UV-C radiation can be safely used to disinfect surfaces or objects in a
closed environment in the absence of occupants (humans, animals or
plants) where the UV light does not escape outside.
Subject to exceptions, the transparency of materials to visible light
does not coincide with transparency at UV-C wavelengths: ordinary
glass and transparent plastics are opaque to UV-C.
Systems with UV-C sources installed on the wall or ceiling that generate
UV-C light without protecting the user from exposure, represent a
potential hazard depending on the wavelength, intensity and length
of exposure, in view of the fact that UV-C radiation itself cannot be
perceived by humans as it does not give out any thermal or other
sensation (at least until the damage is manifested) and is not visible.
In fact, as documented in literature, UV-C radiation in the 250-280 nm
range is capable of causing serious damage to the eyes and skin. In
addition, UV-C radiation is a proven carcinogen for humans for ocular
and skin cancers.
The limit values set by current legislation in relation to the use of
germicidal lamps with UV-C 180-250 nm emission have recently been
confirmed by the SCHEER (Scientific Committee on Environmental
Health and Emerging Risks) in relation to the evidence that accidental
exposure to UV-C generated by germicidal lamps in this wavelength
range can cause serious skin damage, burns and severe forms of
photokeratitis and photoconjunctivitis to subjects unknowingly exposed
even for short periods (SCHEER - Health effects of UV-C lamps 2017).
Therefore, to prevent damage from accidental exposure, it is essential
that the sources are turned on only if the presence of people, animals
or plants in the irradiation area is excluded.
Since this is an application to be carried out in the absence of people,
the difference between a safe quality project and an application that
is dangerous or harmful to humans and other living beings arises
from knowledge of the subject and by compliance with the current
regulations in force on this matter, as well as in the implementation of
multiple and various levels of safety to guarantee the correct use of
the technology which must be properly integrated in the design of the
environment.
Artemide proposes the use of integrated and non-integrated UV-C
systems intended as equipped with double emission (UV-C and
visible light) or UV-C only.
Artemide offers devices with safety sensors, which must be further
combined and integrated with the safety system of the spaces in which
the product is installed and which involves the installer and the space
manager.
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Human safety
