For over a century, humans have harnessed the benefits of UV lighting to combat the spread of infection. The impact of short-wavelength light upon the structural integrity of bacteria is well known, with the earliest studies exploring its benefits published as far back as 1878. 

Developments in technology and changing priorities around infection control and public health have seen an increased adoption of UVC health technology. Whilst the use of UV light to disinfect water was common in Europe by around 1985, discoveries in 1998 found that protozoa including cryptosporidium and giardia were far more vulnerable than previously understood. 

These discoveries were to drive further innovation in UVC health technology, paving the way for the international, wide-scale use of UV light as a disinfection solution and an area of industry valued at $1.3 billion in 2019 and projected to reach $5.7 billion by 2027 (Allied Market Research). Notably, these projections have not considered the outbreak of the Covid-19 pandemic and how UV lighting solutions can influence infection control by deactivating the outer layer of SARS-Coronavirus. 

How do UV Light Solutions Work?

Often referred to as ‘germicidal lamps’, UVC has been used for generations to disinfect air, water and nonporous surfaces. In 2020, these products are being used across sectors including retail, healthcare, and hospitality to reduce the risk of viral contamination. But how do UV light solutions work?

Whilst the science behind electromagnetic radiation is highly complex, the process involves using short-wavelength UV-C (those with an approximate wavelength between 200nm and 300nm) to prevent the expression and replication of critical proteins, resulting in the inactivation or ‘death’ of the body.

Why Should I Consider UVC Health Technology?

UVC health technology, including UV lighting solutions by Agilo Group provide a number of significant benefits. We’ve shared some top reasons why UV can assist in any infection control or hygienic process:

• A disinfection tool: UV lights offer infection control properties that are unrivalled by many cleaning products. The rays are known to destroy a huge array of harmful organisms – and whilst this includes viruses and harmful pathogens, it also kills mold, spores and fungi which can have a detrimental impact on our health. Notably, UV light destroys mold whilst preventing it coming back in the future. 

• A non-toxic solution: Unlike many of the harmful chemicals contained in bleach and disinfectant products, UVC light is praised for being environmentally friendly. Indeed, whilst disinfectant and sanitising products rely on a chemically reactive process, UVC health technology instead relies on a physical process employing the use of light.

• Affordable security: Effective disinfection and infection control solutions can come at a significant expense, and cleaning supplies present large rolling overheads for businesses. UVC offers a real solution in that it is a one-time investment, operating autonomously throughout the product’s long life-cycle. 

• Safe-to-use: Depending on the nature of the environment in question, cleaning and sanitation processes can present a number of challenges. Unlike many chemical solutions, UVC health technology is safe for use on food as well as in food preparation environments. It can even be used as a disinfection method in surgical and other healthcare settings. 

UV Light Solutions: How Agilo Can Help

Here at Agilo, we’re proud to bring together a dynamic team of field experts, protecting interior spaces across a range of industries with UVC lighting and health solutions that work.

When you decide to launch an infection control project with Agilo, you can proceed in confidence that your premises are UV protected and at a reduced risk of contamination. To get started, contact us today.