FAQ
UVC lights are UV germicidal bulbs/lamps that emit a short wavelength of 200-280 nm (nanometers), 254 nm being the most effective in breaking down germ DNA. The UVC kills bacteria, viruses, and other known pathogens by damaging the nucleic acid in microorganisms so they cannot unzip for replication.
The inverse square law applies to germicidal ultraviolet as it does to light: the killing power decreases as the distance from the lamps increases. This is a very subjective discussion as it all depends on the intensity of the UV light source. For example, our 95W hand held UVC fixtures kill at a distance of 6″ in about 6 seconds. Whereas our high powered UVC towers at 960 watts can sterilize up to 8,000-sqft in 60 minutes.
The National Academy of Sciences says although there is no concrete evidence for UV’s effectiveness on the virus that causes COVID-19, it has worked on other similar viruses, so it would likely fight this one too.
If you live in a northern climate you will see that mold does not grow well in direct sun; however, in the shade it grows quite well. While UVA and UVB also work on mold to a small degree, UVC has a much more intense effect on killing mold. It is important to understand that because mold is much more visible and dense compared to bacteria and viruses, it requires a longer disinfection process. This process can take anywhere from 4-10 hours to fully sanitize with UVC.
The most common form of UV radiation is sunlight, which produces three main types of UV rays: UVA, UVB, and UVC. These UV’s are classified according to wavelength: UVA (longest), UVB (medium), UVC (shortest). UVA penetrates the middle layer of the skin (dermis) and UVB reaches the outer layer of the skin (epidermis) both causing sunburn for short term exposure and premature aging/skin cancer for prolonged exposure. UVC differs because its rays are absorbed by the Earth’s ozone layer, therefore protecting our skin. The reason UVC is unlike the others is because of its ability to disinfect the air, water, and surfaces.
UVC’s effects on the human body vary depending on length of exposure, but can cause painful burns on the skin. It can also cause temporary damage to the cornea if observed directly. Aside from these threats, UVC is a known carcinogen for human skin. This is why it is important that only trained professionals, like BioSmart UVC, handle the equipment and are called for service.
The big advantage of using UVC light is it allows you to kill germs without the use of chemicals. In addition, with proper equipment you can sanitize large areas in a very short period of time. Another advantage is the quick turnaround time for businesses that use UVC disinfection. There is essentially no wait time to open back up your business once your facility has been sanitized.
We provide equipment sales throughout North America. Our mobile response teams are currently (as of May 2020) located in Washington State and Southern California. In the next few months, we have planned operations in New York, New Jersey, Oregon, Colorado, Northern California, Texas, Florida and many more by years end. Demand for our service is high and we are dedicated to getting American businesses back open and keeping them open.
Just like chemical disinfectants, the areas remain treated until new germs are introduced. Depending on your foot traffic, we typically recommend UVC disinfection on a regular basis just as you would your regular cleaning service. With businesses that have higher foot traffic such as gyms, restaurants, or medical facilities we recommend disinfection to be done more frequently than lower foot traffic facilities like offices. However, every business can benefit with weekly or bi-weekly service. These options will be discussed in the initial consultation.
Absolutely! We are the perfect choice for rental apartments and houses when vacated to sterilize prior to the new tenants moving in. This way you can ensure that not only has your new home been cleaned, but it has been sanitized and disinfected from harmful pathogens. Keep your family safe and call BioSmart UVC today!