eczema treatment as improvement usually takes one to two months of regular exposure.

Light is divided into colors and measured in wavelengths, with the unit of measure in nanometers (nm). Ultraviolet light is in the electromagnetic spectrum of radiated energy which is invisible to the human eye. Ultraviolet light is divided into three areas: UVA, UVB, and UVCradiation. UVA and UVB radiation are often prescribed to treat eczema.

UVA light is in the wavelength between 315 to 400 nm, UVB radiation is between 280 and 315 nm with narrow-band UVB light measuring 310 nm. UVB radiation is the most common type of light therapy for eczema and emits wavelengths that are similar to the sun’s rays and are proven to give relief to many patients. Some patients prescribed UVA treatments are also prescribed a medication called psoralen which makes their skin more receptive to the UVA treatments.

All types of UV light for eczema treatments are proven to help patients by suppressing the overactive immune system which reduces inflammation, itching, and pain. UV phototherapy can improve vitamin D production and increase the skin’s own bacteria-fighting systems. Phototherapy is proven to help about 70% of those suffering from this irritating skin condition to find relief from symptoms, or at least calm them down and in some cases put them in a state of remittance.

LightSources Offers Proven UV Lamps for Eczema Treatment

LightSources and European partner, LightTech, offer UV lamps proven highly effective in many phototherapy applications. The LightSources Group is recognized worldwide for designing, engineering, and manufacturing high-tech, cutting-edge UVlamp technology. Our engineers possess in-depth knowledge of UV radiation and lamp technology, offering UV lamps that outperform and outlast comparable lamps with long-lasting effectiveness.

Our UV phototherapy lamps are used worldwide to treat a host of medical conditions. Phototherapy lamps are proven effective in treating many skin conditions including eczema, psoriasis, acne, vitiligo, and mood disorders such as depression and seasonal affective disorder (SAD), a type of depression caused by a lack of sunlight. The LightSources Group manufactures UV phototherapy lamps with full OEM support for all of these conditions.

LightSources is the leading global supplier of UVC germicidal lamps used in all disinfection applications such as in air purification systems and water disinfection processes. UVC radiation is proven to instantly eliminate harmful bacteria and viruses within seconds of exposure and is completely safe for humans. LightSources offers the widest selection of UVCgermicidal lamps for any application with custom-designed solutions and prototypes available

 

UV Light Robots Effective in Fight Against Virus Infection

Originally posted at: https://www.light-sources.com/blog/uv-light-robots-effective-in-fight-against-virus-infection/

UV light robots utilizing UVC germicidal lamps are in high demand in the fight against the spread of harmful bacteria and viruses, including the SARS-CoV-2 virus that causes COVID-19. Ultraviolet (UV) radiation emitted in the UVC wavelength is proven to have highly effective germicidal properties, quickly eradicating harmful pathogens on surfaces, in water and in the air.

UV Light Robots: The Future is Now

UV sterilization systems have been utilized for decades such as in air treatment systems, water treatment plants, and many other applications where UV lamps are installed to disinfect surfaces. It is not unusual to see UV lamps in HVAC or wall mounted air treatment systems or positioned to sterilize surfaces such as medical and surgical equipment. Seeing a UVC robot roam the halls of public places, however, may seem like a scene out of a science fiction, futuristic movie.

Thanks to advances in technology and several studies verifying the effectiveness of UV lamps to kill the SARS-CoV-2 virus, the future is now with UV light robots gaining in popularity to disinfect surfaces in many different environments. Autonomous robots with UVC germicidal lamps installed to emit UVC radiation in all directions provide an effective tool to eliminate tough viruses and bacteria that manual cleaning procedures may have missed. UVC robots operate without humans present and can use sensors to detect motion to shut down if people are near. They can navigate rooms, hallways and find their way back to charging stations, all without being on the payroll or taking a lunch break.

UVC Robots a Common Sight in Many Environments

UVC light robots are becoming a common sight in many environments as people and businesses worldwide take proactive steps to reduce the spread of COVID-19. Hospitals and medical facilities are the main driver in the increased use of UVC robots although many other industries and environments are taking notice and using the same technology to protect their staff and the public.

