UV Disinfection

For cleanroom and sterile environments especially, it is imperative that whole room decontamination systems, such as disinfection devices that use ultraviolet radiation, have proven efficacy. In March 2022, new method BS 8628:2022 was published; this covers the requirements and methodology for testing the efficacy of UV devices. We are pleased to offer testing to this industry standard at our in-house laboratories to assure companies that the UV disinfection system employed at their facilities is both suitable for use and effective against the organisms that pose the greatest risks.

Largely based on the existing airborne disinfection standard EN 17272:2020, with some minor variations for UV devices, this method standardises a distance for the emitter from a test surface, allowing for an assessment of power vs contact time for the UV unit. It covers the requirements and methodology for testing the efficacy of UV devices, determining bactericidal, mycobactericidal, sporicidal, yeasticidal, fungicidal, virucidal and phagocidal activities.

Previously, remote UV systems had no formal guidance on their effectiveness. The assumption of efficacy had been based on available research papers and in-house test methods of multiple testing labs or research facilities, which means that each different machine may have been tested in completely different ways – if it has undergone testing at all.

Any facility employing the use of disinfection using ultraviolet radiation should ensure that they are aware of the changes now in effect and whether their system is fit for use under the new guidance. To book a test or for further information or advice, please contact us.