introduction

Exposes viruses, fungi and spores to ultraviolet radiation energy so that their genetic material becomes mutated, and they are unable to replicate and spread disease (Public Health Ontario, 2021).

• On the electromagnetic spectrum, UV radiation waves can be anywhere from 10-400nm in length
  • The smaller the wavelength, the higher the frequency, the greater the energy

benefits

Proven to deactivate the SARS-CoV-2 virus, which with consistency, reduces the spread of COVID-19 in mediums such as air, water, and nonporous surfaces

• UV-C radiation can be produced by germicidal lamps
  • The closer/higher dosage of radiation the target pathogen, the more effective the radiation is
  • maximal wavelength for UV absorption in terms of disinfection is at 265nm, known as UV-C
• A recommended exposure time and wavelength of UV-C for the SARS-CoV-2 virus has yet to be established
• Can be used to disinfect surfaces to rid them of pathogens

costs + models

• Upper-air germicidal UV only emits radiation in the upper portion of a given space, so that the people are not directly exposed, but as the air of the room constantly mixes, the entire room is able to be disinfected
  • For an upper-air germicidal UV model, they start at $864 (CAD), and increase in price based on volume of air they are able to cover

potential hazards

• UV lamps at certain wavelengths can generate ozone, which in consistent expose, can negatively impact respiratory health
• Direct exposure should be avoided, as UV lamps are intended to cause damage the genetic material in cells, which could have potentially adverse effects on humans
  • Recommended to run UV-C fixtures in an empty room

references

Ultraviolet (UV) light disinfection for SARS-CoV-2 | Public Health Ontario

How much do UV-C fixtures cost?