Hospitals are known to be a source of infection with medical staff and administrators focused on preventing hospital acquired infections (HAIs) through meticulous sterilization procedures. Disinfecting hospital rooms where patients had a serious illness such as COVID-19 or any type of superbug like antibiotic-resistant bacterial infections is critical to protect all hospital patients and staff. UVC germicidal lamps have long been used in hospitals and medical facilities and are increasing in use in other environments.

UVC disinfection lamps and UV light robots are helping to protect people with effective sterilization in many industries and environments including:

· Hospitals and medical facilities

· Schools and college campuses

· Public stores and shopping malls

· Office buildings and manufacturers

· Restaurants and kitchens

· Libraries

· Public transportation systems

§ Buses and bus stations

§ Trains and train stations

§ Airplanes and airports

UV light robots can be programmed to enter hospital rooms after manual cleaning procedures and significantly improve effective disinfection rates. UV disinfection is effective in a wide range of water, air and surface sterilization applications.

Effectiveness of UV Light Sterilization

According to a recent study by the National Institutes of Health, UVC disinfection robot, the effectiveness of UV light sterilization depends on several environmental factors such as surface topography, relative humidity, temperature, pH, organic load and other chemical compounds present. UVC germicidal lamps and UV light robots are proven 99.99% effective in reducing counts of vegetative bacteria within 15 minutes, including stubborn superbugs like MRSA, and even tougher pathogens like C. difficile within 50 minutes.

Since the COVID-19 pandemic began in 2020 several studies have been conducted on the effectiveness of UVC light to kill the SARS-CoV-2 virus, with highly effective eradication of the virus comparable to other coronaviruses. Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome, also known as SARS, and Middle East respiratory syndrome (MERS) are both in the same coronavirus family. UVC light is proven effective at eliminating these coronaviruses as well as SARS-CoV-2, according to many recent research studies such as Upper-room ultraviolet air disinfection might help to reduce COVID-19 transmission in buildings: a feasibility study from October of 2020 by the National Institutes of Health (NIH).

UVC Germicidal Lamps for UV Light Robots

LightSources is a leading global supplier of UVC germicidal lamps for UVC light robots, offering a wide selection of high-quality germicidal lamps and custom engineering support. Our engineers possess deep technical knowledge of UV radiation and designing custom phosphor blends to meet your exact specifications. Our germicidal UVC lamps are proven in surface, water, and air sterilization applications, developed with proprietary technologies such as LongLife+™ and Shatter ProTech. LongLife+™ is a specialty coating that increases lamp life up to 16,000 hours, Shatter ProTech provides shatter resistance and protection from mercury contamination.

Our UV germicidal lamps include:

· Low Pressure Mercury Lamps

· Low Pressure Amalgam Lamps

· MPUVC germicidal lamps

· UV Quartz sleeves

· UVC Ozone lamps

· Custom bases and sockets

· Electronic Ballasts

UV Light in HVAC Effectiveness

Direct exposure to UVC lights can be hazardous to skin and eyes, although with the right type of germicidal lamps and proper installation, there is proven evidence of high germicidal UV light in HVAC effectiveness.

How Do UV Lights in HVAC Systems Work?

UVC lights are designed to emit particular wavelengths in the range of 254 nanometer (nm), which is effective at penetrating the DNA of microorganisms. The UV radiation is absorbed by the cells’ DNA which renders them unable to produce the needed proteins to survive or replicate. UV light does not immediately kill the germs, although it shortens their life span, and nullifies their ability to replicate and cause harm.

UVC light can penetrate the cells of viruses, bacteria, mold spores, fungi, and various germs when they pass through a heating, ventilation and cooling (HVAC) system. Strategically installing germicidal UVC lamps in HVAC units helps to purify the air and sterilize HVAC equipment for longer, more efficient use. UV light in HVAC effectiveness is proven to improve indoor air quality for a healthier indoor environment.

