Product category:
Air Conditioning Services
News Release from: Hanovia | Subject: Research Shows UV Reduces 'Sick Building Syndrome'
Edited by the Buildingtalk Editorial
Team on 12 December 2003
Research Shows UV Reduces 'Sick Building
Syndrome'
Research Shows UV Reduces 'Sick Building Syndrome' Following a recent study which showed that ultraviolet (UV) light kills the germs in office ventilation systems responsible for workers gett
Following a recent study which showed that ultraviolet (UV) light kills the germs in office ventilation systems responsible for workers getting ill, Hanovia has received many enquiries about its UV disinfection systems In the study, researchers from McGill University in Montreal, Canada installed UV systems in the ventilation systems of three modern, sealed office buildings
This article was originally published on Buildingtalk on 23 Jun 2003 at 8.00am (UK)
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Colgate-Palmolive has commissioned ultraviolet (UV) specialist Hanovia to install several UV disinfection systems within the in-line air ducting of its Salford facility.
Following almost a year of trials, the researchers noticed a significant reduction in work-related illnesses such as headaches, throat irritations and respiratory problems - known collectively as 'Sick Building Syndrome'.
They concluded that UV is an effective way of reducing Sick Building Syndrome and should be seriously considered by building operators.
The scientists estimate that the initial costs of installing UV would soon be recouped by the savings made as a result of reduced staff absences.
"We are very pleased with these findings, as they confirm what we have known for a long time," commented Hanovia's managing director Jon McClean.
"We have been supplying UV disinfection systems for building services and other indoor air quality applications for many years, with excellent results" he added.
One of Hanovia's installations was with a testing and inspection company based in Surrey.
The company's health and safety manager had noticed an increased incidence of colds and flu among staff in one section of the building.
He contacted Hanovia, who installed a UV system in the air handling unit of the building's air conditioning system.
Since the installation the number of staff falling ill has fallen by over 40%.
Compact and easy to install within existing ductwork, Hanovia UV systems are designed for continuous use and can treat air flows of up to 2m3/sec.
They expose all air passing through the system to UV at wavelengths which kill any airborne microorganisms present.
Silent in operation, they use no chemicals of any sort and are virtually maintenance-free.
The only requirement is that the UV-emitting arc-tube is replaced twice a year.
This is a simple operation and can be carried out by general maintenance staff.
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