In the age of "superbugs" and antimicrobial-resistant bacteria, modern disinfection protocols will face continued scrutiny. prompting many to consider the integration of Ultraviolet C (UVC) technology. General disinfectants, while effective in many scenarios, exhibit notable shortcomings. In the current realm, confronting hard-to-kill bacteria and spores typically relies on aggressive high-powered sterilants, oxidizers, and denaturants in liquid or vapor forms.
In general environments, the prevalence of Hospital-Acquired Infections (HAIs) are typically associated with opportunistic bacteria such as C. Difficile and Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA), which are largely unphased by retail and even commercial-grade disinfectants. The deficiency, costs, and mechanical labor of chemical cleaning methods necessitate a closer examination of alternative and supplemental approaches.
In focus, ultraviolet light and irradiation are two modern solutions ultraviolet light is a proven method of reducing a wide range of pathogens on environmental surfaces. Importantly, the process does not require long dwell times for the completion of the manual cleaning process, nor does it require the costs, chemical burdens, and physical labor associated with those activities.
Ultraviolet (UV) light exists within a spectrum of light between 10 and 400 nm. UVC light is defined by wavelengths between 100 - 280 nm and is considered the most effective for germicidal purposes. Peak germicidal activity is associated with a peak wavelength of 265 nm. Therefore, wavelengths that fall too far below or too far above the 265 nm range will demonstrate diminished germicidal efficiency.
In between, a distinction is made between wavelengths that fall within three ranges: UV-A, UV-B, and UV-C. Ultraviolet energy is determined by the wavelength value
UV-A 315 - 400 nanometers
UV-B wavelengths 280 - 315 nanometers
UV-C wavelengths 100 - 280 nanometers
UV-C is best suited for germicidal activities that require operator-involved environments. Compared to UV-A and UV-B rays, UV-C is less capable of penetrating deeper layers of the skin and eyes, which makes it safer to use in a broader context.
254 vs 222 (nm) UVC Spectrum for Germicidal Lights
The UV-C spectrum includes two widely adopted light ranges for germicidal equipment. UVC light is emitted at 254 nm, while far-UVC light is emitted at a range of 207 to 222 nm. UVC light is effective against a broad range of pathogens, microbes, and spores. From small-scale applications to total-room decontamination, UVC showcases unique flexibility for the complete eradication of microbes in a dry format. Importantly, it doesn't require liquid-based soaps, detergents, or sterilants to achieve sterile-grade reductions in viable microbial counts.
Why is Far-UVC Safer than other UV Light?
Far-UVC light is considered "far safer" than standard UVC, albeit, slightly less efficient at the eradication of microorganisms in germicidal UV applications. Because far-UVC can only penetrate the few first micrometers of biological materials, it cannot reach or damage living human cells in the skin or eyes. Far-UVC is more effectively absorbed when it encounters peptides, proteins, and biomolecules, therefore stifling its penetrating power and reducing the risk of harm. Regardless, far-UVC can still penetrate the outer cell walls of extremely small bacteria and viruses, which makes it an effective germicidal mechanism that poses fewer health risks than similar UV technology.
254 nm UV Light Safety & Hazards
Compared to far-UVC, 254 nm UVC is considered more effective against viruses and pathogens due to its deeper penetration power. However, this extended penetration power requires additional safety measures and limits the use of this technology to unoccupied spaces. The longer 254 nm wavelength is considered more capable of penetrating deeper into human biologics, therefore increasing the risk of damage to living cells and DNA.
254 nm UVC is common for several applications that require widespread decontamination. The most common formats include low-pressure mercury-vapor arc lamps or xenon lamps that emit a broader UV spectrum.
Is Exposure to 254 UVC Safe?
Direct exposure to 254 nm lamps is a serious health risk, and these systems should never be used to disinfect spaces that are occupied by humans. In general, the use of 254 nm in public spaces should be avoided, or otherwise represent a serious risk to the eyes and skin of those in proximity.
For safety purposes, 254 nm UVC lamps are equipped with safety features to mitigate risks, ensuring their responsible use. Terra's UVC lamp solutions, which are designed for deployment in unoccupied rooms, include a motion sensor that deactivates if motion is detected. This is an important safety feature that prevents accidental exposure of unknowing operators such as cleaning or maintenance staff. Other standard safety features include an emergency stop button, a manual reset button, and a remote control push button for added convenience.