UV Light in HVAC Effectiveness

There are several studies that evaluate UV light in HVAC effectiveness with promising results for UV light in HVAC systems in hospitals, offices, and schools. According to a study conducted by American Society of Heating, Refrigerating and Air-Conditioning Engineers, ASHRAE, and Penn State University, ultraviolet germicidal irradiation (UVGI) showed successful results for reducing the amount of fungi in air handling units and cited improvements in children with mold induced asthma when installed in schools.

UV light has been used in hospitals and endorsed by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, CDC, for controlling the spread of tuberculosis in hospitals and healthcare facilities. UVC radiation is known to kill harmful microorganisms even antibiotic-resistant “superbugs” like MRSA, SARS and is even proven to be effective at killing the SARS-CoV-2 virus that causes the novel COVID-19.

How are UV Lights Installed in HVAC Systems?

Treating the volume of air in your home or office is immense, and only possible when installed properly in air handling units or HVAC systems since humans cannot be exposed to UVC light. Since the HVAC system draws air into the evaporator unit, forcing it out through air vents and registers throughout the home, UV light installed in the evaporator unit sterilizes the air as it circulates.

Only a professional HVAC technician should install UV lights in HVAC systems for germicidal effectiveness. The lights must be installed in the right area with the right angle of exposure to sterilize the air as it passes through. The HVAC technician will clean the air handler system thoroughly prior to installing UV lights and should inspect all ductwork for leaks. With the right installation by a certified technician, UV lights in HVAC effectiveness will be at maximum levels to prevent airborne infection.

High Performance Germicidal UV Lights for HVAC Effectiveness

LightSources is recognized worldwide as a leading manufacturer of high quality, high performance UV germicidal lights found in many applications. UVC lamps by LightSources provide germicidal solutions to water, surface and air sterilization systems with proven UVC effectiveness. We offer a wide selection of UVC lamps in various sizes, types, and styles as well as customized engineering solutions to meet customer specifications.

Our lighting specialists possess deep technical knowledge of UVC radiation and lamp design to deliver cutting edge germicidal solutions. We conduct ongoing research and development for continual improvement and offer proprietary technology that improves lamp life and performance. LightSources is an ISO9001:2015 registered supplier of UV lamps and lighting solutions including proven UVC germicidal lamps for use in a variety of industries and applications.

UV Light Air Conditioner Benefits

 Weighing the cost against the benefits, it is difficult to find a downside to installing a UV light air conditioner purification system in any commercial, industrial, municipal, medical, or residential building. UV germicidal light, specifically at the frequency of 253.7 nanometers (commonly referred to as 254 nm), effectively eliminates a host of pernicious microorganisms, such as fungi, bacteria, viruses, molds, spores, parasites, and dust mites.

The result is, at the very minimum, cleaner air for residents, employees, visitors, and others throughout the structure serviced by the air conditioner. In addition, UV germicidal lamps prevent build up on equipment which prolongs the useful life of air conditioning systems and enhances efficient operation.

UV Light AC System Proven to Reduce Fungi

UV light air conditioner purification systems provide many benefits and efficiencies. UV radiation is extremely effective at eliminating harmful pathogens that can collect on air conditioner units and spread through circulated air. In a recent scientific study evaluating the effectiveness of UV radiation to eliminate fungi in air handling units, a 286,000-square-foot office building in Oklahoma was equipped with a UV system on the main air handling units of two floors while two other floors had no lamps installed. Readings were taken from the study floor and the control floor to detect the concentration levels of mold and fungi since installation.

More than a dozen fungi species were present in May prior to installation of the UV system. When taken again in September, the readings on the floor with the UV system had decreased, while nearly every taxon increased its concentration on the control floor, in a couple of instances nearly 100-fold.

Health Benefits of UV Light for Air Conditioning Systems

UV lights in air handling units and air conditioner systems remove harmful pathogens from the units and from circulated air which provides significant health benefits. Some of the symptoms and ailments alleviated by the purified air include common colds; eye, nose, and throat irritation; allergies; headaches; nausea; COPD; bronchitis; asthma; lung infections; pulmonary disease; autoimmune deficiencies; and cancer.

The positive ripple effects of installing a UV air sterilization system are legion, and many of the benefits are long-term:

·        Freeing a workplace from airborne germs, pollutants, and irritants makes for a healthier workforce, and consequently decreases absenteeism and increases productivity.

