UV TECHNOLOGY & REGULATIONS
Pandemic Panic
COVID-19 pandemic virtually derails the whole world and makes the entire system stands still. Longer the time it keeps us in, more is the anxiety to come out of it, but in this difficult times what is more required is not just a simple solution but safe solution.
Look around, there always been infections, bacteria and viruses and so there been solutions to it. Out of many solutions, one of the solutions which is widely in use but lesser understood is UV technology.
The Proven Solution/ Technology
In this panic situation, everyone is anxious to try their hands on whatever the solution seems available, especially when the contamination can be all around us in water, air and surface. To tackle this issue, the only thing which generally first comes in mind is UV technology. UV light technology is a proven technology when it comes to reducing bacteria, viruses and other harmful microorganisms that pose a risk to human health.
Especially Ultraviolet (UV-C) light kills or inactivates microorganisms by destroying nucleic acids and disrupting their DNA, leaving them unable to perform vital cellular functions.
For many years, UV germicidal lamps have been used for disinfection of air and surfaces within hospitals, care homes, laboratories, food industry and many other organizations where hygiene and cleanliness are of utmost importance.
It seems easy to use and give desirable result in terms of disinfection and decontamination of water, air and surface and the time is not far when we see the whole world run after it, especially the wider use of this technology in Hotels, Malls, Schools, IT Sector, Govt. offices etc is expected to be witnessed in large.
Being Hazardous, Being Cautious
Yes, in the present scenario UV- technology seems to be the solution, but this subject is technical and scientific, needs to be dealt with by the specialist only. As we know UV light is hazardous in nature and needs to be used with due caution. To overcome this issue, the responsible companies having its expertise in this technology and knowing the risk involved offers small training course designed specifically to help employers meet their legal obligations for a safe workplace and working environment.
Regulations
Growing interest and fast spreading of UV technology dictates a need for acceleration of regulatory approvals, harmonization and globalization of regulations. Understanding the regulations for each country will assist equipment manufacturers in getting their products and technology on markets faster and at the lower costs.
Optical radiation comprises the regions of ultraviolet radiation (UV), visible light (VIS) and infrared radiation (IR). Artificial optical radiation exists in most workplaces. Many present little or no risk of causing injury or ill health and some allow work activities to be carried out safely.
What is the need of regulations? A small number of intense sources of light at work can damage your eyes and skin, and need to be managed properly. Adherence to the Regulations will ensure that all workers at risk of exposure to artificial optical radiation are protected.
To ensure the right usage of this technology, the countries around the world have specific regulations and safety guidelines in place so do our country.
The Atomic Energy Regulatory Board (AERB) (India)- A national authority designated by the Government of India having the legal authority for issuing regulatory consent for various activities related to the nuclear and the radiation facilities and to perform safety and regulatory functions, including their enforcement for the protection of site personnel, the public and the environment against undue radiation hazards. AERB in specific issued AERB safety guideline no. AERB/SG/IS-7 provides the detailed information and guidance of use on UV radiation and safety measures related thereto.
The Food Safety and Standard Authority of India (FSSAI) regulates and defines novel foods as “an article of food for which standards have not been specified but is not unsafe; provided that such food does not contain any of the foods and ingredients prohibited under this Act.” In 2013, based on the application and supporting documents, the scientific committee of the FSSAI gave raw milk treated with a Sure Pure UV system the status of “Process Approval.”
The Health and Safety Authority (HSA) Ireland has issued detailed guidelines, specifically aims to give employers guidance on the Control of Artificial Optical Radiation at Work Regulations 2010 (S.I. No. 176 of 2010) available at www.deti.ie which provides deep insight on this subject.