Is Exposure to Far-UVC (200 - 235 nm Light Safe for Humans
At the time of writing this article, research indicates that far-UVC light poses little or no risk of harm when exposed to human skin. Of course, any type of light-emitting device should be used with a common sense approach, and should only be used per the manufacturer's recommendations.
Far UVC light (200–235 nm), particularly around 222 nm, does not penetrate the outer layers of human skin and therefore does not damage the living cells beneath, suggesting it could be safely used in the presence of humans. Research conducted using a 3-D human skin model showed no increase in DNA damage under far UVC light up to 235 nm, while wavelengths between 240–255 nm did cause significant DNA damage. These findings indicate that far UVC light could potentially be used for disinfection in occupied spaces without harming people.
UVC Advantages and Considerations
The advantages of integrating UVC into decontamination protocols are multifaceted. Unlike some liquid or aerosol disinfectants that demand additional wipedown procedures, UVC eliminates this requirement, simplifying the disinfection process. Furthermore, it reduces the hazards associated with storing hazardous or flammable chemicals and minimizes the risks of exposure to toxic fumes, spills, or skin contact. This reliability in deployment not only ensures efficient disinfection but also guards against the emergence of super bacteria and antimicrobial-resistant strains.
UVC and infrared irradiation are well suited for combating many common bacteria forms synonymous with healthcare-associated infections (HAIs). Both methods are acutely effective at eradicating certain bacteria. The most infamous of these bacteria are often referred to as "ESKAPE" bacteria, which demonstrate a high level of resistance to antibiotics:
Enterococcus faecium
Staphylococcus aureus
Klebsiella pneumoniae
Acinetobacter baumannii
Pseudomonas aeruginosa
Enterobacter species
UVC Limitations and Combined HEPA Filtration
It's crucial to note that UVC requires pre-cleaned surfaces for optimal performance and is not effective against biofilms or subsurface layers, necessitating a holistic approach to decontamination. Additionally, UVC is not capable of sanitizing surfaces or materials that light cannot penetrate. In healthcare environments, aerosolized bacteria and spores are equally opportunistic and difficult to eliminate. Turbulence generated by toilet flushes is one of the most significant contributors of aerosolized pathogens, which easily transfer to garments and circulate to nearby surfaces throughout the environment.
Advantages of Combined HEPA Filter / UVC Solutions
To combat transmission risks associated with garments and apparel, storage cabinets with UVC and High-Efficiency Particulate Air (HEPA) filters offer a dual layer of protection against airborne bacteria. These systems passively filter cabinet air to capture any airborne contaminants, while the UVC modules work to eradicate and remove deposited bacteria on garments or equipment stored in hospitals, clinics, and surgical environments. Beneficially, HEPA filter modules capture any stagnant air in the cabinet, and generate a positive pressure that prevents the invasion of contaminated air to interior items during the opening and closing of the doors.
Additionally, Terra also offers portable HEPA filtration units with UVC modules for facilities that may lack the appropriate air handling systems and pressure controls required for hospital wards that house patients with transmissible diseases. Equally, these systems can also improve protection in environments where even the most benign flu or cold virus could be potentially life-threatening for immunocompromised hosts in ICUs, NICUs, burn units, cancer treatment centers, or in-patient areas where patients are recovering from major surgeries.
Healthcare and Hospital UV Hand Sanitizers for ESKAPE Bacteria
Freestanding UV-C Hand Sanitizers are excellent options for promoting hand hygiene in high-visibility, high-traffic environments including clinics, dental offices, long-term care, and in-patient/out-patient care. The UV-C germicidal bulb effectively kills microorganisms at the cellular level, including the complete elimination of ESKAPE pathogens. The device disinfects hands, but also accommodates small objects like cell phones, stethoscopes, remotes, and office supplies, making it a reliable solution for liquid-free microbial control that achieves 99.99% sanitization efficacy.
