Air Disinfection by UV Germicidal Radiation

Abstract

Since 2005, in our country, the use of UV germicidal radiation for disinfection of the indoor air environment is regulated by the guidance of R3.5.1904–64 (as the recommendations). This radiation is dangerous for humans: skin and especially the eyes are affected. It is necessary to use closed irradiators (recirculators) with germicidal lamps, and not open ones, the radiation of which covers the entire volume of the room in order to avoid exposure of people during disinfection of indoor air. This requires taking people from the premises and observing all relevant safety measures. Unfortunately, in practice, there may occur, accidentally or out of ignorance of the rules for open irradiators operating by personnel, violations of safety rules leading to grave consequences. To eliminate such violations, it is necessary to increase the level of knowledge of staff, but there is no special educational and technical literature. This article attempts to fill this gap.