Specialty and Architectural Lighting — Health

Most of the impact of ultraviolet disinfection is in the UV-C range. UV-B has a much lower lethality rate for microbes than UV-C. However, a phenomenon called "photoreactivation" can impact disinfection. And UV-B can help prevent photoreactivation of pathogens. What Is Photoreactivation? Photoreactivation is the process whereby microorganisms are exposed to light in the visible spectrum after exposure to ultraviolet germicidal irradiation and begin to repair themselves. Photoreactivation can lead to a portion of the...

Over the last 6-8 months, the use of ultraviolet germicidal irradiation to combat pathogens, specifically COVID-19, has skyrocketed in popularity. Many homeowners, businesses, schools, and government institutions have purchased UV disinfection devices for air, surface, and water sanitation. But while COVID-19 has been an unintentional pandemic, the risk for bioterrorism using a transmissible pathogen has existed for decades. There are hundreds of bacteria, viruses, mold, and fungi that cause adverse reactions in humans and animals....

Schools are attempting to figure out how to reopen to the public in the fall. From daycare and kindergartens, to junior and high schools, to colleges and universities, students and parents are going to expect a higher level of cleanliness. Unfortunately, pandemics do not end in a matter of months, and the COVID-19 coronavirus may not going away anytime soon. Schools will implement new practices, procedures, and technology to combat the virus. One of these...

Large naval vessels are compact environments where microbes can thrive, circulating through the ventilation system. Ultraviolet germicidal irradiation (UVC) lighting systems can reduce incidence of harmful bacteria and viruses, and mitigate the risk of respiratory and airborne illnesses spreading throughout a navy vessel, cruise ship, yacht, or smaller boat.

One of the concerns about reopening the economy is that, if large gatherings are allowed again, the COVID-19 strain of coronavirus may spread rapidly. This is a legitimate concern as historical outbreaks of serious or deadly diseases have occurred in places of large assembly where one person exposed an entire population. But with the greater awareness of sanitizing air and surfaces, UVC lighting systems can provide some protection and mitigate the risks of allowing public...

Since the COVID-19 outbreak, hospitals and medical professionals have begun using ultraviolet germicidal UVC light more than ever before. Learn about the options the medical industry has for disinfecting air, stopping the spread of germs, and disinfecting patient rooms with ultraviolet light.

One small positive of the coronavirus outbreak and response is the increasing awareness of people of the effects of ultraviolet UVC germicidal light on viruses, bacteria, mold, and fungi. This article examines the harmful microorganisms commonly found in homes, as well as UVC solutions for sanitizing air and surfaces.

Everyday, it seems like the news coming out of China gets worse and worse. Far from the coronavirus being a small outbreak, there are indications that it won't be over soon and is worse than reported. But the ramifications of coronavirus reach far beyond just the illness and deaths the outbreak is causing, which are tragic and heartbreaking enough. Parts of China are simply shut down with quarantines or people staying home, meaning manufacturing is...

Since its outbreak in December 2019 in Wuhan, China, coronavirus has become increasingly concerning. The spread of the virus has had a number of effects on the lighting industry. Much of the lighting industry is located in China. A great amount traditional lighting is now manufactured there, and many LED companies manufacture their products in Chinese plants. Longer Lead Times for Light Fixtures & Bulbs For lighting designers and installers around the globe, the fact...

For some people dark winter days, particularly in northern latitudes, can cause lack of motivation, lethargy, slow response and in some cases depression. The common term for this condition is SAD, seasonal affective disorder. For owners of commercial operations with employees, this phenomenon should be taken seriously because it can not only affect the employee but also degrade work performance and productivity. Similarly, employees of institutional and medical facilities that operate 24 hours a day...