Dual UV-C lamps ensure broad surface exposure that achieves up to 99.999% efficacy in as little as three seconds for eradicating pathogens like E. Coli, C. Difficile, SARS-CoV-2 (the causative agent of Covid-19), and ESKAPE bacteria strains that contribute Healthcare-Associated Infections (HAI).
Terra Recommends HandyStand UV Sanitizers due to their impressive in-the-box features that include a front-accessible hand slot, allowing users to disinfect their hands conveniently. The variable UV-C dose adjustment and automatic START/STOP functionality ensure precise and efficient sanitization. Underscoring efficiency and longevity, its UV lamps boast an average lifespan of 10,000 hours.
Portable UV Disinfection for Cleanrooms, Labs, and Pharmaceutical Manufacturing
TORCH Portable UV Disinfection Towers allow for a novel, minimal labor solution when decontaminating unoccupied rooms, especially when they encompass irregularly shaped rooms, or host objects and equipment that have unique geometries, semi-porous materials, or liquid-sensitive electronics that object to typical liquid-based cleaners.
Portable UV towers encompass several features that make them viable for laboratories, healthcare facilities, veterinary offices, and pharmaceutical manufacturing facilities alike. With an effective range of 8 feet, these systems allow for 365-degree coverage, including floors and standard ceilings.
In terms of efficacy, the TORCH provides a 99% reduction of MRSA in just 10 seconds and Clostridium difficile in only 1 minute at a distance of 10 feet. The angled arrangement of the bulbs at 4 degrees increases ceiling exposure, while multiple units can be used to eliminate shadow areas during disinfection. disinfection methods. unique equipment, furniture, and medical equipment
TORCH Germicidal Lamps for USP / CGMP Facilities
Many FDA-enforced facilities under USP or CGMP guidelines benefit from supplementary UVC treatments, which complement successful outcomes for complete room decontamination in between quarterly or semi-annual cleaning cycles. Specifically, these systems can reduce the need to constantly switch and cycle to alternative cleaning chemicals, which would otherwise be required to irradicate certain types of alcohol-resistant or disinfectant-resistant pathogens, such as spores, and mycobacteria.
TORCH UVC Lamps come equipped with user-friendly features, including 4 built-in motion sensors, a remote starter, and a heavy-duty protective cover. Its open-center design allows for 360-degree radiation of the 8 UVC bulbs, ensuring comprehensive disinfection. Furthermore, it's rated for 16,000 hours of lamp life, making it a sustainable choice. Terra is an authorized distributor of TORCH Portable UV Disinfection by ClorDiSys.
Infrared Light Germicidal Lights for Labs
Germicidal infrared radiation (IR) lights are common fixtures in laboratory, research, and academic environments that require a high degree of sterility assurance for reliable results. From a productivity standpoint, benchtop germicidal IR lights allow for high-temperature sanitation of apparatus that are sensitive to UV light or chemical sterilants. Leveraging infrared heating technology, it accomplishes the eradication of microorganisms in 5 to 7 seconds.
For laboratory sterilization, Terra recommends Benchmark Scientific's BactiZapper Sterilizers. These systems generate a gasless, flameless heat source that supports sterilization for use with platinum inoculating loops, needles, glass tube/pipette mouths, and various metal & borosilicate glass instruments. Sterilization is accomplished through infrared heat without the potential of spattering or spreading microorganisms during the process.
This sterilizer is versatile for both anaerobic and aerobic chambers in laboratory settings and is commonly used for sanitizing platinum inoculating loops, metal instruments, and borosilicate glass instruments, ensuring hygiene in critical laboratory processes. Optional accessories, such as the loop holder and slide dryer attachment, enhance functionality, providing solutions for holding small items during sterilization and drying glass laboratory slides efficiently.
A New Era of Pathogen Control
In conclusion, the limitations of general disinfectants, particularly in the face of evolving microbial challenges, highlight the need for innovative solutions. UVC technology emerges as a potent and versatile tool, offering a safer, more efficient, and reliable means of disinfection across various applications. Its integration into decontamination protocols holds significant promise, ushering in a new era of pathogen control and safety in diverse professional settings.
