UV-C disinfection is still considered an unfamiliar technology at many large facilities, and with every new technology there are lots of questions and some initial misconceptions. There are several types of UV-C devices for maintenance teams to utilize when disinfecting facilities.
This article aims to inform you and answer some common misconceptions upfront. We will cover some of the potential safety risks regarding exposure to UV-C light, the preparations needed before using such devices, and what types of safety features are already included in the ADIBOT A1 fully autonomous UV-C disinfection robot.
What potential safety risks are there with exposure to
UV-C disinfection?
Although highly effective for disinfection, UV-C light (100 nm to 280 nm) is generally not safe for humans, animals, plants, and other living organisms because it emits ultraviolet radiation that can damage healthy cells and DNA structures in the human body.
The effects of UV-C
- UV-C light is the most powerful UV spectrum used for disinfecting and is dangerous to the skin and can cause eye damage (photokeratitis).
- 254 nm wavelength lamps (used by ADIBOT) will not penetrate glass or plexiglass. It’s safe to observe a UV-C disinfection cycle in process while behind glass or plexiglass.
Respiratory problems due to ozone production
The ADIBOT A1 and S1 lamps use the 254 nm wavelength which does not emit ozone. Wavelengths under 240 nm can produce ozone, which is harmful to inhale and cause long-term lung damage, inflammation, and reduced lung function, especially for individuals with pre-existing conditions.
Safety preparations for a UV-C disinfection session
Preparations guidelines before disinfecting with UV-C will depend on the type of UV-C disinfection device.
- Humans, animals, plants, and living organisms should not be present in the disinfection area. Make sure to remove them prior to disinfection.
- If your device comes with a Safety Sign – place the safety sign in front of the room or area entryway/doorway.
- Ensure there are no gaps in doorways for the light to shine through. If so, block off that area as well.
ADIBOT A1 Maximizes UV-C Safety
When dealing with high intensity UV-C light and a robot that is fully autonomous, robust safety features are critical to ensure safe operation. Essential components include motion detectors, dynamic safety signs, audible warnings, emergency stop buttons, and anti-collision technology. Here are the ADIBOT A1 industry leading safety features described in more detail.
- Motion Sensing Smart Safety Sign
- The motion sensing smart safety sign included with every ADIBOT A1 robot has four main safety features:
- Movement Sensor
- The motion sensor consists of a 3-axis MPU which consists of a dual accelerometer and a gyroscope.
- Example: If you set the sign in front of the door and someone moves the sign, it will automatically stop the disinfection cycle, and the UV-C lamps shut off.
- Indicator Lights
- Solid Green – Connected and in standby mode (ready for use).
- Movement Sensor
- The motion sensing smart safety sign included with every ADIBOT A1 robot has four main safety features:
- Solid Blue – Disinfection task in progress.
- Flashing Purple – Connecting to the robot.
- Flashing Red – Low battery reminder.
- Emergency Stop Button – Pressing the button will result in immediately stopping the disinfection cycle and the UV-C lamps will shut off.
- Audible Warnings
- There are two on-board speakers at the base of the ADIBOT A1 that provide audible warnings.
- Example: The ADIBOT A1 begins a countdown sequence before the disinfection cycle begins.
- Halo Indicator Lights
- At the top of the tower, there is also a circular ring-shaped light called the “halo light”. The halo lights are used to provide a visual color warning and status display.
- PIR Motion Sensors – Auto Shutoff
- It is essential for all robotic UV-C disinfection devices to have onboard safety systems built-in.
- The ADIBOT A1 contains four PIR motion sensors detecting both movement and heat signatures as soon as someone enters the room, automatically triggering the immediate shutdown of the UV lamps.
Now that you know the potential risks of UV-C disinfection devices, the preparations needed prior to running a disinfection cycle, and the built-in safety features of the ADIBOT A1 – we hope you are better informed when deciding to add a UV-C device to your facility maintenance teams’ disinfection protocols.
