EFHSS Questions and Answers - Answer to Question Q00600

How effective is an ultraviolet lamp in operation room disinfection?
How long should it be left on?

Dear Kavitha

Ultraviolet radiation lamps have been used as a so-called disinfection method for the reduction of microorganisms on exposed surfaces and in the air of (OR, laboratories and others) for a long time. However, a sufficient disinfecting effectiveness must be questioned because of the poor penetration ability of the UV light. This means that accumulation of dust, dirt or clumbing of microorganisms tends to provide protection against the biocidal action of UV radiation.UV light is only effective when it strikes a microbial cell directly.
To keep the air in the OR clean UV lamps became replaced by more effective means e.g. appropriate air changes, air filters and/or laminar airflow systems.
An acceptable indication has given up merely for the UV disnfection of water and liquids since suitabble radiate sources have been developed for this.
For general information on UV, contact the international UV Association (www.iuva.org).

Kind regards
Josy Holdener