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Frequently Asked

What is UVC?

UVC is short-wavelength ultraviolet radiant energy. It forms part of the non-visible segment of the photobiological ultraviolet spectral band, between 200 and 280 nm. 

Is the use of UVC, as an effective germicidal tool, new?

No, in fact there GUVI has been studied since the late 19th century with a focus on UVC from around 1930. In 1935 scientists proved through demonstration the ability of UVC irradiation to effectively inactivate airborne microorganisms. In the 1970’s UVC irradiation was proven to reduce TB infection. Since the early 1990’s there has been a further focus on the efficacy and safety of UVC products as a way to inactivate viruses and bacteria and it is a proven, useful tool in this respect.

How does UVC destroy/ inactivate bacteria and viruses?

When UVC irradiation comes into contact with a micro-organism it causes a photochemical reaction as the radiation is absorbed. Damage to the micro-organism’s DNA ensues. Principally the action of the absorption of the photon makes the microbe unable to replicate.

Is UVC technology safe?

Misuse of products and improper installation may result in the UVC products being unsafe. Always follow the directions laid out in the user manual.

UVC is very well researched and well understood. Compared with UV-A and UV-B, both of which are present in sunlight, UVC presents little penetration into deeper layers of skin. In fact, UVC primarily impacts and is absorbed by the outer dead layer and outer skin. The current daily safe limit for 253.7 exposure over an 8 hour period is 6 mJ/cm2 [American Conference of Governmental Industrial Hygienists. 2020 Threshold Limit Values and Biological Exposure Indices] This compares with 10 minutes of exposure to sunlight with a UV index of 10.

However, exposure to UVC can cause temporary skin and eye irritation/ redness and longer exposure can cause burns. When using ultraviolet disinfection lamps, people, animals, and plants MUST not be in the disinfection area. Objects may exhibit accelerated aging, in a similar way that objects are aged when left in direct sunlight. After using ultraviolet light, the area must be ventilated for at least 10 minutes. 

Our products have multiple safety circuits built into all of its products to reduce and avoid the risk of incorrect use resulting in injury.