·        UV purification systems have been proven to remove many industry-specific toxic chemicals and volatile organic compounds (VOCs) produced during business operations.

·        At 254 nm, the UV light produces no ozone, which can erode copper wiring and tubing. UVC ozone lamps are available that with proper installation, provide air sterilization and odor control.

·        UV light prohibits the accumulation of microorganisms, mold, and mildew that can clog the passageways of an AC system, making the motor work harder and shortening the useful life of the mechanics.

·        With the destruction of mold and mildew, their associated odors are eliminated.

·        The UV germicidal light system lowers energy costs by continuously cleaning the air conditioner components of mold and biofilms, particularly the coils, drain pans, and vent surfaces.

·        UV light systems are extremely low maintenance, saving time and money.

·        UV systems can work at optimum efficiency throughout a wide range of temperatures, from roughly 40°to 120° F (4° to 48° C). LightSources can custom-design systems to work in higher temperatures as required.

LightSources provides only the highest quality germicidal UVC lamps, proven to outlast and outperform comparable lamps. The experts at LightSources can help design the most effective and most economical UV lamps for air purification systems for use in any business, government facility, home, or other building.

 

222 nm UV Light: Far UVC Effectiveness and Safety

Ultraviolet light in the UVC range is proven to have germicidal properties, with 222 nm UV light showing high efficacy and safety. Standard UVC germicidal lamps emit wavelengths at 254 nm, proven to have high germicidal effectiveness by breaking the DNA bonds inside the nucleus of harmful microbes and pathogens. 254 nm UV lamps, however, are not safe to use when humans are present and pose risks to damaging skin and eyes.

222 UV lamps are showing the same germicidal properties and are much safer than 254 nm lamps due to the way 222 nm wavelengths are absorbed by the protein layer of cells. 222 nm UV light is also known as Far UVC and is considered safe to use around humans without risk of human exposure to skin or eyes.

222 nm UV Light Effectiveness

Both 222 nm and 254 nm UV lamps emit UVC wavelengths that inactivate viruses and bacteria. 222 nm UV light penetrates the microbe’s cell nucleus and breaks the DNA bond to prevent replication, thus rendering the cell harmless, the same as 254 nm UV lamps. 222 nm UV lamps go even further than inactivating the cell, however, and actually destroy pathogens.

When standard UVC lamps inactivate pathogens, there is a possibility that they could be reconstituted through a process called photoreactivation. This is not possible with 222 nm UV light which is known to deactivate and destroy most harmful human pathogens, including bacterium, viruses, fungus, mold, protozoa, and prions. Far UVC light has been the focus of many studies for over a decade, with many research studies showing high efficacy against a wide range of known harmful pathogens, including alpha and beta coronaviruses, influenza (H1N1), and adenovirus.

222 nm, Far UVC light is shown to safely and effectively inactivate human airborne coronaviruses, with research showing effectiveness at killing the SARS-CoV-2 virus that causes COVID 19. The study showed that even low doses of far UVC light inactivated 99.9% of aerosolized coronavirus. Much research has been conducted on the effectiveness of standard germicidal lamps for SARS-CoV-2, showing that UV light does kill COVID in air and on surfaces.

Far UVC lamps designed to emit 222 nm are also called Excimer lamps and are in use today in many applications, providing UVC germicidal protection with significantly safer operation.

222 nm UV Lamps: Excimer Lamp Effectiveness

Excimer lamps that emit 222 nm UV light are produced by creating a high-voltage discharge in a glass tube lamp with the proper mixture of gases to create 222 nm when energized. The intensity of the output can vary depending on the input power, and an optical filter can be included to ensure that harmful wavelengths above 230 nm are removed. 222 nm Excimer lamps are showing high effectiveness at killing viruses on surfaces, in the air, and safely inactivating airborne human coronaviruses.

