DOES UVC WORK ON COVID-19?
Although UVC has not been tested specifically on SARS-CoV-2 (the virus that causes COVID-19), UVC light has been used for decades to disinfect the air, drinking water, wastewater, pharmaceutical products, and surfaces to combat a full suite of human pathogens. All bacteria and viruses tested to date do respond to UVC disinfection, including at least two other coronaviruses that are near-relatives of the COVID-19 virus, the SARS-CoV-1, and MERS-CoV.
Some organisms are more susceptible to UVC disinfection than others, but all tested thus far do respond at the appropriate doses.
Some organisms are more susceptible to UVC disinfection than others, but all tested thus far do respond at the appropriate doses.
IS IT SAFE?
Yes, all Quantum UVC technicians are trained and qualified to operate the equipment safely, as well as ensure that your employees are not exposed to harmful UVC radiation or ozone gas at any point before, during, or after the treatment process.
HOW LONG DOES THE TREATMENT PROCESS TAKE?
It depends on the size and layout of the space that needs to be disinfected. The UVC light sources used by Quantum UVC will disinfect all surfaces in just a few minutes. In certain cases, the UVC light source may need to be positioned in multiple locations within a room to ensure all surfaces are properly exposed.
The ozone byproduct of the disinfection process must be reduced to acceptable levels prior to opening the space for re-entry. The safe evacuation of ozone typically takes about 15 minutes.
The ozone byproduct of the disinfection process must be reduced to acceptable levels prior to opening the space for re-entry. The safe evacuation of ozone typically takes about 15 minutes.
HOW OFTEN SHOULD I TREAT A SPACE?
This is a decision that is really up to each organization. Consider the risk-level of the area in question:
HIGH RISK
UVC treatment may be used routinely for situations that present greater than typical risk of contamination, such as ambulances, hospitals, nursing homes, subway trains, etc. Businesses that have direct contact with a large number of customers can also present greater risk (e.g. supermarkets, casinos, etc.)
MEDIUM RISK
Businesses that have direct contact with a moderate amount of customers and good distancing and cleaning practices are in place. Treatment could be focused on high traffic and high touch areas.
LOW RISK
Businesses with little or no contact with customers and have a relatively small workforce. For lower-risk scenarios, the treatment could be used less frequently or only in the case of a known contamination event, e.g. an employee tests positive for the virus.
HIGH RISK
UVC treatment may be used routinely for situations that present greater than typical risk of contamination, such as ambulances, hospitals, nursing homes, subway trains, etc. Businesses that have direct contact with a large number of customers can also present greater risk (e.g. supermarkets, casinos, etc.)
MEDIUM RISK
Businesses that have direct contact with a moderate amount of customers and good distancing and cleaning practices are in place. Treatment could be focused on high traffic and high touch areas.
LOW RISK
Businesses with little or no contact with customers and have a relatively small workforce. For lower-risk scenarios, the treatment could be used less frequently or only in the case of a known contamination event, e.g. an employee tests positive for the virus.
WHAT ELSE DO I NEED TO KNOW OR PROVIDE?
The most important thing to know is that UVC treatment is just one tool used to fight COVID-19 and does not replace frequent hand-washing, social distancing, and traditional cleaning methods as per CDC and WHO guidelines. An organization that applies all of these tools effectively will greatly reduce the risk of a workplace outbreak and business interruption.