There’s been a lot written recently about the disinfecting properties of ultraviolet-C (UVC) light, with several articles in the national press last weekend reporting that it’s possible to kill off the influenza virus if the technology is properly applied.
Based on a study in Scientific Reports, these articles are highlighting the potential for UVC to be used in buildings such as schools, hospitals, surgeries, airports and other public spaces for the prevention of potentially fatal epidemics.
When bacteria, mould, viruses and other contaminants are exposed to high-output UVC light, the DNA within their cells is disrupted, preventing cell reproduction and resulting in eradication after sufficient exposure.
The use of UVC-emitting lamps within the air handling unit (AHU) of a building’s heating, ventilation and air-conditioning (HVAC) system can lower respiratory illness among occupants by more than 40%. The technology is a natural solution to drug and chemical-resistant infectious diseases.
Improving IAQ and protecting the wellbeing of building occupants is just one of the benefits of UVC technology:
Financial
Costs from contractors to manually clean AHUs can run into tens of thousands of pounds in facilities with multiple HVAC systems – an expense which may be wiped off with the installation of UVC. On the other hand, if cleaning is carried out in-house, the team will be freed up to carry out other tasks.
Improving heat transfer by removing mould and other debris from AHU surfaces and running chillers less can pay back in efficiency gains within a matter of months in many cases. Plus, the equipment’s operational life will be extended and maintenance requirement reduced.
Compliance and certification
Improving the quality of indoor air and efficiency of HVAC equipment can help facilities managers and building owners to achieve and maintain certification from recognised bodies and rating systems such as ASHRAE, LEED and the WELL Building Standard.
Even where certification isn’t compulsory, holding it improves public perception of the organisation. Being actively engaged in improving your building’s energy efficiency demonstrates conscientiousness and responsibility and could be the factor that helps your company stand out from its competitors.
Low-maintenance UVC HVAC disinfection equipment from Gibbons Ultraviolet Solutions, such as its flagship CoilCare® system, can be designed to fit all AHUs containing cooling coils and takes just a few hours to install, with engineers visiting site at a time that suits you and your business.
To find out more about Gibbons Ultraviolet Solutions, call Colin Hardman on 07940 544 206 or email colin@gibbonsgroup.co.uk.
