Bacteria/UV light

Bacteria and Ultraviolet Light (UV)

Killing Bacteria with UV-C

Unlike the forms of ultraviolet light that cause skin damage, UV-C (an ultraviolet wavelength different than UV-A or UV-B) is used in some air purification units to help sterilize the air and reduce the spread of harmful mold, fungi, pathogens and bacteria. This same technology is commonly used by hospitals and doctors to help decrease contagious illnesses such as flus and other viruses.

In addition to sterilizing the air, ultraviolet UV-C light is also used to sterilize desks, tables, equipment, and other work surfaces in hospitals and laboratories around the country. Pharmaceutical companies and food processing companies also use UV-C light to keep their equipment and products safe and germ-free.

When incorporated into an air purification unit, ultraviolet UV-C light works in conjunction with filters and activated charcoal to remove these same harmful germs from the air. Such air purification units are available as installed or portable units for home or office.

How Ultraviolet UV-C Light Neutralizes Pathogens

Ultraviolet UV-C light penetrates the outer membranes of bacteria and viruses and reaches deep inside the nucleus to damage the organisms' genes and prevent reproduction. The UV-C light specifically targets the DNA and RNA, the genetic material in bacteria and viruses, thwarting replication and therefore preventing contagious diseases.

Once the DNA and RNA have been destroyed and damaged, the cells can no longer attack healthy tissue. This means that, while the bacteria and viruses may still be alive, they are incapable of spreading disease.

Advantages of UV-C as a Germicide

• Ultraviolet light is an eco-friendly alternative to chemical disinfectants
• By directly damaging the genetic material (DNA and RNA) of viruses and bacteria, pathogens and microorganisms cannot develop resistance to UV-C light. As a result, ultraviolet light will always be effective against any infectious disease.
• Creates a healthier environment by neutralizing and disabling bacteria, viruses, and fungi and mold spores.

 Bacteria
 Legionnaires' Disease
 UV and Viruses
 Test Results