What Is Ultraviolet Light?

Ultraviolet light for the use of germicidal irradiation is not a new concept. In fact, it has been used as such since the late 19th to early 20th century. UV-C is a type of ultraviolet light that has wavelengths between 200 – 280 nanometers (nm). Light within those wavelengths can be used for UV-C disinfection. The optimal germicidal wavelength is 254 nm, which is where the Vioguard products operate.

How Does UV Light Disinfect?

UV light with wavelengths between 100nm and 280nm has the ability to inactivate microorganisms. The light is absorbed by the DNA and RNA of microorganisms, which causes the DNA and/or RNA structure to form new bonds between adjacent nucleotides. This results in the dimerization of adjacent molecules (particularly thymine). This occurrence in the DNA and RNA of viruses and bacteria makes it impossible for the microorganisms to replicate and infect.

What Is UV Light Effective Against?

Science has shown us that UV-C light can deactivate a broad spectrum of pathogenic bacteria and viruses. These include viruses, such as the Coronavirus and Hospital-Acquired Infections (HAIs) that are difficult to treat. Examples of these infections include Staphylococcus aureus, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Klebsiella pneumoniae, Escherichia coli and Clostridium difficile. When it comes down to it, UV-C light is the only way to completely obliterate harmful pathogens that are antibiotic-resistant.

UV Light VS. Chemical Alternative

Unlike their resilient response to chemical disinfectants, microorganisms are unable to develop UV-C resistance. Widespread use of antibiotics and disinfectants continue to create chemical and drug-resistant “superbugs,” which the CDC lists as a top threat. Alternatives to the Vioguard products are labor and time intensive; cleaning keyboards adds to the multitude of tasks for which nurses are responsible. Sanitizing solutions must be visibly wet on a surface for two to five minutes to be effective. There is also the issue of human error. Understaffed and hectic environments make it difficult to ensure proper cleaning protocols are followed, and cracks and crevices in the keyboards render them difficult to clean. Biohazardous waste presents a third issue. Toxic chemicals are used in many facilities and some hospitals have banned various cleaning materials and antimicrobial agents.

Contact Us

435-627-3090

3143 S 840 E #328
St. George, UT 84790

info@vioguard.com

EPA Establishment Number: 99547-WA-1

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