A Review of Recent Evidence for Utilizing Ultraviolet Irradiation Technology to Disinfect Both Indoor Air and Surfaces.

Abstract

Background: The implementation of "no-touch" technologies such as ultraviolet (UV)-based sanitizers to effectively disinfect the air and high-touch surfaces may be important to keeping working environments and indoor public gathering places, where there may be a higher risk of infection from specific agents, safe for all occupants, particularly with the emergence of highly communicable diseases. UV technologies have been used for many years and are being revisited as one of disinfecting technology to address the SARS-CoV-2 virus that causes COVID-19. Methods: We selected over 20 relevant source documents from approximately 80 papers dating between 1985 and the present (2020) to evaluate the applicability, safety and relative contribution of ultraviolet to disinfect air and surfaces in the built environment. UV-based sanitizers have the potential for effective application when used in conjunction with other disinfecting means. Results: The efficacy of UV-based sanitizer technologies are promising but are dependent on numerous environmental, physical and technical factors. Conclusions: We believe that UV technologies should not be utilized in isolation and should be considered as an adjunct to protocol-driven standard operating procedures for cleaning and disinfection, had hygiene practices, and appropriate use of personal protective equipment (PPE).