What’s UVC sterilization?

We've all heard of UV-A and UV-B ultraviolet rays: they come from the sun, and they're the reason we have SPF ratings on sunscreen. Less publicly known, but effective in it's own right is the UV-C subsection of the light spectrum.

UV-C is a shorter wave ultraviolet radiation, and it can destroy bacteria, viruses, spores (including C. diff.) and other pathogens in the air, in liquids, or on surfaces. UV-C has been used in germicidal applications since the 1930's. 

How does UV-C kill microorganisms?

UV-C destroys the DNA of germs and pathogens when emitted at a wavelength of 253.7 nanometers. Once the DNA is broken, it loses it's ability to reproduce and the bacteria or virus itself is rendered harmless. 

Is UV-C safe?

While UV-C has a significantly lower penetrating ability than UV-A or UV-B, overexposure can temporarily irritate the eye. However, to prevent this from happening some air sterilizers are equipped with infrared sensing to automatic shut-offs. This means if a person enters a room that's being disinfected , the machine will switch off and the person will receive no exposure.

Advantages

Hospital wards, operating theatres, residential care homes, classrooms, offices and other facilities with a continuous flow of staff, patients and visitors can harbour unseen bacteria and viruses. The risks associated with healthcare-acquired infections and cross-infections have been continuously highlighted in the media, with many hospitals closing during the winter months due to outbreaks of infections. The UV-C Mobile Room Steriliser is a cheap and effective way to decontaminate indoor air and surfaces in any environment, and it has been designed and manufactured to be affordable for every establishment. For rooms over 40 square metres, two or three units can be placed strategically around the room, giving a higher output of UV-C to achieve a kill rate of more than 99.9%. The UV-C Mobile Room Steriliser is ideal for use in prison cells, especially after a ‘dirty protest’. After the ‘soiling’ has been removed, placing the unit in the cell for 30 to 60 minutes will kill any remaining bacteria or viruses on exposed surfaces (including walls) and will sanitise the air, protecting staff against potentially harmful or contagious contaminants.