UVC Light: A New Tool for EVS Teams?

Study finds devices used after standard cleaning procedures in hospitals can dramatically reduce pathogens

By Dan Hounsell


Ultraviolet (UV) light continues to attract the attention of healthcare facilities managers and others responsible for ensuring the health and safety of workers in their buildings. New research now is shedding light on potential applications of the technology to complement cleaning and sanitization activity.

UVC devices used after standard cleaning procedures in hospitals can dramatically reduce pathogens in microscopic samples, or colony forming units (CFU), according to a recent study reported by Infection Control Today. The study concludes that UVC devices can cut CFUs by 97.3 percent.

According to the study, “in some situations, UVC light was sufficient to reduce CFU to zero, even without chemical and mechanical cleaning. However, we do not recommend this approach, considering it is correct to apply UVC light disinfection only after sanitization procedures, since it does not remove dirt.”



April 20, 2021


Topic Area: Infection Control


Recent Posts

Partnering on Personnel: Strategies for Success

Environmental services in healthcare have special staffing circumstances. They must meet stringent compliance standards and maintain accreditations.


Kaiser Permanente Opens First Two Medical Offices in Northern Nevada

These are part of its joint venture with Renown Health.


Acadia Healthcare Reports Data Breach

This incident did not disrupt Acadia’s operations or its ability to care for patients.


Site Selection Mistakes: What Not To Do

Healthcare providers that treat site selection as a strategic decision, not a simple real estate deal, will be positioned for long-term success.


High-Performance EFCO Systems Shape MUSC's New Black River Medical Center

Case study: A sweeping curved-glass entrance, impact-resistant envelope and energy-efficient fenestration support a sustainable, resilient design for one of South Carolina’s newest rural hospitals.


 
 


FREE Newsletter Signup Form

News & Updates | Webcast Alerts
Building Technologies | & More!

 
 
 


All fields are required. This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply.