Rebuild Confidence, Revive the Economy
The current times are exceedingly challenging for the entire world. People are overwhelmed with fear due to the threat of COVID-19. This fear is widespread and transcends all boundaries. The inability to contain the spread of the novel Coronavirus and the absence of a confirmed cure have heightened people’s anxieties. Such heightened anxiety can lead to significant disruptions in society, which in turn can severely impact livelihoods and the economy.
The economic impact of COVID-19 has been widely discussed, with economists predicting that the global economy is poised to have one of its worst years in history. India is no exception and is expected to experience a significant economic downturn. In such times, we need solutions that not only battle the virus but also alleviate fear among people.
Many individuals, from researchers to employees, have acquired a wealth of knowledge about viruses in the last few months. This knowledge, along with practical measures, will continue to be valuable in the future. One such long-term solution is the implementation of UGVI, or Ultra-Violet Germicidal Irradiation, technology.
UGVI Technology
Research has shown that various spaces including shopping malls, hospitals, commercial areas, IT Parks, and schools are prone to unhealthy environments, which can lead to health issues and aid in the spread of viruses such as the novel Coronavirus.
Ultraviolet light has been utilized for disinfection for over a century, with the first application in HVAC systems dating back to 1940. It is a well-established technology with a proven track record. Commercial products typically use the UV-C band wavelength of 253.7 nm, which is highly effective in degrading organic material and inactivating microorganisms and pathogens. This process is referred to as UV Germicidal Irradiation.
Advantages
- Eliminates up to 99.9% of mold spores and kills up to 87% of certain airborne pathogens passing through the air system
- Maintains system efficiency and airflow.
- Increases productivity and helps reduce absenteeism due to illness
- Highly recommended by many credible organizations like the US Government, CSIR India and the Air Institute of Respiratory Education, for killing microbes and improving Indoor Air Quality.
UVGI for HVAC
Some businesses are considering bringing back a portion of their workforce or implementing shifts to allow for social distancing. However, this might not be sufficient in curbing the spread of the novel Coronavirus in air-conditioned spaces. Implementing germicidal UV light for HVAC can effectively reduce the spread of Corona viruses. Airborne contamination in HVAC systems has become more prevalent and installation of in-duct ultraviolet germicidal irradiation (UVGI) systems can help in inactivating airborne microorganisms.
ASHRAE (American Society of Heating, Refrigerating and Air-Conditioning Engineers) recommends various approaches including UVGI to address disease transmission in indoor spaces. In-duct UVGI systems can disinfect pathogenic particles transported by air moving through ventilation systems.
Alfaa UV’s ULTRADUCT UVGI Solution
Alfaa UV’s ULTRADUCT solution provides assured single pass disinfection of airborne bacteria and viruses. It is installed in supply or return ducts and also increases the life of HEPA (High-Efficiency Particulate Air) by reducing the load of live organisms.
The ULTRADUCT is found to deactivate more than 99 percent of viruses, bacteria, fungus, and other bio-aerosols with appropriate dosages using 254nm UV light. The use of UV-C may also help in ameliorating the fungal infections being witnessed in the present situation.
The ULTRADUCT improves airflow through coils, enhances indoor air quality, requires less maintenance, is easy to retrofit with any existing system having AHU (air handling unit) ducts, and has a low initial setup cost. The disinfection system comes with commercialized standards and certifications.
