Debunking 5 myths associated with UV lights
The term “ultraviolet” (UV) often makes us uncomfortable and cautious. Generally, people comprehend ultraviolet only as harmful rays emitted by the sun that are damaging the earth due to ozone layer depletion. Though this is scientifically true, you cannot assert the same for the UV lighting products.
What is UV light?
In broader terms, it is a naturally occurring phenomena emitted by the sun. Scientific experts assert UV light as a form of electromagnetic radiation with wavelength. It is capable of damaging the DNA and RNA of microbes and other pathogens, thereby helping in curbing the spread of bacteria and viruses. UV lights can posses a wavelength of 100nm to 400nm. Interestingly, the most effective disinfecting or germicidal wavelengths typically occur between 200nm and 280nm. This is known as UV-C light.
UV-C light sterilization is capable of breaking down the chemical bonds found in microorganisms. It disrupts the DNA of pathogens and prevents them from reproducing. This eventually makes them inactive or dead.
Unfortunately, despite being loaded with disinfecting, sterilizing, and decontaminating capabilities, UV lights still remain subject to criticism. People tend to believe in various myths and misinformation that often restricts them from investing in these interior lighting solutions.
Here are some myths associated with UV lights that you should immediately stop believing:
1. UV light is risky for employees and workers
Many employees remain unsure about their safety when working under UV lights. Though overexposure to UV rays can certainly lead to health concerns, UV lights manufactured for consumer use by reliable commercial lighting manufacturers are completely safe and have safeguards in place to minimize exposure. For instance, the ULTRARAY™ range of UV lights by Wipro Lighting is highly suitable for offices, hospitals, airports, manufacturing plants, warehouse facilities, etc.
2. UV lights can cause permanent damage
First of all, any kind of luminaire can lead to health problems if not handled properly and safely. This remains true for UV-C lights as well. Thus, it is imperative that you follow the installation steps and safety measures mentioned in the user manual strictly. Moreover, UV-C is an invisible light spectrum. Hence, we have equipped our ULTRARAY™ fixtures with indication lights for ensuring complete employee safety when the disinfecting process is in progress.
3. UV lights last forever
This is a complete myth as no luminaire can last forever. Luminaires including UV-C lights are electrical appliances that are susceptible to wear and tear with time. However, lights manufactured by leading LED lighting manufacturers like Wipro Lighting do savour a notable and long service life.
4. UV energy is blue
As mentioned earlier, the UV-C light spectrum is invisible. The blue hue furnished by a UV-C lamp is the result of argon gas present in the luminaire.
5. UV lights are expensive
Since UV lights make significant use of science and technology, they may provide an impression of being expensive luminaires. However, in reality, UV lights are cost-efficient with regards to the purpose they serve.
UV lights are loaded with antimicrobial properties and can kill up to 99.9% bacteria and viruses in the air as well as on the surfaces. They are safe to use and ensure a germ-free working environment for the employees. Thus, it is time that you stop believing in myths and join hands in the UV light revolution.
