November 7, 2001—Phase 2 ultra-violet (UV) light by Indoor Innovations is designed to kill anthrax and other airborne bacteria in the same way that natural sunlight kills germs. According to Indoor Innovations, indoor air (unexposed to sunlight) can contain up to 100 times more airborne contaminants than outside air. Anthrax and other airborne bacteria, which are invisible, tasteless and odorless, can be sterilized with chemicals such as chlorine, but only on surfaces, not when they are airborne. Indoor Innovations says that scientists have known for a long time that the most effective sterilizer of airborne bacteria is ultra-violet light.
Since direct exposure to UV light can cause skin cancer and blindness, the most practical application of UV light in the office is in the main air distribution (heating and/or air conditioning) system. Since UV light will not pass through metal, glass or plastic, a Phase 2 UV light can be installed in the main supply or return duct of an HVAC system without concern for direct exposure to eyes or skin. The air in the building will pass through the HVAC system 50-75 times a day during normal operation and as many as 125 times a day in continuous fan mode. For more information contact Indoor Innovations.
