Myths Around The Use Of UV Technology To Kill Coronavirus
The coronavirus pandemic has paved the way for many future technologies to innovate and invent products and gadgets that we as citizens will need while stepping into the new normal. With the rising cases and lockdowns being imposed by state governments, people will be keen to adopt health technologies to protect themselves. One of the top technologies that people have started adopting is UV technology which can help in fighting the coronavirus, killing any surface bacteria and virus. However, the UV technology itself comes with certain health implications and people should look at a few aspects before investing in one. On the occasion of World Health Day, here are some Myths around the use of UV Technology that people should consider before investing in it. This article would help you to understand the myths about technology and ascertain how to use UV-C sanitization solutions to secure your home and loved ones from pathogens.
Myth: All UV lights kill COVID-19 – Ultraviolet refers to a range of electromagnetic waves with a shorter wavelength. UV is of three types – UVA, UVB, and UVC. For UV sterilization, UVC (100-280nm) is the most suited energy that effectively kills pathogens. At the same time, direct long-term exposure to UV-C carries certain health risks. Therefore, the most significant parameter for selecting a UV-C-based sanitization box is to check if it is tested and certified by a credible institution. In India, one of the most credible institutions in this regard is the CSIR lab (authorized and approved by the Indian Council of Medical Research).
Partial Truth: All UV rays are harmful to humans – Several leading water purifying systems already used UV-C-based disinfection technology. UV rays are harmful to us if there is prolonged and direct exposure to the skin. But using UV-C rays in a controlled environment like that of a box or enclosed devices restricts contact with skin and is safe to use for sanitization of everyday articles that come into your home. Therefore, the most critical parameter to adjudge the safety of a UV-C-based sanitization solution is to see if it’s leak-proof, child- and pet-safe. Many solutions available in the market do not come with a certification for the whole system. It means that while certain parts of the system have been tested, the entire unit has not been tested for efficacy, efficiency, and safety. Beware of cutting corners and investing in an inferior solution that might eventually put your health at risk.
Myth: UV-C rays leave residue in the items sanitized – Clothes, plastic, or glass easily absorb UV radiation. But once absorbed, UV radiation is no longer active. Therefore, it is safe to use. This is why UV-C is an effective solution for sanitizing your food parcels and even masks!
Partial Truth: You can’t sanitize everything using UVC – You can sanitize most of your everyday things using this technology. When it comes to UV-C technology, there are many factors that one needs to keep in mind. The first and most important criterion is to find the right product. Like several other white goods, UV-C systems are available in varying capacities, which is measured in ‘Litre’. Decide on the variant depending on the volume of items you would want to sanitize at a time. For a nuclear family, a 40 or 54 Litre solution is more than enough. A UV case can sanitize packaged foods, PPE kits, masks, keys, mobile phones as well as help sterilizer feeding bottles. Expose the object to UV-C light for 5-15 minutes, and you will completely disinfect it.
Myth: UVC light wands can be directly used – Prolonged exposure to UV-C light carries health risks. Acute (short-term) effects include redness or ulceration of the skin. At high levels of exposure, these burns can be severe. For chronic (long-term) exposures, there is also a cumulative risk, which depends on the amount of exposure during your lifetime. The long-term risk for considerable cumulative exposure includes premature ageing of the skin and skin cancer. Users need to make sure that UV technology is used in leak-proof devices. Therefore, invest in ‘closed systems’ and keep them in dry places where it is convenient to use. UV cases use reflective aluminium material on all six sides that help to ensure any object kept inside is exposed to the right amount of dosage. Aluminium reflectors do not absorb light, unlike most other materials.
Adopting new technologies is always challenging. There are numerous questions and a few channels of trustworthy information. Responsible brands have to, therefore work in tandem with authorities and media to raise awareness levels among consumers by busting myths and helping them in making the right choice and adopt innovations. As we move ahead, health security is going to be an intricate part of our overall home and personal safety.
Article contributed by Mr Mehernosh Pithawalla – Vice President, Godrej Security Solutions (Views Are Personal)
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