Far-UVC 222 nm – air & surface microbial reduction where people are present

Far-UVC is the 200–230 nm part of the germicidal UV-C band. At 222 nm it inactivates bacteria, viruses and fungi by damaging their nucleic acids and proteins. UV222 systems use filtered 222 nm far-UVC to continuously reduce airborne and surface bioburden while people are present.

Cleaning and disinfection remain essential. The gap is between them: microorganisms are reintroduced and build up as patients, staff and visitors use the space. UV222 adds a continuous layer that helps keep microbial load lower between cleaning cycles, without disrupting clinical activities or adding staff workload.

Yes, within applicable exposure limits. At 222 nm the light is absorbed in the non-living outer layer of the skin and in the tear film and outermost layer of the cornea, so very little reaches the living cells beneath. The integral optical filter and built-in safety control keep exposure within ACGIH / ICNIRP limits, and every installation has a site-specific exposure assessment confirmed by measurement at commissioning.

254 nm UV-C penetrates deeper into skin and eyes, so it is limited to unoccupied spaces. Filtered 222 nm far-UVC can be used in occupied areas.

EU GMP Annex 1 requires a Contamination Control Strategy (CCS) that covers all contamination sources, including personnel, materials and equipment. A far-UVC step can be added at specific points, such as personnel entry or material transfer, as a documented risk-reduction measure. It complements gowning, cleaning and environmental monitoring rather than replacing them.

Very little. 222 nm light produces small amounts of ozone in room air. At the fixture density UV Medico specifies, with normal ventilation, measured levels stay well below applicable guideline limits. In small or poorly ventilated spaces, such as vehicles, ozone is included in the installation-specific assessment.

No acquired resistance to 222 nm has been demonstrated. Because 222 nm damages nucleic acids and proteins directly rather than a single molecular target, antibiotic-style resistance is not expected. Susceptibility varies between organisms: bacterial spores and some fungi need higher doses.

UV222 lamps are rated for 17,500 hours – roughly two years of continuous 24/7 operation, and longer on a daytime duty cycle. There are no air filters or chemicals to replace, and UV Medico provides a two-year warranty on the system.