Shedding Light on the Invisible: Why UVC Disinfection Still Matters
While ultraviolet light is often associated with sunburns and tanning beds, there’s another form of UV that rarely gets public attention, and yet plays a powerful role in infection prevention: UVC.
According to a CDC update from NIOSH Director Dr. John Howard, UVC light offers the strongest germicidal properties among the three types of ultraviolet rays. Though naturally filtered out by the earth’s atmosphere, UVC can be recreated using specialized lamps in systems known as Germicidal Ultraviolet (GUV). These systems have been used for decades to reduce airborne transmission of diseases like tuberculosis and measles, especially in indoor environments where traditional ventilation or manual cleaning fall short.
As Dr. Howard notes, while GUV faded from focus with the rise of antibiotics and vaccines, its relevance has surged once again, particularly considering respiratory virus threats like COVID-19 and RSV. The CDC continues to recommend GUV to supplement ventilation systems, and NIOSH is actively involved in further research, including “far UV” innovations that may one day provide even safer human exposure. However, current evidence strongly supports the use of traditional UVC systems in occupied indoor spaces to reduce pathogens and meet clean air benchmarks.
Add UVC Protection Where You Need It Most
Finsen Tech offers a suite of clinically engineered UVC solutions to support the goals outlined in this guidance, including:
THOR UVC®: A high-powered, LIDAR-guided disinfection system engineered for large, complex spaces like ORs, ICUs, and surgical suites, delivering consistent, full-room coverage with telescopic precision.
EIR: A fixed UVC unit designed for continuous surface and air disinfection in high-traffic spaces such as corridors, exam rooms, and common areas, ensuring consistent microbial control throughout the day.
HYPERION: A 360° UVC chamber that disinfects medical and electronic devices in 60 seconds, safe, chemical-free, and traceable.
ZEUS: A six-plane UVC cabinet that disinfects hard-to-clean items like remotes and devices, fast, flexible, and easy to deploy.
HERMES: A lightweight, mobile UVC system designed for disinfection in compact or hard-to-reach spaces such as ambulances, restrooms, storage closets, and mobile units.
Together, these systems provide a layered defense that aligns with CDC recommendations and addresses the invisible threats still circulating in healthcare environments today.
To read the full CDC update click here.
