![]() 'Which? believes some of these devices are likely to be ineffective at disinfecting your home or could pose safety risks due to unclear instructions or emitting UVC light in an unsafe manner. 'While many consumers are keen to disinfect their homes thoroughly in light of concerns about Covid-19, they should take caution when shopping for UVC devices claiming to kill viruses and bacteria,' said Harry Rose, Which? magazine editor. UVC light has been used for years to help destroy bacteria and viruses in commercial and industrial locations such as hospitals, factories and water treatment plants.īut the pandemic has created a growing market for lamps, wands and sterilisation boxes that emit UVC light, marketed to consumers for use in the home. UVC, the shortest-wavelength ultraviolet light, is the most germicidal in the UV spectrum, meaning it's the best at killing germs, but also at damaging human skin. Which? stresses the public to avoid buying devices marketed as providing UV sterilisation, and instead use the traditional soap and water and hand sanitiser to keep skin clean and virus-free.Ĭonsumers should also opt for bleach and detergents when cleaning high-touch surfaces around the home, especially as the lockdown starts to end and guests become allowed into people's homes. It has long been known that UV light has a sterilising effect because the radiation damages the genetic material of viruses and their ability to replicate.īut UV light is a human health hazard because it can damage cells in our skin, potentially causing skin cancer, or eye problems like cataracts. These include 'potentially dangerous' handheld UV 'wands', freestanding lamps, smartphone containers, tumble dryers and even mattresses. You might want to think twice before purchasing a ultraviolet (UV) light steriliser that claims to kill the bacteria and viruses, including coronavirus, according to a new investigation.Ĭonsumer group Which? says some UV light products sold on online marketplaces may be ineffective or could pose safety risks to users. ![]()
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