From hospitals and clinics to schools and businesses, preventing infectious diseases is a top priority. But with various disinfection methods available, it can be tough to know which is right for you. This post explores two popular options: indoor air disinfection systems and surface disinfection robots. We’ll break down how each technology works, weigh the pros and cons, and help you understand which approach might be best for your needs.
If you’re looking for a solution that provides continuous air disinfection without disrupting your operations, learn more about custom UV indoor air disinfection available from Farlite Solutions.
UV Light Air Disinfection Systems
UV light air disinfection works constantly, even while a space is occupied. These systems are installed high on the ceiling, working with the space’s circulating air to create creating a zone of UV-C irradiation that deactivates pathogens that can cause infection. While there are many UV air disinfection lamps available, there is currently only one that works in this precise manner – working with the circulating air to create a UVBarrier™ against pathogens – and is available in today’s marketplace.
Continuous disinfection is a major advantage of indoor air systems. UV air disinfection systems can operate safely around people, providing ongoing protection and reducing the risk of infection transmission in near real-time. This is critical for businesses like healthcare facilities where minimizing downtime is crucial.
Unlike surface disinfection, UV light targets pathogens floating in the air, which are often the primary culprits in respiratory illnesses. Beyond infection control, UV light can help reduce allergens, mold spores, and odors, leading to a healthier indoor environment.
While UV air disinfection effectively neutralizes aerosolized pathogens, it may have limited impact on contaminated surfaces. Combining it with other disinfection methods can ensure comprehensive protection.
Surface Disinfection Robots
Surface-disinfecting robots and devices utilize various UV light sources, including pulsed xenon UV light, to eliminate a wide range of microorganisms. These robots and devices are designed to be maneuverable; robots specifically can reach various surfaces within a room on a programmed schedule. They are commonly employed in healthcare settings to disinfect patient rooms, operating rooms, and emergency departments.
The main downside of this technology is that depending on the intensity of the UV light used, people must vacate the room during the disinfection cycle, or proper PPE must be worn. This can lead to disruptions in workflow, especially in busy environments. This can not only impact the quality of patient care, but may result in costly downtime. In addition, these surface disinfecting devices do not sufficiently and effectively address aerosolized pathogens, allowing viruses and bacteria to continue recirculating throughout the room.
Choosing the Right UV Light Disinfection Solution
When comparing UV air and surface disinfection methods, the ideal choice hinges on your specific needs and priorities. Surface devices and robots excel at targeted disinfection of high-touch surfaces, particularly in healthcare settings. However, their main limitation lies in the need to evacuate rooms during operation, which can cause disruptions or delays to patient care.
UV air disinfection systems, on the other hand, provide continuous disinfection while people are present, making them ideal for spaces where constant pathogen reduction is critical. They can effectively tackle aerosolized viruses and bacteria, which are often the primary culprits in the spread of respiratory illnesses. Furthermore, they contribute to improved indoor air quality by reducing allergens and odors.
For applications where continuous air disinfection and minimizing operational disruptions are equally important, UV air disinfection systems offer a compelling advantage over surface devices and robots.
Effective, Long-Term Indoor Air Disinfection
If you’re ready to explore the benefits of UV indoor air disinfection, contact Farlite Solutions today. Our team of experts can help you create a healthier and safer environment in your building while you continue business as usual.