With words like “radiation” used in the product description it is completely understandable how some people may be concerned about the safety of using their ultraviolet sanitizer. The idea that a little blue light emitting radiation can kill up to 99% of germs without giving everyone in the room cancer seems like a very foreign idea to most people, and for good reason. Nearly everyone grew up using soap and water, or bleach and other cleaning solvents to kill bacteria and germs, but now all it takes is the wave of an ultraviolet wand or putting a set of UV lights in the pool to do a good job sanitizing. How can that possibly be safe?
The truth is that the average ultraviolet sanitizer is actually quite safe when used correctly. UV sanitizers work by emitting a particular frequency of ultraviolet light, UV-C, that is capable of damaging DNA and RNA, thereby either killing or neutralizing most forms of germs and bacteria in a matter of seconds. When pointed directly at a person these UV rays can in fact be dangerous, since ultraviolet light is what causes both skin cancer and sunburns, but this is why most UV-C technology has placed safeguards to prevent their misuse. Most equipment utilizing ultraviolet light to sanitize a surface or liquid shields the UV rays from coming in contact with a person. UV sanitizers used in purifying water point the rays down to keep them indirect, and UV sanitizing wands automatically shut off if they are aimed upward.
In short, UV sanitizing equipment is just like any other tool. They are perfectly safe when used with care and consideration, and potentially dangerous if used improperly. However making a mistake is not likely to cause serious harm, it may simply cause minor skin irritation or slight burns. Consult the warnings for each piece of equipment to determine how to use it correctly, and safely.
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