H1b: Evaluation of Germicidal Ultraviolet Radiation Devices

Ernest N. Morial New Orleans Convention Center 

Germicidal ultraviolet radiation (GUV) was commonly used in the past to inactivate viruses, and kill bacteria, mould spores and other microorganisms, typically in hospital settings. This technology has been reintroduced as a control measure to prevent the transmission of SARS CoV 2 in high-risk indoor settings. An evaluation was conducted of GUV devices to be used to disinfect the surfaces of trays used to contain passengers' personal items during security screening at airport departures. These trays can reasonably be described as "high-touch surfaces". The re-evaluation of this technology included a desktop review of the research available on the efficacy of UVC radiation (region of the UV spectrum from about 200 to 280 nm in wavelength) and its ability to inhibit SARS CoV 2; review of the available testing equipment and procedures to confirm/test surface power levels, UVC emissions/leaks from equipment, ozone, etc.; and hazard review and risk assessment of five selected UVC devices that were commercially available.

Following the desktop review, two devices were chosen for further assessment of performance and risk. Test objectives included leakage testing, specifically the possibility of worker exposure to UVC caused by reflection or scattering of UVC from adjacent surfaces within the device; and dosimetry to assess whether the device was operating at the expected dose rate. For systems that may not adequately filter UV below 250 nm, air monitoring for ozone was conducted.

P. Sears, Stantec Consulting Ltd., Dartmouth NS, Canada 

P. Sears, Stantec Consulting Ltd., Dartmouth NS, Canada 

Biosafety

Consulting

Exposure Assessment

Radiation protection and monitoring

Risk assessment and management