UV-C and HEPA filtration reduces the presence of microorganisms and viruses such as COVID-19
Extra-large UV cabinet with double doors sterilizes and dries various PPE and other bulky items
Ideal for batch processing high contact or shared equipment and materials
UV-C lamps mounted at top left and right inside cabinet with mirror-finish stainless steel interior
HEPA fan filter unit (FFU) removes contaminants; 99.99% efficient @ 0.3 µm
UV cabinets assist with routine disinfecting and are ideal for bulk processing of shared equipment, gear, or materials that can be difficult to wipe down.
Versatile and spacious storage cabinet with double doors provide optimal storage space for cleanroom garments, tools, wipes, process equipment, and other materials
HEPA filtration system is mounted inside the top compartment to provide a clean, positive-pressure enclosure to help both dry items inside and prevent contaminated air from entering the cabinet. Air exhaust slots on the bottom of the cabinet to promote laminar airflow.
UL-listed Fan Filter Units (FFUs)Â are manufactured to the highest standards to reduce the risk of damage, injuries, and electrical hazards.
FFU features 3-speed switch for low/medium/high settings with average airflow velocity of 90+ ft/min at 640+ CFM.
See performance data and submittal sheets for additional information on fan filter unit.
Door kill switch stops UV operation when door is open, ensuring safe operation.
Status indicator light glows continuously when cabinet is plugged in and turned on to confirm unit is operational.
Interior: Mirror-finish stainless steel interior reflects light for 360 degree exposure. Garment rack holds up to 30 garments.
Exterior: Terra’s signature white powder coat exterior provides a high quality, durable barrier to protect against corrosion, plus a clean and attractive aesthetic. The advanced heat-fused formulation exceeds ASTM and ISO paint standards to resist chipping, scratching, fading, and wearing.
The sloped cabinet top minimizes particle retention and improves visibility to monitor cleanliness.
Doors:
SD-PVC windows provide UV-C shielding.
Static-dissipative PVC (SD-PVC) design features bonded dissipative layers that resist abrasion; retains surface resistivity of 106 - 108 ohms/square indefinitely (unlike spray-on coatings that can wear off after a few years).
SD-PVC minimizes static-cling to help maintain clean surfaces.
SD-PVC also has increased chemical resistance to withstand frequent wipe-downs with alcohol and other strong cleaning agents.
Cleanroom compliant design includes corrosion resistant, non-particle shedding hardware.
Includes:
(2) UV-C light modules (left and right side of cabinet).
(1) HEPA Fan Filter Unit.
(1) Hanging rod.
(4) Leveling feet; raises cabinet 5.5". Order casters separately.
Watch Terra's Video on a HEPA Filtered Laminar Flow Cabinet Smoke Test
COVID-19 Contamination Control Products by Terra Universal
UV Sanitizing Cabinet for Nursing Home
UV Sanitizer Cabinet with HEPA Filter for Sanitizing PPE
This smoke test demonstrates the airflow properties of Terra Universal's HEPA Filtered Laminar Flow CabinetWatch Terra's Video on a HEPA Filtered Laminar Flow Cabinet Smoke TestThis smoke test demonstrates the airflow properties of Terra Universal's HEPA Filtered Laminar Flow Cabinet
Terra Universal offers an extensive portfolio of COVID-19 contamination control products for employee protection, surface disinfection and product sterilizationCOVID-19 Contamination Control Products by Terra UniversalAs personal and professional lives shift dramatically in response to the COVID-19 pandemic, businesses are searching for methods to reduce the transmission risk of COVID-19 in the workplace. Terra Universal offers an extensive product portfolio to support employee protection, surface disinfection and product sterilization. Let’s take a closer look at two products designed to control the spread of COVID-19.
UV Sanitizing Cabinet for nursing home to help sterilize everyday high-contact items such has phones, keys, and clothing | 6081-05C displayedUV Sanitizing Cabinet for Nursing HomeUV Sanitizing Cabinet for nursing home to help sterilize everyday high-contact items such has phones, keys, and clothing.
