Exploring UVC technology for infection control

Anti Viral UVC explores how ultraviolet light works and how UVC energy is an effective and environmentally friendly way to eradicate dangerous microorganisms in any environment

Ultraviolet (UV) is a form of light, invisible to the human eye, that exists on the electromagnetic spectrum between X-rays and visible light. We are exposed to low levels of UV light from the sun’s rays every day, although much of the UV energy is absorbed by the ozone layer.

UVC wavelengths are between 200 and 300 nanometres, making them germicidal, meaning they are capable of inactivating microorganisms such as bacteria, viruses, and protozoa. This quality makes UVC energy an effective, environmentally friendly, and chemical-free way to eradicate dangerous microorganisms in any environment.

The high energy from short wavelength UVC light is absorbed in the cellular RNA and DNA, damaging nucleic acids, and preventing microorganisms from infecting and reproducing. This absorption of UVC energy forms new bonds between nucleotides, creating double bonds or “dimers.” Dimerization of molecules, particularly thymine, is the most common type of damage incurred by UVC light in microorganisms. Formation of thymine dimers in the DNA of bacteria and viruses prevents replication and inability to infect.

UVC disinfection is clinically proven, easy to use and does not result in damage to the fabrication of the area or buildings being treated. This method uses no chemicals, reaches floor to ceiling and is suitable for even the smallest of spaces. The technology has proven to be a success, eliminating HCAI culprits including C. Diff, MRSA, NDM, Ebola and Norovirus.

Using UV during the SARS-CoV-2 pandemic

On contaminated surfaces such as metal, plastic and glass, we know that SARS-CoV-2 can survive for several hours up to 9 days; this only highlights the need to ensure that areas are disinfected thoroughly. UV technology is proven to sufficiently do this.

SARS-CoV-2 can be spread in tiny particles of liquid emitted from the mouth of the nose of an infected person (ranging from respiratory droplets to smaller aerosols). Traditional cleaning will only deal with the surfaces that people can reach. Although manual cleaning with chemical surface cleaner does remove Coronavirus particles, studies have shown that can eradicate as little as 50% of the virus.

THOR UVC®

THOR UVC® has been in use in healthcare since before the pandemic and has seen a demand outside of clinical environments.

THOR UVC® is proven to kill infectious pathogens such as Coronavirus, Ebola, MRSA, Enterococcus, Norovirus, VRE, CRE, MERS, E.coli, Acinetobacter and C.difficile and more over a rapid kill cycle.

The key features of THOR UVC®:

• Integrated 360 ° LiDAR Room Scanning – ensuring terminal disinfection is achieved by calculating an accurate dosage
• Integrated Ultrasonic Height Sensor
• 360° Rotating Dome with Full Pan and Tilt Functionality
• Integrated Antennae for DATA Connection 3G/WiFi
• 24 Signify High Output UV-C Tubes (12 static, 12 dynamic) –
• Linear Actuator for Automatic Height Adjustment (1.1 – 2.25m) – Extends to shadowed areas and floor to ceiling disinfection ensuring full coverage for an airborne virus
• 4 Integrated PIR Room Sensors for Entry Detection (all UVC emitters are off in less than a second in the event of a room intrusion
• Proprietary ‘WAVEFORM’ reflector panels for maximum UV-C light distribution
• Integrated Solid State Ballast Units – Optimised for the HO Emitters
• Integrated Battery System for Quick Boot Function
• Toroidal Isolation Transformer – increases electrical safety and the ability of the system to compensate for power surges, spikes or drops
• Footprint within International Standard on Wheelchair Dimensions – six wheels for maximum manoeuvrability and to eliminate the risk of toppling
• Auto Generates Cleaning Reports – to show the layout of the room that has been disinfected

We know alternative methods of clinical disinfection also work but are not without issue. For example, fogging has environmental impacts along with the time it takes for a room to be habitable following treatment can be up to 6 hours. Whereas air filtration units, with or without UV, are not able to kill pathogens on surfaces and are ineffective in large spaces (not to mention that they also need weekly cleaning inside the sealed unit to ensure any UV bulbs are still effective).

THOR UVC® brings UV safely to all workplaces.

Anti Viral UVC provides a clinical disinfection service and is a UK Distributor for THOR UVC®.

Please note: This is a commercial profile