Safety of 222 nm Far UVC Light

222 nm Far UVC light is highly effective at destroying harmful pathogens and is opening the door for many uses beyond traditional germicidal lamps due to the ability to operate safely in the presence of humans. 254 nm light used in standard germicidal lamps is absorbed by DNA to kill harmful cells but is not easily absorbed by proteins, which means it can penetrate deeper into human skin and damage the DNA of actively dividing skin cells which can lead to cancer.

222 nm UV light, however, is also highly absorbed by DNA but is also absorbed by proteins, which are contained in the outer membrane shell of all viruses and bacteria. This increases the effectiveness of 222 nm light against some microbes while also making it much safer for use around humans. Since 222 nm light is absorbed by proteins, it will not fully penetrate into the thick protein-rich layer of human cells.

The outer layer of human skin consists of dead skin cells with no active cells and provides an armored layer against 222 nm light. A similar layer of cells protects the eyes. Since 222 nm UV light never reaches the DNA of actively dividing cells, it is safer for use and human exposure.

Does UV Light Kill Candida Auris?

 Candida Auris is a formidable fungal pathogen that poses a serious threat to healthcare facilities worldwide. As a resilient organism capable of causing severe infections, it is crucial to explore effective methods of eradicating it from surfaces.

Surface Sterilization: Harnessing the Power of UV Light to Combat Candida Auris

In recent years, the use of UV light has gained attention as a potential solution for combating this elusive fungus. One question that many healthcare professionals want to know is, does UV light kill Candida Auris? There are several scientific studies and evidence that explore Candida auris and the application of germicidal UV lamps for surface sterilization.

Understanding Candida Auris and its Spread

It is essential to understand the nature of Candida Auris and its mode of transmission to understand the most effective application of UV light to kill this harmful pathogen. Candida Auris primarily spreads through contaminated surfaces in healthcare settings. It can survive for extended periods on various surfaces, including medical equipment, furniture, and hospital room fixtures.

Candida auris is recognized as an emerging fungus that poses a significant global health risk to people worldwide. There are three primary reasons why the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, CDC, is concerned about C. auris:

·        It is frequently multidrug-resistant, which indicates that it is resistant to numerous antifungal medicines, which are often used to treat infections caused by Candida. There are some strains that show resistance to all three kinds of antifungals that are now accessible.

 

·        It is challenging to identify using ordinary laboratory methods, and incorrect identification may occur in laboratories that do not have specific technology. A misunderstanding of this circumstance could result in incorrect management.

 

·        Candida Auris has been responsible for outbreaks throughout many medical facilities. Because of this, it is essential to conduct a speedy diagnosis of C. auris in a patient who is currently being treated in a healthcare facility so that these facilities may take additional safety measures to prevent the infection from spreading.

The Power of UV Germicidal Lamps

Germicidal UV lamps have been widely used for disinfection purposes due to their ability to inactivate a broad range of microorganisms, including bacteria, viruses, and fungi. UV-C light, with a wavelength range of 200-280 nanometers, is particularly effective in destroying the DNA and RNA of these pathogens, rendering them unable to replicate.

Scientific Evidence on UV Light and Candida Auris

Several studies have investigated the efficacy of UV light in eradicating Candida Auris. One notable study published by the National Institute of Health concludes that C Auris can effectively be killed with UV light surface sterilization, with the density of the C Auris, and the distance and time of UVC exposure strongly influencing the efficacy of UVC treatment to kill this harmful fungal pathogen. The researchers concluded that UV light can be a valuable tool in preventing the transmission of Candida Auris in healthcare environments.

Application of UV Light for Surface Sterilization

UV light can be applied for surface sterilization in various healthcare settings, including hospital rooms, operating theaters, and medical equipment. UV Germicidal lamps can be strategically installed to target high-touch surfaces, such as bed rails, door handles, and tables. By implementing regular UV disinfection cycles, healthcare facilities can significantly reduce the presence of Candida Auris and other pathogens.

In the battle against Candida Auris, surface sterilization plays a vital role in preventing its transmission within healthcare settings. UV light, particularly UV-C irradiation from germicidal UV lamps, has demonstrated effectiveness in eradicating Candida Auris on surfaces. By harnessing the power of UVC light for surface sterilization, healthcare facilities can enhance their infection control measures and protect patients from this resilient fungal pathogen.