UV cabinet in polypropylene with mirrored stainless steel interior, wire shelving and top-mounted HEPA filtration system for batch sterilizing face shields | 6081-05B displayedUV Sanitizer Cabinet with HEPA Filter for Sanitizing PPEUV Sterilizing cabinet includes built-in features for safe, efficient PPE batch sanitizing. A door kill switch pauses operations when open to prevent harmful UV exposure. An LED indicator activates when unit is on, and a timer simplifies sanitizing cycles.
Did You Know? HEPA/ULPA Filters Do More Than Meet ISO Requirements - they also prevent infection.
Most cleanroom professionals understand that HEPA and ULPA filters capture contaminants that degrade particle-sensitive samples. But they also help remove bacteria, mold spores, and many viruses that contribute to a host of infections.
Most common bacteria are contained by the 0.3-micron pore size of high-efficiency particular air (HEPA) filters. Ultra-Low Penetration Air (ULPA) filters, which are rated 99.999% efficient at retaining particles of 0.12 microns and larger in diameter, capture ultra-fine contaminants, including many large viruses and mold spores.
These filters also remove aerosol-born pathogens - germs that hitch a ride on larger particles and liquid droplets that are captured in a HEPA or ULPA filter. HEPA- or ULPA-based Fan/Filter Units (FFUs) thus can play an important role in infection prevention in surgical theaters, ICUs and other medical settings.
Additionally, HEPA filters can help filter pollen, tiny insects, bacteria, mold, and other fungal spores that might be present during plant tissue culture or cannabis production. Contaminants such as these can find a way in via personnel or normal HVAC units and can blight crops and reduce yields. HEPA Filters help increase crop yields, pass inspection/meet regulations, and reduce contamination.
Here is a list of common human pathogens that HEPA/ULPA filters capture and remove from circulation:
Pathogens: Bacteria and Diseases
SARS-CoV-2: Coronavirus (COVID-19)
Escherichia coli: Gastrointestinal infection
Bacillus anthracis : Anthrax
Aspergillus brasiliensis: Sinus infections
Francisella tularensis: Tularemia
Bordetella pertusis : Whooping cough
Mycoplasma pneumoniae: Pneumonia
Chlamydia pneumoniae: Bronchitis
Clamydia psittaci : Psittacosis
Klebsiella pneumoniae: Opportunistic infections
Haemophilus influenzae : Meningitis
Coxiella burnetii: Q fever
Pseudomonas aeruginosa: Opportunistic infections
Actinomyces israelii: Actinomycosis
Legionella pneumophila: Legionaire's disease
Thermoactinomyces sacchari: Farmer's lung
Alkaligenes: Opportunistic infections
Streptococcus pyogenes: Scarlet fever
Mycobacterium Tuberculosis: Tuberculosis
Powerful UV Sterilization with Safe Operating Features
Large UV sterilizing cabinets include a status indicator light to confirm unit is operational, and magnetic door kill-switches to stop UV operation when either door is open.
Mirror-Finish Interior for 360 Degree Exposure
Extra-Large UV sanitizing storage cabinet features a mirror-finish interior to allow UV exposure on all sides. The spacious interior makes it ideal for hanging garments or other tall/long materials.
HEPA Filtration System Helps Dry and Block Out Contaminants
The cabinet includes two UV-C lamps installed to the left and right side of the cabinet for maximum exposure. The HEPA filtration system on top creates a clean, positive-pressure enclosure to help both dry materials inside and prevent contaminated air from entering the cabinet.
Cleanroom Garment Storage Air Flow Diagram
HEPA-filtered models dislodge and remove particles.
Clean and Durable Powder Coat Finish
Terra’s signature white powder coat finish provides a high quality, durable barrier to protect against corrosion, plus a clean and attractive aesthetic. The advanced heat-fused formulation exceeds ASTM and ISO paint standards to resist chipping, scratching, fading, and wearing.
Continuous Product Improvement
At Terra, we strive to develop and produce the highest quality products for our customers to improve health, safety, performance, and yields. Our product quality is enabled by high-grade manufacturing equipment and processes, 45 years of engineering and application expertise, and our commitment to continuously improve.
Products Compliant With Your ISO Rating
Provide Terra with your desired ISO rating. We will tailor the product to meet your rating and supply a certificate of compliance appended to your invoice, to be included in your compliance package. All certificates are archived in Terra's system for quick retrieval.
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