Germicidal bulbs emit low-wattage UV light to disinfect medical equipment, food, and water. They come in low and medium pressure bulbs, with the latter being used for water purification. However, they pose health risks to humans, including skin cancer and eye damage. Precautions must be taken when handling them.
In an effort to fight bacteria and germs, developers have created ultraviolet (UV) lamps that have a germicidal bulb. These bulbs emit low-wattage UV light to disinfect everything from medical equipment to water and food. This unique use of light comes in low and medium pressure bulbs, depending on the job. These bulbs are of great help to many industries, but pose several health risks to the humans who use them.
A germicidal bulb doesn’t look all that different from traditional fluorescent bulbs used for lighting. They’re not the long, white ceiling light bulbs found in buildings, but are more like the small desktop fluorescent bulbs found in many offices. These bulbs operate on very little energy, often requiring less than five watts per bulb.
A low-pressure germicidal bulb is created from quartz, not glass, and produces a very different kind of light than its fluorescent cousin. The coiled metal wire inside the bulb, known as the mercury arc, allows ultraviolet light to pass through unaffected. When in operation, the bulb emits very little visible light.
The low-pressure ultraviolet disinfectant produced by a germicidal bulb is mainly used to rid hospital surgical instruments of harmful microbes. They are also used by the food industry when preparing food to ensure items are germ free. Geologists also use low-pressure bulbs when looking for certain minerals, because they often fluoresce under UV lighting.
A medium pressure germicidal bulb is less common than a low pressure bulb. One of the reasons it is not used as frequently is because of its higher concentration of potency. Its strongest UV light beam also looks different, producing a slightly bluish glow.
The primary use of medium pressure ultraviolet lamps is in water purification. During industrial water remediation processes, such as that used in a water treatment plant, the water passes under these intense bulbs to strip it of any impurities. This is considered a safer option than treating the water with chemicals to do the same job.
Germicidal bulbs are beneficial in many ways, but humans need to be careful around them. The main concern is the exposure of the skin to this harsh UV light, because it can easily cause sunburn, and if the skin is exposed for a long time, it could cause skin cancer. Another risk is damage to the retina if you look into the eyeball. The light can burn the cornea, causing serious damage. People who handle germicidal bulbs must take many precautions to prevent these harmful effects.
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