THE TRUTH ABOUT UV LIGHTS

Let’s get one thing straight: ultraviolet (UV) light technology is dangerous to the living.

Nowadays, UV lights are being touted as quick solutions to effectively disinfect public places. Banks, offices, and even transportation vehicles are frequently exposed to light-emitting lamps to eliminate invisible pathogens in a flash. The use of this technology in combating diseases is a tried-and-tested solution. When it comes to the coronavirus in particular, studies have been promising. To quote a recently published German research paper, “it appears that coronaviruses are very UV sensitive” (Hessling, et. al, 2020). UV lamps reduce viral presence by up to 90 percent in a given area.

The strength of this technology, however, is also its flaw. While UVC, the kind of light used, quickly kills pathogens, it also harms other living organisms at the same speedy rate. According to Dan Arnold, representative of the company UV Light Technology, “you can get sunburn from UVC in seconds.” It shouldn’t be used to sterilize your hands, your feet, or even your pets. These devices should only be used on non-living objects. Also, the amount of UVC needed to kill the COVID-19 virus remains a debated subject. The distance of the object from the UVC light source also affects the effectivity.

What does this mean? UVC lamps are specialized devices that when used properly, can successfully reduce viruses in the air. These devices, however, cannot be used in a room where people are present. These lamps can be turned on at night in offices and public places as soon as people have already gone. At home, these devices should be mounted above eye-level to keep inhabitants safe. They should only be turned on when everyone has left the room. Maintenance of these units should be handled by trained personnel.