UVC Sanitizer and Germicidal Light Principles
Principle and Efficacy of Ultraviolet Disinfection
UV light works effectively against microorganisms with RNA/DNA, such as viruses and bacteria. The ultraviolet (UV) spectrum, particularly UV-C light (200-280 nm), is highly effective in inactivating pathogens by damaging their nucleic acids, rendering them unable to replicate and cause infections.
Unlike drugs or chemicals, bacteria or viruses do not develop resistance to ultraviolet light. This unique mechanism of action makes UV light sanitizers an invaluable tool in combating a wide range of pathogens, including antibiotic-resistant bacteria and novel viruses. UV disinfection is versatile and can be applied in healthcare facilities, public spaces, water treatment, the food industry, and air disinfection.
Advancements in UV technology, like Far-UVC light (222 nm), offer safe and continuous disinfection in occupied spaces, further enhancing its utility. Key benefits of UV light sanitizers include being non-toxic, chemical-free, rapid, and effective against a broad spectrum of pathogens, with low maintenance and operational costs.
Further Reading
News Release: “Kobe University-Ushio Inc. Joint Study Shows Irradiation of Filtered 222 nm Far UV-C Light on Human Skin Reduces Bacterial Counts While Causing No Skin Damage” (2020)
News Release: “Kobe University-Ushio Inc. Joint Study Finds Repetitive Irradiation with 222 nm UV-C Does Not Cause Skin Cancer” (2020)
Ushio Inc. / National University Hospital Singapore succeed in bacterial disinfection of injuries using 222 nm ultraviolet (2017)
DIRECTIVE 2006/25/EC OF THE EUROPEAN PARLIAMENT AND OF THE COUNCIL of 5 April 2006 on the minimum health and safety requirements regarding the exposure of workers to risks arising from physical agents (artificial optical radiation) (19th individual Directive within the meaning of Article 16(1) of Directive 89/391/EEC)
Care222® excimer lamps from Ushio America, Inc.
Far-UVC light (222 nm) efficiently and safely inactivates airborne human coronaviruses
Exploratory clinical trial on the safety and bactericidal effect of 222-nm ultraviolet C irradiation in healthy humans