December 12, 2003—In a study published in The Lancet, Canadian scientists found that using ultraviolet light to irradiate ventilation systems reduced illness and complaints about discomfort.
Ultraviolet germicidal irradiation, sometimes used to disinfect hospital air systems, appears to be similarly effective in general office applications. Researchers tried out the solution in three different buildings, accommodating over 700 staff. The result was a reduction in overall illness of 20% and a drop of 40% in complaints about breathing problems.
The ultraviolet lamps were aimed at cooling coils and drip pans in the ventilation systems of the buildings. This produced a 99% reduction in the concentration of germs on irradiated surfaces.
Scientists cautioned, however, that though UV light may help to ameliorate the general symptoms of ‘sick building syndrome’, it is unlikely to have any impact on the contagious respiratory diseases common at this time of year.
—Elliott Chase
Reprinted with permission; copyright 2003 i-FM
